I grew up in the Lower Valley. My childhood was great, and I was largely shaped by where I grew up as most of us are. Those that live in the Lower Valley have welcoming hearts and the neighborhoods have a lot to offer for those with children. As we like to say, “Lower Valley kids never die.” We grew up there, and no matter where we go in life, the Lower Valley will always be a part of us! Go Rangers!
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General Neighborhood Info
The Lower Valley would technically be defined as an urban community, but like much of El Paso, it has a small-town, suburban feel. It is an older and well-established community. Many houses there were built in the 1950s, but you will see quite a few homes that have been renovated. Growing up there, I always enjoyed the good mix of older people and young families. Median home prices in this area are about 150k. This is a good price for a home these days when real estate is so expensive.
Parks, Recreation, and Family Fun
Ascarate Park
A gem in the Lower Valley is Ascarate Park. Ascarate Park is the largest public recreational park in the city. There is a lake perfect for fishing and boating. There is also a golf course in the park. It’s a perfect place for a picnic or for a nice stroll around the large boardwalk. For very hot summer days, you can also take a swim at the public pool that includes a huge slide and toddler area. They also host concerts, fairs, and holiday events here. A must especially if you are new to El Paso!
Pavo Real Park Spray Park and Pool
Another great place for family fun is the Pavo Real Park which includes a spray park and public pool! The spray park and pool are side by side. A fun place to go, especially on the hot summer days.
JP Shawver Park
Another large park in the Lower Valley with a public indoor pool is JP Shawver Park. As a child, I remember spending a lot of time here playing on the basketball courts, taking walks, and learning to swim with Gus and Goldie in the pool.
Schools
The majority of the schools in the Lower Valley are part of the Ysleta Independent School District (YISD/The District). There is a good variety of public, private, and charter schools in or around the area. It is the third-largest school district in El Paso. Check out this article to read about the successes of the YISD even throughout the challenging recent years of the global pandemic.
Dining
The Lower Valley has many wonderful great places to eat and here are a few of my favorites.
Hamburger Inn 2
A favorite food joint in the Lower Valley is Hamburger Inn 2. A great place for a delicious burger. My husband says it’s the best burger in El Paso and recommends ordering a Super Burger with a side of chili cheese fries.
Valentine’s Bakery
Another gem in the Lower Valley is Valentine’s Bakery. In addition to their baked goods, they also have delicious food items (burritos, tamales, tortas, menudo). Highly recommend trying their Chile Colorado and Brisket Burritos.
Lillie’s Bakery
One of my family’s favorite spots: Lillie’s Bakery. If you are new to El Paso, Mexican pan dulce (sweet bread) is a must try! At Lillie’s the chocolate cake was our favorite growing up.
Ysleta del Sur Pueblo
Nestled in the Lower Valley is the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo–“one of three federally recognized Native American Tribes, and the only Pueblo, in the state of Texas.” Ysleta, Texas has been the home to Tigua Indians for over 300 years.
The Ysleta del Sur Pueblo is rich in history and an important part of our community. The Tigua Indians built the existing oldest continuously operating parish in Texas, the Ysleta Mission. It’s a beautiful church. Fun fact: my parents were married here, so it holds a special place in our hearts.
Speaking Rock Casino is owned by the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo. There are many special events such as concerts held here. If you are new to the area or haven’t visited Ysleta, you must!
Potential Drawbacks
I’m biased, so it’s hard to think of the drawbacks, but I do think if you are looking for a new, modern feel it may not be the neighborhood for you. Although there are some gems hidden in there, I don’t think there are as many restaurant choices (no Chick-Fil-A) or entertainment like a movie theater as you would find in Horizon or Far Northwest. Things are just about a 15-minute drive away.
Why I Loved Living Here
I grew up in the Lower Valley, and I hold this area of town close to my heart. It feels like home. I think it was a great place to be raised. The Lower Valley is also a great place for activities with small children. There are a lot of open spaces to play, and it’s a quick drive to places like the zoo. The schools I attended all provided safe and fun environments (shoutout to Riverside!). The neighborhoods were safe and family-oriented. I remember our neighbors were older and would watch us when my mom was late from work. Those were great days.
For information about other parts of town, check out our Guide to Moving to El Paso.
The opinions expressed in this post are those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of El Paso Mom, its executive team, other contributors to the site, its sponsors or partners, or any organizations the aforementioned might be affiliated with.
