Chamizal National Memorial

Border History

Chamizal National Memorial is a 54.9-acre park located in El Paso, Texas, along the U.S.-Mexico border. Established in 1966, the memorial commemorates the peaceful settlement of a century-long border dispute between the United States and Mexico known as the Chamizal dispute.

Visitors can learn about the changing course of the Rio Grande river that led to the conflict, and how diplomacy ultimately resolved the issue in 1963.

Cultural Center and Museum

The park features a cultural center that houses a museum with exhibits detailing the history of the border region and the Chamizal dispute.

Throughout the year, the memorial hosts various cultural events and performances that celebrate the shared heritage of the U.S.-Mexico borderlands. These events often feature music, dance, and art from both countries, reinforcing the park's mission of fostering cross-cultural understanding.

Outdoor Spaces

Chamizal National Memorial includes several outdoor spaces for recreation and relaxation. The park has walking trails that wind through desert landscaping, offering views of both El Paso and Ciudad Juárez across the border.

There are also open grassy areas suitable for picnicking and casual sports.

Educational Opportunities

The park serves as an important educational resource for local schools and visitors, providing ranger-led programs and interpretive displays about the region's history, culture, and environment.

Its location near the border makes it a unique place for visitors to contemplate international relations and the concept of borders in a globalized world.