Old Main

Old Main El Paso: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: The Legacy and Significance of Old Main, El Paso

Old Main at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) is not only the campus’s oldest building but also a vital symbol of the city’s educational, architectural, and multicultural heritage. Distinguished by its Bhutanese dzong-inspired design, Old Main stands out as a rare architectural marvel in the United States. Its origins date back to 1917-1918, following the fire that destroyed the university’s original main building. The adoption of Bhutanese architectural elements—characterized by sloping battered walls, overhanging roofs, and intricate woodwork—was visionary, reflecting both resilience and UTEP’s global outlook. This distinct style, shaped by the influence of Kathleen L. Worrell and architect Henry C. Trost, sets UTEP apart among American institutions and mirrors the diverse, cross-cultural fabric of El Paso (Old Main at UTEP; Trost Society; Kurby Blog).

More than a historic structure, Old Main has been the heart of UTEP’s academic and community life for over a century. It has seen generations of students, hosted pivotal events, and served as a dynamic hub for cultural exchange. Preservation efforts and adaptive reuse initiatives ensure that Old Main remains a living landmark, accessible to the public and integral to the city’s ongoing story (Visit El Paso; UTEP Visitor Center).

This guide offers in-depth information on Old Main’s history, architecture, visiting logistics, nearby attractions, accessibility, and practical tips to help you make the most of your visit to this essential El Paso site.

Introduction
Old Main’s Historical and Architectural Foundations
Preservation and Restoration
Visiting Old Main: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Exploring Old Main and Surrounding Attractions
- Nearby Historical and Cultural Sites
- Travel and Visitor Tips
Old Main’s Multicultural and Educational Impact
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit
References and Official Resources

Old Main’s Historical and Architectural Foundations

Origins and Early Development

UTEP, originally founded as the Texas State School of Mines and Metallurgy in 1913, moved to its current site after a fire in 1916 destroyed its first main building. The new Old Main, completed in 1918, was rooted in a unique vision: to emulate the fortress-monasteries (dzongs) of Bhutan. This idea, inspired by Kathleen Worrell and realized by architect Henry C. Trost, gave UTEP a distinctive architectural identity unmatched in the Western Hemisphere (Trost Society).

Bhutanese Dzong Style and Design Features

Old Main’s architecture draws directly from Bhutanese dzongs, characterized by sloped, battered walls, overhanging roofs, deep-set windows, and vibrant yet earthy stucco exteriors. Decorative brackets and stylized motifs further evoke Himalayan influences. These features, adapted for the Southwest’s arid climate, not only reflect resilience but also symbolize UTEP’s and El Paso’s openness to cross-cultural inspiration (Trost Society; Kurby Blog).

Construction Techniques and Materials

Old Main was among the early adopters of reinforced concrete in the region, allowing for robust, sloping walls and greater fire resistance. Red tile roofs and stucco walls, painted in Bhutanese-inspired tones, contribute to the building’s striking visual presence (Kurby Blog).

Symbolism and Campus Identity

Choosing Bhutanese architecture was a deliberate break from the collegiate Gothic and Classical styles favored elsewhere. Old Main’s design embodies strength, global awareness, and a spirit of innovation, becoming the blueprint for the entire UTEP campus (Texas Highways).

Preservation and Restoration

UTEP has prioritized the preservation of Old Main through thoughtful restorations—repairing original woodwork, reinforcing walls, and updating facilities to meet modern standards. These efforts have maintained the building’s historical integrity while supporting its ongoing educational and cultural uses (Preservation Texas).

Visiting Old Main: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visitor Information

Address: 500 W. University Ave, El Paso, TX 79968
Operating Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; Saturday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM. Closed Sundays and major holidays.
Admission: Free for all visitors; no ticket required for general access (UTEP Visitor Center; Visit El Paso).

Guided Tours and Events

Guided Tours: UTEP’s Heritage House and Visitor Center offer guided tours focusing on Old Main’s history and architectural details. Advance reservations are recommended, especially for groups (UTEP Heritage House).
Events: Old Main is a focal point for campus events such as Bhutan Days, lectures, and art exhibits. Check the UTEP events calendar or Visit El Paso events page for current activities.

Accessibility and Facilities

Wheelchair Access: Old Main features ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Parking: Visitor parking is available at the Sun Bowl Parking Garage and nearby lots. Review current rates and policies at the UTEP Parking and Transportation website.
Public Transportation: Sun Metro buses serve the campus (Sun Metro).

Photography and Etiquette

Photography: Exterior photography is encouraged. Interior photography may require permission—contact UTEP Communications for professional requests.
Etiquette: Please respect ongoing classes and university operations. Loud noise and flash photography may be restricted during tours.

Exploring Old Main and Surrounding Attractions

Nearby Historical and Cultural Sites

El Paso Museum of History: Offers exhibits on the region’s multicultural heritage (El Paso Museum of History).
Centennial Plaza: A landscaped gathering space adjacent to Old Main.
Sun Bowl Stadium: Venue for sports and entertainment events.
Mission Trail: A short drive away, featuring historic missions and churches (Visit El Paso).

Travel and Visitor Tips

Weather: El Paso’s desert climate is hot in summer, mild in winter—wear sun protection and stay hydrated.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for campus tours.
Language: English is primary, but Spanish is widely spoken and many signs are bilingual.
Souvenirs: The UTEP Bookstore near Old Main offers memorabilia.

Old Main’s Multicultural and Educational Impact

Old Main’s location at the heart of UTEP and El Paso highlights its role as a center for learning and cultural exchange. The building’s preservation and ongoing use reflect the city’s commitment to honoring its diverse past while fostering a vibrant educational future. Murals and public art in and around Old Main celebrate the stories of El Paso’s Hispanic and multicultural communities, making it both a historical landmark and a living cultural space (EPCC LibGuides).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are Old Main’s visiting hours?
Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; Saturday: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM. Closed Sundays and major holidays.

Is there an admission fee?
No, admission is free. Guided tours are available with advance booking.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, through the UTEP Heritage House and Visitor Center. Reservations recommended.

Is Old Main accessible?
Yes, with ramps, elevators, and ADA-compliant restrooms.

Where can I park?
Sun Bowl Parking Garage and designated visitor lots. Check UTEP parking for details.

Can I take photos?
Yes, especially outdoors. For interior or professional photography, seek permission from UTEP Communications.

Plan Your Visit

To maximize your experience:

Review current hours and events via official UTEP Visitor Center and Visit El Paso resources.
Book guided tours in advance.
Download the Audiala app or Visit El Paso app for interactive maps, audio tours, and updates.
Explore nearby attractions to enrich your understanding of El Paso’s heritage.