Sun Bowl Stadium | El Paso

Information

Landmark: Sun Bowl Stadium
City: El Paso
Country: USA Texas
Continent: North America

Sun Bowl Stadium, El Paso, USA Texas, North America

Sun Bowl Stadium is a multi-purpose outdoor stadium located in El Paso, Texas, USA. It serves as the home venue for the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) Miners football team and hosts the annual Sun Bowl college football game.

Visual Characteristics

The stadium features a horseshoe-shaped seating bowl constructed primarily from concrete. Its exterior is characterized by a light tan stucco finish, reflecting the desert environment. The seating capacity is approximately 51,500. The field is natural grass.

Location & Access Logistics

Sun Bowl Stadium is situated at 2701 Sun Bowl Drive, El Paso, TX 79902, approximately 3.2 kilometers (2 miles) east of downtown El Paso. Access is via Interstate 10, taking exit 23A for Stadium Drive. Ample parking is available in designated lots surrounding the stadium, with fees typically applied during events. Public transport options include Sun Metro bus routes 14 and 50, which stop near the stadium.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of Sun Bowl Stadium began in 1963 and was completed in 1964. It was built to replace the smaller Kidd Field. The stadium's design was intended to accommodate a growing student population and the increasing popularity of college football in the region. The site is located within the Chihuahuan Desert ecosystem.

Key Highlights & Activities

The primary activity is attending football games, including UTEP Miners home games and the annual Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl. The stadium also hosts concerts and other large-scale events. Guided tours of the stadium are sometimes available, requiring advance booking.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available throughout the stadium. Shaded seating is limited to specific sections. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the stadium. Food and beverage vendors operate during events, offering standard stadium fare.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal weather conditions, the months of September through November are recommended, coinciding with the college football season. Game days offer the full stadium experience. Mid-afternoon provides the most direct sunlight on the field during daylight hours.

Facts & Legends

The stadium's name originates from the annual college football bowl game it hosts, the Sun Bowl, which began in 1935. The stadium itself was built specifically to house this event. A unique aspect is its location at an elevation of approximately 3,900 feet (1,189 meters) above sea level.