On the way to your accommodations, drop in to a boot shop. More pointy-toed kickers are made in El Paso than anywhere else in Texas, and that's good luck for you. The artists at Arditti and Rocketbuster create once-in-a-lifetime designs for discriminating buyers, but most folks prefer the discount outlet stores.

Plan to save your dollars for shopping and dining in El Paso, where the chain motels provide the best lodgings. We like the Hawthorn Inn & Suites on the east side of town near the airport, where the $55 weekend rate includes a cooked breakfast; 1-800-618-0555. On the west side, we opt for the spacious rooms and Continental breakfast at La Quinta for $56.99-$63.99; 1-800-531-5900.

Dine early tonight at L&J Café to avoid the boisterous bar crowd--unless you plan to join in the partying afterward. L&J is one of the oldest and most revered restaurants in El Paso. Run by Leo and Frances Duran, it's known for incredible green enchiladas served with a huge helping of hospitality. "We want to make sure our customers feel like they're a part of our family," Leo says.