Located on the University of Texas El Paso campus, the Centennial Museum is a little hidden treasure that few know about.

Established in 1936, the Museum has permanent exhibits on its upper level, while the ground level exhibits regularly change; ranging from photography exhibits to sculptures. Focusing on the history of El Paso's desert region, the permanent exhibits features items highlighting the animals found in the region, artifacts from the peoples that have lived in the area, as well as examples of the types of rocks and gems found. The ethnological exhibits offer insight into what groups, such as the Apaches and the Navajos, wore and the types of tools used for hunting and fighting. A small paleontology section displays some dinosaur fossils that have been found in the area of El Paso and the surrounding region.

Another part of the Centennial Museum is the Chihuahuan Desert Gardens, found outside behind the museum, added in 1999. A small pathway guides visitors through a display of native flora found in the El Paso desert region and small fountains and benches which have also led it to be called the Meditation Gardens. The Gardens not only educate about the various types of plant-life, but also educate on ways of landscaping that flourishes using a minimal amount of water.

Also found outside the Museum are Bhutanese prayer flags. A characteristic only unique to the University is its Bhutanese architecture. Following that theme, all around the campus visitors can find small tokens that coincide, such as the prayer flags. These flags are believed to bring good luck, happiness, and prosperity.

If you would like to take a piece of the Museum with you, there is a gift shop located on the first floor offering education books for adults and children about history and the region, and small tokens such as arrowheads, beaded necklaces, and pottery. Most of what's for sale is the Museum's gift shop is made by local artists. During the month of April, the Museum hosts the Florafest and Native Plant Sale where visitors can buy some of the plants found in the Chihuahuan Desert.

Although it is tucked away in the inner part of the University's campus, the Centennial Museum is not a spot to miss visiting. The exhibits are open 10 am to 4:30 pm, Tuesday through Saturday and closed for holidays. Admission to the Museum and Gardens in free to the public, although they happily take donations.

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