Welcome to the dynamic heart of the Texas Panhandle, where the spirit of the Wild West intertwines with modern charm. Amarillo, Texas, beckons with a captivating array of experiences that will ignite your sense of adventure.
From exploring the rugged beauty of Palo Duro Canyon to immersing yourself in Route 66 nostalgia, this vibrant city boasts an enchanting tapestry of attractions.
Get ready to savor sizzling steaks at the legendary Big Texan Steak Ranch, admire the whimsical art at Cadillac Ranch, and dive into the rich history of the American Quarter Horse.
Brace yourself for a whirlwind of excitement as we unveil the best things to do in Amarillo, Texas!
Texas Travel Information Center at Amarillo
When it comes to planning a trip to Amarillo, there’s no better place to start than the Texas Travel Information Center.
Here you’ll find everything you need to know about Amarillo, from where to stay and what to do, to where to eat and what to see.
Plus, the friendly staff at the center can help you plan your entire trip, ensuring that you make the most of your time in Amarillo.
So whether you’re looking for an adventurous getaway or a relaxed vacation, be sure to stop by the Texas Travel Information Center first. You won’t regret it!
9700 E I-40 Amarillo, TX 79118
Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West
There’s something about the American West that captures the imagination. Whether it’s the wide open spaces, the rugged frontier spirit, or the sense of adventure, the West has a unique allure.
And nowhere is this more evident than in Amarillo, Texas – home to the Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West.
The ranch is a working cattle ranch that covers nearly 3,000 acres. But it’s also much more than that. It’s a place where visitors can come to experience the true cowboy lifestyle.
From horseback riding and roping to branding and Roundup, there’s no shortage of activity at the ranch. And at the end of a long day spent out on the range, there’s nothing better than kicking back around the campfire with a cold beer and some good Stories.
The Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West Ranch is a unique experience that will leave you feeling like you’ve been transported back in time. It’s one of the best things to do in Amarillo! Don’t miss this experience!
Top Review: “10/10 Experience! If you are going through Texas trying to find a cool thing to do please put this in your plans! The owner Phyllis is SUCH a beautiful soul, and her tour guides are so well informed and sweet. I had a lot of fun, and I felt safe the whole time – this is an experience you don’t want to miss!” – Alexandra O.
19100 FM1258, Amarillo, TX 79118, (806) 672-9256
Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum
If you’re ever in Amarillo, Texas, be sure to check out the Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum. This unique museum is dedicated to the history of recreation vehicles, and includes a wide variety of RVs on display.
The museum features RVs from all different eras, including early models dating back to the 1930s.
You’ll see a wide variety of sizes and styles, from small trailer homes to massive luxury motorhomes. In addition to the RVs on display, the museum also has a variety of memorabilia and artifacts related to the history of recreational vehicle travel.
So if you’re in Amarillo, check out the Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum!
14501 Interstate Hwy 27, (806) 690-3377
Cadillac Ranch
Cadillac Ranch is an art installation and sculpture near Amarillo, Texas, created in 1974 by Stanley Marsh 3.
It originally consisted of 10 old Cadillacs buried nose-first in a field. In 1997, Marsh added 3 more Cadillacs to the ranch, bringing the total number of cars to 13.
The Cadillacs are all different models and years, ranging from 1949 to 1963. Cadillac Ranch is open to the public 24 hours a day, and visitors are encouraged to spray-paint the cars.
Over the years, the cars have been covered in thousands of layers of paint, resulting in a brightly-colored spectacle that has become a popular tourist destination.
13651 I-40 Frontage Rd, Amarillo, TX 79124
American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum
The American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum in Amarillo, Texas is dedicated to celebrating the history and contributions of the American Quarter horse.
The museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of this iconic breed of horse. Visitors can learn about the origins of the American Quarter horse, its role in the development of the West, and its impact on popular culture.
The museum also features a state-of-the-art theater, where visitors can watch films about the American Quarter horse.
The American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in horses or the history of the United States.
Amarillo Botanical Gardens
The Amarillo Botanical Gardens are a must-see for any nature lover visiting Amarillo, Texas.
Spread across 15 acres, the gardens feature a wide variety of plant life, including roses, cacti, and butterflies.
There are also several ponds and streams, providing a home for ducks, fish, and other wildlife. In addition to being a beautiful place to relax and take in the scenery, the Amarillo Botanical Gardens also offer educational programs for all ages.
From classes on horticulture to tours of the grounds, there is something for everyone at the Amarillo Botanical Gardens.
Texas Air & Space Museum
The Texas Air & Space Museum in Amarillo is a great place to learn about the state’s aviation history.
The museum houses a collection of vintage aircraft, as well as interactive exhibits on the science of flight. Guests can also take a simulated airplane flight or take a tour of the hangar.
The museum is open year-round, and admission is free for children under 12. The museum is easily one of the best things to do in Amarillo for families.
Bill’s Backyard Classics
Bill’s Backyard Classics is a unique shop in Amarillo, Texas that specializes in classic cars.
The shop is family-owned and operated, and has been in business for over 30 years. Bill’s Backyard Classics is known for its wide selection of classic cars, as well as its friendly and knowledgeable staff.
The shop is open Monday through Saturday, and offers a variety of services, including car restoration and repair.
Route 66 Historic District
Few places are as evocative of the American highway system as Amarillo, Texas.
Situated along the legendary Route 66, Amarillo was once a booming stopover for travelers making their way west.
Today, the city’s historic district pays tribute to its storied past, with restored buildings and vintage cars lining the streets.
You can explore the art-deco Fibonacci Station or take a stroll down Memory Lane, where vintage gas stations and diners evoke a bygone era.
Amarillo Zoo
The Amarillo Zoo is a great place to take your family for a day of fun. The zoo has a wide variety of animals, including tigers, lions, bears, and reptiles.
There is also a petting zoo, where you can interact with some of the animals up close. In addition to the animals, the Amarillo Zoo also has a number of interactive exhibits, such as a hands-on opportunity to feed the giraffes.
The Amarillo Zoo is a great way to learn about different cultures and animals from all over the world.
Don Harrington Discovery Center
One of the city’s most popular attractions is the Don Harrington Discovery Center.
The Discovery Center is a hands-on museum that offers something for everyone. Families can enjoy interactive exhibits on science, nature, and technology.
And kids can explore the Discovery Zone, a special area just for kids. The Discovery Center also has an Aquarium, Planetarium, and Butterfly Pavilion.
So whether you’re interested in science or history, there’s something for you at the Don Harrington Discovery Center.
Second Amendment Cowboy
In Amarillo, Texas, there is a larger-than-life statue known as the Second Amendment Cowboy Muffler Man.
The statue stands 18 feet tall and was originally built in 1962 as advertisement for a muffler shop. However, after the shop went out of business, the statue was left behind and quickly became a local landmark.
In recent years, the statue has been adopted as a symbol of the city’s support for the Second Amendment. Every year, Amarillo hosts a gun show and rodeo that attract visitors from all over the state.
And, in 2017, the city was even named the most gun-friendly city in Texas. For Amarillo residents, the Second Amendment Cowboy Muffler Man is a source of pride and a reminder of their commitment to defending their right to bear arms.
Helium Monument
Amarillo, Texas is home to the Helium Monument, a tribute to the city’s role in the production of this gas.
Helium is a non-flammable, lighter-than-air gas that has many uses, including in medical applications and as a coolant for nuclear reactors. The monument was built in 1968 and stands at 30 feet tall.
It is made of steel and coated in polyurethane to protect it from the elements. The Amarillo helium fields were discovered in 1903, and the city became the world’s leading producer of this gas by the 1930s.
Today, Amarillo is still a major source of helium, and the Helium Monument stands as a testament to the city’s history and importance.
Wonderland Amusement Park
Wonderland Amusement Park is family-friendly destination that features more than 30 rides and attractions. Visitors can enjoy thrilling roller coasters, gentle carousels, and everything in between.
In addition to the rides, Wonderland Amusement Park also offers a variety of dining options, shopping opportunities, and live entertainment.
Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled day or a leisurely evening stroll, Wonderland Amusement Park has something for everyone. So come on down and enjoy all that Amarillo has to offer!
Huge Pair of Legs
Experience the unexpected and the wonderfully peculiar in the heart of Amarillo, Texas, where two titanic legs spring up from the earth as if walking straight out of a Salvador Dali painting. Hewn from solid concrete and resilient steel, these towering legs climb an astounding 30 feet into the clear Texan sky.
Have a head for heights? Then why not embark on an exhilarating climb right up to the twin peaks? As you scale these colossal limbs, you will be rewarded with a breath-taking panorama that perfectly captures Amarillo’s boundless landscapes. From this unique vantage point, your gaze will stretch beyond the horizon, embracing miles of glorious open spaces in every direction.
Over time, the titans’ legs have weathered a barrage of graffiti. It’s a bit of a blemish, yes, but instead of spoiling the spectacle, this impromptu art offers a raw, urban edge that only adds to the site’s quirky allure.
Conveniently nestled just a stone’s throw from the iconic Route 66, these enormous legs form a mesmerizing pitstop for the modern day adventurer. It’s a fantastic and Instagram-worthy opportunity that will have your friends double-tapping as they get a glimpse of your journey into the weird and whimsical side of America’s roadside attractions. Make sure to have your camera at the ready, because this is one astonishing spectacle you won’t want to forget!
Kwahadi Museum of the American Indians
The Kwahadi Museum of the American Indians is one of the most unique museums in the country. The museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the culture and history of the American Indian.
The museum features a wide variety of exhibits, including a replica of a traditional Indian village, a teepee encampment, and a buffalo hunting scene.
In addition, the museum offers a range of educational programs and events, such as drumming workshops, storytelling sessions, andNative American dance performances.
The Kwahadi Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in learning more about the American Indian culture.
Harrington House
The Harrington is a hotel that offers visitors a truly unique experience. From the moment you step into the lobby, you’ll be transported back in time to the days of luxury and elegance.
The Harrington’s guest rooms are spacious and comfortable, and the hotel staff is always on hand to provide top-notch service. But what really sets
The Harrington apart is its commitment to offering guests an authentic Texas experience.
Whether you’re enjoying a meal in the hotel’s on-site restaurant or exploring the nearby Palo Duro Canyon, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable time at The Harrington.
Palo Duro Canyon
Just outside of Amarillo, Texas lies Palo Duro Canyon – a stunning natural formation that is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Texas.”
Carved over millions of years by the influent waters of the Prairie Dog Town Fork of the Red River, Palo Duro Canyon is a true geological wonder.
Measuring 120 miles long, 20 miles wide, and 800 feet deep, the canyon is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life.
Visitors can explore the canyon via hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, or take in the sweeping views from one of the many scenic overlooks.
With its dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife, Palo Duro Canyon is a must-see destination for any nature lover.
Wildcat Bluff Nature Center
Amarillo’s Wildcat Bluff Nature Center is a unique and exciting place to explore the natural world.
The center is home to a variety of animals, including coyotes, bison, and even rattlesnakes.
Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails, bird watching, and picnicking. In addition, the nature center offers educational programs for all ages.
These programs help to promote environmental stewardship and appreciation for the great outdoors.
The Wildcat Bluff Nature Center in Amarillo, Texas, is a great place for both children and adults to learn about the world around them.
Sixth Street Historic District
Amarillo’s Sixth Street Historic District is a thriving commercial and entertainment hub, with a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and bars to choose from.
The district is also home to a number of historical landmarks, including the Old Santa Fe Depot and the Polk Street Methodist Church.
Visitors can stroll down the brick-paved streets and enjoy the unique architecture of the district, or take a tour of one of the many art galleries.
With its lively atmosphere and rich history, the Sixth Street Historic District is a great place to explore Amarillo’s past and present.
Thompson Memorial Park
Amarillo is home to many great parks, but one of the best is Thompson Memorial Park.
The park offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages, making it the perfect place to spend a day with family or friends. One of the highlights of the park is the playground, which features a giant slide and swings.
The park also has a walking trail, picnic tables, and a pond where you can feed the ducks. In addition, the park hosts a number of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and holiday celebrations.
Amarillo Symphony
The Amarillo Symphony has been entertaining audiences for over 100 years. Founded in 1911, the symphony is the oldest continuing orchestra in the state of Texas.
The symphony is dedicated to promoting music education and appreciation in the community, and each year they offer a variety of concerts and events that are open to the public.
One of the most popular events is their free summer concert series, which features a different symphony every week.
The concerts are held in various locations around Amarillo, including parks, museums, and even an outdoor amphitheater.
Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts
The Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts is one of Amarillo’s most treasured landmarks.
Located in the heart of downtown, the center is home to a variety of cultural events and local programs. The auditoriums are state-of-the-art, and the acoustics are perfect for any type of performance.
Whether you’re watching a play, listening to a concert, or attending a dance recital, the Globe-News Center provides an unforgettable experience.
The center also features an art gallery and a Gift Shop, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon.
Texas Panhandle War Museum
The Texas Panhandle War Museum in Amarillo, Texas tells the story of the Great Plains Indian Wars. The museum is located in an old fort that was used during the war.
The museum has a collection of weapons, clothing, and other artifacts from the war. The museum also has a diorama of the battle of Little Bighorn.
The Texas Panhandle War Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the Great Plains Indian Wars.
Amarillo Museum of Art
The Amarillo Museum of Art is a hidden gem in the Texas Panhandle. The museum’s permanent collection includes works by European masters as well as American artists, and the exhibitions are always interesting and thought-provoking.
The museum is also home to a beautiful sculpture garden, which is the perfect place to wander and reflect on the art you’ve seen inside.
The Amarillo Museum of Art is definitely worth a visit if you’re ever in the area.I am Rt 66 Visitor Center
Richard Daniel Baker Peace Park
The Richard Daniel Baker Peace Park in Amarillo, Texas is a beautiful and serene spot that is perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
The park is named after Richard Daniel Baker, who was a local peace activist and founder of the Amarillo Peace Academy. The park features stunning landscaping, with well-manicured gardens and a bubbling fountain.
The centerpiece of the park is a large granite sculpture of two doves in flight, which represents the hope for peace in the world.
Visitors to the park can also take advantage of the ample seating and picnic tables, making it the perfect place to enjoy a sunny day.
With its tranquil atmosphere and dedication to promoting peace, the Richard Daniel Baker Peace Park is a wonderful spot for Amarillo residents and visitors alike.
Amarillo Railroad Museum
The Amarillo Railroad Museum is a unique attraction that offers visitors a chance to learn about the city’s rich railroad history. The museum is located in an old depot, and it features a variety of exhibits that tell the story of how the railroad shaped Amarillo. Visitors can see vintage locomotives, photograph, and even ride on a restored caboose. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs for all ages. The Amarillo Railroad Museum is the perfect place for anyone who loves trains or wants to learn more about the history of this fascinating city.
Panhandle Plains Historical Museum
Imagine stepping into the heart of Texan history, unearthing the chronicles of the Lone Star state as you traverse one of its most captivating treasures: the Panhandle Plains Historical Museum. Dubbed the titan of history museums in Texas, it stands unrivaled, offering an awe-inspiring journey through the annals of the Texas Panhandle region.
Every corner of the museum whispers the tales of the past, dating from the region’s very first inhabitants right up to the contemporary era. It is a time machine, where the past and the present intersect, offering you a chance to wander amidst the footprints of time.
Brace yourself for an adventure beyond the ordinary, as the museum houses an astounding trove of over two million artifacts. Get lost in the enigmatic allure of prehistoric fossils, the rustic charm of cowboy gear, or the deeply-rooted spirit of Native American artifacts. Each exhibit tells a unique tale of courage, survival, and endurance.
But the Panhandle Plains Historical Museum is more than just its permanent collection. It teems with life, ever-evolving and brimming with an array of temporary exhibits that ensure there’s always something fresh to explore. Experience immersive educational programs that make history come alive and attend dynamic events that celebrate the rich tapestry of Texan culture.
The Panhandle Plains Historical Museum doesn’t just display history; it allows you to live it, to feel it, and to be a part of it. Whatever your taste, this illustrious beacon of knowledge is guaranteed to have something to pique your curiosity, dazzle your senses, and ignite your imagination. Come, let us delve into the fascinating chronicles of Texas, and discover the untold stories that lie within these panhandle plains.
Amarillo Civic Center Complex
The Amarillo Civic Center Complex is a multi-purpose facility that includes an arena, theater, convention center, and more.
The arena is home to the Amarillo Bulls hockey team, and the theater hosts a variety of shows and events throughout the year. The convention center is perfect for weddings, trade shows, and other large events, and there are also several restaurants and bars on site.
The complex is located in downtown Amarillo, making it easy to get to from anywhere in the city.
Best Places to Eat in Amarillo
Big Texan Steak Ranch
For over 50 years, the Big Texan has been serving up some of the biggest and best steaks around, and it’s become a true Texas institution.
The signature dish is the 72 oz. steak, which diners have one hour to finish. If they’re successful, they get their meal for free – along with a t-shirt and a photo on the Wall of Fame.
But even if you don’t attempt the challenge, you’re sure to enjoy a delicious steak dinner at the Big Texan.
With its legendary steaks, friendly atmosphere, and old-school charm, it’s no wonder this Amarillo institution is so popular with locals and visitors alike.
Best Accommodations in Amarillo
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! Amarillo, Texas, is an irresistible gem on the Lone Star State’s vast canvas. From the iconic Cadillac Ranch to the mesmerizing Palo Duro Canyon, this city is bursting with vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and warm Texan hospitality. Don’t miss the chance to experience the unforgettable allure of Amarillo.
Amarillo, Texas, is a tapestry of remarkable wonders! It’s renowned for the awe-inspiring Palo Duro Canyon, legendary Route 66 nostalgia, sizzling steaks at the Big Texan Steak Ranch, the eclectic art installation of Cadillac Ranch, and the exhilarating thrills of the American Quarter Horse Association Museum. Amarillo is a true frontier of enchantment!
Amarillo’s downtown is a loaded with trendy shops, delectable dining, and captivating art scenes. From the charming Polk Street to the eclectic galleries, it’s an urban gem that perfectly blends history and modernity, beckoning visitors with its undeniable allure.
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