Tourist places in Amarillo, Amarillo Travel Info
Amarillo is the heart of the Texas Panhandle, a city where the Old West meets the new. It is known for its cowboy culture, wide-open spaces, and famous Route 66 landmarks.
Amarillo is located in the Texas Panhandle, a vast high plains region. It sits at the crossroads of I-40 and I-27, about halfway between Oklahoma City and Albuquerque.
Amarillo is famous for the Cadillac Ranch art installation, the Big Texan Steak Ranch (home of the 72oz steak challenge), and Palo Duro Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the U.S.
Spring and fall are best. Summers are hot but dry. Winters can be windy and cold with occasional snow.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park: Known as the "Grand Canyon of Texas," offering spectacular hiking, camping, and the outdoor musical "TEXAS" in summer.
Cadillac Ranch: An iconic public art installation featuring ten Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground, where visitors are encouraged to spray paint them.
The Big Texan Steak Ranch: A legendary restaurant and roadside attraction famous for its free 72oz steak challenge and cowboy kitsch.
Route 66 Historic District: A one-mile stretch of the original "Mother Road" lined with antique shops, cafes, and galleries.
Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum: The largest history museum in Texas, located nearby in Canyon, covering everything from dinosaurs to oil tycoons.
Spray paint a car at Cadillac Ranch, hike the Lighthouse Trail in Palo Duro Canyon, explore Route 66 antiques, and visit the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame.
Steak is king here. Also try authentic Tex-Mex, breakfast burritos, and cowboy cooking. The Big Texan is a must-do experience.
Route 66 on 6th Street is great for antiques and collectibles. Westgate Mall offers major retailers. Local western wear stores sell authentic boots and hats.
I-40 West (Medical Center): Many modern chain hotels near the highway and shopping.
Downtown: Historic hotels and newer options near the ballpark and civic center.
Canyon: Stay here if your main focus is Palo Duro Canyon (about 20 mins south).
Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport (AMA) serves the city. It is a major stop on I-40 (the old Route 66 path).
You need a car. Distances are vast. Public transit is limited. Rental cars are readily available at the airport.
Caprock Canyons State Park is home to the official Texas bison herd. The mysterious Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument is also nearby.
Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum features a quirky collection of vintage RVs (free admission). The "Ozymandias" leg statue is a lesser-known quirky roadside art piece.
Bring spray paint for Cadillac Ranch (and take your empty cans with you!). Drink water—the high plains are dry. If hiking in the canyon, go early to avoid heatstroke.
Amarillo offers a true taste of Texas hospitality and rugged beauty. Whether you're getting your kicks on Route 66 or exploring the majestic canyon, it’s an unforgettable adventure.