things to visit in amarillo

25 Amazing Things to Do in Amarillo

Located deep in the Texas panhandle, Amarillo is a surprisingly fascinating small city, with a history that touches on nuclear energy, helium, oil, ranching, and one of the USA’s most beloved road trips. With a resume like that, of course there are dozens of fun things to do in Amarillo!

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway in Amarillo, are passing through while driving Route 66, or live nearby and want to discover a few more Amarillo attractions to check out, this list of what to do in Amarillo has you covered.

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Popular Things to Do in Amarillo, TX

Visit the 6th street historic district on route 66..

While Route 66 doesn’t technically pass through Amarillo anymore–hence why everything is marked as “historic” Route 66–the spirit of road trips and Americana is alive and well along Amarillo’s 6th Street Historic District.

Here, you’ll find everything from classic cars to restaurants to street art to antique shops, all begging to be explored.

Hike to the Lighthouse in Palo Duro Canyon.

The second-largest canyon in the USA, nicknamed the Grand Canyon of Texas, is located just 30 minutes outside of Amarillo, and absolutely deserves a visit!

There are plenty of viewpoints and trails to choose from, but the hike to the Lighthouse formation is the most popular for a reason–the views are simply incredible.

Bring a can of spray paint to Cadillac Ranch.

Cadillac Ranch isn’t just one of the most popular roadside attractions in Amarillo, it’s one of the most popular roadside attractions along all of Route 66.

Ten Cadillacs lined up in the desert with their front ends buried in the sand and thousands of layers of spray paint coating every inch of them: it’s one of those sights that you simply have to see to believe!

Explore Amarillo’s downtown.

With its art deco buildings and a seemingly endless number of restaurants and coffee shops, downtown Amarillo just might surprise you!

Take on a challenge at the Big Texan Steak Ranch.

Think you have a big appetite?

If so, consider hitting up the Big Texan Steak Ranch for their 72 oz. steak challenge, one of the most infamous things to do in Amarillo!

If you take the challenge, you’ll need to sit on a small stage-like table at the front of the restaurant as you (try to) eat a 72 oz. steak, plus fixings, in less than an hour. If you succeed, the meal is free. If not, prepare to cough up $72.

Even if food challenges aren’t your thing, though, this utterly unmistakable and over-the-top restaurant/roadside attraction combination is well worth a stop while in Amarillo.

Cool Museums in Amarillo, Texas

Hoping to hit up an interesting Amarillo museum–maybe partially to escape the heat? (No one would blame you for that!).

Luckily, the city has plenty to choose from, with classic and quirky options to boot. Here are the best museums to add to your list of what to do in Amarillo!

Texas Air & Space Museum

With both historic civilian and military aircraft on-site and plenty of other artifacts to explore, the Texas Air & Space Museum is a must-see for aviation lovers when visiting Amarillo. 

American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum

The American Quarter Horse has historically played an enormous role in the historical lives of people who have lived in west Texas and in the Great Plains in general, and this museum is dedicated to telling the story of the quarter horse and people who have influenced the breed along the way.

Jack Sisemore RV Museum

What’s more classic Americana than an RV Museum located right off of Route 66?

The Jack Sisemore RV Museum showcases a rotating collection of historic RVs dating from the 1930s to the 1970s, including the world’s oldest Airstream!

Bill’s Backyard Classics

Bill’s Backyard is to cars what the Jack Sisemore RV Museum is to RVs: with over 90 cars dating from the 1920s all the way to the 21st century, automobile lovers will love this Amarillo museum.

Kwahadi Museum of the American Indian

This museum features a beautiful collection of Native American art and also puts on dance performances throughout the year.

Amarillo Museum of Art

The Amarillo Museum of Art focuses primarily on local art, but also has collections of Asian art and European paintings. It is also free to visit!

Quirky Roadside Attractions in Amarillo

Famous Cadillac Ranch is far from the only roadside attraction in Amarillo–if you’re looking for quirky photos and colorful monuments, here’s where to look!

Helium Time Columns Monument

Built in 1968 to commemorate 100 years since the discovery of helium, the most interesting part of this monument is what lies underneath it.

When the monument was built, 4 time capsules were buried with it, to be opened in 25, 50, 100, and 1000 years after burial. Two have been opened so far, with 2 more to go.

VW Slug Bug Ranch

Dating to 2002, the VW Slug Bug Ranch is exactly what it sounds like: an ode to the more-famous Cadillac Ranch, but done with five VW Slug Bugs.

Combine City

Another Cadillac-Ranch-inspired roadside attraction in Amarillo, Combine City buried retired tractors instead of cars.

Unfortunately, unlike at Cadillac Ranch and Slug Bug Ranch, you can’t approach the vehicles or spray paint anything–but it’s still quite the sight as far as roadside Amarillo attractions go!

Ozymandias on the Plains

Named for a 19th-century Percy Shelley poem that references an Egyptian King, Ozymandias on the Plains may look like a damaged statue, but it was built to look exactly as it does.

Floating Mesa

Look closely at this mesa outside of Amarillo, and it may just appear to be floating. That’s not natural–it’s the result of a white stripe painted around the top of the mesa–but it is quite the sight!

Unfortunately, the mesa is far from the road and you can’t approach it, so if you want to photograph this phenomenon when visiting Amarillo, bring a zoom lens with you.

2nd Amendment Cowboy

Located right off Route 66, this truly gigantic cowboy statue is flanked by 3 classic Cadillacs and bears a yellow shirt that reads “2nd Amendment Cowboy”.

Dynamite Museum

This dispersed art installation was once the largest urban art project in the world and is made up of thousands of painted-over road signs with somewhat nonsensical messages painted on them.

You can find the road signs all over Amarillo, but for the biggest concentration of them, head to Mariposa Eco-Village.

More Fun Things to Do in Amarillo

Stroll through the amarillo botanical gardens..

Small but charming, the beautiful Amarillo Botanical Gardens belong on any list of what to do in Amarillo.

Tour the Harrington House.

Built in 1914, the beautiful Harrington House is a peek into Amarillo’s 20th century past, when cattle followed by oil and gas booms brought new wealth to the Texas panhandle.

Visit the Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument.

Sought after by humans for more than 13,000 years, the flint located in Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument was once vital to the survival of many people.

This is one of the most unique places to visit in Amarillo, and a great opportunity to learn about the history of the region.

Enjoy a night at the Tascosa Drive-in.

Open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights, the Tascosa Drive-in is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic slice of Americana when looking for fun things to do in Amarillo at night (or in this case, near Amarillo).

The drive-in shows double features, and it’s cash only!

Snap photos with the painted horses.

In honor of Amarillo’s close ties to the American quarter horse, over 100 painted statues of quarter horses can be found throughout the city. Keep an eye out as you explore and you’re bound to spot at least a few!

What to Do in Amarillo With Kids

Of course, kids will love many of the Amarillo attractions outlined above, but if you’re traveling with a family, consider adding these places to your list of things to do in Amarillo!

Don Harrington Discovery Center

This engaging children’s science museum, featuring everything from a planetarium to giant dinosaur statues on the playground, is a fun (and air-conditioned) stop for families looking for things to do in Amarillo with kids.

Wonderland Amusement Park

This local amusement park has everything from roller coasters to waterslides to mini-golf, and is a great way to enjoy a day in Amarillo.

Where to Stay in Amarillo

Looking for a place to stay in Amarillo? Try these popular properties!

Country Inn & Suites By Radisson — With exceptionally clean rooms, great service, an included breakfast, and far more charm than you’d expect from a chain hotel–the wooden staircase and clock tower are delightful–this is a fantastic place to stay in Amarillo.

Check rates & book your stay at the Country Inn & Suites By Radisson!

Embassy Suites Amarillo Downtown — Located downtown, Amarillo’s Embassy Suites gets fantastic reviews for both its location and amenities, including its popular included breakfast!

Check rates & book your stay at Embassy Suites Amarillo Downtown!

Courtyard By Marriott Amarillo Downtown — Housed in a historic Art Deco building in the heart of downtown Amarillo, the popular Courtyard By Marriott is the perfect place to stay when exploring the best things to do in Amarillo. Request a room with a view if you can, and you’ll be treated to one of the best views of the city.

Check rates & book your stay at Courtyard By Marriott Amarillo Downtown!

Getting around when visiting amarillo.

Spending time in Amarillo absolutely requires a car to get around–virtually everything on this list of what to do in Amarillo requires a drive to get to.

If you’re not driving your own car to Amarillo, plan to rent one for your trip.

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32 Best & Fun Things To Do In Amarillo (Texas)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: April 21, 2022  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Amarillo is a lively metropolis where the rustic charm of old-timey cowboys meets the modern sensibilities of a busy city.

It is the biggest settlement in the Panhandle and is known by many nicknames, including Bomb City and Rotor City.

Plus, the word “amarillo” is Spanish for “yellow”, which is why it has also earned itself the nickname of The Yellow Rose of Texas.

The city’s original name was Oneida, and it grew thanks to its use as a cattle-marketing center during the late years of the 19th century.

This city is a vibrant place, filled with a mix of nature, history, art, and culture.

With a storied past, a long legacy, and a great music scene, there’s no shortage of ways to spend your time on a vacation to this unique location.

To help you plan your trip to the Yellow City, here are the 32 best and fun things to do in Amarillo, Texas.

Table of Contents

1. Cadillac Ranch

Edwin Verin / Shutterstock

Cadillac Ranch is one of the most unique Amarillo attractions, and it’s also one of the few free things to do in this city!

Despite its name, this is actually neither a ranch nor an attraction made by the Cadillac company.

Instead, it is simply a public art installation funded by Stanley Marsh 3, an eccentric millionaire, collaborating with the San Franciscan art collective The Ant Farm.

Artists Chip Lord, Doug Michels, and Hudson Marquez are the artists of this impressive creation.

Completed in 1974 and moved further away from the city’s expansion in 1997, Cadillac Ranch features a total of ten Cadillacs.

These Cadillacs are positioned to appear like they are half-buried with their noses in the ground.

They face to the west, designed to mimic the angle of the pyramids of the Cheops.

The Cadillacs are also completely covered in graffiti, and that paint is regularly changed and updated for tributes and events.

Visitors are also allowed to bring their own paint cans and add their own graffiti to the cars, and they can do so 24 hours a day!

Some pretty cool road signs around the area make for great photo opportunities.

Address: 13651 I-40 Frontage Rd, Amarillo, TX 79124, United States

2. The Big Texan Steak Ranch & Brewery

The Big Texan Steak Ranch & Brewery

The Big Texan Steak Ranch & Brewery is one of the most fun places to grab a bite and challenge yourself and your enormous appetite!

This establishment is famous across the city for its steak challenge, where you’re challenged to consume a whopping 72 oz steak and a salad, appetizer, and potato, all within an hour.

Those who complete the challenge get their meal for free – and those who fail, pay $72 for their large meal!

But it’s totally okay if you aren’t interested in the challenge.

The Big Texan Steak Ranch & Brewery also has a standard menu filled with standard Texas fare cooked to perfection.

Start your meal with some mountain oysters, onion rings, fried pickles, or fried mushrooms.

Then, move on to fill your belly with giant chicken fried chicken, baby back ribs, tomahawk bone-in ribeye, steak quesadillas, sauteed beef tips, Texan strips, and more.

Finish off with a delicious 4-layered chocolate cake, topped with whipped cream!

Even if you’re not that hungry, The Big Texan Steak Ranch & Brewery is still one of the city’s things to see!

Situated along Route 66, this eatery opened in 1960 and is decorated with tons of billboards and a big statue of a white cow that’s great for photos.

Those seeking a place to stay can rest up at their motel or RV camp.

Address: 7701 I-40 East, Amarillo, TX 79118, United States

3. Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum

Diann Bayes / flickr

The Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum is one of the best, most unique places to visit around here, and one of the city’s free things to do!

The site is completely dedicated to the showcase and collection of unusual and vintage RVs.

The Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum was founded by a son and father, named Trent and Jack Sisemore, respectively.

Its exhibits are built on father Jack’s budding collection. Jack also owns and runs the attached business, which is the oldest RV dealership in the whole state of Texas.

Among the fascinating vehicles on display at the Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum are the Flexible Bus seen in RV, the movie, and the world’s oldest existing Fleetwood.

There’s also the very first Itasca motorhome, several original furnishings and appliances, genuine camping chairs, old pedal bikes, and cameras.

At Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum, you’ll see RVs dating back to the 1930s and some from as recently as the 1970s!

There are even some motorcycles on display, a few vintage cars, and a retro gas station and drive-through.

Address: 14501 I-27, Amarillo, TX 79119, United States

4. Amarillo Zoo

Amarillo Zoo

The Amarillo Zoo is one of the best places to visit for families with kids and animal lovers of all ages.

There are 88 species of animals and 150 individual animals situated throughout the 15-acre space.

There are amphibians, arachnids, reptiles, and other types of animals situated inside comfortable zoological spaces.

There are some native Texas species here, like gray foxes, bison, longhorns, and tarantulas on display, but many are exotic and can’t be found in the area.

There are exotic birds, some tigers and lions, salamanders, turtles, Burmese pythons, and many more!

Whether you like prairie dogs or monkeys, you’ll find them here.

Think bears, green iguanas, skunks, ring-tailed lemurs, emperor scorpions, miniature donkeys and horses, bobcats, cockatoos, kangaroos, and beyond!

Founded in 1955, the Amarillo Zoo hosts numerous fun events during holidays and seasonal festivals.

Halloween, International Cat Day, and Zoo Lights are all notable times to visit.

You won’t be left wondering what to see with so many great options.

There are live animal shows, cool animal encounters, keeper chats, and other activities to enjoy!

Address: 700 Comanchero Trail, Amarillo, TX 79107, United States

5. Don Harrington Discovery Center

Don Harrington Discovery Center

The Don Harrington Discovery Center is one of the top things to do in Amarillo.

The center is devoted to a wide range of space and science-themed exhibits, with interactive exhibits that are perfect for children and those who enjoy hands-on learning experiences.

There are many activities to enjoy at the Don Harrington Discovery Center.

There’s the Space Gallery, where you can learn about weather conditions both in space and on the planet.

There’s the planetarium in the Space Theater, animal-themed excitement in Critter Row, a construction space for kids in Little Builders, and creative opportunities in KinderStudio.

There are also tons of events and programs hosted throughout the year!

Outside of the Don Harrington Discovery Center, you’ll also find the stunning Helium Time Column Monument.

The six-story structure was made in 1968 as a means of celebrating the 100th anniversary of helium’s discovery.

Amarillo has a major helium plant and was a very important player in the world of American gas production and reserve.

As such, it’s no surprise that the monument has been erected here.

The Helium Time Column Monument comprises four columns, each one built from stainless steel.

These are time capsules that contain artifacts, documents, and books that are designed to exemplify life and science in 1968.

The columns are filled with helium and are designed to remind future generations of the importance of the mindful use of natural resources.

Address: 1200 Streit Dr, Amarillo, TX 79106, United States

6. Route 66 Historic District

Route 66 Historic District

You can’t talk about attractions in Texas without mentioning the Route 66 Historic District , a 13-block commercial expanse that is perfect for exploration.

You’ll get your fill of sightseeing, shopping, and local aesthetics, with the most intact buildings that remain from the famous Route 66 highway.

Many of the buildings in the Route 66 Historic District boast early 20th-century architectural styles.

Spanish Revival, Art Moderne, art déco, and more create some stunning vistas.

You’ll find historic structures like Taylor’s Texaco Station, the Natatorium, and the Adkinson-Baker Tire Company, among other quirky stores, dining establishments, and charming galleries.

You can find the Route 66 Historic District stretching from the city center to the west to San Jacinto Heights.

Blocks are situated between Georgia Avenue and Forrest Avenue.

Signposts provide you with plenty of information on each historic building.

Address: 3511 6th Ave, Amarillo, TX 79106, United States

7. Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West

Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West

What do to in Texas when you’re seeking a hospitality company that has you covered for tours, event information, catering, and even adventures?

Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West is one of the very best in the area.

They really know how to immerse you in the atmosphere of Texas, bringing you deep into the cowboy lifestyle, to Route 66, and out to the Palo Duro Canyon, among other enjoyable offerings.

Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West is most known for their very fun horseback riding experiences, which are available throughout the year.

Regardless of your skill level, you’ll be safely accommodated and welcomed to try it out!

Horseriding trips are a great way to hone your abilities.

For tours, Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West offers many types of tours.

There are various information and educational tours to areas of interest, but there are also photography tours, chuckwagon meal events, and camping trips.

Address: 19100 FM1258, Amarillo, TX 79118, United States

8. Amarillo Botanical Gardens

Barbara Brannon / flickr

Texas is well-known for its desert and dry, arid environment, but there’s a beautiful, verdant location that serves as one of its most beautiful tourist attractions.

The Amarillo Botanical Gardens are one such lush landscape.

Tours will drop your jaw as you view the beautiful fauna and flora that linger in the greenery and color.

With 4 acres of land to their name, these gardens are themed with different areas for different plants.

Seasonal themes add to the diversity!

You’ll see a xeric garden, Japanese garden, fragrance garden, and butterfly garden onsite.

The Amarillo Botanical Gardens are also home to the Mary E. Bivins Tropical Conservatory.

Here, you’ll find all sorts of exotic and tropical plants.

There are also lots of educational programs available related to gardening, plant knowledge, and much more.

Address: 1400 Streit Dr, Amarillo, TX 79106, United States

9. Amarillo Little Theatre

Kozlik / Shutterstock

The Amarillo Little Theatre is the top spot in the city for arts and culture-related fun.

This is one of the nation’s longest continuously open theatres, as well as one of the very oldest.

This is why performances here are extra special, putting you in a historic gem of Texas.

The Amarillo Little Theatre is renowned throughout the country for its impressive plays and shows, each one put on by a community-based troupe.

Local artists also come to perform here and many even mingle with audience members after each show.

A concession stand provides cocktails, food, and other drinks for post-show refreshments.

So why not check out the theatre to see if there’s anything you’d like to watch tonight?

There are family-friendly offerings, musicals, comedies, and classical plays.

Reservations are highly recommended, though, as seats fill up very quickly!

Address: 2019 Civic Cir, Amarillo, TX 79109, United States

10. Amarillo Historical Museum

Amarillo Historical Museum

The Amarillo Historical Museum is one of the most interesting Amarillo attractions for those interested in the city’s history and the wider history of Texas.

The museum opened in 2013 and has grown fast and gained a lot of popularity in recent years.

The Amarillo Historical Museum focuses on showcasing various exhibits related to the development of the city, taking it from a little town up to the metropolis of today.

It’s a simple but fun way to glimpse the past through photographs and antiques.

You’ll see fascinating items, like a collection of firearms from the Civil War, exhibits on the Amarillo High School fire, sports in the city, and the town’s first railroad rail.

Do note that viewing the museum is by appointment!

You’ll need to call ahead, email ahead, or otherwise make a reservation.

Address: 1612 S Johnson St, Amarillo, TX 79102, United States

11. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Silvio Ligutti / Shutterstock

Though there are many things to do in Amarillo, there are also some of the very best attractions in the state near the city.

About 30 minutes to Amarillo’s south, for example, you’ll find the stunning Palo Duro Canyon State Park .

A visitor’s center here gives you amazing insight into the area’s geology and history while offering tons of awesome panoramic views.

The titular canyon of Palo Duro Canyon State Park spans 120 miles in length, with 800 feet of depth and a width that reaches 20 miles in some areas.

This is the nation’s second-biggest canyon, making it well worth a trip.

You can even stay here for a while, with 150 different campsites to stop at and a few cabins to rent.

There are many ways to explore Palo Duro Canyon State Park.

Common activities include horseback riding, hiking, camping, geocaching, mountain biking, and driving through the 16-mile round-trip to do some sightseeing.

The aforementioned round-trip involves traveling down to the canyon floor from its ring, then along it the whole way through.

There are many hiking trails at Palo Duro Canyon State Park.

The Lighthouse Trail is probably the most loved, bringing you up to a dramatic rock across a 6-mile round-trip.

Regardless of the trail, you’re likely to see some unique birds and native fauna species, so bring a camera or some binoculars!

Address: 11450 State Hwy Park Rd 5, Canyon, TX 79015, United States

Planning a trip to Austin, Dallas, or El Paso? If you do plan the trip, here’s what to do in Austin , the best things to do in Dallas , and what to do in El Paso !

12. American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum

American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum

The American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum is the top place to be in this part of Texas for equine enthusiasts.

This institute focuses on the quarter horse and its role in the development of the region, commemorating and honoring the popular breed and its local legacy.

The American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum is filled with various artifacts related to its subject.

There are many things to see, like gorgeous paintings by renowned artist Orren Mixer, photographs of famous horses, and interactive displays that educate you on riding, anatomy, and more.

There are also displays of ribbons, riding clothing, equipment, and more.

You can find out the names of the most famous quarter horses at the Hall Of Fame on the museum’s upper floor.

There are trophies and tales of each one.

You can also learn about the bloodlines of the breed in the Grand Hall, the info of which is carved into the stonework-and-wood building.

Address: 2601 E Interstate Dr, Amarillo, TX 79104, United States

13. Wonderland Amusement Park

Wonderland Amusement Park is an amusement park jam-packed with all sorts of activities.

Families seeking places to visit will love this old-fashioned, charming location.

It’s quite storied, dating back to 1951.

Back then, the park was simply named Kiddie Land and only had three rides.

Today, there are almost 30 rides and the park only continues to grow!

At Wonderland Amusement park, you’ll find all sorts of traditional rides, like bumper cars, alongside more modern water rides and even a miniature golf course.

There’s a merry-go-round, a train for the little ones, and some cool boats to ride.

Roller coasters get the blood pumping with names like Hornet, Texas Tornado, Mouse Trap, and Cyclone.

Water rides, open in the summer, include the Rattlesnake Raft Ride, the Big Splash Log Plume, and the Pipeline Plunge.

Wonderland Amusement park is situated inside Thompson Memorial Park, a great 610-acre recreational area.

You can come here to relax even if you’re not interested in the amusement park.

There’s a zoo, some bike trails, a disc golf course, a dog park, two little lakes, and a nice playground.

Address: 2601 Dumas Dr, Amarillo, TX 79107, United States

14. Wildcat Bluff Nature Center

Wildcat Bluff Nature Center

The Wildcat Bluff Nature Center is one of the best sites in Texas to take in the state’s delightful scenery, with 600 acres to its name.

Located near the downtown area, this is a wide expanse of grasslands filled with hiking trails and decorated naturally with wildflowers that sprout up on all corners.

Tour guides are available, too!

The Wildcat Bluff Nature Center’s main building offers historic information on the environment, its flora and fauna, and its history.

This area was once important in the Gregg-Marc Wagon Trail, crucial in linking Fort Smith and Santa Fe .

As you explore the grasslands, you may see a few parts of the wagon trail that remain till now.

Address: 2301 N Soncy Rd, Amarillo, TX 79124, United States

15. Amarillo Opera

If you’re a performance art enthusiast seeking things to do in Amarillo, you shouldn’t miss the delights of the Amarillo Opera .

Founded in 1988, it boasts more than 75 members, and its shows are attended by more than 500,000 audience members annually.

For couples, it’s a great romantic and fun date option, too.

Dedicated to the preservation of culture and art in Texas, the Amarillo Opera works closely with a local college.

It’s won several awards and has a diverse repertoire, with a mix of inventive modern works and renowned classics performed.

Many operas here aren’t performed in the English language, so there are projected subtitles that can help you to follow along.

Address: 2223 S Van Buren St, Amarillo, TX 79109, United States

16. Bill’s Backyard Classics

Bill’s Backyard Classics

If you’re an automobile aficionado wondering what to do in Amarillo, well, you’re spoiled for choice.

But one of the top spots for this endeavor is Bill’s Backyard Classics , a cool automobile museum that boasts an impressive collection of close to a hundred different classic cars, with dates spanning from 1928 to 2012.

Car shows and other events are often held here, too.

Bill’s Backyard Classics was built by Bill and Linda Pratt on their public collection to share information and passion about automobiles.

You’ll spot Smart Cars, military Jeeps, and Corvettes all on display.

Noteworthy additions are Judge Roy Hofheinz’s 1956 Cadillac Fleetwood Limo and the 1961 Pontiac Catalina owned by Bob Seder.

Address: 5309 S Washington St, Amarillo, TX 79110, United States

17. Texas Air & Space Museum

Richardawarner , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

The Texas Air & Space Museum is situated at the Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport.

The aviation museum is the best of its kind in the area and offers a great way to look into the history of space and air travel.

It also has information on Rick Husband, who the airport is named after.

He was an astronaut who passed away when the Columbia space shuttle didn’t survive re-entry.

Inside the museum, you’ll see many great iconic aircraft alongside model aircraft and artifacts related to airports, aviators, and more.

There’s the Bell OH-13S helicopter used in MASH, a North American P-51D Mustang, and even a 1945 Douglas DC-3 N34.

In terms of individual artifacts, there’s a basket from a hot-air balloon, a 1960s homemade crop duster, and a B-52 bomber’s ejected seat.

One of the biggest highlights of the Texas Air & Space Museum is its outdoor park, which is filled with rare aircraft.

It’s a lot of fun to explore and view all sorts of stunning vessels in all their glory.

For example, there’s a Grumman G-1159 Gulfstream II from 1974 and a C-7A Caribou.

The latter, dating back to 1958, was an important training craft for astronauts, and you can climb into it to explore more!

Address: 10001 American Dr, Amarillo, TX 79111, United States

Looking for more thrill? Why not check out Fort Worth and Fredericksburg? If you do plan the trip, here’s a list of some of the best things to do in Fort Worth, and what to do in Fredericksburg, TX !

18. Amarillo Museum of Art

Amarillo Museum of Art

Art-lovers looking for stuff to do will enjoy the Amarillo Museum of Art .

Founded in 1972, this museum has many works from different periods and genres.

It also frequently shows all sorts of exhibits – about 15 a year – dedicated to local artists from around Texas.

This makes it a great way to tap into the local cultural scene!

There are more than 2,000 different works in the permanent collection of the Amarillo Museum of Art.

They’re displayed on a rotational basis to keep things fresh.

A mix of Western and Asian art is showcased, with a focus on Far East art.

There are even pieces of Hindu and Buddhist influence from the 2nd century BC.

Western art leans towards American Modernists, including works by photographer Russell Lee and paintings from the 17th to 19th centuries.

This museum of art is housed in a building measuring 32,000 square feet, spread across three floors inside the city’s main college.

Also, there’s no admission fee, making this one of the city’s free things to do.

Address: 2200 S Van Buren St, Amarillo, TX 79109, United States

19. TEXAS Outdoor Musical

TEXAS Outdoor Musical

The TEXAS Outdoor Musical shows in Palo Duro Canyon, outside of but very close to Amarillo.

This is a fun entertainment experience in the form of a musical drama, set at the Pioneer Amphitheater of the canyon.

Visitors to the city consider this one of the top attractions worth traveling to in the area!

The TEXAS Outdoor Musical is essentially a fictionalized telling of the story of the state’s history.

It has been playing throughout the summer for the past five decades.

There are characters of pioneers, Native Americans, cowboys, and more, each told in enthralling plotlines.

You’ll need to buy tickets in advance to catch this musical.

You can also pay an additional fee to eat a BBQ dinner before the show, in authentic Texan fashion!

20. Harrington House

Harrington House

The historic Harrington House is a home dating back to 1914.

History buffs will find a visit to be one of the best things to do in Amarillo.

The home was built by John and Pat Landergin, a pair of cattlemen, and then purchased by oil and gas industry leaders Don and Sybil Harrington.

The Harrington House has a stunning neoclassical style that has been perfectly preserved.

People exploring the home today will find that it has much of its original furnishings, 18th-century parquet flooring, and a gorgeous tapestry in the Reception Hall.

Some of the notable furniture pieces are an 1820 Regency-style cabinet, custom finials shaped like urns, and mirrors made from giltwood in the George III style.

Really, there’s a lot more – too much to list here!

The Harringtons’ art collection is also largely on display for all to see.

Address: 1600 S Polk St, Amarillo, TX 79102, United States

21. Amarillo Railroad Museum

The Amarillo Railroad Museum takes a close look at the history of the Texas Panhandle, westward expansion, and all its surrounding heritage.

Boasting two floors, the museum covers the time from 1952 to the 1970s in a chronological display system.

There’s also a scale layout of HO model trains meant to reflect all 200 miles of the Santa Fe railroad accurately!

The Amarillo Railroad Museum boasts a mix of indoor models and an outdoor exhibit with a railroad garden and historic train cars and engines.

You’ll even get to enter a nuclear weapons transport train used by the Department of Energy and tour it!

It’s a fun way to experience the region’s history, and it’s one of the most fascinating Amarillo attractions for that purpose.

Address: 3160 I Ave, Amarillo, TX 79111, United States

22. Kwahadi Museum of the American Indian

mr_t_77 / flickr

The Kwahadi Museum of the American Indian is one of the newer museums in Amarillo.

Its building is designed to resemble a Pueblo and is home to many things to see.

Exhibits of all sorts color the inside, filled with Native American art and culture.

Among the most significant features of the Kwahadi Museum of the American Indian are its collection of Navajo rugs, works by Thomas Mails, and Tom Knapp’s bronze castings.

You’ll get to learn various bits and pieces of information on the lives and legacy of the Native American people of the region.

The Kwahadi Museum of the American Indian has limited hours, so if you plan to go, make sure you check the schedule of opening times beforehand!

You should also check the performance schedule, as the museum hosts some renowned dance performances seasonally on the premises.

Address: 9151 I-40, Amarillo, TX 79118, United States

23. Tascosa Drive-In

BAZA Production / Shutterstock

Want to watch a movie?

The Tascosa Drive-In is one of the best places to visit for this entertainment!

Showing two movies a night from Friday to Sunday, this is a classic spot for a vintage film-viewing experience.

It shows a mix of modern Box Office smashes and classics.

The Tascosa Drive-In’s movies begin only when it’s dark, with gates opening at eight at night.

Picnics are welcome and a concession stand sells great snack food!

Tickets are inexpensive and all in all, this is a good experience for the whole family.

Check out what’s showing this weekend and drop in if you like!

Address: 1999 Dumas Dr, Amarillo, TX 79107, United States

Planning a road trip around Texas? Why not visit Galveston, Houston, and New Braunfels? If you do plan the trip, here’s what to do in Galveston , what to do in Houston , and some top New Braunfels attractions that you shouldn’t miss!

24. Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum

Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum is Texas’ biggest history museum, boasting a unique glimpse into the state’s past.

This goes all the way back to the era of the dinosaurs, all leading up to the modern day.

Locals often describe the museum like the Smithsonian, but with an accent!

It’s not in the city but is just a short journey away of about 20 to 30 minutes.

Opened in 1912, this is a fun way to learn about the region.

At the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, you’ll learn about numerous topics through fascinating educational exhibits.

There’s information on geology, the pioneers, innovations of the state, the American Indians who lived here, water, oil, transportation, windmills, and much more.

There’s a mix of archeology, art, history, and geology exhibits, with special rotating features throughout the year.

Address: 2503 4th Ave, Canyon, TX 79015, United States

25. Ozymandias on the Plains

amanderson2 / flickr

If you’re looking for bizarre things to do in Amarillo, feast your eyes on Ozymandias on the Plains.

You can see them from a distance on the I-27 – two huge legs dressed in athletic socks, disembodied and set into the ground on a pedestal.

These are supposedly a depiction of the legs of Ozymandias, or Ramesses II, the renowned Egyptian king.

The statue was created because of Percy Bysshe Shelley, a romantic poet and the husband of Frankenstein author Mary Shelley.

Shelley’s iconic poem, Ozymandias, describes a pair of trunkless stone legs in the desert on the stand, with stamped words on a pedestal proclaiming the name and declaration of Ozymandias.

The poem essentially describes the wreck of a land once ruled by the titular king, now ruined with his statue in pieces.

The sculpture was made by Lightnin’ McDuff, a local artist specializing in converting found items into artworks.

The sculpture is often vandalized and cleaned only to be vandalized again.

The socks that the king of kings often wears are spray-painted on time and time again, no matter how many times they are removed.

It was funded by Stanley Marsh 3, the man behind the funding of the Cadillac Ranch.

Address: and I-27, W Sundown Ln, Amarillo, TX 79119, United States

26. Amarillo Symphony

Alexandru Nika / Shutterstock

The Amarillo Symphony , founded in 1924, is a local orchestra that puts on a series of different performances suited for all ages.

If you’re an art appreciator wondering what to do in this part of Texas, this is a perfectly respectable option.

The Amarillo Symphony puts on many seasonal performances.

If there’s a show this weekend, you absolutely shouldn’t miss it!

Head to the Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts and take a relaxing seat as you’re serenaded by skilled and talented musicians.

Address: 301 S Polk St #700, Amarillo, TX 79101, United States

27. Combine City

ccarlstead / flickr

Combine City was born from a joke.

Orville Ladehoff wasn’t sure what to do with an old, damaged combine.

When he turned to his wife for suggestions, she jokingly suggested that he bury it – and that he did.

With two acres of land, Orville began to “plant” outdated combines nose-down in the ground, similarly to the style of Cadillac Ranch.

Combine City contains 14 combines arranged with their blades in the air.

The area is closed off, so it’s not open to graffiti-like Cadillac Ranch is.

Still, you can see it pretty easily, and though you can’t get up close, it’s one of the most fun sights in all of Amarillo!

Address: Amarillo, TX 79118, United States

28. Pantex Plant

The Pantex Plant is one of the most unique tourist attractions near Amarillo, just 17 miles out of the city.

It’s the only plant of its exact kind in the whole country.

The plant primarily functions as a disassembly plant for weapons and a plutonium storage site, but it’s also been used for the construction of nuclear weapons.

The Pantex Plant is run by the BMX corporation, though it is managed and officially owned by the Department of Energy of the United States.

The plant has numerous zones across its 16,000-acre expanse, boasting its own military force and even a test site for experimental explosives, simply dubbed Zone 11.

This plant has a long history.

It was built in 1942 for the Second World War, intended as a bomb factory, but it was decommissioned soon after.

The Texas Tech University purchased it in 1949 for just one dollar and used it for cattle feeding before the US Army reclaimed it.

It was then used in the Cold War as an assembly point for a whopping 70,000 nuclear warheads.

Now, the Pantex Plant has had a lot of updates and modernizations and now houses a shocking 9,000 Plutonium pits, with further pits on the way.

The plant has faced numerous other challenges, such as worker strikes due to overworked staff.

Next door, you’ll find The Peace Farm, a 1-acre site dedicated to sharing witness information regarding the plant and its activities.

The farm was originally created in 1986 and used to boast 20 acres of land before shrinking.

Visitation to the Pantex Plant is notoriously difficult.

The official plant’s website provides you with information on the paperwork you’ll need to read and what you need to do to gain entrance.

It can be a bit of a hassle, but for fans of unusual, one-of-a-kind spots, it’s worth the trouble for a glimpse into the incredible property and its goings-on.

Address: US Highway 60 & FM2373, Panhandle, TX 79068, United States

29. Amarillo Civic Center Complex

Amarillo Civic Center Complex

The Amarillo Civic Center Complex is a hotspot for guests and locals alike thanks to the numerous fun and interesting events and conventions that it hosts throughout the year.

It’s home to a 2,848-seat auditorium, two exhibit halls, and the sports arena of the Cal Farley Coliseum.

There’s also a Grand Plaza that is decorated to represent and celebrate Texas!

If you’re in the city this weekend, you should check the schedule of the Amarillo Civic Center to see if anything that you’d like to attend is happening!

Ice skating shows, wrestling matches, football games, concerts, musical performances, hockey matches, and Broadway shows are all held here.

Address: 401 S Buchanan St, Amarillo, TX 79101, United States

Looking for more excitement? Why not check out San Antonio and Waco? If you do plan the trip, here are some fun things to do in San Antonio and some top Waco attractions you shouldn’t miss!

30. Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument

Traveller70 / Shutterstock

When you’ve explored most of the things to do in Amarillo, you can travel about 40 minutes north out of the city to the Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument .

Situated on Lake Meredith’s shore, this was once a crucial site for the survival of early people.

For over 13,000 years, human beings relied on the flint that could be mined here.

There are plenty of places to visit at the national monument.

Start at the modern, interactive Visitor Center to get information about the area via the bookstore, exhibits, or theater.

The latter showcases an 11-minute award-winning film!

There are also guided tours offered, various programs for all ages, and hands-on demonstrations of all sorts.

Then, head outdoors to the Alibates Interpretive Garden and the Native American demonstration gardens to see all sorts of native flora.

If you’d rather explore and want a quick way to do so, head onto the 10-minute hike of the Mesquite Trail, bringing you through a looping path surrounding a mesa.

Other areas of note at the Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument are other Texas attractions like Mullinaw Trails, McBride Canyon, Bates Canyon, and much more.

Regardless, the monument offers petroglyph hunting, camping, boating, fishing, horseback riding, off-roading, hunting, birding, and others.

Address: Cas Johnson Road, Fritch, TX 79036, United States

31. Floating Mesa of Amarillo

Floating Mesa of Amarillo

The Floating Mesa of Amarillo is one of the most unusual and fascinating Amarillo attractions, though it is slightly outside of the main city’s area in Texas.

It is yet another fun creation funded by the aforementioned eccentric Stanley Marsh 3, who created Cadillac Ranch.

The roadside attraction of the Floating Mesa of Amarillo is exactly what it sounds like.

This artwork is designed to create the appearance of a mesa that is floating.

The illusion is at its most believable when the sky is the perfect shade of white, so the white plywood that supports the mesa’s peak blends in well.

Address: Tascosa Rd, Bushland, TX 79012, United States

32. Texas Panhandle War Memorial Center

Texas Panhandle War Memorial Center

The Texas Panhandle War Memorial Center was built in 1992 as a means of honoring veterans from the region who worked and sacrificed to preserve American life.

It’s one of the more sobering things to see in Amarillo, with names from a total of 26 different countries commemorated.

The beautiful archway of the memorial was dedicated on Veterans Day in 1999 to all living veterans.

It is also a part of several projects dedicated to improving the area and the lives of veterans.

The war memorial would continue to be updated with new names for different passing wars until its final completion in 2002.

Now, the education center for the memorial, spanning 15,000 square feet, is a fantastic historic attraction packed with modern technology and information.

You’ll see various artifacts in a small military museum, the Panhandle’s only military chapel, an education center, and more special rooms.

Address: 4111 S Georgia St, Amarillo, TX 79110, United States

Looking for more thrills around Texas? Why not check out some of the things to do in Tyler, TX & some of the things to do in San Marcos, TX ?

Start Planning Your Trip To Amarillo

Amarillo is a city where fun can be found on every corner.

From music to unusual art and from magnificent displays of nature to sobering tellings of history, there’s tons to enjoy in Amarillo!

Happy travels.

Official visitors' guide

Start Planning

Welcome to Amarillo, Texas!

Welcome to Amarillo, where rugged cowboy culture meets big-city sophistication. Ride horseback in the second largest canyon in the country, take a photo with one of the most recognizable landmarks in Texas like Cadillac Ranch and The Big Texan, or go retro on historic Route 66. Satisfy your culture-seeking side and dive into Amarillo’s arts scene. Most people don’t think of the arts when they think of West Texas, but Amarillo is home to premier, professional arts organizations like the Amarillo Symphony, Lone Star Ballet, the Amarillo Opera, one of the nation’s most respected community theatre organizations, and more. Whether you’re looking for your next amazing outdoor adventure or you want to see something new, you’ll find many unique things to do worthy of any bucket list.

Located just a day trip away from Dallas, Lubbock, and Oklahoma City, the heart of the Texas Panhandle Plains is full of amazing things to see and do set on stunning landscapes. Grab your boots and get ready to make some unforgettable memories in Amarillo.

This visitor guide has been created to help you make the most of your adventure. Follow along the routes taken by these traveling experts to find what will fit your vacation style! Click through their experiences to view tips and tricks, map out your favorite stops, and even view a 360° tour right on your device! Use this guide to help plan your trip and explore all of the amazing and unexpected things that Amarillo has to offer.

Visit Amarillo Experience Amarillo

A place to explore, create, invent, tinker, learn and play. The museum has interactive exhibits, educational programs, special events and the only planetarium in the Texas Panhandle!

The Amarillo Museum of Art (AMoA) features permanent and temporary exhibits housed in an Edward Durrell Stone-designed, three-story museum.

The mission of the Texas Panhandle War Memorial is to honor the men and women who have given us our freedom and to keep history alive. Remember Every War Remember Every Soldier To Remember is to Honor

The RV Museum at Jack Sisemore's Traveland is inspired by the Sisemore's love for RVs. The museum offers a free to view collection including RVs, vintage motorcycles, and other nostalgic items!

The American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum showcases the colorful history and modern activities of the world's most popular breed of horse and the people who have played a major role in its history.

Fun fact: this building mimics the design of an Indian Pueblo and the exterior glows a beautiful pink in the sunset!

It's not just for aviation fans! This museum honors Amarillo's and the Texas Panhandle's history of flight.

Cadillac Ranch is one of the most famous stops along Route 66 with its colorful cars stacked neatly upright in a row. Visitors are encouraged to leave their own mark on the colorful cars so be sure to bring along your own can of spray paint when you stop by! -@lonestarlookingglass

Wildcat Bluff covers about one square mile of land in western Amarillo. It's an ideal place to hike, bird watch, and enjoy the local flora and fauna of the area!

Did you know that Amarillo is known as the "yellow rose” of Texas? Since Amarillo means “yellow” in Spanish, it was named after the yellow sub-soil and the yellow blooms on the region’s Yucca plants. Keep an eye out for them here. -@pointsandtravel

Wonderland Amusement Park has been an ideal place for families to relax and have fun for a reasonable price for 67 years. It's home to the Texas Tornado, one of the top-rated, double-loop steel roller coasters in the nation, and to over 30 rides, attractions, and miniature golf.

Hodgetown is home to the San Diego Padres Double-A affiliated baseball team, the Sod Poodles. It's located in the heart of downtown Amarillo and it's the newest sports and entertainment destination in Amarillo.

Starlight Ranch is a one of a kind experience that brings together the best in entertainment and Big Texan hospitality. You can enjoy live music, delicious foods, handcrafted beer, activities for the kids, and even a heart-pounding trip down The Big Texan Zipline!

Looking for wide open spaces?! This is the place to be! You will be riding on 3,000 acres of beautiful Texas land.

Did you know? Cadillac Ranch was created in 1974 by the art group Ant Farm on the property of a local artist and millionaire Stanley Marsh. -@pointsandtravel

Here you will find over one mile of art galleries, antique and collectible stores, restaurants, and bars! Not only was Route 66 the Mother Road of America, but this district was one of the first residential and business districts in Amarillo.

The GoldenLight Cafe is the oldest restaurant in Amarillo and perhaps the oldest restaurant continuously operating in the same location anywhere on Old Route 66!

The building that houses The Nat was once home to live musical acts like Elvis Presley, Duke Ellington and Little Richard!

Home of the "I am Rt 66" project and Jim Livingston's photography and art.

The trick here is to not eat for at least 24 hours before you go in, so you are nice and hungry! -@pointsandtravel

Visit Amarillo Panhandle Road Trip

Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument is approximately 35 miles northeast of Amarillo near Fritch, Tx. A unique 1 1/2 mile walking tour led by park staff or volunteers offers a glimpse into the lives of the High Plains Indians.

If you visit in the winter, make sure the activities you want to partake in will be open. We visited in February and enjoyed nice, cool weather for hiking and riding but many of the tour companies will not be fully operating during the less busy parts of the year. -@rippedjeansandbifocals

Amarillo is home to the largest canyon within the state of Texas, Palo Duro Canyon, second only to the Grand Canyon. Which is how it’s earned its nickname as the “Grand Canyon of Texas.” -@pointsandtravel

Wind can definitely impact enjoyment of outdoor activities, particularly in Palo Duro Canyon. So be sure to check the weather before visitng! -@rippedjeandbifocals

This 120 mile canyon is the second largest canyon in the USA and boasts some of the most incredible views in all of Texas. With so much to see and do, an overnight stay in the canyon is a must. If camping isn’t your thing, be sure to check out one of the historic stone cabin rentals in the basin of the canyon. -@lonestarlookingglass

Wind and water over the eons shaped the rugged beauty of Caprock Canyons State Park! Today, bison roam the plains, bats roost in Clarity Tunnel, and you can explore 90 miles of trails.

Located less than one mile north of the caprock of Palo Duro Canyon, the GHC boasts broad vistas and native wildlife!

Boys Ranch was founded in 1939 by Cal Farley, a world-champion athlete and successful Amarillo businessman. That first year, nine boys were living on the original 120 acres- now there are about 300 boys and girls enrolled on the 11,000 acre ranch!

Definitely don’t skip out on The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum during your Amarillo visit. In fact, plan to spend a good chunk of your day here — there is so much to see and discover! Permanent exhibits boast interactive insight the whole family will enjoy on pioneer towns, the people of the plains, petroleum, geology, archeology, paleontology and so much more. -@lonestarlookingglass

The Texas Outdoor Musical runs from May through August and is considered a don’t miss when you’re visiting Amarillo. If you visit in the winter, make sure the activities you want to partake in will be open. -@rippedjeansandbifocals

When visiting the nearby Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the 3 mile CCC trail and the scenic loop drive can't be missed for lovers of the great outdoors! -@itspamdel

West of Amarillo, you will find the famous Midpoint Cafe - located at the midpoint of Route 66!

When visiting the famous Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo to spray paint, grab a can or two of spray paint before heading over to this public art installation that encourages you to be a part of the art! -@itspamdel

Explore further. Amarillo is a great jumping off point to explore other parts of Texas. There’s so much out there to see. You can also continue down Historic Route 66 in either direction. If you’re really adventurous and spontaneous, flip a coin: heads you go east and tails you go west! -@rippedjeansandbifocals

More than the Texas Route 66 Visitor Center, this space is also home to a full gallery featuring different artists monthly.

Amarillo is home to the Big Texan Steak Ranch, which is world famous for serving a 72- ounce steak for free if you can eat it within an hour with its fixins’ (a baked potato, shrimp cocktail, salad and bread roll with butter.) Otherwise, you have to cough up $72 for the steak! -@pointsandtravel

East of Amarillo, Shamrock is a perfect addition to your Route 66 trip. Here you can stop by the Historic U-Drop Inn (you may recognize it from the movie “Cars”!).

Expert Guides

Jill robbins.

@rippedjeansandbifocals

Dr. Cacinda Maloney

@pointsandtravel

Alice Kerley

@alice.kerley

Hot Spots along the route

575 pizzaria.

Our pizza perfectionists use the freshest ingredients, made-from-scratch dough and top-of-the-line cheeses to create the best tasting pies in the world. Take a seat at our beer and wine bar and try a blend or brew that’s new to you.

Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant

We are passionate about our made-from-scratch dishes, each one made from the heart and crafted with pride from Chef Luis E. Sanchez’s family recipes.

Amarillo Stockyard Grill

Located in the Historical Amarillo Stockyards. The Amarillo Stockyards has been around since 1904 and seen generations of cattlemen, ag producers, and visitors. They serve breakfast, burgers, steaks, and Chef's well-known chicken fried steak.

Bankok Tokyo

Charming Thai-Japanese restaurant offering ample portions of classic dishes & a sushi menu.

Bar Z Winery

All Bar Z wines are made entirely with Texas grapes grown in the Texas High Plains AVA (American Viticultural Area). Once the grapes are crushed, Bar Z uses the time-honored method of fermentation called hand cap management.

Belmar Bakery

The world is a better place with dessert and cake. Period. And we love helping our community celebrate life’s most special occasions with our delicious sweets, treats & eats.

Benjamin’s Donuts & Bakery

Kolaches( Pig N blanket), Breakfast Burritos, Croissant Sandwiches, Large Assortment of Donuts & Fillings!

These Biti Pies are made from scratch using our time-tested recipes.

Blue Crane Bakery

Family owned and operated bakery focused on making out of the box goodies that everyone can enjoy! Everyone including YOU!

You'll notice the difference from the moment you walk in. Our restaurants are comfortable and casual…just the kind of place where you want to hang out with family and friends.

Bomb City Distillery

99 years after Prohibition, two local friends partnered up to create superior spirits. Using premium high quality and locally sourced grains with artisan hand crafted stills, powered by traditional steam heating to produce a truly handmade micro batch spirit.

Braceros Mexican Grill & Bar

For more than 15 years, Braceros has offered you delicious dishes of beef fillet, fish, shrimp, chicken, quail and pork, seasoned with the world-famous Mexican species and our traditional homemade food.

Brent’s Cafe

Brent's Café is a Chef owned and family operated cafe in Amarillo, Texas. We utilize as much locally sourced produce and agriculture as we can get our hands on in order to provide fresh, inspired, and nourishing food.

Buns Over Texas

Buns Over Texas first opened its doors in Amarillo in 1989. We have been serving great burgers, cheese fries, dogs, chicken, fish and many other menu items for over 22 years.

Butterlove Biscuits

We serve buttery, flaky, from-scratch, fresh-made buttermilk biscuits in over 20 flavors! Come in for brunch, or grab a dozen to go! Butter is our thing.

Calico County

If you've been searching for home-cooked breakfast, lunch or dinner, stop by Calico Count . We've been whipping up delicious home-cooked meals since 1984. Whether you want cinnamon rolls for breakfast or chicken-fried steak for dinner, you won't regret eating at Calico County Restaurant.

Cliffside Coffee

Local coffee shop in the 806 Area looking to Elevate and Caffeinate the people of the Texas Panhandle.

Coffee Fixx

Coffee shop serving small Breakfast & Lunch Menu. Breakfast Menu available all day. Serving Coffee, Tea, Espresso Drinks, Fountain Drinks.

Coyote Bluff Cafe

Best Burgers in Amarillo! Juicy Ribeye Steaks and Mouthwatering Cheese Fries! We would be honored to have you as our guest!

Crazy Larry’s Fine Texas Bar-B-Q

Fine Texas BBQ and the home of Amarillo's Best Frito Pie!

Creek House Honey Farm & Honey Buzz Winery

At Honey Buzz we brew a variety of meads that are carbonated and on tap. We also carry different meads and melomels in bottles. Mead slushies are also available.

Crush Wine Bar & Restaurant

Located in Downtown Amarillo, Crush's intimate setting provides the perfect ambiance to enjoy delicious food, wine and beer with friends and family.

Delvin’s Restaurant

At Delvin's Restaurant & Catering, our BBQ is smoked fresh every day for about 12-14 hours! This is because here at Devlin's we believe in serving quality BBQ, Traditional American, and Soul Food!

Dyer’s Bar-B-Que

We offer a variety of bar-b-que plates such as beef, ribs, pork, polish sausage, brisket, ham, and more! Our Bar-B-Que Plates are served with beans, potato salad, coleslaw, onion rings, apricots and texas toast.

From humble beginnings as a convenience store nearly 25 years ago to opening two full-service dining establishments, El Tejavan is celebrated as the Panhandle’s destination for true Mexican cuisine!

Family owned cafe serving fresh fruits & veggies. From smoothies to salads & snacks, stop by & customize a healthy kick start to your day!

Fire Slice Pizzeria

We only procure the freshest, highest quality ingredients we can find- locally, when possible - including artisan cured meats and cheeses. We make our food from SCRATCH, including our house-made Italian sausage, delectable meatballs, sauces & pesto, salad dressing, dessert & more

Furrbie’s

Lunch spot serving burgers and American food in Downtown Amarillo.

Girasol Cafe & Bakery

Artisan bakery serving delicious meals and baked goods that are always fresh!

GoldenLight Cafe & Cantina

This legendary greasy spoon cafe is the longest running restaurant in Amarillo and continuously operating restaurant on Route 66!

Gooney’s

Gooney's is a casual bar and grill with Asian Fusion food in Amarillo providing an assortment of beers and wines.

Green Chile Willy’s

We are known for down home cooking done with a flavorful twist. Whether you like steak, chicken or burgers, we can satisfy that hunger.

We take pride in serving Certified Angus Beef ® along with home-made recipes made fresh daily.

Honey Buzz Winery

Hummers sports cafe.

Hummers is intended to be a fun place to meet friends, make friends and all the other stuff you'd expect from a kid who grew up in Amarillo, daydreaming of playing shortstop for the Yankees, having a date with Marilyn Monroe, and would have loved to see Babe Ruth hit a home run and then had a few beers with him after the game, and wishes Buddy Holly was still alive and making music.

It’s a Punjabi Affair

Listed as one of the top restaurants to eat in the United States and Texas, It’s a Punjabi Affair believes in its unique delivery of service as its policy is “Customer is king”. Love and taste in our foods will be in abundant.

Tex-Mex with amazing drink specials.

Jorge’s Mexican Bar & Grill

Nachos, quesadillas, margaritas & Tex-Mex dishes offered in an upbeat setting with TVs & a patio.

The Lazy Gator has a menu featuring fresh seafood, pastas, burgers, and cocktails. Get your Cajun fix at this Amarillo favorite.

Macaroni Joes

Enjoy a tuscan feel, with an italian villa ambiance at Macaroni Joe's Restaurant. Macaroni Joe’s knows wine. With over 600 selections to choose from on our award winning wine list, we have a wine to suit even the most discriminating consumer.

Meme’s D.O.C

Meme’s D.O.C. is nothing less than one of the classic restaurants in Amarillo. We have a reputation for giving our customers an exquisite treat for their taste buds.

Metropolitan – A Speakeasy

Meticulous Attention To Details Of The Prohibition Era Were Balanced With The Romance and Ease Of Today To Bring You, Superior Service, Excellent Food And Atmosphere And The Best Handcrafted "To The Era" Cocktails By Our Culinary Bar Team

Moe Dogs Grill

Home of The Best Dog in Town! Come in and try our Sauerkraut Fritters and one-of-a-kind amazing dishes!

Longtime Thai cafe with a wide-ranging menu of curries & noodles

Napoli’s Italian Restaurant

We have been serving authentic Italian dishes for almost a decade and are proud to be one of Amarillo's favorite Italian dine-ins. We take pride in every dish that comes out of the kitchen.

North Heights Discount and Cafe

North Heights Discount Store and Café is your one stop shop for delicious home cooked food and discount store needs

OHMS Cafe & Bar

Nestled in the historic downtown of Amarillo, OHMS Cafe & Bar fuses the soul of Santa Fe with the heart of the panhandle. Attracting artists, entrepreneurs, suits, scarves and working stiffs, OHMS's cozy and quiet atmosphere provides the perfect ambiance for a delicious and intimate dining experience.

Palace Coffee Company

Serving coffee is what we do, but creating relationships is why we do it. While we can’t claim to be perfect, we strive to be the best that we can be in our craft, all the while establishing an environment where others can also work towards perfecting their own craft.

Panhandler’s Cafe

Our lunch cafe offers a variety of fresh salads & sandwiches, soups, daily specials, and handmade desserts.

Polk Street Eats

Fresh, never frozen chuck burgers, hand-cut fries, great salads & more. Full bar with handcrafted cocktails.

Pondaseta Brewing Co.

Showcasing the hard work and dedication of local producers, Pondaseta Brewing Co strives to bring you the highest quality beer in a casual atmosphere.

Public House

The Public House is a gathering place for anyone seeking good food and drink. We feature upscale American comfort food, craft beer, classic cocktails, and boutique wines.

Rain Premier Sushi Bar & Lounge

You’ll feel the cool urban vibe as soon as you walk into Rain Premier Sushi Bar & Lounge. The eatery serves contemporary Asian cuisine in its cool-as-ice downtown lounge/restaurant, once the location of the iconic Paramount Theater.

Rise N Shine Donuts

Rise N Shine Donuts offers delicious donuts to start your morning off right as well as other breakfast treats.

Roasters Coffee & Tea Co.

If you are local or passing through the area, join us. We've been serving coffee in Amarillo for many years and look forward to many more.

Sakura Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar

Sakura Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar is one of Amarillo’s premier locally owned restaurants and has been serving quality Japanese cuisine since 1998. Our restaurant boasts four unique dining areas, each with a distinct dining experience:

Sharky’s Burrito Co.

A build your own burrito spot that's been a local favorite for over 10 years!

Shi Lee’s Barbecue & Soul Food Cafe

Want some good Bar-B-Que or Soul Food? Come dine with us at Shi Lee's and support their efforts! During 2020, this restaurant has given away over 50,000 meals to children to help them during the pandemic.

Six Car Pub & Brewery

Amarillo's first and only downtown restaurant and brewery! Featuring ample outdoor seating with a dog-friendly patio and a rooftop patio. Now serving cocktails in addition to our large beer, cider and wine selection!

Smokey Joes

Grill and bar located on Amarillo's Route 66 Historic District.

Spicy Mike’s Bar-B-Q Haven

Spicy Mike’s in Amarillo has a true passion for Texas food done right. What that amounts to is some of the absolute best bar-b-q you've ever had!

Sunday’s Kitchen

We are Sunday's Kitchen, a local restaurant serving Amarillo and the Texas Panhandle.

Sushi House

We specialize in sushi!!!! make my day, spider roll, honeymoon shooter you name it.

Welcome to the legendary tastes of Taco Villa! For over 50 years our fans have depended on us to serve the freshest Mexican food specialties you'll find anywhere. Thanks for visiting us!

Taste of Thai

Thai & Chinese dishes such as shrimp curry & chow mein served in an unfussy strip-mall restaurant.

Thai Arawan

The kitchen is led by Lan, who has been recognized from as far as Australia for his unique interpretations on traditional Thai classics.

The 806 Coffee + Lounge

The 806 offers the best coffee, espresso, tea, vegetarian/vegan foodies, beers, and wines! They are proud to host an eclectic mix of local and traveling music acts.

The Acai Bar

The Açaí Bar sources fresh ingredients so you can be sure that you are eating clean. All bowls are topped with a variety of the freshest fruit, honey, organic granola, and organic coconut shreds.

The Big Texan Steak Ranch and Brewery

Famous for the free 72oz steak dinner (if eaten within an hour), this Route 66 icon serves delicious made-from-scratch food to hungry travelers every day. Don't miss out on their wide array of local brews with your meal!

The Drunken Oyster

The Drunken Oyster atmosphere will bring you into the Heart of the French Quarter, With the sounds you hear on the streets of French Quarter, Gas Lanterns, Heavy Drapes, aged Brick and Library laddered bar. The food is a compilation of Cajun Inspired dishes and fresh flown in daily Seafood and Oysters.

The Eatery on Route 66

We're proud to offer the highest quality of food in the Amarillo area. We strive to bring you a welcoming atmosphere and a satisfying experience.

The Handle Bar and Grill

At The Handle Bar and Grill, we are focused on providing family friendly services with the highest levels of customer satisfaction

The Lost Cajun

The Lost Cajun combines authentic Cajun food and a down-home atmosphere with the best in Southern hospitality for a unique and delicious dining experience.

The Plaza Restaurant & Bar

Family owned and operated, The Plaza Mexican Restaurant strives to provide our guests quality Tex-Mex Dishes and the service everyone deserves.

The Ruffled Cup Cupcakery & Sweet Shoppe

Come in for a piece of cake,our famous cream cheese sugar cookies, cheesecakes, safe to eat cookie dough, homemade ice cream, brownies, French macarons and MORE!! Come in and enjoy a sandwich or salad with all of our meat roasted in house and made with only the best ingredients.

Tokyo Japanese Steakhouse

We serve only Black Angus Beef, premium chicken tenders, and fresh sushi grade seafood. Our talented culinary staff have a flair for the delicious. So come in for delicious, authentic Japanese cuisine and prepare to be entertained by our theatrics.

Tyler’s Barbeque

Award-winning down-home BBQ featured as one of the best BBQ spots in Texas. Serving dry-rub ribs smoked, brisket, sausage, and more daily.

Uptown Sweet Shoppe

Uptown Sweet Shoppe is a locally-owned family-run bakery located in the Summit Shopping Center in Amarillo Texas. We offer fresh home-made pastries & cakes but also an array of healthy salads & sandwiches, breads, and so much more. Everything is homemade daily from scratch using local, organic ingredients where possible.

Venezia Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria

Bringing you authentic Italian food to Amarillo TX!

Wild Bill’s Fillin Station

Wild Bill’s Bar & Grill in Amarillo, Texas has been the the spot for locals and travelers to fill up on delicious food and great drinks. Wild Bill's Bar & Grill served breakfast all day long!

YOLOS Food Truck

Menu features breakfast, brunch, coffee, and lunch with delicious staples and creative menu items!

Ye Old Pancake Station

Our goal is to be consistent in our food and our service. We care about our customers and try to make your dining experience with us the best. We welcome each and every one of you to come to our country-inspired restaurant where it feels like home!

Yellow City Street Food

YCSF is proudly Chef Owned, and features food that's anything by boring! Their chef enjoys creating an experience and pulling people from their comfort zone with fun street food or upscale multi-course dinners.

Youngblood’s Cafe

Serving the Finest Breakfast, Burgers, Steaks and Other Favorites! Nationally recognized Youngblood’s Cafe has been a favorite restaurant of Amarillo residents for over 12 years.

Youngs Sushi “Rocks!”

Upbeat, casual restaurant offering a long sushi menu as well as Japanese & Thai entrees.

Amarillo Super 8 Airport

Conveniently located off I-40, we are situated within reach of the area's most popular attractions.

America’s Best Value Inn Grand Street

This low-key roadside hotel off Interstate 40 freeway is 4.4 miles to Amarillo Civic Center and 6.6 miles by car to Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport.

Ashmore Inn and Suites

Off Interstate 40, this roadside hotel is a 3-minute walk from the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum.

Autograph Collection By Marriott

IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN AMARILLO, ON THE CUSP OF ROUTE 66, THE BARFIELD HOTEL TYPIFIES THE EVER-EVOLVING HISTORY OF THIS ICONIC CITY.

Baymont Inn and Suites East

Featuring free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, the traditional rooms also have coffee makers and desks. Suites add living areas with sofas, and some offer wet bars, mini fridges and microwaves. Kids stay at no charge with an adult.

Best Western Plus Medical Center

Bright, relaxed rooms offer flat-screen TVs, microwaves and mini fridges, as well as sitting areas, high-speed Internet access, and tea and coffeemakers. Suites add separate living areas.

Best Western Santa Fe

Low-key rooms offer free Wi-Fi and cable TV, along with mini fridges and coffee makers. Upgraded rooms add microwaves and pull-out sofas.

Big Texan Motel

Resembling a 19th-century old west main street, this laidback motel alongside Interstate 40 is 3 miles from the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum, and 4 miles from the Texas Air & Space Museum.

Candlewood Suites

The modest studios feature kitchenettes, free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Suites add separate living rooms with pull-out sofas.

Comfort Inn and Suites East

Modern hotel with an indoor pool & a bar, plus free hot breakfast, parking & WiFi.

Comfort Inn and Suites Soncy

Straightforward rooms with free hot breakfast buffet & WiFi in hotel with an indoor pool & hot tub.

Comfort Suites South

Relaxed suites in a casual lodging with free breakfast, plus an indoor pool, a sauna & a gym.

Comfort Suites Western Plaza

Laid-back all-suite hotel offering an indoor pool, a hot tub & a gym, plus free breakfast & Wi-Fi.

Country Inn and Suites – Soncy

Down-to-earth rooms and suites offer free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and mini fridges, plus microwaves and coffeemakers. Some have sitting areas, pull-out sofas and/or whirlpool tubs. Children age 18 and under stay free in a parent's room.

Courtyard by Marriott Downtown

Revel in the conveniences of downtown without any of the disturbances at Courtyard Amarillo Downtown. Our hotel is located near many of the city's most popular locales, including the Amarillo Civic Center, Big Texan Steak Ranch and Amarillo College. Perhaps more importantly, we offer a welcome reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the busy city center. Our rooms feature contemporary designs, as well as a place to catch up on recent shows on our flat-panel TVs, finish up work with our ergonomic workstations, browse the web using complimentary Wi-Fi or simply sink into a plush pillowtop mattress after an exhausting day.

Courtyard by Marriott West

Join us at our Amarillo, TX hotel, perfect for today's on-the-go traveler or family getaway. Our hotel boasts many great amenities, including mini-refrigerators and premium TV channels such as HBO and ESPN. Our location, in West Amarillo, places you on I-40 walking distance to the medical and shopping districts. We are also minutes away from the Historic Route 66, Cadillac Ranch and great places to eat.

Drury Inn and Suites

Drury Inn & Suites Amarillo is 10 minutes west of downtown Amarillo off I-40. This area is known as the medical district, but there’s plenty of shopping, dining, golfing and entertainment nearby! Relax in our clean, comfortable rooms and enjoy free hot breakfast every morning and free hot food and cold beverages every evening at our 5:30 Kickback®.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Amarillo Downtown

Our two-room suites are in the heart of downtown Amarillo, adjacent to the Amarillo Civic Center. Cadillac Ranch and the Amarillo Botanical Gardens are within 15 minutes. Our hotel features an indoor pool, dry sauna, fitness center, and event space for up to 1,000 guests. Enjoy our free made-to-order breakfast and complimentary evening reception.

Executive Inn

Enjoy a economical stay at the Executive Inn Express & Suites West with a premier location close to the Amarillo Medical District Conveniently located on the West side of Amarillo, Texas, the hotel is accompanied by some of Amarillo's finest dining as well as the United Artist Movie Theatre.

Extend-a-Suites

We cater to a variety of contract labors, as well as the iconic route 66 travelers, and always welcome our daily newcomers!

Extended Stay America

Reserve a comfy suite at Extended Stay America and get on-site laundry, a fully equipped kitchen, and complimentary in-room Wi-Fi to help you stay connected.

Fairfield Inn and Suites Airport

Our hotel offers easy access to popular attractions. After taking our free shuttle from Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport, discover Palo Duro Canyon State Park and The Big Texan Steak Ranch. When you're ready to retire from your adventures, enjoy sweet slumbers in our spacious rooms and suites.

Hampton Inn & Suites East

We're right off I-40, five miles from Amarillo International Airport. Xcel Energy's training center is steps away, and it's four miles to the Tri-State Exposition Hall. Head 10 minutes west to Amarillo College Washington Street Campus, or eight miles to Wonderland Amusement Park. Enjoy free hot breakfast, free WiFi, and our indoor pool and whirlpool.

Hampton Inn and Suites West

We're just off I-40, minutes from the Westgate Mall and the medical district. Exotic animals at the Amarillo Zoo, rides at Wonderland Amusement Park, and the famous Cadillac Ranch art installation are within 15 minutes of our hotel. Relax in our heated indoor pool and whirlpool. Hot breakfast and WiFi are on us.

Hilton Garden Inn Amarillo

Just off I-40, we're four minutes from the shops of Westgate Mall, and two miles from Northwest Texas Hospital and Amarillo Heart Group. Cadillac Ranch and the planetarium at Don Harrington Discovery Center & Space Theater are just three miles away. Enjoy breakfast, dinner, and evening room service from our Garden Bar & Grille.

Holiday Inn Amarillo East

Enjoy a comfortable stay at the Holiday Inn East Amarillo, located within 3 miles of Amarillo Rick Husband International Airport (AMA). Our East Amarillo hotel's location off I-40 offers close proximity to businesses, area attractions, and the Amarillo Medical Center

Holiday Inn Express and Suites East

Enjoy a comfortable stay at the Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites of East Amarillo, located within a mile of Amarillo Rick Husband International Airport (AMA). Our East Amarillo hotel's location off I-40 offers close proximity to businesses and medical centers as well as area attractions.

Holiday Inn Express and Suites South

Our Holiday Inn Express® Amarillo South hotel offers modern conveniences with upscale amenities. Located of I-27, this hotel is the perfect choice for business and leisure travelers visiting Amarillo, Texas.

Holiday Inn Express and Suites West

Enjoy a luxurious stay at the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites West with a premier location close to the Amarillo Medical District

Holiday Inn Express and Suites Wolflin

Enjoy Real Texan Hospitality at our Amarillo, TX Hotel No matter what brings you to the Texas Panhandle, you'll find the finest hospitality in Texas at the Holiday Inn Express® Hotel & Suites in Amarillo, TX. Our hotel is located off I-40, close to R. Husband International Airport (AMA), downtown Amarillo and area attractions like Palo Duro Canyon.

Holiday Inn West Medical Center

We invite you to experience Amarillo’s full-service hotel, Holiday Inn – Amarillo West Medical Center. Conveniently located in the heart of Amarillo, we offer the best in service and amenities to surpass all of your expectations.

Home2 Suites

Corporate guests enjoy proximity to Amarillo medical centers, numerous universities, and local businesses. It's easy to unwind with an IMAX theater next door, Amarillo Botanical Gardens nearby, and Palo Duro Canyon State Park 30 minutes away. Feel like a cozy night? Try a home-cooked meal in your in-suite kitchen. WiFi and breakfast are free, and pets are welcome.

Homewood Suites

Just off I-40, find us in northwest Amarillo, five minutes from the iconic Cadillac Ranch. Shop and dine at Westgate Mall across the street – or relax by our outdoor pool and fireplace. Sports courts and a fitness center help you get your workout in, and our free WiFi and 24-hour business center help you get your work done.

Hyatt Place Amarillo West

Historic U.S. Route 66 cuts through the center of Amarillo, a bustling hub in northern Texas. Remnants of the city’s historic past are on display in its quirky shops, retro cafes, and the iconic Cadillac Ranch public art exhibit. The city is also a modern enclave, with a spate of museums, trendy dining, and family-friendly attractions.

La Quinta Inn & Suites Airport

Our modern, comfortable hotel is close to local attractions such as Wonderland Amusement Park, the Tri-State Exposition and Rodeo, and The Big Texas Steak Ranch & Brewery. While you're here, make the most of your stay with free daily breakfast, an on-site fitness center, and indoor pool.

La Quinta Inn & Suites Mid-City

Whatever brings you to this inviting city in the Texas Panhandle, you'll appreciate our relaxing outdoor pool and fitness center. Stay connected with free WiFi and our on-site business center.

La Quinta West Medical Center

Our location is perfect for visitors to the Civic Center, Amarillo College, and West Texas A&M University—and regional medical facilities and the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.

Microtel Inn and Suites

Expect service with a smile at our Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Amarillo hotel near Amarillo Zoo. We are well located just minutes from exciting attractions, great restaurants, and shopping.

Motel 6 Airport

Enjoy a comfortable, pet friendly environment with fresh morning coffee and Free Wifi in all modern guest rooms.

Motel 6 Canyon Dr

Motel 6 Amarillo TX is conveniently located near shopping and dining. Visit the beautiful Palo Duro Canyon State Park nearby. Free Wifi and mini-fridge units are available in all guest rooms.

Motel 6 West

Motel 6 Amarillo West is located near Westgate Mall, Amarillo Botanical Gardens, and Amarillo Zoo. All rooms have a modern look, and include free Wi-Fi. Amenities include a business center, and micro-fridges in select rooms.

My Place Hotel

The best choice for convenience, comfort and value, My Place is ideal for both short-term and long-term travelers! Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, our Amarillo West/Medical Center, TX hotel offers an array of modern amenities to ensure your comfort.

OYO Hotel Amarillo I-40 Central

Whether you're traveling on business, leisure, or a family vacation, Luxury Inn and Suites can accommodate you in style, comfort, elegance. Take advantage of the exceptional service, wide range of popular amenities, and all at reasonable rates.

Oyo Inn Amarillo Downtown

OYO Hotel Amarillo Downtown is a budget hotel and is conveniently located near the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo City.

Quality Inn East

Take advantage of our free hot and healthy breakfast, outdoor seasonal pool and free WiFi, and know that you're getting your money’s worth with every stay. Our comfortable rooms come with a refrigerator, microwave and coffee maker for added convenience.

Red Roof Inn West

When you stay at Red Roof Inn Amarillo West in Amarillo, you'll be in the business district, within a 10-minute drive of Cadillac Ranch and Amarillo Civic Center. This hotel is 1 mi (1.7 km) from Westgate Mall and 1.3 mi (2 km) from Baptist St. Anthony's Health Care System.

Residence Inn

The pet friendly Residence Inn Amarillo hotel is located in Amarillo, TX, just minutes from the area’s major businesses and attractions.

Sleep Inn and Suites West Medical Center

As a Designed to Dream property, our fresh design elements, inspired by nature, provide a trendy and soothing environment. Each room includes free WiFi, a refrigerator, and microwave.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott

SpringHill Suites Amarillo is an excellent choice for travelers visiting Amarillo, offering a family-friendly environment alongside many helpful amenities designed to enhance your stay.

Staybridge Suites

Extended-stay travelers play by different rules and need a hotel that understands your unique needs. Staybridge Suites Amarillo – Western Crossing is designed from the ground up…just for you.

Super 8 Central

We offer comfortable, affordable accommodations whether you are with us just one night, or plan to stay and enjoy the area.

Super 8 West

Our location is minutes from popular area attractions, including the Amarillo Zoo. Our hotel was designed with your comfort in mind, and we feature thoughtful amenities to brighten your stay.

Tru by Hilton

Road warriors, relax—free WiFi is waiting for you. We're close to the airport, and even closer to prime Amarillo shops and restaurants. Tackle Texas-sized appetites at our free hot breakfast bar, or stock up on snacks at our 24/7 market.

WoodSpring Suites

Cowgirls and cowboys in the west.

Have an authentic experience on horseback or with one of their custom packages! You'll ride to the rim of the canyon and experienced staff regales you with the fascinating history of the area.

AMP’D Amarillo Adventure Park

Amarillo's premiere trampoline park with 42,000 square feet of trampolines, a rock climbing wall, a ninja course, games, and more!

Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument

This monument highlights ancient flint used by Native Americans for tools and weapons.

Amarillo Botanical Gardens

An oasis on the High Plains. The gardens feature an indoor tropical conservatory as well as seasonal native plants.

Amarillo Bulls Hockey (NAHL)

The Amarillo Bulls are a past winner of the NAHL's Robertson Cup and are a top course of junior hockey talent in the U.S..

Amarillo Civic Center Complex

Holds concerts, sporting events, Broadway shows, road-shows and more! ACCC is a place to meet, play, and celebrate.

Amarillo Cultural District

Street art, hand-crafted works, live performances, delicious food, craft brewing, and more are found here!

Amarillo Dragway

Amarillo Dragway brings drag racing thrills back to Amarillo every summer!

Amarillo Little Theatre (ALT) Mainstage

ALT was established in 1927, making it one of the longest-running community theaters in the country!

Amarillo Livestock Auction

One of the nation's largest auctions, selling more than 100,000 head of livestock annually at its weekly Monday sale.

Amarillo Museum of Art

AMoA is a focal point for the region's thriving arts community attracting regional and national art show.

Amarillo Opera

The Amarillo Opera combines a schedule of some of the world’s most beloved operas with non-traditional shows. Performances held in various venues including the renowned Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts.

Amarillo Railroad Museum

ARM features an operational HO scale layout depicting Texas Panhandle Railroads circa 1952 - 1970.

Amarillo Rock Climbing House

This family-oriented facility offers bouldering and top rope climbing for climbers of all ages!

Amarillo Sod Poodles Baseball

A Double-A affiliated baseball team that plays in a state-of-the-art stadium in downtown Amarillo. The Soddies are the 2019 Texas League Champs!

Amarillo Symphony

The symphony plays with energy and passion, moving their audience to feel the performance.

Amarillo Venom

A professional indoor football team that plays in the Amarillo Civic Center Complex.

Amarillo Zoo

Animals native to the High Plains as well as traditional zoo favorites are found here!

American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum

This museum is a beautiful way to learn about the horse that settled the West. It features western art, a history of the American Quarter Horse, and educational exhibits.

Handcrafted, award-winning & distinctly Texan wines – full of flavor and bursting with personality.

Bill’s Backyard Classics

This place is for anyone with a place in their heart for fine old cars! Get your motor started, grab your family, and head this way for some American history and craftsmanship.

Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch

Tour the historic grounds of this 10,000-acre working ranch located at Old Tascosa, is dedicated to educating boys and girls who need a "shirt tail to hang on to".

Caprock Canyons State Park & Trailway

Wind and water, over the eons, shaped the rugged beauty of Caprock Canyons Sate Park in the Panhandle of Texas. Today, bison roam the plains, bats roost in Clarity Tunnels, and you can explore 90 miles of trails

Chamber Music Amarillo

Hosts classical concerts in an intimate setting on the Historic Route 66 District.

Charles Goodnight Historical Center

Located less than one mile north of the caprock of Palo Duro Canyon, GHC boasts broad vistas and native wildlife. Roming next to the home is a herd of bison, descendants of the orphan bison that the Goodnights saved as a remnant of the original Southern Plains Herd.

Cinemark Hollywood 16

Movie theater featuring luxury loungers and Cinemark XD!

Cinergy Amarillo

An entertainment complex with a dine-in luxury seating movie theater, escape rooms, laser tag, bowling, arcade games, and much, much more!

Don Harrington Discovery Center

DHDC encourages you to explore, tinker, create, and play on over 100 displays! Don't miss the immersive Digital Space Theater, steel-columned Helium Monument, and NEW Outdoor Science Park!

Harrington House

Tour a historic 1914 house, once home to an American philantripist. The home features luxurious decor, ornate detailing, and original tapestries.

Hoof Prints of the American Quarter Horse

This is a collection of over 100 statues through Amarillo featuring our city's favorite equine breed

I Am Route 66 Visitor Center and Art Gallery

Visitor center and gallery filled with local artist's works and information for your journey!

Kwahadi Museum of the American Indian

Features art and artifacts of the Pueblo and Plains Indians, as well as performances by the internationally-known Kwahadi Dancers.

Lake Meredith National Recreation Area

Located near Alibates Flint Quarries, this area is filled with lake fun!

Lone Star Ballet

Lone Star is a major dance organization in the area providing a dance academy and producing four professional shows a year.

Old West Stables

The Old West Stables offers horseback rides on the floor of Palo Duro Canyon State Park.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

The largest canyon in Texas and located just 22 miles south of Amarillo. Here you'll find some of the best, hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking found anywhere in the US!

Palo Duro Creek Ranch

Offers a winning combination of unforgettable old west adventure, fascinating Western history, real Texas hospitality, and the mysterious enchantment of Palo Duro Canyon.

Palo Duro Riding Stables

This horseback riding facility caters to all levels of riders over miles of trails in Palo Duro Canyon.

Palo Duro Zip Line Adventure Park

You and your family will be able to zip from one of the largest adventure towers in Texas or walk across the canyon on a 300 foot bridge!

Panhandle Plains Historical Museum

The state's largest history museum! PPHM will take you back in time in their life-sized Pioneer Town, inspire you with their impressive art collection, and immerse you in over 14,000 years of history.

RV Museum @ Jack Sisemore Traveland

Step back in time and enjoy RVs, camping, and lifestyle exhibits from the 1920s through today!

Rock Island Rail Trail

Nearly 4-miles of an improved hike and bike trail between the Harrington Regional Medical Center and famed Historic Route 66 area.

Route 66 Historic District

The mile-long walkable strip is filled with antique and boutique stores, art galleries, restaurants, coffee shops, bakers, and nightlife.

Route 66 Motor Speedway

A 3/8 mile dirt oval that sponsors a full season of summer racing action.

Sharpened Iron Studios

A faith-based production studio, and film conservatory, in Amarillo, Texas. We're focused on development, production, and post-production of full-length movies, TV series, and documentaries. Visitors can get a tour of the facility on Fridays at 3 PM!

Silver Dollar Speedway

The fastest little dirt track in Texas and where the love of racing begins!

Starlight Ranch Event Center

Offers guest a live music experience like none-other in the Texas Panhandle!

Tascosa Drive-In Theater

The Tascosa Drive-In Theater is one of the state's last true drive-in theaters. Treat your family to the original big screen experience from the comfort of your car or bed of your pick-up truck

Texas Air and Space Museum

This museum honors the area's long history of flight through preservation and education.

Texas Panhandle War Memorial

The mission of the Texas Panhandle War Memorial is to honor the men and women who have given us our freedom and to keep history alive.

Wonderland Amusement Park

Calling Amarillo home for over 65 years, Wonderland has over 60 rides and attractions!

Festivals & Events

Free Jazz concerts held every Tuesday evening in October on the lawn of the Historic Bivins Home in downtown Amarillo.

Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association Wrangler World Championship

This equestrian event determines who is the fastest and most accurate shot from horseback!

WRCA World Championship Ranch Rodeo

The Working Ranch Cowboy Association works to promote ranching on a National and International level and to preserve the lifestyle of the working ranch cowboy. Their annual championship rodeo showcases the skills of the working ranch cowboy and raises funds for the WRCA Foundation which provides assistance to cowboys and their families in times of serious need. This action-packed rodeo gives viewers a look at the actual work that working cowboys do with events including Ranch Bronc Riding, Team Doctoring, Wild Cow Milking, Team Branding, and Team Penning. You don't want to miss this annual favorite!

Christmas in the Gardens

Come out to the Amarillo Botanical Gardens and see over 300,000 Christmas lights. They will have pictures with Santa, hot chocolate & coffee and lots more.

Center City Electric Light Parade

Come join us downtown for the Electric Light Parade! The parade will begin at 6PM at 11th St. and Polk and go down to Third Ave. and over to Centennial Plaza at the Civic Center for FREE visits with Santa & Mrs. Claus, food vendors, music, and the lighting of the city's Christmas tree!

Looking to visit us? We’re excited for all the adventures Amarillo holds for you, too. That’s why, no matter what’s going on out there, we’ll be right here, keeping you inspired about some incredible memories to come.

Here in the Lone Star State, a whole world of adventure awaits. When you’re ready for your visit, Amarillo will be, too.

For now, please stay healthy, listen to the experts, and use the links on the right to stay up on the most current information available on travel and how to stay safe.

See you down the road, The Visit Amarillo Fam *Updated 04/01/2020

• State of Texas Health and Human Services/Behavioral Health
• State of Texas – Traveler Information
• U.S. Travel Association
• Visit Amarillo
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

This is the way to Amarillo

Road trippin'.

Our boots were made for – driving? With Route 66, Interstates 40 and 27, and US Highways 60, 87, and 287 all intersecting here in the Texas Panhandle, Amarillo is one of the most accessible places to reach by car or RV. Traveling by car remains one of the easiest ways to get around in the city!

Rick Husband International Airport is just a short flight from major hubs. This makes flying in a breeze for domestic and international travelers.

Amarillo’s Greyhound Bus Terminal allows travelers from around the country to reach the High Plains.

See more adventures on Instagram

Ready to get started?

14 Top-Rated Things to Do in Amarillo, TX

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Authors Michael and Lana Law visited Amarillo while on assignment for PlanetWare.

This small and unassuming city in the High Plains of West Texas holds some surprising treats for visitors, and many of the best things to do in Amarillo are free.

Amarillo lies at the midway point on historic US Route 66. You can catch a glimpse of what traveling through this area might have been like mid-century by driving through the city's Historic Route 66 District .

Amarillo also has many unique museums related to West Texas history and culture, from the Quarter Horse Museum to the Panhandle Plains Historical Museum. One of Amarillo's most popular attractions is Cadillac Ranch, where you can head to the outskirts of town to try your hand at graffiti. Or, enjoy some of the state's beautiful scenery by hitting the trails in nearby Palo Duro Canyon.

For a complete overview, here is our list of top things to do in Amarillo.

See also: Where to Stay in Amarillo

1. Cadillac Ranch

2. us route 66 - sixth street historic district, 3. palo duro canyon state park, 4. panhandle plains historical museum, 5. american quarter horse hall of fame & museum, 6. amarillo museum of art, 7. jack sisemore traveland rv museum, 8. amarillo zoo, 9. amarillo botanical gardens, 10. don harrington discovery center, 11. texas air & space museum, 12. downtown amarillo, 13. harrington house, 14. wonderland amusement park, where to stay in amarillo for sightseeing, amarillo, tx - climate chart.

This is a surprisingly fun and free attraction on the western edge of Amarillo, just off Interstate 40. Old Cadillacs, stuck nose-first into the ground of a farmer's field, stand artistically in a row.

The tradition here is to grab a can of spray paint and create your own graffiti on the cars. Don't worry about bringing your own can, half-filled canisters are strewn about the field surrounding the cars. Choose a couple of colors and go to work creating your artistic vision.

This is an incredibly popular family activity . Kids can climb on the cars, run through the open interiors, and spray paint whatever they like. The cars are literally thick and dripping with paint.

Photographers will also enjoy the colorful and ever-changing canvas before them.

The cars are about 150 to 200 yards away from the parking area. The walk in is along a flat and wide dirt path, which can be muddy and slippery after rain. Near the always-open gate, you can often find a souvenir seller, hawking colorful paint chips taken from the cars, set in key chains.

Location: Exit 62A off Interstate 40.

This section of historic US Route 66 in Amarillo is a throwback to the early age of road tripping in America. Many original buildings with traditional signs line the street.

You can find atmospheric restaurants with patios and shops, which give the area a fun vibe. For a quirky ambiance and good Mexican food, try Braceros , in a converted former Route 66 garage.

Down the street is the Golden Light Cafe , an Amarillo institution that has been here since the 1940s. The area is well signposted, and you can find a list of historic buildings on a street-side plaque.

It may come as a surprise to find that the second largest canyon in the United States , after the Grand Canyon, is just 30 minutes south of Amarillo. Palo Duro Canyon is approximately 120 miles long, up to 20 miles wide in some areas, and 800 feet deep.

Palo Duro State Park is a popular area for hiking, camping, mountain biking, horseback riding, and geocaching. A 16-mile round-trip drive takes you from the canyon rim down to, and along, the canyon floor. Off this road are several campgrounds, with a total of 150 campsites and numerous hiking trails.

The most popular hike is the Lighthouse Trail , which leads to a dramatic rock of the same name. This is a six-mile round-trip hike to the base of the Lighthouse, but the best view of this towering rock pinnacle is found 1.5 miles into the trail.

You can learn more about the history and geology of the area at the visitors center near the start of the park. Set high on a ridge overlooking the canyon, this spot has some of the best views in the park.

The largest history museum in Texas , the Panhandle Plains Historical Museum offers a glimpse into the history of Texas, from the age of the dinosaurs to modern times.

Often described by locals as the Smithsonian with an accent, the museum has one of the finest collections of art in the Southwest. You can also learn about the American Indians who inhabited the land; the pioneers; oil; geology; water as a resource; innovations that shaped the development of the region, like windmills and transportation; and much, much more.

In addition to the outstanding permanent collection, the museum also regularly hosts special exhibitions. The museum is located about 15 minutes outside of Amarillo.

Address: 2503 4th Avenue, Canyon, Texas

This museum is a tribute to the horse that settled and shaped the American West and one of the most favored horses by cowboys in the Southwest. The center focuses on the story of the Quarter Horse and the people behind them.

On the lower level, the museum offers a variety of displays that deal with topics ranging from the biology of the Quarter Horse to horse careers. Upstairs, the Quarter Horse Hall of Fame offers a look at the most famous horses of this breed. Trophies, photographs, memorabilia, and the stories of these great horses are on display.

The museum building itself is an impressive piece of craftsmanship, where wood and stonework create a feeling of space and grandeur. Carved into the floor of The Grand Hall on the main level are the bloodlines of the Quarter Horses, traced back to the late 1800s, when they were recognized as their own breed.

Address: 1600 Quarter Horse Drive, Amarillo, Texas

Located on the campus of Amarillo College, the Amarillo Museum of Art is open to the public, free of charge . While the museum is home to an impressive collection of art from around the world, the majority of artwork is from the Far East.

On display are sculptures from the South and South East Asia region, along with 2nd-century BC Buddhist and Hindu pieces.

Also spread out over the 32,000-square-foot building are photos from F.S.A. photographer Russell Lee and his contemporaries, as well as paintings from the 17th to 19th centuries and paintings from early and mid-century American Modernists.

Address: 2200 South Van Buren, Amarillo, Texas

Another of Amarillo's free attractions, the RV Museum showcases RVs from the 1930s up to the 1970s , along with a variety of other vintage vehicles and artifacts. RVs of special note include the very first Itasca motorhome and the oldest Airstream, dating from 1935.

These RVs provide a glimpse into the era from which they came, as many have not been changed from the day they were manufactured. Original appliances, furnishing, and flooring take you back in time.

The museum also sports an impressive collection of gleaming old motorcycles in perfect condition, several vintage cars set against theme backgrounds, including an old-style drive-through restaurant and retro gas station.

Miscellaneous items, like old pedal bikes, cameras, and camping chairs, also add to the atmosphere.

Address: 4341 Canyon Drive, Amarillo, Texas

For a pleasant afternoon and a glimpse of some exotic wildlife, the Amarillo Zoo makes the perfect outing.

Some of the most popular animals here include lions, tigers, bobcats, ring-tailed lemurs, foxes, bears, kangaroos, and monkeys. And while these might be the show stoppers, you'll also find irresistibly cute miniature horses and miniature donkeys, a Texas longhorn, skunks, and a whole host of other furry critters.

Perhaps less cute but equally interesting are the spiders, amphibians, and reptiles, including enormous Burmese pythons, along with a variety of other snakes, as well as turtles and salamanders in the Herpetarium.

Address: 2400 North Polk Street, Amarillo, Texas

The Amarillo Botanical Gardens are easily identifiable by the stunning silver and glass diamond-shaped conservatory that dominates the grounds. Spread over four acres, the gardens feature local flora outside, including a fragrance garden, while tropical plants are housed inside the conservatory.

During the Christmas season, the gardens are lit up in a kaleidoscope of colors and are a fun place to visit after the sun sets. The Amarillo Botanical Gardens are located just down the street from the Don Harrington Discovery Center , and in between the two is Medi-Park , with a children's playground and splash pad.

Address: 1400 Streit Drive, Amarillo, Texas

The Discovery Center has long been Amarillo's go-to place for learning about science. A variety of exhibits, both indoor and outdoor, cover topics ranging from outer space to ants and even small live animals.

One of the major highlights is the Outdoor Science Park , where kids of all ages will have a fantastic time exploring fossils, marveling at the life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, or banging on the Kundu Drum.

Inside, one of the most interesting galleries details the amazing achievements of ants. Step inside the giant maze, and suddenly you'll feel what it's like to be an ant deep underground.

It's not all about interactive, static displays. At Critter Row, you'll also be able to hold small animals like snakes and even a tarantula.

Address: 1200 Streit Drive Amarillo, Texas

A small but inspiring collection of aircraft and related pieces, along with a passionate and friendly staff of volunteers, make this a great stop for pilots or those with an interest in aviation.

One of the best features of the Texas Air & Space Museum is that visitors are allowed into the planes for a full hands-on experience . Located near the airport, the museum is laid out in both indoor and outdoor space. In the main hangar, the centerpiece is a DC-3 from 1945. You can walk right up to the cockpit for a look at the instruments.

Also in the hangar is a home-built crop duster from the late 1960s and interesting pieces, such as an ejection seat from a B-52 bomber and a hot air balloon basket.

Outside is a C-7 Caribou from 1958 and an aircraft used as a training vehicle for astronauts landing NASA space shuttles, both of which you are welcome to board.

Astronaut Rick Husband , who was killed in the Columbia space shuttle as it was destroyed on re-entry from space, was from Amarillo. Another small area of the museum displays model aircraft and information on Husband and his career.

Address: 10001 American Drive, Amarillo, Texas

Amarillo has revitalized much of the downtown area, where you'll find a mix of old and new buildings, both of which are intriguing. Some historical buildings remain, like the former 1927 Fisk Building, today one of Amarillo's top hotels, the Courtyard by Marriott .

Other remnants of a bygone age are the neon signs, although many of the modern signs are LED, but reminiscent of the age of neon.

Dining facilities are expanding and many independent restaurants are opening in the city center, creating a new atmosphere and what appears to be the start of a more vibrant downtown in Amarillo.

Dating from 1914, this wonderful example of a Neo-Classical home stands proudly as one of Amarillo's finest historical homes. Harrington House was built for Pat and John Landergin, former cattle barons, who lived in the home for only 15 years until 1929, when the entire family became deceased.

The Harringtons purchased the home in 1940 and set about renovating and preserving the structure. Through their hard work and perseverance, a visit here is like turning back the clock almost a century. Flooring, furniture, and artwork some of which is from the original home, others curated by the Harringtons, give the home an opulent feel.

Address: 1600 South Polk Street, Amarillo, Texas

Wonderland Amusement Park is one of the best things to do for families in Amarillo . Roller coasters, including the Texas Tornado and the Mouse Trap, will have you screaming in fear or delight.

If it's hot, which it usually is in Amarillo in the summer, be sure to try out the water rides. The Pipeline Plunge, Rattlesnake Raft Ride, and the Big Splash Log Plume will cool you down and thrill you all at the same time.

Other fun things to do include mini golf, bumper cars, and a number of less intense amusement rides. Wonderland Amusement park is open during the summer months only .

Attractions are spread out all over the city, but distances are relatively short. If you are spending a couple of days, staying downtown is a good choice. You can also find quality hotels spread along I-40, which runs east to west through the city.

Luxury and Mid-Range Hotels :

• For ambience and history, you can't beat the Courtyard by Marriott Amarillo Downtown , set in the historic Fisk Building from 1927. One of the city's first tall buildings, it is well positioned in the heart downtown, surrounded by restaurants, and just a short hop from historic US Route 66. One of the most recent additions to the city is the newly opened Embassy Suites by Hilton Amarillo Downtown , directly across from the Amarillo Civic Center Complex. Large, modern suites and an indoor pool, whirlpool, and sauna are some of the highlights. Another good choice, with a pool and hot tub, is the Drury Inn & Suites Amarillo , west of downtown, with easy access to I-40.

Budget Hotels:

• At the top-end of budget, on the western edge of Amarillo just off I-40, is My Place Hotel-Amarillo , a popular, pet-friendly property featuring modern rooms, comfortable furnishings, and kitchenettes. On the east side of Amarillo, also off I-40, is the Baymont Inn & Suites Amarillo East , with reasonable rates, free continental breakfast, and a seasonal pool. Close to downtown, but still close to I-40, is the pet-friendly Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Amarillo , with budget prices, complimentary breakfast, comfortable rooms, but no pool.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

South of Amarillo: Less than two hours south of Amarillo, Lubbock is another small city worth visiting. Although it's known for being the home of Buddy Holly, this is just one of the attractions. It's also a good stop if you are on your way to see the sights of Big Bend National Park .

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Texas Travel 365

15 Best Things To Do In Amarillo You Shouldn’t Miss

September 23, 2021 //  by  Texas Travel 365 //   Leave a Comment

Are you looking for fun and exciting things to do on your trip to Amarillo? Then look no further, this list of awesome things to do in Amarillo is sure to make your trip one to remember! Amarillo is full of unique experiences for everyone to enjoy!

Whether you want to explore a majestic canyon, learn about Amarillo history, or experience the arts and culture of this vibrant Texas town, this list has it all! These stops are perfect for a quick day trip, a weekend getaway, or a longer vacation!

If you are looking for historical sites, immersive art experiences, outdoor adventure, or one-of-a-kind museums, we have got you covered with these wonderful things to do in Amarillo. There are also plenty of great things to do with kids in Amarillo, so don’t hesitate to bring them along!

From unique historical sites to gorgeous landscapes, adventure awaits at these great places to go in Amarillo and they are sure to make your visit memorable!

Cadillac Ranch

If you are looking for a truly unique Amarillo experience, Cadillac Ranch is one of the best things to do in Amarillo! With its ten, vibrantly decorated Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground, it is worth a visit!

Created by a group of artists known as The Ant Farm in the 1970s as a piece of public art, it has transformed over the decades. It started as a tribute to the evolution of Cadillac design, but over the years has become a new work of art entirely. People have painted and graffitied the cars along with takes parts through the decades, which was eventually encouraged by the original artists.

This attraction is of the most popular things to see in Amarillo. Cadillac Ranch brings visitors from all over the world who want to add their art to the installation. If you stop by Cadillac Ranch make sure to bring some paint and snap some photos!

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Palo Duro Canyon State Park is one of the most beautiful places to go in Amarillo! It is the second-largest canyon in the United States and is full of beauty and adventure!

With over 30 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, you can explore Palo Duro Canyon in a variety of ways! And if you love hiking, check out our list of 14 scenic trails for hiking in Texas ! This beautiful state park also hosts the TEXAS Outdoor Musical during the summer telling the stories of the early settlers. Palo Duro Canyon also has family-friendly ranger programs making it one of the best things to do in Amarillo with kids!

And if you want to visit Palo Duro Canyon for more than a day, there are several lodging options to meet everyone’s needs. From tent and backpacking campsites, campsites with water and electricity, rustic cabins, and even glamping sites, you’re bound to have a pleasant stay at Palo Duro Canyon State Park!

Amarillo Museum of Art

Amarillo Museum of Art is one of the most interesting things to do in Amarillo! It is home to an art collection of over 1,800 works and hosts multiple exhibitions every year!

You can enjoy Asian, Western, and contemporary, and modern American art. The best part is that admission is free! The Amarillo Museum of Art also features several outdoor sculptures which provide a unique backdrop for a picnic lunch on the grounds.

Whether you are visiting alone, coming with a group, or bringing the kids, the Amarillo Museum of Art is one of the best free things to do in Amarillo!

Amarillo Botanical Gardens

If you are wondering what to do in Amarillo, look no further than the Amarillo Botanical Gardens! Covering 4.4 acres, Amarillo Botanical Gardens has a variety of plants, trees, and flowers to enjoy.

Spending the afternoon at Amarillo Botanicals Gardens is sure to be one of the most relaxing things to do in Amarillo! You can either explore at your leisure with a self-guided tour or reserve a spot for a guided tour. Amarillo Botanical Gardens also hosts different events throughout the year, from musical performances to things like breakfasts with butterflies!

Whether you are a plant lover or just want to spend some time in the fresh air, the Amarillo Botanical Gardens is definitely one of the best Amarillo attractions to visit!

Harrington House Historic Home

The Harrington House Historic Home is one of the essential activities in Amarillo. Built in 1914 and occupied by the Harringtons from 1940 onward, it is a monument to Amarillo history.

Don and Sybil Harrington were pillars of Amarillo society through much of the 20th century. The Harringtons were philanthropists and were large supporters of several initiatives and especially the arts. Sybil Harrington made the Harrington House a pinnacle of design by including many design elements from her European travels. The beauty of the home is still well preserved today!

The Harrington House Historic Home is an excellent way to learn and experience the history of Amarillo and it is one of the best free things to do in Amarillo! Tours do have to be arranged in advance and participants do need to be at least 14 years old, but a visit is worthwhile!

Don Harrington Discovery Center

Speaking of the Harringtons, the Don Harrington Discovery Center is one of the best things to do in Amarillo with kids! With exhibits focusing on science, math, and space it is one the most educational things to do in Amarillo.

Kids can crawl through a giant ant maze, get an up-close look at a variety of small critters, or learn about different space phenomena! The Don Harrington Discovery Center also has an Outdoor Science Park featuring two life-size animatronic dinosaurs and plenty of other fun for kids to explore. Even little ones will enjoy the discovery center’s KinderStudio created for children ages 0 to 6, filled with blocks, tubes, and other materials for imaginative playtime!

You can even check out the Space Theater, a full-dome planetarium that hosts a variety of shows the whole family will enjoy. The shows are included with general admission as well. The Don Harrington Discovery Center is definitely one of the best places to go in Amarillo!

Jack Sizemore RV Museum

If you are looking to experience some true Americana, the Jack Sizemore RV Museum is one of the ultimate things to do in Amarillo! It has something for everyone to enjoy!

With an extensive collection of RVs, campers, cars, and motorbikes, the Jack Sizemore RV Museum has a little bit of everything. Jack Sizemore and his son have collected and restored this collection over the past 25 years making it something truly special. You can even take a tour of the inside of most of the RVs!

This museum is definitely an excellent way to spend an afternoon and with free admission, it is one of the best free things to do in Amarillo!

Tacosa Drive-in Theater

If you are looking for a relaxing way to spend the evening, look no further than the Tacosa Drive-in Theater. A relic of the past, this drive-in offers a step back in time!

Cruising into a double feature at the Tacosa Drive-in is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Amarillo! With an extensive concession stand and the show starting at sundown, what’s not to like! It is also home to the largest screen in the Texas Panhandle.

While the drive-in itself may be a blast from the past, the Tacosa Drive-in features new movies at an affordable price. With two films for the price of one of the neatest activities in Amarillo!

Amarillo Art & Elms Scavenger Hunt

The Amarillo Art & Elms Scavenger Hunt is one of the most fun things to do in Amarillo! If you love exploring a new city on foot, this is definitely a must-do activity. This scavenger hunt will let you explore the history of Amarillo in a totally new way! By searching through Amarillo, you will be sure to see important landmarks, locations and maybe come across one of the city’s hidden gems. The Amarillo Art & Elms Scavenger Hunt is great for small groups and families as it is fun for all ages!

If you want to make sure you don’t miss out on all the cool things to do in Amarillo, this scavenger hunt is one of the neatest things to do in Amarillo!

Click here to book Amarillo Art & Elms Scavenger Hunt!

Texas Air & Space Museum

The Texas Air & Space Museum, located near Rick Husband International Airport, is one of the best places to go in Amarillo! With its wide array of aircraft and indoor exhibits, it is sure to be fun for the whole family.

Featuring exhibits on important pilots and astronauts, visitors are bound to learn something new. The museum also is home to exhibits on different American wars and the history of the airport as well. It is also home to a wide variety of awesome aircraft that are sure to delight anyone who visits!

The Texas Air & Space Museum also hosts special events on occasion, so make sure to check before you go! You won’t want to miss out on one of the best things to do in Amarillo!

Wildcat Bluff Nature Center

If you enjoy a nice day hike or even just an easy morning hike, Wildcat Bluff Nature Center is one of the best places to go in Amarillo! Wildcat Bluff offers a few hikes for a variety of skill levels and is easily accessible off the highway.

Visitors can admire the local plants and wildlife, birdwatch, and learn about prehistoric Texas at the Wildcat Bluff Nature Center. Libb’s trail at Wildcat Bluff is an excellent hike for beginners and is also handicapped accessible and free to use! More advanced hikers will enjoy the Bluff, Prarie Loop, and Windmill trails which do cost a small fee.

The Windmill Trail even has a working windmill! Wildcat Bluff Nature Center also offers a science education building for the whole family to check out. Wildcat Bluff Nature Center is definitely one of the best things to do in Amarillo!

Ross Rogers and Comanche Trail Golfing

Amarillo is home to four great public golf courses! Ross Rogers and Comanche Trail are both home to award-winning golf courses making them one of the best places to go in Amarillo!

The Wildhorse and Mustang Courses at Ross Rogers both offer 18 holes with a beautiful backdrop and engaging course design. Comanche Trail is home to the Tomahawk and Arrowhead Courses. Comanche Trail offers professional-level practice facilities as well such as a driving range and practice greens!

You should definitely hit the green on one of the four stunning golf courses and not miss out on one of the best things to do in Amarillo!

Route 66 Historic District

A trip to Amarillo wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Route 66 Historic District. Amarillo was one of the first large cities built on Route 66, making a visit to this historic district one of the coolest things to do in Amarillo!

Filled with antique stores, art galleries, and one-of-a-kind shops, visitors are sure to find something that fits their tastes. Speaking of taste, the Route 66 Historic District is home to a variety of restaurants and bars. You can pop into Marshall’s Tavern for a beer or stop by Smokey Joe’s for a Texan burger! If you want to explore more delicious Texan cuisine check out our list of best restaurants in Amarillo !

Whether you want to find an Amarillo treasure to take home or spend a night on the town the Route 66 Historic District is one of the best places to go in Amarillo!

Bill’s Backyard Classics

If you are wondering what to do in Amarillo during your stay, look no further than Bill’s Backyard Classics. This unique collection of automobiles is a singular experience!

Bill and Linda Pratt grew this awesome collection of cars from the ground up with the goal of providing enjoyment and entertainment for families living in and visiting Amarillo. Bill’s Backyard Classics is home to not only classic cars but hot rods and custom-built cars as well. With kids 12 and under getting in free and the family-friendly atmosphere it is one of the best things to do in Amarillo with kids!

Helium Time Columns Monument

The Helium Time Columns Monument is definitely one of the most interesting things in Amarillo. It is a great example of art and history combined.

Amarillo was home to a major helium plant that played a significant part in helium and gas production for the U.S government dating back to the 1920s. The monument itself was created in 1968 to honor the 100th anniversary of the discovery of helium. The sculpture is also 4 separate time capsules that are filled with objects to show what life was like back in 1968.

This neat monument is currently located at the Don Harrington Discovery Center and tells an interesting part of Amarillo’s vibrant history. It is one of the must-do tourist attractions in Amarillo!

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Top Things to Do in Amarillo, TX - Amarillo Must-See Attractions

Things to do in amarillo, explore popular experiences, ways to tour amarillo.

Amarillo, Palo Duro Canyon and Route 66 Day Trip

Amarillo Scavenger Hunt: Amarillo Art & Elms

Amazing Amarillo Scavenger Hunt

Fun Scavenger Hunt in Amarillo by Zombie Scavengers

Explore Amarillo with a Scavenger Hunt by Operation City Quest

Explore Amarillo with a Unique Scavenger Hunt by Wacky Walks

Tours & sightseeing, top attractions in amarillo.

Other Top Attractions around Amarillo

What travellers are saying

• Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West
• The RV Museum
• American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum
• Cadillac Ranch
• Amarillo Botanical Gardens
• Amarillo Zoo
• John Stiff Memorial Dog Park
• Wildcat Bluff Nature Center
• John Stiff Memorial Skatepark

21 Best Things to Do in Amarillo, Texas (must-dos!)

Not sure what to do in Amarillo ?

This essential stop along the historic U.S. Route 66 is full of all sorts of fun for travelers of all ages!

If you’re perhaps looking to move to the Lone Star State, Amarillo has been crowned one of the best small towns to live in Texas!

From local history, to modern culture, to exciting parks and race tracks, here are the 21 best things to do in Amarillo, Texas (one of the best towns in Texas! )

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How to get around Amarillo

Like most of Texas, the best way to get around Amarillo is to explore on your own by car!

If you’re visiting and need to rent a car to get to your Amarillo activities, we highly recommend Discover Cars where they find you the best car rental deals from all of the competitors (has saved us so much money!).

Click here to check out Discover Cars .

Where to stay in Amarillo

From renovated VRBOS to boutique hotels, here are the best places to stay in Amarillo.

• (Hotel) My Place Hotel – with large family rooms, outdoor BBQing facilities and a friendly staff at the front desk, My Place Hotel is well-loved in Amarillo as the best place to rest your head. With kitchenettes in the rooms and laundry facilities, you can stay here for longer periods in comfort. Click here to check prices and read reviews.
• (AirBnb/VrBO) Lonestar Loft – this new-build house sleeps two in a master bedroom and two on a pull-out sofa, perfect for a family. Enjoy the stunning granite counter tops, Texas décor through and through, and immaculately clean Amarillo AirBnb. Click here to check prices and read reviews.

1. Get your kicks on Route 66 !

Route 66 passes right through Amarillo, as mentioned in the classic song.

The city’s Route 66 Historic District is easily one of the best places to go in Amarillo, with plenty of classic eateries, vintage motels, gift shops, and more!

First, stop by the Texas Route 66 Visitor Center , where you’ll want to get your first vacay photo in front of the mural on the side of the building.

Then, head over to the Historic 6th Street sign and snap a pic or two before checking out the surrounding antique shops and eateries. 

The Eatery on Route 66 may be a newer establishment, but its local charm and colorful macarons make it a cafe worth visiting!

For a more historic restaurant, check out the GoldenLight Cafe (more on that later)!

2. Take the coolest road trip photos at Cadillac Ranch

A quintessential US road trip attraction, Cadillac Ranch is a public art installation that’s been drawing visitors since 1974.

The half-buried Cadillacs spray painted in colorful graffiti make for an awesome photo op, and the attraction is open all day every day with no paid admission necessary!

Less than a mile away is another tourist attraction, the 2nd Amendment Cowboy, as well as a gift shop.

3. Dive into culture at the Amarillo Museum of Art

Looking for artistic things to do in Amarillo? 

The Amarillo Museum of Art is a small but well-curated museum with a permanent collection of over 2,000 pieces!

The museum emphasizes historical American art, but also features Asian and modern works.

And the best part? Admission is free!

4. Check out the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum

Is there a horse enthusiast in your travel party?

If so, you’ve got to take them to the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum!

Located right off of the interstate, this museum will impress you before you even set foot inside, with life-sized statues surrounding the building – perfect for photo ops!

Inside, you’ll learn about the history of the American Quarter Horse, including some hands-on exhibits ideal for young visitors.

5. Get your Texas on at The Big Texan

The Big Texan Steak Ranch & Brewery is world-renowned as one of the most quintessential Texan restaurants in the state.

It’s also one of the best breweries in Texas !

In fact, they’re such a big deal, they’ve got their own gift shop!

Head on down to The Big Texan for a Texas-sized meal in a restaurant overflowing with fun and immersive decor.

Looking for a unique stay in Amarillo? Check out the Big Texan Motel!

6. Visit the oldest restaurant in Amarillo, the GoldenLight Cafe

First opened in 1946, the GoldenLight Cafe may not look like much from the outside, but it’s adored by locals, and rich with history.

Located right along the historic Route 66, this is the perfect place to grab lunch or dinner and enjoy some live music.

With over 200 raving reviews about their burgers alone , it’s clear that the GoldenLight Cafe is one of the best places to get some classic American food in Amarillo.

7. Take a breathtaking stroll through the Amarillo Botanical Gardens

Step into paradise at the Amarillo Botanical Gardens !

Here, you’ll enjoy over four acres of thriving plantlife, including a lush greenhouse, a Japanese Garden and koi pond, and a small but breathtaking waterfall.

Traveling in December? Stop by the gardens in the evening to see them lit up with holiday charm!

8. Have a blast at Wonderland Amusement Park

Wonderland Amusement Park has been providing endless summer fun for families in Amarillo since 1951!

From thrilling roller coasters, to classic carnival-style rides, to refreshing water rides, Wonderland has something for everyone.

Not feeling the rides?

Check out the park’s mini golf course, or play some games in the classic arcade!

Head to the park on a Sunday for a special discount !

9. Hike the nature trails at Wildcat Bluff Nature Center

Take a walk through the dirt and rock trails at Amarillo’s nature preserve, the Wildcat Bluff Nature Center .

It’s not the most scenic hike, but it’s a great place to get some fresh air and stretch your legs after a long drive.

Traveling with dogs? Bring them onto the trail, too!

Just be sure to take some water with you, especially in the summer, and watch out for snakes and tarantulas along the path!

10. Go horseback riding

Ready to get your gallop on?

There are plenty of equestrian centers in or around Amarillo!

Take a breathtaking horseback ride through a canyon with Palo Duro Riding Stables .

Located just 30 miles away in Canyon, TX , this tried and true business has been open since 1962, and is one of the best things to do near Amarillo.

Looking to stay in town?

Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West will give you more than just a horseback ride – they’ll teach you about what western life was like in Texas back in the day!

11. Take the kids to the Don Harrington Discovery Center

The Don Harrington Discovery Center is easily one of the best Amarillo attractions for families with kids of all ages.

Your little ones will receive equal parts entertainment and education as they see a show at the Space Theater, learn about weather conditions on Earth and in space, or pretend to be an ant as they crawl through the museum’s giant ant farm replica!

The interactive KinderStudio is perfect for ages 0-6, and the life-sized animatronic dinosaurs looming over the Outdoor Science Park are sure to be an awe-inspiring sight for all ages!

Stop by Critter Row for a chance to meet Pinky the snake, or maybe even hold a tarantula!

12. …Or to Medical Center Park for some fun on the playground!

Kids of all ages will have a blast at Medical Center Park , locally known as Medi Park, where the huge neon green playground makes for the perfect day of fun!

Getting hot out? The park’s Splash Pad is full of fountains and mist zones to keep the summer heat at bay.

The duck pond and picnic tables are a scenic spot for a packed lunch, and in the plaza nearby is the Helium Time Columns Monument, made in 1968!

13. Check out the Jack Sisemore RV Museum

Open Thursday through Saturday, the Jack Sisemore RV Museum is an Amarillo attraction you don’t want to miss!

This free museum is located inside an RV dealership, and features over a dozen RVs that span decades of life on the road.

Each RV is stocked with things from their time period, to give you a glimpse of what travelers took with them back in the day.

Don’t forget to check out the world’s oldest Airstream, which dates all the way back to 1935!

14. Get a load of the classic cars at Bill’s Backyard Classics

The museum itself may only be less than a decade old, but the collection at Bill’s Backyard Classics has quickly grown into one of the coolest things to see in Amarillo!

With over 90 automobiles from as early as the 1920s all the way up to 2012, there’s plenty to see at this family-friendly museum.

The tour guides are full of interesting facts about the vehicles, so you’ll get a small history lesson in addition to an up-close look at this grand collection.

Remember to bring a camera so you can take some memorable vacation pics in front of these classic beauties!

15. Experience life in the fast lane at an Amarillo race track

One of the most exciting Amarillo things to do, you’ve gotta take the whole family out for an exhilarating experience at one of the city’s race tracks !

Your heart will be racing along with the cars as the ground rumbles under your stadium seats at Route 66 Motor Speedway.

Or, find out just how fast a car can go as racers zoom down the strip at Amarillo Dragway, with plenty of events from February through November!

16. Support a good cause at Kind House Ukraine Bakery

What’s better than delicious homemade goods?

Delicious homemade goods that support a good cause!

At Kind House Ukraine Bakery, there are no set prices.

Instead, the bakery accepts donations of any amount for each order, and the money goes directly to help the people of Ukraine.

You’ve got to try their locally adored, melt-in-your-mouth sweet cinnamon rolls!

Or, try a decadent Marble Salted Caramel cake, or order a dozen or two variety cookies for the family!

Be sure to order a week in advance so you can pick up your treats when you roll into town.

17. See the animals at Amarillo Zoo

Got $4.50 and a curiosity for wildlife?

Then you’ve got all you need to take a trip to Amarillo Zoo !

Amarillo Zoo has at least 70 different species, including the African Lion, the American Black Bear, and the Bengal Tiger!

This zoo might be small, but its cheap tickets are absolutely worth it for a couple hours of fun.

Be sure to get there either in the morning or the late afternoon to see the animals at their liveliest!

18. Go to an escape room

If you’re looking for exciting things to do in Amarillo, the city is home to several highly rated escape room experiences!

Time travel to the 1980s at Escape the Trap House , discover the truth about aliens at Xcape Room Warehouse’s Area 52, or go up against a dark wizard at Cinergy’s Wizards of Wormbly escape room.

Older players will enjoy a spookier experience in an abandoned house at Amarillo Escape & Mystery, a cursed mummy at Xcape Room Warehouse, or Cinergy’s Zombie Hour!

19. See a double feature at the Tascosa Drive In

One of the last remaining drive-in theaters in Texas, the Tascosa Drive In has been around since 1952.

Their evening double feature showings and moderately priced concessions make for one of the most affordable fun things to do in Amarillo!

Just remember to bring cash, as this location is cash only!

20. Check out the Texas Air & Space Museum

The Texas Air & Space Museum will give you an up-close and personal look at both military and civilian aircraft from as far back as the 1940s!

Children of all ages will jump at the chance to sit in the cockpit of an actual aircraft, and there are plenty of opportunities for memorable vacation photos throughout the museum!

This exciting museum is free to enter, but donations are very much appreciated.

21. Go downtown!

Downtown Amarillo is full of culture, craft beer, and excellent local cuisine.

The hip atmosphere of Six Car Pub & Brewery is the perfect spot to grab some lunch and a craft beer, and their rooftop patio will give you a great view of downtown.

Marvel at the brick towers of the Herring Hotel .

No longer in operation, this vintage downtown accommodation is a popular tourist attraction.

At night, the old Paramount Theater sign illuminates South Polk Street with colors of gold, blue, and red – an absolute must-see!

While the Paramount Theater has been closed for years, the nearby Globe-News Center Performance Hall is the perfect place to catch a show, with its stunning, unique indoor architecture.

Traveling with friends over the age of 21?

Head over to Lit Arcade Bar for a fun night of classic arcade games and reasonably priced drinks!

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Texas (TX) » 15 Best Things to Do in Amarillo (TX)

15 Best Things to Do in Amarillo (TX)

If you want to know more about the Old West in America, then the vibrant city of Amarillo in Texas makes an ideal place to come.

In many ways Amarillo is a quintessential Texan town, and you can enjoy the local flora and fauna here in a range of desert parks, as well as try some traditional Texan fare such as steaks and other barbecued meats.

If you want a more contemporary experience however, then you will also find this here, and in addition to historic sites and museums, there are exciting attractions popping up all the time such as craft beer breweries and art galleries.

Amarillo is also located along the iconic Route 66, so make sure that you check out this important historical road in America’s history, in the form of a historic district in town, as well as a quirky art installation made up of classic Cadillac cars.

1. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Palo Duro Canyon State Park is said to be one of the most beautiful attractions, not just in the Texas area but in the entire United States.

The park is regularly voted in the top 10 parks in the country, and it also has the claim to fame of having the second largest canyon crater in America.

For anyone who loves the great outdoors, this is not to be missed, and you can indulge in hiking, mountain biking, and also horseback riding here.

If you want to stay a bit longer, then you can camp in the park, and if you like bird watching then you are in luck, as there are a huge number of indigenous species that are resident here.

Wildlife is also plentiful, so bring a camera if you want to capture some of the animals that call the park home.

There is also a visitor center here with information about the park.

2. The Big Texan Steak Ranch Brewery and Hotel

The Big Texan Steak Ranch Brewery and Hotel is famous for one thing – its amazing steak challenge.

As such, if you want to see if you can take on the might of a 72 oz steak, then this is the place to do it.

The steak challenge here involves eating a 72 oz steak as well as an appetizer, salad, and potato within one hour.

If you are able to do so, then the meal is free.

If you leave the table, can’t finish your food, or get sick, then you have to pay $72 for your meal.

If you don’t fancy the challenge, then you can just order from the standard menu which is full of traditional Texan treats.

3. TEXAS- The Musical

Head to the Pioneer Amphitheater in Palo Duro Park to learn all about the state of Texas in musical form.

TEXAS-The Musical, is famous in the United States and tells the story of Texas from the politics and history of the state in the early days, up until the present.

If features Native Americans, cowboys, pioneers, and all sorts of other fun and exciting storylines, and has been performed here in the summer months for the last 50 years.

If you are in town from June to August, then definitely don’t miss the chance to enjoy this open air performance in a gorgeous rural setting.

There is also the option of enjoying a delicious traditional Texan barbecue dinner as part of the show package.

4. Route 66 District

The city of Amarillo is part of the historic Route 66 and is also featured in the song ‘(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66’. As such, and as a memorial to the famous road and song, you will find the dedicated Route 66 District in Amarillo.

The district stretches for one mile in the city and is full of historical buildings as well as a wealth of diverse shops.

These include antique stores as well as handicraft shops and quirky art galleries, and you will also find a wealth of dining options here.

These include local restaurants with traditional Texan fare as well as bars and live music events.

Definitely, this is the place to come for an experience of this classic road.

5. Amarillo Little Theatre

You might think of Texas in terms of the barbecue and the cowboys, but this city is also a hotspot for culture and the arts, and you can check this out in person by heading to the Amarillo Little Theatre.

This is known for being not only one of the oldest, but also the longest continuously open theatre in the country.

Catch a show here and know that you are in the presence of a true historical and culturally significant gem in Texas.

6. Amarillo Opera

The Amarillo Opera was founded in 1988 and has been going strong in the city ever since.

The first production staged by the opera was Madame Butterfly by Puccini, but since then there have been a huge range of other concerts incorporating a range of styles.

The opera has over 75 members and if you love music then make sure that you don’t miss the chance to check out a show.

The company is dedicated to education and preserving the arts in Amarillo, and over 500,000 people attend shows here every year.

7. The Cadillac Ranch

The Cadillac Ranch is one of the most famous pieces of art in the country and was established in 1974 by a group of artists from the area.

The colorful art installation is an ode to Route 66, as Amarillo sits along this famous road, and is made up of ten Cadillac cars that are half-submerged in the Texas earth.

The cars started off in their original form, but over the years people have decorated them as they have visited the installations, and now they are a riot of color and graffiti, which only adds to their charm.

The installation is also famous in popular culture, so don’t miss the chance to see this historic and cultural relic up close.

8. Amarillo Symphony

The Amarillo Symphony has several performances per season, meaning that if you are lucky enough to be in town when one is showing, you shouldn’t miss the chance to see the symphony in action.

Performances take place at the Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts and encompass a range of genres including all the classics such as performances of Beethoven and Bach.

9. Don Harrington Discovery Center and Space Theater

If you are looking for a rainy day activity in Amarillo and are travelling with children, then the Don Harrington Discovery Center and Space Theater is a great choice.

The center is dedicated to all things science and space related, and many of the exhibits are interactive in order to encourage hands-on learning.

The aim of the museum is to stimulate young minds in a fun and engaging way, and to that end you will find different themed sections here such as The Space Gallery and Critter Row.

10. Amarillo Zoo

Animal lovers shouldn’t miss the chance to visit Amarillo Zoo which covers 15 acres of land and houses over 60 different species.

Some of the animals are indigenous to Texas, while some come from other continents, such as the African lions that are residents here.

Other animals of note are cockatoos, Emperor Scorpions, and Green iguanas.

You can come here to see the animals, or you can join one of the many educational programs that aim to teach visitors about the flora and fauna in the zoo.

11. Lone Star Ballet

The Lone Star Ballet was founded in 1975 and is known for its performances of the Nutcracker every year, so if you are in town over the holidays then make sure to check it out.

The ballet aims to train young dancers as well as provide entertainment for the people of Texas and with that in mind puts on a variety of exciting shows throughout the year to showcases the dance talent in the area.

The dance company also seamlessly blends a range of styles as well as ballet, so make sure you check out local listings to see what is on when you are in town.

12. Amarillo Botanical Gardens

You may associate Texas with the desert, but you will find gorgeous lush scenery in the form of the Amarillo Botanical Gardens.

The gardens are spread over 4 acres of land and have seasonal themes as well as dedicated features like a Japanese Garden and a butterfly garden.

If you want to see some species from outside of the state then you can visit the Mary E. Bivins Tropical Conservatory and there are also fragrance and xeric gardens on the property.

You can take a guided tour here where a docent will explain the history of the gardens as well as take you on a walk through the flora and fauna on show here.

13. Splash Amarillo

If you are finding the Texas heat a little hard to handle, then head to Splash Amarillo where you can cool down in no time.

Splash Amarillo is a water park that is fun for all the family and has a huge number of different features to keep you busy such as wave pools and water slides.

If you want something more serene, then there is also a Lazy River, or you can stay on dry land and enjoy the sand volleyball and basketball courts at the park.

14. The Wildcat Bluff Nature Center

For anyone who wants to explore the gorgeous outdoor scenery of Texas, the Wildcat Bluff Nature Center is the place to come.

The center is located close to the downtown area of Amarillo and is situated across 600 acres of grasslands.

The site of the nature center is also historically significant as this is the place where the Gregg-Marc Wagon Trail that linked Santa Fe and Fort Smith used to run, and parts of the trail are still intact to this day.

You can walk along a selection of hiking trails here and take in the wild flowers that about in the area as well as learn more about the Texas environment at the Nature Center itself.

15. Amarillo Historical Museum

To learn more about the state of Texas and the city of Amarillo, look no further than the Amarillo Historical Museum.

Here you will find collections of exhibits that help to tell the story of the development of Amarillo from a small town to the powerhouse city it is today, and you can take in a range of galleries that feature diverse memorabilia such as antiques and photographs.

The museum is one of the newest additions to the museum scene in Amarillo having been established in 2013, but is also one of the fastest growing and most visited.

15 Best Things to Do in Amarillo (TX):

• Palo Duro Canyon State Park
• The Big Texan Steak Ranch Brewery and Hotel
• TEXAS- The Musical
• Route 66 District
• Amarillo Little Theatre
• Amarillo Opera
• The Cadillac Ranch
• Amarillo Symphony
• Don Harrington Discovery Center and Space Theater
• Amarillo Zoo
• Lone Star Ballet
• Amarillo Botanical Gardens
• Splash Amarillo
• The Wildcat Bluff Nature Center
• Amarillo Historical Museum

31 Best Things to Do in Amarillo, Texas

Amarillo is one of the most underrated destinations in the Lone Star State.

Overshadowed by the Texan cities of Houston, Austin, Dallas, and San Antonio, Amarillo is a hidden gem in the Texas panhandle.

The Mother Road passes through the heart of Amarillo and has helped attract a steady stream of visitors from all over the US.

Most visitors to the city are Route 66 travelers wanting to see Cadillac Ranch.

Also Read: Houston to Las Vegas Drive

However, this quintessential Texan town is a destination in its own right and worth planning a trip just to see the city.

Also Read: Best Cities to Visit in Texas

Table of Contents

Why visit Amarillo?

Amarillo, Texas started out as a railroad town in the 1880s but has grown into a sprawling urban area.

In Amarillo, you will find an exciting mix of rugged cowboy culture and contemporary attractions. The city has many premier museums, art galleries, craft beer breweries, and restaurants.

Culture lovers can enjoy the art museum, historic sites, or a visit to the opera house.

More Amarillo Travel Guides 18 Interesting Day Trips from Amarillo Best Weekend Getaways near Amarillo, Texas Awesome National Parks to Visit near Amarillo Best Restaurants in Amarillo to Visit Now

You can also see live music at venues all over town, or check out the famous annual rodeo that draws cowboys from across Texas and beyond every year.

If you want to learn more about the Old West in America, Amarillo is a great place to visit.

The city also has lot of nearby outdoor activities such as hiking in Palo Duro Canyon, ATV rides, zip lining, etc.

Amarillo also makes the perfect family vacation getaway in Texas. There are plenty of fun things to do in Amarillo, Texas with kids including zoos, amusement park, and natural history museums.

Best Things To Do in Amarillo TX

Ride horseback in the Grand Canyon of Texas. Go retro on Historic Route 66. Snap a photo with the murals. Explore Amarillo’s rugged cowboy culture.

Enjoy the local flora and fauna in desert parks and try traditional Texan fare. Eat a grilled nopales!

You’ll find many unique things to do in Amarillo, Texas from a giant steak that no one can finish to the cars at Cadillac Ranch.

Here are some of our favorite things to do in Amarillo, Texas Panhandle.

Cadillac Ranch

Wanna take a fun short trip from Amarillo?

Cadillac Ranch is the place for you. This quirky roadside attraction in Amarillo is on the top of Texas bucket list for most folks!

Located on Route 66 in east central Texas, it’s where the art group Ant Farm buried ten Cadillacs nose down into the dirt and created one of America’s most iconic artworks.

The cars are spray painted and decorated with colorful graffiti. Every inch of them is covered with layers of paint and the art installation looks striking against the empty field.

Visitors can bring a can and spray paint the cars to create their own artwork.

The art work is very popular with tourists and one of the best things to do in Amarillo, Texas.

This is one of those places where you’ll want your camera ready!

Historic Route 66 District

The Historic Route 66 District contains many historic buildings, original signs, and sites from the original U.S. Highway 66 that were bypassed by Interstate 40.

The historic district is 13 blocks and 1 mile long. It includes art galleries, murals, antique shops, restaurants, boutique stores, and live music events.

Some of the interesting and historically significant buildings that reside in the historic district are the Haunted Natatorium, the Adkinson-Baker Tire Company, and Taylor’s Texaco Station.

Wondering where to eat in the Historic District?

For a quirky ambiance and good Mexican food, try Braceros in a converted former Route 66 garage. Golden Light Cafe is another great restaurant that has been here since the 1940s.

Travel Tip – Planning to take a Route 66 all the way to California? Read our Texas to California road trip planner !

Downtown Amarillo

Downtown Amarillo is perfect for a stroll through historical buildings, colorful art deco architecture, museums, coffee shops, public art, and other remnants of a bygone era including Route 66 neon signs.

The Potter County Courthouse, Santa Fe Building, Paramount Theater’s historic sign are some of the famous places in the area.

Also Read: Best museums in Amarillo, Texas to know about museums such as Amarillo Historical Museum, Amarillo Railroad Museum, and more.

Amarillo Museum of Art

Looking for fun things to do in Amarillo for adults?

Amarillo is home to one of the best art museums in Texas.

The Amarillo Museum of Art (AMA) has been open for thirty years, and it’s a great place for locals and tourists alike.

The AMA offers something for everyone, from traditional paintings to modern installations.

It even features an extensive collection of Native American artifacts on permanent display.

It is located on the campus of Amarillo College; admission to the Amarillo Museum of Art is free to the public.

Amarillo Botanical Gardens

Amarillo Botanical Gardens is spread over 4 acres and has charming seasonal displays.

The Botanical Gardens has a Japanese Garden, fragrance garden, and butterfly garden that is popular with kids.

Tourists can also visit the Mary E. Bivins Tropical Conservatory where they can view tropical plant species from outside Texas.

During the holiday season, the Amarillo Botanical gardens are lit up in a kaleidoscope of colors and popular for photographs.

Nature lovers will love the beautiful flora and fauna on offer at the Amarillo Botanical Gardens, making them one of the top things to do in Amarillo, Texas.

The Big Texan Steak Ranch

The Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo TX is famous for its 72-ounce steak challenge!

The contest originated in the heyday of Route 66 – when the Texan cowboys could easily  demolish a steak in a few minutes.

To win the challenge and get the free meal, you must eat a 72 oz steak and sides meal within an hour – a herculean task!

If you can’t finish for any reason, then you will have to pay for the meal.

Many foodies come here thinking they can attempt it but be warned – that steak is simply ginormous and costs a full $72.

If you do win, you will get a permanent feature on their winners board.

Don’t worry – you can also order from their standard menu which has normal sized traditional Texan foods.

There is also a gift shops that sells Texan themed items and souvenirs.

Whatever you want to eat, the Route 66 landmark of The Big Texan is definitely worth a stop for its captivating legend.

American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum

The American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum in West Texas is dedicated to telling the story of the American Quarter Horse.

The Quarter Horse breed is an excellent sprinter and these horses have played an important role in the history of West Texas and in the Great Plains.

The museum includes interactive exhibits that teach visitors about breed’s anatomy, bloodline, riding and equestrian exhibits, stories of people who influenced the breed, and more.

Visitors can also see many beautiful Western style paintings of the American Quarter Horse.

The Quarter Horse Hall of Fame is a great place to learn about famous horses through history in Amarillo, Texas.

Hoof Prints of Quarter Horse Project

Amarillo’s Quarter Horses are not limited just to the museums but can be found throughout the city.

Over 100 painted quarter horses can be found throughout Downtown Amarillo as part of the Hoof Prints of the American Quarter Horse art project.

Taking a photo with the vividly painted statues of quarter horses is one of the best things to do in Amarillo for social media fans.

Panhandle Plains Historical Museum

The Panhandle Plains Historical Museum is located about 15 minutes outside Amarillo on the campus of the West Texas A&M University in Canyon.

This premier museum  offers a glimpse into the history of Texas, from the age of the dinosaurs to modern times.

Kids love seeing the prehistoric beast skeletons that once lived here.

Visitors can also learn about the American Indians who inhabited the land and get an up close look at prehistoric arrowheads and pottery at the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum.

The museum also has exhibits on the pioneers, about the discovery of oil, geology of the area, and recent developments like wind energy advances.

The museum also has a vast art collection.

Amarillo Zoo

Amarillo Zoo is one of the best things to do in Amarillo with kids.

It has a large collection of interesting and exotic animal species including lions, tigers, miniature horses, donkeys, and the Texas longhorn cattle.

The zoo’s herpetarium includes giant pythons, salamanders, iguanas, and other reptiles – it is very popular with families.

The Amarillo Zoo has live animal shows, keeper chats, and animal encounters for kids.

Wonderland Amusement Park

Wonderland Amusement Park is a great place for families to spend the summer in Amarillo TX.

Thrilling rides including roller coasters such as the Texas Tornado and the Mouse Trap are popular with visitors.

Other fun things to do at Wonderland Amusement Park include mini golf, bumper car, waterslides to cool down, etc.

Splash Amarillo

Splash Amarillo is a water park that is fun for all the family.

The park has a lazy River, wave pools, and water slides to keep you busy.

Little kids love playing in the splash zone while parents can relax on the deck with their feet in the sand.

If you want to take a break from swimming, you can also play some arcade games or grab a snack at the concession stands.

Amarillo Opera

Amarillo Opera is one of the most popular things to do in Amarillo, TX.

The opera offers a unique blend of classical music, drama and dance performances and is great for culture lovers.

They also offer family-oriented programs to connect and engage Amarillo’s kids in classical music.

Amarillo Symphony

The Amarillo Symphony Orchestra is one of the most popular orchestras in Texas.

They have been performing for over 40 years and have several performances per season.

Performances take place at the Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts.

The symphony offers a wide range of genres such as Beethoven and Bach.

If you are happen to be in town when the Symphony Orchestra is performing, be sure to attend.

Lone Star Ballet

The Lone Star Ballet is Amarillo’s premier professional ballet company.

The group performs a wide variety of classical and contemporary pieces, as well as full length ballets.

Lone Star’s performances often include live music played by a live orchestra or pianist.

Don Harrington Discovery Center and Space Theater

The Don Harrington Discovery Center and Space Theater is a great place to explore the universe around us.

Kids can play in the Space Lab where they get hands-on experience with science, engineering, math, and technology.

The theater shows an educational IMAX movie every day of the week that highlights different aspects of our solar system.

There are also opportunities for children to participate in workshops like building rockets or experiencing zero gravity through virtual reality headsets.

A visit to the Don Harrington Discovery Center is one of the fun things to do in Amarillo, Texas for families with kids!

Amarillo Little Theatre

Amarillo Little Theatre is a community theatre.

The theater produces an annual season of musicals, comedies, and dramas for the purpose of entertaining an audience and raising cultural awareness.

You can catch a show here if you have the time while visiting Amarillo.

Texas Air & Space Museum

The Texas Air and Space Museum in Amarillo TX is the best place to visit for an up-close experience of the state’s aviation and space history.

The museum has over 60 planes, spacecrafts, launch vehicles, military weapon systems and other pieces of technology on display.

A lot of these exhibits have been donated by flyers from around Amarillo.

If you are looking to learn more about the history of aviation and space flight, then this is a must-see destination.

Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum

The Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum is a great place for families to learn about the history of travel and recreational vehicles.

The RV Museum displays full-size trailers from back in the day of the ‘50s and ‘60s.

Some exhibits are interactive, such as the game to test your skills during a cross country road trip while others are more stationary such as the collection of classic RV brochures spanning from 1946-2000.

If you want to learn more about the evolution of these recreational vehicles that have become more than just a means of transportation, then the Jack Sisemore RV Museum is for you!

Helium Time Columns Monument

In Amarillo, the Helium Centennial Time Columns Monument celebrates the 100th year anniversary of the discovery of helium.

The monument consists of steel columns with a helium molecule at its center. 

This monument commemorates how the gas has helped in many different discoveries and inventions.

It also has 3 sealed time capsules that will be opened in the future.

Bill’s Backyard Classics

Bill’s Backyard Classics is a classic car museum in Amarillo, TX.

You’ll find everything classic cars such as jeeps and jaguars to corvettes and trucks.

This museum will give you a chance to step back in time and see the evolution of cars over the past century.

It’s one of the best fun things to do for car enthusiasts who are visiting Amarillo!

Kwahadi Museum of the American Indian

The Kwahadi Museum of the American Indian is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Native Americans.

Some of the exhibits here include displayed artifacts, videos, murals, and photographs.

This quirky museum is one of our favorite things to do in Amarillo!

Things to do near Amarillo

If you’re on a road trip and want to do something that’s not too far from Amarillo, we recommend heading to these outdoor and roadside attractions near Amarillo, Texas.

The Wildcat Bluff Nature Center

The Wildcat Bluff Nature Center is one of the fun things to do in Amarillo for kids.

This nature center offers a variety of outdoor and indoor exhibits to teach children about nature.

Kids get to learn about the local wildlife, like the Texas Horned Lizard and try out different nature activities like bird watching, fishing, and wildlife scavenger hunts.

If you’re looking for a fun activity to keep your kids occupied while you’re visiting Amarillo, then this will be a great stop!

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Palo Duro Canyon State Park is one of the best things to do near Amarillo Texas.

This state park spans over several acres in the Texas panhandle and is home to the second largest canyon in America.

Palo Duro Canyon park is home to a variety of wildlife and offers plenty of outdoor activities for visitors including camping, horseback riding, hiking trails, picnicking, mountain biking, wildlife viewing and more.

This scenic state park provides sweeping views of the colorful rock layers in the canyon walls as well as breathtaking sunsets that are perfect for photography.

Some of the fun things to do at Palo Duro Canyon include hiking the Lighthouse trail and seeing Texas the musical.

Horseback riding is also quite popular with designated equestrian trails and camps for visitors.

Caprock Canyons State Park

One of the best things to do near Amarillo TX is Caprock Canyons State Park.

The Caprock Canyons State Park is the perfect place to get away from Amarillo’s urban scenery.

This state park has some of the most scenic views in Texas and is home to a range of wildlife including a bat cave.

There are many things to do at this state park such as hiking, picnicking, and taking photographs.

Also Read: Best Bat Caves in Texas

VW Slug Bug Ranch

The VW Slug Bug Ranch, is one of the top attractions in nearby Conway, Texas.

It has 5 Volkswagen beetles buried hood down, just like at Cadillac Ranch.

You can’t spray paint the cars and can only see them from a distance.

It makes for a great photo op along Route 66.

2nd Amendment Cowboy

Located close to Cadillac Ranch, you will find the 2nd Amendment Cowboy.

This is one of the remaining Muffler Mans on Route 66.

He stands in front of 3 Cadillacs and is a fun quirky Route 66 roadside attraction in Amarillo, TX.

Combine City

Combine City is the farmer’s take on Cadillac Ranch! 

It’s the only place on Route 66 where you can about 11 broken down combine tractors buried in the ground at an angle similar to the Cadillacs!

You can’t get close to the combines or spray paint them, nevertheless it makes for a fun side trip.

Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument

Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument is located in the Texas panhandle.

The park preserves one of the world’s most significant resources of flint used by humans over the last 10,000 years.

Dense layers of sandstone overlie the flint, protecting it from weathering and erosion.

Visitors can tour the Alibates Flint quarries and see the Native American petroglyphs on the trails.

Lake Meredith National Recreation Area

Lake Meredith is a beautiful national recreation area located in the Panhandle of Texas near Alibates Flint Monument.

This recreation area is designed for families who want an active vacation and offers everything from camping and fishing to swimming and boating!

Hunting is also popular in this region as the deer, quail, dove, turkey, and rabbit population are all abundant.

Floating Mesa

This desert art installation near Bushland Texas was also sponsored by Stanley Marsh 3, the millionaire behind Cadillac Ranch.

At the Floating Mesa, you will find painted white strip along the top of the mesa.

The white paint blends with the day sky and makes it appear as if the mesa top is floating.

It is easy to miss this attraction and you will need binoculars or telephoto zoom lens to see this Amarillo TX attraction.

Where to Stay in Amarillo

There are many hotels in Amarillo, Texas and what might be best for you is dependent on your needs.

Some of the top choices in the city include Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites – Downtown, Homewood Suites by Hilton, and Econo Lodge Inn & Suites.

Best Time to Visit Amarillo

While you can visit the city throughout the year, the best time to visit Amarillo weather is spring or fall.

Summer in Amarillo can become very hot and humid, but it’s still a great time to enjoy the outdoors with many water activities to take advantage of.

In winter, you can enjoy snowfall in Amarillo.

There are many interesting and fun things to do in Amarillo. From enjoying the 72 oz steak to the cars at Cadillac Ranch, you’ll find something to suit your interests.

Go hiking at Palo Duro Canyon, see Texas! The Musical or explore Caprock Canyons State Park on a scenic drive.

We hope you liked our recommendations for best things to do in Amarillo.

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Top Things to Do in Amarillo, TX

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Things To Do in Amarillo

From outdoor activities to western heritage and a flourishing arts scene, Amarillo has something for everyone. No wonder it’s a favorite destination for travelers looking for either an authentic Old West experience or something a bit more contemporary. Within the confines of this archetypal Texan town, you’ll find more museums, shops, historic sites, restaurants, and golf courses than you can wrangle in one trip. And that’s just the beginning.

With so many things to see, do, and experience, it may be a challenge to figure out where to even begin. Don’t worry, we’re here to help. Check out the list of things to do in Amarillo below to get your next adventure in the Old West started.

Explore Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Any trip to Amarillo isn’t complete without stopping by the spectacular Palo Duro Canyon State Park , one of the nation’s most magnificent scenic attractions. In fact, Fodor’s.com named it one of America’s 10 Best State Parks in 2014 . The canyon, second largest in the country, offers a Texas-sized serving of unforgettable scenic views and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Fortunately, there are many ways to savor the canyon’s rugged beauty. More than 30 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails will keep you busy, as well as numerous camping sites and geocaching opportunities. The scenic landscape and wealth of wildlife makes the park an ideal place for photography and birdwatching.  At Palo Duro Creek Ranch , visitors can enjoy unique Jeep or horseback riding tours of the picturesque canyon.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park is located just 25 miles south of Amarillo and includes a visitor center and gift shop, where you can purchase books, pottery, and jewelry. The Palo Duro Trading Post, located on the canyon floor, offers souvenirs, snacks, meals, and camping supplies. Palo Duro Canyon is open throughout the year, although daily hours may vary by the season.

Watch TEXAS Outdoor Musical

Those visiting Amarillo in the summer can’t miss the world-famous musical drama, TEXAS Outdoor Musical. The show features a talented cast that reaches into the past to reveal the struggles, strengths, celebrations, burials, and politics of the early settlers, cowboys, and Native Americans. The musical is performed at the Pioneer Amphitheater in Palo Duro Canyon State Park Tuesday through Sunday, early June through mid-August. An optional barbecue dinner is available for those who want to have the most Texan experience possible.

Call 806-651-2181 for more information or to make a reservation.

Take the 72 OZ. Steak Challenge

If you’ve spent any time watching TV cooking shows, then you’re probably familiar with the 72 oz. Steak Challenge at Amarillo’s own The Big Texan Steak Ranch, Brewery and Hotel . For those not in the loop, here’s how it works: scarf down a 72 oz. steak and all the sides (an appetizer, salad, and potato) in one hour, and you eat for free. The rules are simple. If you get sick, get up from your table, or have someone else help you eat, then you lose. What happens if you don’t clean your plate? Your wallet will be about $72 lighter, but at least you’ll have a full belly.

Don’t feel like taking on the challenge? No worries. The Big Texan has a standard menu and its own brewery, so you’ll likely find what you’re looking for.

Hang out in the Historic Route 66 District

Amarillo is one of the best-known stops along the famous Route 66, in part because it was mentioned in the song “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66.” Although the route doesn’t exist as it once did, it does live on as Amarillo’s Route 66 District, a one-mile area that comprised the city’s first residential and business districts. Nowadays, the historic buildings that line the former Route 66 house quirky antique, craft, and specialty shops; art galleries; one-of-a-kind restaurants; bars; and music venues. There is usually a lot going on at just about any time, so you can hang out for a few hours or all day.

Enjoy a Show

Amarillo may have built its reputation on cowboys and cattle, but there’s much more going on than you’d think. These days, Amarillo is a veritable hot spot for the performing arts. Watch a play at the Amarillo Little Theatre , one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in the country, or enjoy a performance at the Amarillo Opera . If you’re a music lover, attend a show by the Amarillo Symphony , which offers seven performances per season at the Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts, one of the nation’s best acoustically designed performance halls. The Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts occasionally hosts shows by Lone Star Ballet , whose performances typically occur between November and May.

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Things to Do in Amarillo, TX - Amarillo Attractions

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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

31. Huge Pair of Legs

32. Madam Queen

33. Hodgetown Stadium

34. Amarillo Railroad Museum

35. Westgate Mall

36. Bomb City Distillery

37. Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West

38. Hoofprints of the American Quarter Horse

39. old jacinto area.

40. Cerulean Gallery

41. JNC Axe Pit

42. Starlight Ranch Event Center

43. Amarillo Opera

44. Amarillo Escape and Mystery

45. Big Texan Opry

46. Paramount Theatre Sign

47. Artsy Hearts Gallery

48. Floating Mesa

49. Gram Palace

50. Elevate Church

51. john stiff memorial skatepark.

52. Sixth Street Antique Mall

53. Ross Rogers Golf Course

54. Vendors Flea Market

55. Synchronicity

56. Historic Route 66

57. Canadian River Atv Park

58. JNC Archery & Outdoors

59. Hide and Seek Treasures

60. Escape The Trap House

What travelers are saying

The 30 things everybody should do at least once in Amarillo, according to Tripadvisor ratings

Posted: April 28, 2024 | Last updated: April 28, 2024

Highest-rated things to do in Amarillo, according to Tripadvisor

Stacker compiled a list of the highest rated things to do in Amarillo on Tripadvisor . Tripadvisor rankings factor in the average rating and number of reviews.

#30. Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West

- Rating: 5.0 / 5 (1,409) - Type of activity: Ranches - Address: Write a review - Read more on Tripadvisor

#29. Cadillac Ranch

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (4,236) - Type of activity: Points of Interest & Landmarks - Address: 13651 I- 40 Frontage Road, Amarillo, TX 79124 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#28. Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum

- Rating: 5.0 / 5 (664) - Type of activity: Speciality Museums - Address: 4341 Canyon Dr, Amarillo, TX 79110-1901 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#27. Bill's Backyard Classics

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (102) - Type of activity: Speciality Museums - Address: 5309 S Washington St, Amarillo, TX 79110-3537 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#26. Amarillo Botanical Gardens

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (157) - Type of activity: Gardens - Address: 1400 Streit Dr, Amarillo, TX 79106-1731 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#25. American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (269) - Type of activity: Art Galleries • Speciality Museums - Address: 2601 I-40 East at Quarter Horse Dr, Amarillo, TX 79104 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#24. Texas Air & Space Museum

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (107) - Type of activity: Science Museums - Address: 10001 American Dr, Amarillo, TX 79111-1213 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#23. Don Harrington Discovery Center

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (140) - Type of activity: Science Museums • Children's Museums - Address: 1200 Streit Dr Harrington Regional Medical Center, Amarillo, TX 79106-1759 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#22. Amarillo Zoo

- Rating: 3.5 / 5 (242) - Type of activity: Zoos - Address: 700 Comanchero, Amarillo, TX 79107 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#21. Route 66 Historic District

- Rating: 3.5 / 5 (426) - Type of activity: Neighborhoods - Address: not available - Read more on Tripadvisor

#20. Harrington House

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (38) - Type of activity: Historic Sites - Address: 1600 S Polk St, Amarillo, TX 79102-3149 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#19. Helium Monument

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (69) - Type of activity: Monuments & Statues - Address: 1200 Streit Dr, Amarillo, TX 79106-1759 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#18. Second Amendment Cowboy

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (78) - Type of activity: Points of Interest & Landmarks - Address: 2601 Hope Rd at Cadillac Ranch RV, Amarillo, TX 79124-2397 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#17. Wonderland Amusement Park

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (138) - Type of activity: Amusement & Theme Parks - Address: 2601 Dumas Dr, Amarillo, TX 79107 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#16. I am Rt 66 Visitor Center

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (26) - Type of activity: Art Galleries • History Museums - Address: 1900 SW 6th Ave Historic Route 66, Amarillo, TX 79106-6741 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#15. Amarillo Museum of Art

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (46) - Type of activity: Art Museums - Address: 2200 S Van Buren Street, Amarillo, TX 79109-2407 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#14. Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (50) - Type of activity: Theaters - Address: 500 S Buchanan St, Amarillo, TX 79101-2501 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#13. Texas Travel Information Center

- Rating: 5.0 / 5 (21) - Type of activity: Visitor Centers - Address: 6801 Us 69 Hwy 75 N, Amarillo, TX 79118-6967 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#12. Amarillo Civic Center Complex

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (64) - Type of activity: Convention Centers - Address: 401 S Buchanan St, Amarillo, TX 79101-1606 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#11. Amarillo Little Theatre, Inc.

- Rating: 5.0 / 5 (20) - Type of activity: Theaters - Address: 2019 Civic Cir, Amarillo, TX 79109-1813 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#10. Kwahadi Museum of the American Indian

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (46) - Type of activity: History Museums - Address: 9151 I-40 East, Amarillo, TX 79120-2125 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#9. Arts in the Sunset

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (43) - Type of activity: Points of Interest & Landmarks - Address: 3701 Plains Blvd, Amarillo, TX 79102-1005 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#8. Alley Katz

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (16) - Type of activity: Antique Shops - Address: 2807 SW 6th Ave on old Route 66 @ Florida St., Amarillo, TX 79106-8953 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#7. Wildcat Bluff Nature Center

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (25) - Type of activity: Nature & Wildlife Areas - Address: 2301 N Soncy Rd, Amarillo, TX 79124-5766 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#6. Amarillo College

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (14) - Type of activity: Educational sites - Address: not available - Read more on Tripadvisor

#5. Pondaseta Brewing

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (13) - Type of activity: Breweries - Address: 7500 SW 45th Ave, Amarillo, TX 79119-5026 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#4. Richard Daniel Baker Peace Park

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (19) - Type of activity: Points of Interest & Landmarks - Address: not available - Read more on Tripadvisor

#3. Texas Panhandle War Memorial

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (14) - Type of activity: Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues - Address: 4101 S Georgia St, Amarillo, TX 79110-1100 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#2. Huge Pair of Legs

- Rating: 3.5 / 5 (62) - Type of activity: Points of Interest & Landmarks - Address: 4743 W Sundown Ln Intersection of W Sundown Lane with with I-27 on South-east corner, Amarillo, TX 79118-5018 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#1. Madam Queen

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (9) - Type of activity: Points of Interest & Landmarks - Address: SE 2nd Street, Amarillo, TX 79101 - Read more on Tripadvisor

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34 Best & Fun Things to Do In Amarillo (TX)

Amarillo, a city in the Northwest plain of Texas is the cultural and business center of Texas, United State.

This town began as a railroad town, today, that little railroad town has grown into a big city which is the home base of a lot of successful industries.

Some of these industries include wheat farming, cattle ranching and oil production.

The Historic Route 66 runs through this city, thus, it is not surprising that the city has become this great today.

Among some other places that are worth visiting in Amarillo, you will find an award-winning local theatre, an opera house and a lot of art museums.

Let’s explore some Amarillo texas attractions and the best things to do in Amarillo texas when you are in this city.

Things to Do In Amarillo

1. palo duro canyon.

Included in Amarillo TX attractions is The Palo Duro Canyon which is the second largest canyon in the whole of the United States. It is only second to the Grand Canyon.

A visit here should make your checklist of what to do in Amarillo during your visit.

The size of the Palo Duro Canyon is breathtaking. You will surely want to see it. So, make it one of the things to do in Amarillo.

Among other things you will find in this canyon are many hiking trails, a lot of interesting animals and plants, amazing view and some unique rights like the Lighthouse hoodoo.

You will find yourself revisiting this canyon more than twice during your stay in the city.

It’s worth noting that during the summer, the canyon can get as high as 120 degrees. And that’s is very hot and uncomfortable. You will find it so hard to take longer hikes during the summer.

Thus, it is more advisable to visit during the spring or fall. But if you are already set to go in the summer, don’t forget to bring a lot of water with you.

Apart from the temperature in the summer, the Canyon is a great place to take a hike.

2. Route 66 Historic District

A district that is covered by the famous route in the U.S. Route 66 Historic District consists of 13 commercial blocks in the San Jacinto Heights area.

The San Jacinto Heights area is to the west of Amarillo’s city center. The Route 66 district also encompasses blocks that are between George Avenue and Forest Avenues.

This cluster of buildings is one of the most intact groups of buildings that are very much associated with this highway.

The district is worth visiting due to the variety of architectural styles used here.

Most of these architectural styles are from the early 20th century. For instance, the Spanish Revival element, Art Moderne, art deco e.t.c.

You can see these architectural styles displayed on historically significant buildings in the district like the Natatorium, Taylor’s Texaco Station, the Adkinson-Baker Tire company, and a lot of others.

3. Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum

Quite an unusual but spectacular museum, the Jack Sizemore Traveland RV is a Museum that is completely dedicated to vintage RVs, a visit here should make your list of things to do in Amarillo.

The museum was found by a father-son team, Jack Sizemore and his son Trent. Both of them started collecting vehicles about 25 years ago.

Today, Jack Sizemore owns the oldest RV dealership in the whole of Texas. You are up to seeing more cars than you bargained for in this museum. It is located in its building at the dealership.

In the museum, you will find some of the most interesting vehicles that ever existed. Some of these vehicles include Fleetwood (the oldest in existence), the first Itasca motorhome to be built.

You will also see in the museum, the Flexible Bus which was used in the movie RV.

Most of these motor homes collection date from the 1930s to 1970s. A visit to the museum is like a trip on a time travel machine, for it takes you back in times when it all began.

Address: 4341 Canyon Drive, Amarillo, TX 79110. Phone No: 806-358-4891.

4. Hoof Prints of the American Quarter Horse

The Hoof Prints of the American Quarter Horse is a public art project which consists of more than 100 life-size painted horses that are scattered throughout the city.

You will surely notice these horses everywhere you turn as soon as you enter into Amarillo.

It is worth noting that none of these horses resemble the other. You can make taking a picture of yourself with these horses a tour activity for the day.

5. Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West

One of the best things to do in Amarillo during your visit is a horse ride.

Have you ever rode a horse? Or is riding a horse all “movie” to you? Would you like to make it a reality?

The Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West is a company that offers tours, event catering services and so many other hospitality services. Their tours have a western adventure theme.

They also offer a horseback riding lesson for a novice and a horse for every experienced horse riding. Their doors are open to all year-round.

There are also interesting tours they offer of which you can also partake in. These tours include Palo Duro Canyon, the cowboy lifestyle and the “Route 66”.

You need not worry about what to eat during the tour, the company makes provision for meal events during the tour.

For instance, you have the chuckwagon meal events which can be private or public depending on your booking.

Other educational and recreational activities you will enjoy while traveling with this company include photography tours, progressive horseback riding teams and so on.

Address: 19300 South Farm to Market Road 1258, Amarillo TX 79118. 

6. Cadillac Ranch

Don’t let the name fool you. The Cadillac Ranch is not truly a ranch, rather it is a public art display.

This art display was built by three great artists who were involved in a set group called the Ant Farm and this is today one of Amarillo, TX attractions.

The names of these artists are: Hudson Marquez, Chip Lord and Doug Michels. In the art display, you will find Cadillac Vehicles that are older, running, used or junk.

The cars are arranged in such a way that they are placed at an angle and also nose-first into the ground.

If you are familiar with Cadillacs, you will also notice a lot of interesting features in these cars. Some of these features like the tailfins define them.

Due to the splendor of this exhibit, it has been used to action movies and music videos since its installation.

You are allowed to come with your spray paint if you desire to add a little bit of art that is personal to you on the exhibit. These arts are undoubtedly one of the fun things to see in Amarillo TX.

Address: 1 – 40 Frontage Road, Amarillo, Texas 79124.

7. The Mysterious Floating Mesa

Another fascinating road attraction, the Floating Mesa is one attraction you can’t stop thinking about after seeing it.

It was funded by the same billionaire who owns the Cadillac Ranch and the giant legs.

The Floating Mesa is see in the site, a mesa (ie a flat-topped hill) that has a strip of white-painted plywood installed close to its top.

When the sky appears in a certain color, the mesa’s top appears as if it is floating. You will be amazed by this illusion when you see it.

To get where the Floating Mesa is, just head northwest on the Tacoma Road. Before you get to the junction close to the state Highway 2381, you will see the Floating Mesa.

8. American Quarter Horse Heritage Centre and Museum.

In the museum, you will get to see on the walls photographs and paintings of horses. These horses have been honored as members of the Hall of Fame.

The artist who drew many of these beautiful horses was the acclaimed Western artist Orren Mixer.

You will also get to see displays that tell about horseback riding such as cowboy and his riding attire, ribbons, photographs, and a lot of others. Each one of these artifacts is related to a Hall of Fame Inductee.

You learn so much about the horse, from its anatomy to its riding and even more from this museum through the interactive exhibits installe here.

When you arrive at the museum, you will be given an orientation of what to do and what not to do before you are left to explore on your own.

Address: 2601 1-40 East, Amarillo, TX 79104.

9. Amarillo Mural

If you are to arrive in Amarillo by plane, before you leave the airport, do not forget to take a picture of yourself with the colorful Amarillo mural.

The mural is more like a landmark that serves as a proof that you have scratched Amarillo off your list of places to visit.

It will be more fun if you take this picture of yourself while wearing cowboy boots!

The murals are just on the second floor close to the ticketing area. It is very obvious so you can’t miss it.

10. Visit Amarillo National Parks

Visiting this park is fun and during your visit you have the opportunity to include it in your list of fun things to do in Amarillo.

The names of the two National Parks in Amarillo are Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument and the Lake Meredith National Recreation Area.

The lake Meredith National Recreation Area is best for outdoor recreational activities like swimming, birdwatching, horseback riding, fishing, swimming and camping.

The Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument is a beautiful park with a gorgeous landscape.

The site has a lot to tell, for it was in this area that the native Americans mined the colorful flints that use in the making of tools.

You can still see some of the shallow mines they dug.

Don’t forget to make an appointment with a ranger, for you won’t be allowed to see the mines without one.

11. Tascosa Drive-In Theatre

The Tascosa Drive-In Theatre is one of Texas’s last drive-in movie theatre. The theatre is a good place to take your family on a night out. It is also a good spot to take your partner on a romantic date night.

After getting food from the concession stand, head back to your seat to enjoy the nights program.

The theatre is only open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights.

12. Wonderland Amusement Park

Opened since 1951, Wonderland Amusement Park is not a modern amusement park.

Though it is old fashioned, the park has so much fun to offer and this makes the list of fun things to do in Amarillo Texas.

When the park was founded, it started with just three rides. Its name was the Kiddie Land. Today, the Park has more than 30 rides and attractions. The number keeps increasing.

There are some fun spots in which the park included traditional amusement like bumper cars, miniature golf courses. There is also a section for water rides.

The park also has several rollercoasters. You can ride the Texas Tornado, Hornet, and Cyclone.

You can also make your kids play on the merry-go-round, toy boats and train rides in the Park.

There are also concession stands that sell food, drinks and cotton candy. Buy some for yourself, they are all very tasty!

Address: 2601 Dumas Drive, Amarillo, Texas 79107.

13. Bill’s Backyard Classics

Are you a lover of cars and would love to see some classic car collection? Then, Bill’s Backyard Classics should make your checklist of things to do in Amarillo.

An automobile museum, the Bill’s Backyard Classics is a private collection of automobiles owned by Bill and Linda Pratt.

Apart from showcasing their private collection, the reason the Pratts built this Museum is to share their interest and love for hot rods and very classic cars.

The number of classic cars in the museum houses is about 100. The model of these cars date from 1928 to about 2012.

You will see some impressive automobiles like the 1956 Cadillac Fleetwood Limo that was once owned by Judge Roy Hofheinz and also the Bob Seder’s 1961 Pontiac Catalina convertible.

Sometimes, the museum plays host to some community events like car shows and other fun activities that are family-friendly.

Address: 5309 S Washington Street, Amarillo, Texas 79110.

14. Texas Air and Space Museum

In this museum, you will see a lot of military and civilian aircraft. These aircraft maybe for air and space travel.

There is also an outdoor aircraft part (still part of the museum) that serves as a garage for aircraft like the 1974 Grumman G-1159 Gulfstream II and the C-7A Caribou.

Among the many aircraft that are displayed indoor, you will see the notable North American P-51D Mustang, a helicopter from M.A.S.H, a Bell OH-13S and a Douglas DC-3 N34.

As you take a tour around this museum, you will be amazed by how much the idea birthed in the Wright brothers has grown.

Address: 10001 American Drive, Amarillo, Texas 79111.

15. Ozymandias on the Plains

Talking of a bizarre site, what do you think of a pair of giant legs sticking out of the ground?

Well, that’s exactly what you will see in the Ozymandias on the Plains. These giant pair of legs serves as an Amarillo Texas attraction. It can be found on the south side of the city.

These giant legs were made by Lightnin’ McDuff who is an artist from Amarillo. The person who funded this bizarre project is Stanley Marsh 3.

Stanley Marsh 3 is also the one behind some of the public art projects you will see in Amarillo. He is also the billionaire behind the Cadillac Ranch.

16. Combine City

In Combined City you will find a cluster of trucks.

Though it won’t be possible for you to work around this “city” as you would on the Cadillac Ranch, you can watch this amazing “combine” from outside.

For a better view, I recommend you come with a zoom lens if you desire to get a good picture of this amazing place.

Combine City is just at the right before Whitaker Road assuming you are heading towards Market Road 1151. Pay a visit here to see this Amarillo Texas attraction.

17. Globe-News Centre for the Performing Arts.

Located in the downtown of Amarillo, the Globe-News Centre for the Performing Arts is the home to the Amarillo Opera, the Amarillo Symphony and the Lone Star Ballet. This should be amongst the fun things to do in Amarillo during your visit if you are a music lover.

Throughout the year, the Globe-News Centre for the Performing Arts plays host to a lot of events.

Some of these events include ballet performances, symphony orchestra performances, concerts, theatrical performances and so many others.

Sometimes, the Center is used for hosting private and/or community events.

The building which houses the Center is a wonder on its own. Its architectural designs are impressive.

The main theatre looks so much like the Palo Duro Canyon which is not so far from the theatre. This is because, it is covered in red sandstone. Its seating capacity is about 1,300 seater!

Including the theatre, the building is divided into three stages. They include business and administrative offices, dressing areas, and the spaces for staging.

Address: 500 S. Buchanan Street, Amarillo, Texas 79101. 

18. The Galleries at Sunset Centre

The Sunset Art Gallery of Amarillo is one of the best galleries in the United States. The gallery houses the work of about 100 artists.

The type of art displayed in this gallery ranges from sculpture to oil painting. You will find all genres of art there.

The Amarillo’s First Friday Art walk, which holds every month and is open to the community and is sponsored by the Gallery and others.

You are free to attend the Art Walk. During the Art Walk, the artist who owns some of the arts in the gallery are mostly present.

They also serve delicious food in these monthly events, with live music. You can’t afford to miss this program when you visit Amarillo.

The Sunset Art Gallery of Amarillo is just one of the 55 galleries housed in the Galleries of Sunset Center.

Check out others and I bet you will be amazed by the sculptures and other arts that are being displayed in these Galleries.

Address: 3701 Plains Blvd, Suite 122, Amarillo, Texas 79102.

19. Harrington House

The home was later bought by Don and Sybil Harrington. This two worked in the Oil and Gas industry. They preserved the house after they bought it.

This home is special and worth reckoning because it is no ordinary house. It was built with beautiful materials and superior workmanship using the neoclassical architectural style.

The furnishing that is used to cover its Reception and parquet flooring is all original tapestry which date as far back as the 18th century.

It is no surprise that the Harrington’s kept the impressive art collections and the furnishing used in building this beautiful home. Some of these arts are still found in this home today.

Some of the furniture you will find when you visit the house includes a Regency side cabinet. You will also see a pair of George III-style giltwood mirrors and a customized urn-shaped finials down in the reception hall.

Address: 1600 S. Polk Street, Amarillo, Texas 79102.

20. Amarillo Museum of Art.

Most of its arts are made by local artists inspired by Texas, thus, it is the best place to view the art culture of Texas.

You are free to visit the Museum on any working day and you can explore on your own without a guide.

If you don’t want to explore alone, you can request for a decent-guided tours. It can be for groups or personal. The museum also gives field trip tours.

Sometimes, the museum hosts talks, lectures and programs to educate everyone on the importance of art and what is obtainable in today’s art.

They also go a step further through their Museum Summer Camp and Museum School to impact more knowledge on the young ones.

Don’t forget to visit the Museum Store to get a book, an apparel, a gift or a souvenir. It will be a reminder of your visit to the museum.

Address: 2200 S Van Buren Street, Amarillo, Texas 79109.

21. Kwahadi Museum of the American Indian

One of the recent museums in Amarillo, the building that houses the Kwahadi Museum of the American Indian was designed in a manner to reminisce an Indian Pueblo.

The whole museum and it’s exhibits tell a lot about the art and culture of the Native Americans.

Some of the significant arts which you can find in this museum include bronze castings by Tom Knapp, Thomas Mails Collection of Native American Culture, etc.

You will also find the Navajo rug collection.

Throughout the year, the museum holds dance performances loved by the public. The date is not steady as it changes seasonally.

You can attend any of the different performances that occur within the year.

Address: 9151 I-40, Amarillo, Texas 79118.

22. Ye Olde Pancake Station.

One of the best restaurants in Amarillo. The Ye Olde Pancake Station serves everything from breakfast classics to breakfast burritos even to skillets.

The environment of the restaurants is homely and it serves one of the best fluffy pancakes you have ever eaten.

It gets so busy during the weekend, thus, I suggest you visit here on time.

23. Amarillo Civic Centre Complex

Inside the complex, you will find different facilities, notably the 2,848-seat auditorium that is used most times for musical performances, Broadway shows, and so forth.

The complex is also where the Cal Farley Coliseum is based. Cal Farley Coliseum is a sports arena that is the home of the Amarillo Venom Indoor football league and the Amarillo Bulls hockey team.

The center is used sometimes for conventions, concerts, wrestling, Iive skating shows and so many more.

There is also the Grand Plaza which was designed to be used for smaller events. The Grand Plaza also serves as a tribute to the state.

In case there is a need to hold not so large trade shows, banquets, meetings or other events that are of moderate attendance, they can be held at any of the two exhibit halls housed by the center.

Address: 401 S Buchanan Street, Amarillo, Texas 79101.

24. Helium Centennial Times Column Monument

Built-in the year 1968, the Helium Centennial Times Column Monument was built to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the discovery of helium.

It’s not surprising that this was held in Amarillo. This is because the headquarters of the Federal Helium Program and also the Helium Plant (which was established in 1929) is in Amarillo.

Before now, the Helium Monument was at I-40 and Nelson, but it was moved from that location to its current location in the year 1982 by the aid of a helicopter.

Today, you can find the Monument on the grounds of the Don Harrington Discovery Centre.

The four-time capsules which are held by the monument include documents, books, historical artifacts e.t.c, all of which are related to how life was in 1968.

The time capsules contents are inside four chambers which are completely filled to the brim with helium. You definitely have to add a visit here to your list of top things to do in Amarillo TX.

Address: 1200 Streit Drive, Amarillo, Texas 79106.

25. Big Texan Opry (Big Texan Steak Ranch)

Both a landmark and a legend along Route 66, The Big Texan was opened in the year 1960.

Since it’s establishment, it has become a favorite spot for all sorts of drivers who drive along Route 66 to stop for a steak.

You can’t miss the building, because the architectural style used makes it so easy to be spotted along the way. You can’t miss its bill post.

You can’t taste this steak meal and not come back for more. There is also the 72-oz steak meal which is offered free of charge to any customer that could finish it before an hour.

There is also a gift shop beside the restaurant. You can buy exotic gifts and souvenirs as a take-home package.

Address: 7701 I-40 East, Amarillo, Texas 79118 .

26. Amarillo Botanical Gardens

If you are a lover of nature then getting close to Amarillo Botanical Gardens should be among your list of things to do in Amarillo Texas.

This is a garden of more than 4 acres that features plants which are native to Texas (the Amarillo Garden is seasoned).

The indoor conservatory which is inside the Amarillo Garden, display exotic and tropical plants which were obtained from different parts of the world.

If you desire a guided tour, the garden offers a guided tour but it is available only during business hours. Bookings should be made a week before the tour.

Visitors are also allowed to explore the garden by themselves if they want to.

Apart from tours, the Botanical Gardens do offer educational programs like gardening, plant management and so on.

It is also available for rent for private events or occasions like weddings.

Address: 1400 Streit Drive, Amarillo, TX 79106.

27. Don Harrington Discovery Center

As expected, this center displays several interactive exhibits which have relation to the science discipline.

The center has a place called the “Space Theatre” which is a planetarium. It also houses the “Space Gallery” which is fully dedicated to earth’s weather conditions and the weather condition in the outer space.

You will also be shown the museum and space centers which feature family-friendly areas like KinderStudio and Little Builders.

KinderStudio and Little Builders are special areas in the center where kids can play, create and explore. You can leave your kids in a staff’s capable hand while you check out the Centre.

Older children and adults are not left behind in the fun as well.

You are free to attend any of the family-friendly events and educational programs the Discovery Centre host every year.

Address: 1200 Streit Amarillo, TX 79106.

28. Amarillo Zoo

Would you like to get to know what to do in Amarillo texas with kids, how about taking them to see lovely animals at the Amarillo Zoo?

A host of interesting and exotic animals, The Amarillo Zoo is a 15-acre zoological Park.

There are about 150 animals in the Zoo, at least one of them came from 88 species of animals from different parts of the world.

Some of the animals which are native to Texas that can be seen in the Zoo includes, Tarantulas, and grey foxes.

You will also see the lions, tigers, exotic birds, and so many other exotic animals. The Zoo offers other fun activities apart from seeing the animals in the enclosures.

For instance, you can attend the live animal shows, animal encounters, and keeper chats.

After touring the Zoo, visit the concession stands just at the Zoo, and buy any of the variety of park food they sell there. Don’t forget to get a gift or a souvenir that is related to the Zoo and its animals from the Souvenir stand. This will be a constant reminder of your visit to the Zoo

Address: 700 Comanchero Trail, Amarillo, Texas 79107.

29. Amarillo Little Theatre

Rated as one of the best small theatres in the whole of the United States, the Amarillo Little Theatre is known for its variety of plays and shows which it displays all through the year.

It has under its employment so many experienced local artists who perform wonderful shows. After the shows, the visitors are allowed to mix and mingle with the performers.

Some of the performances they display includes classical pieces and comedies. They also show broadway-style musical shows. Most of the shows are family-friendly.

After the show, you can visit the concession stand for food, drinks or tailor-made cocktails.

To secure good spots, I suggest you make reservations on time. The theatre gets often fully booked days before the event.

Address: 2019 Civic Circle, Amarillo, Texas 79109. 

30. Wildcat Bluff Nature Centre

Encompassing a rolling grassland of more than 600 acres, the Wildcat Bluff Nature Centre is one of the best natural parks in the country.

The park has so many nature trails, where its visitors can take a stroll or maybe host a picnic. The environment is so peaceful.

Among the grasses and the cottonwood trees, you will see wildflowers sprinkled everywhere making the whole park look like a very beautiful natural bluff.

The park has Wildlife, some of which are: quails, horned lizards and hawks.

The historic Gregg-Marcy Wagon Trail which travels from Sante Fe to Forth Smith is a part of the nature center.

The park is quite interesting to visit. When you get to the visitors center, you will be shown photographs of the plant and the animals which can be found in the Park. You will also be given information about them.

You can learn a thing or two about the park, as you are guided around it by the tour guides.

Address: 2301 N. Soncy Road, Amarillo, Texas 79124.

31. Amarillo Opera

A professional Opera company, the Amarillo Opera has been in operation since the year 1988.

Don’t be surprised if you see students at Amarillo College here, for the opera work closely with the school. The spaces in the opera house are used by the college as office spaces, rehearsals, performance spaces.

The opera house has produced several shows throughout its years which are so successful. These works range from classic, inventive works to modern works that are filled with so much creativity.

Considering the quality of there performance, it is not surprising that Amarillo Opera is an award-winning opera.

Though most of its plays are not in English, the opera house does project the English language subtitle a little above the stage to enable guests follow the program or performance.

Address: 2223 S Van Buren Street, Amarillo, Texas 79109.

32. Amarillo Railroad Museum.

The Amarillo Railroad Museum is a railroad museum that was established to preserve the heritage and the railroad history of Texas. It is today one of Amarillo attractions and should make the best things to do in Amarillo.

In the museum, you will find a lot of railroad equipment as well as model trains that are preserved there.

There is also a layout of the HO scale in the museum. This layout, which is the largest in the museum was designed to capture the 200 miles tracts of the Santa Fe’s railroad in Texas.

The layout spans through the era of 1952 to the 70s. Its measurement shows that this 2-level layout fills a 48 foot by 75-foot room.

Apart from the models which are inside the museum, you will also find an outdoor railroad garden, a historical train engine and cars just outside of the museum.

You will also find a nuclear weapon transport train owned by the Department of Energy in this Museum.

Address: 3160 I Avenue, Amarillo, Texas 79111. 

33. Cinergy’s Extreme Escape Room

Cinergy’s Extreme Escape Room is a fun entertainment center in Amarillo. It is a perfect location for people of all ages to enjoy an exciting escape experience.

There are different themed rooms in this place, each with its storyline and tasks to accomplish.

When in these rooms, participants will have to find clues, find answers to puzzles, and complete tasks to fulfill a particular mission within a specific time which is usually an hour.

These rooms are designed in such a way as to offer participants an exciting and immersive experience through traditional and innovative clues, locks, and puzzles that will put their brains to the test and promote teamwork.

Cinergy’s Extreme Escape Room is open to the public.

Address: 6808 S Memorial Dr., Suite #300, Tulsa, OK 74133, USA

34. Medical Center Park

Medical Center Park is a popular attraction in Marietta, TX, and a perfect place to have a great time with your loved ones and friends.

The tranquil Park is a perfect escape from the bustling city. It features a spacious verdant grassy space and trees.

The Medical Center Park was designed to provide solitude away from the city’s noise. The Park has walking/jogging trails, children’s playgrounds, and several allotted picnic areas.

There are many things to do for the entire family. The Park features a children’s playground, among several others in the area. 

The Park is furry-friendly, but dog owners must ensure their dogs are always on their leashes, even while having a walk with them.

Address: 1100 Wallace Blvd, Amarillo, TX 79106, USA

Plan a Trip to Amarillo.

Most cities barely have interesting spots, Amarillo is not one of them. From the art museums, to the Cadillac Ranch, then to the RV Museum. What’s there not to tell?

Some scenes just stick in your brain and never leaves. I think you will understand after you have seen the giants legs on the Ozymandy plains.

Start making plans for your trip today. Get hold of the fun things to do in Amarillo, these should make your visit to this awesome city worthwhile.

Home > Route 66 > Visit Amarillo, The Symbol of Route 66 in Texas

Visit Amarillo, The Symbol of Route 66 in Texas

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Amarillo , located along the I-40 in Texas, is famous for its Historic Route 66 attractions and is perfect for experiencing the atmosphere of the Wild West . Themed restaurants, classic cars and curious installations make it a fun stop for those who are traveling the Mother Road from Chicago to Los Angeles.

The city is located in the northern region of Texas, called Panhandle  because of its shape. In addition to the roadside attractions, here we also find the second largest canyon in the United States , interesting museums, and events related to the western-country world. Let’s discover all the things to do in Amarillo!

Historical background

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Amarillo may seem like a small provincial town, but it actually has 190,000 inhabitants, an airport, and a university campus.

Its original name was Oneida, and it was founded in 1887 by J.T. Berry, as a commercial hub along the railroad route between Fort Worth and Denver City. Since the area was prone to flooding, some forward-thinking businessmen began to purchase land nearby for residential purposes. When, indeed, some heavy rains rendered the original settlement of Berry uninhabitable, the population naturally moved to the new settlement, which is now the Polk Street area. It was at this point that the town changed its name to Amarillo, a name due to the large expanses of yellow flowers in the surrounding prairies. In Spanish, amarillo actually indicates a shade of yellow.

With the discovery of natural gas and oil, Amarillo became one of the state’s major manufacturing centers, thanks in part to its favorable location for railroad trade. Later, like other cities, it was hit by the Dust Bowl in the 1930s, and saw a gradual decline. What saved it was the production of war material during World War II, and the establishment of the Amarillo Air Force Base in 1951.

And, of course, the legendary US Route 66 , the road that embodies the myth of road trips and the American dream, made its contribution. With the frequent passage of travelers, many stores, restaurants and curious roadside attractions were opened to entertain visitors and extend their stay in the city. It is precisely these attractions that still make it a popular tourist destination today.

How to get there

As we mentioned, Amarillo has an airport, the Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport . However, you are more likely to arrive here by car, as part of a larger road trip itinerary. Therefore, I will give you directions to get to the city via road.

Getting there is easy, as Amarillo is located on interstate I-40 , the very long highway that cuts horizontally across the U.S., connecting California and North Carolina. Extending horizontally, Amarillo has several exits, from 62 to 80, leading respectively to the Cadillac Ranch and the airport.

• If you are coming from the east, for example from Oklahoma City , take I-40 westbound, and continue for about 250 miles to the exit closest to your destination. The travel time is about 3h 45.
• From the west, for example from Albuquerque , you will have to take I-40 again, but this time heading east. In this case, the distance is 280 miles, and travel time just over 4 hours.
• From the south, for example from Lubbock , take I-73 for 120 miles. This highway ends right in the center of Amarillo, so it is impossible to go wrong. Travel time is almost 2 hours.

Amarillo is an obligatory stop on any trip on Route 66 , in fact it has several themed attractions. If this is your itinerary, put it between Oklahoma City and New Mexico .

Other possibilities are a trip entirely to Texas , or one that also includes New Mexico. The two states are adjacent, and are often combined. In the case of the Texas itinerary, put Amarillo between Dallas – Fort Worth and a destination further south, which could be Lubbock or Midland . If, on the other hand, you also include New Mexico, stay on Route 66, then move to Tucumcari , and then on to Santa Fe or Albuquerque , or go south to White Sands National Park .

Amarillo is located on a plateau, about 1,000 feet above sea level. Its climate is very different from the rest of Texas, and not very favorable in the winter and spring . It is semi-arid, but unpredictable due to strong winds and with a significant temperature range.

• Winters are dry, with frosts at night but temperatures around 50°F during the day. Occasional snow and ice blizzards can occur during this season.
• Spring, on the other hand, is prone to tornadoes. In fact, Amarillo is located along Tornado Alley, the Midwest corridor where tornadoes are most likely to form. The most violent tornadoes occur in May, so it would be prudent to avoid this period.
• Summers are hot and dry, with occasional afternoon thunderstorms and peaks of 100-104°F.
• Fall should be considered somewhat of a continuation of summer, but with lower temperatures.

Therefore, the best time to visit Amarillo is from June to October-November .

The main things to see in Amarillo will take about half a day, a little more if you visit all the museums. However, if you want to take advantage of it to see some natural attractions, such as Palo Duro State Park , plan on at least a full day.

Things to do in Amarillo

It’s not just a hotel, and it’s not just a restaurant. The Big Texan Steak Ranch is a western-style village , welcoming you with its giant cowboy-shaped illuminated sign. Even if you don’t stay or eat here, this is the first place to visit in Amarillo.

It’s about as over-the-top and tacky as it gets, and it’s absolutely unmissable. The exterior is bright yellow, and the parking lot is home to a huge cow, a pair of boots, a windmill, and an unknown number of Texas flags.

The interior resembles the most classic of Wild West saloons. Peek into the restaurant, decorated with cowhide tablecloths and stuffed animal heads. On the stage in the center you’ll see the daredevils taking part in the 72oz Steak Challenge : a 4.5 lb steak to be devoured, along with the side dishes, in less than an hour. If they make it, the meal is free, and they get a special mention on the Wall of Fame . If they give up, however, they’ll have to foot a $72 bill.

To the left is the cafeteria, gift store and an arcade with some carnival rides. You can play shooting gallery, slot machines, or press a quarter. Further along is a hallway of oddities , such as portraits that turn into zombies by changing perspective. The place is decked out depending on the season; if you stop by in September-October, you’ll see the fun Halloween decorations. Big Texas State Ranch is located at exit 74 off of I-40.

The second thing to see in Amarillo is the Cadillac Ranch , an undisputed symbol of Route 66.

This work dates back to 1974, conceived by three San Francisco architects and funded by local millionaire Stanley Marsh 3. It consists of 10 Cadillacs planted nose down in the ground in single file. The cars are installed in chronological order of production, and at the same angle as the pyramid of Cheops at Giza. Originally, the ranch was located about 1.2 miles further east, but was moved to the current site in 1997 due to the expansion of the city.

What’s unique about Cadillac Ranch is that visitors are encouraged to leave their own mark on the cars, creating their own personal graffiti with spray cans . In all likelihood, you’ll find some there. Pick a car, and unleash your creativity. Don’t forget to take a souvenir photo, because before long your work will be covered by someone else’s!

To get to the Cadillac Ranch, take exit 62 A off of I-40. To learn more you can read our article on Cadillac Ranch .

About a mile east of Cadillac Ranch, on the street corner you will notice a cute statue of a cowboy, inviting tourists to enter the gift shop.

This is one of the Route 66 Muffler Men. Muffler Men are fiberglass sculptures, about 20 feet tall, that have an advertising function. They are placed outside roadside businesses to attract attention, and usually depict a profession. The first example, from 1962, was located in Flagstaff, Arizona , and depicted Paul Bunyan, a lumberjack and folk hero of American folklore.

Along Route 66 you will find others, these are the best known:

• astronaut Gemini Giant at the Launchpad Cafe, l810 East Baltimore Street in Wilmington, Ill.
• the man with the giant hot dog at 115 SW Arch Street in Atlanta, Illinois.
• the Lauterbach Giant in front of a tire store at 1569 Wabash Avenue in Springfield, Illinois .
• the Golden Driller in the Tulsa, Oklahoma fairgrounds at the intersection of 21st Street and Pittsburgh Avenue.
• the space cowboy in front of a gift store at 1347 E 11th Street in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
• the lumberjack outside Granny’s Closet restaurant at 218 S Milton Road in Flagstaff, Arizona.

Have fun photographing them all!

Today, Route 66-themed attractions are located along the interstate. But in reality, the Mother Road used to run through downtown, and to be precise what is now 6th Avenue . The 13 blocks between Georgia Street and Forrest Street are the true hub of Route 66 in Amarillo , this was the commercial street that welcomed tourists with motels, restaurants and stores.

The neighborhood has been on the Register of National Historic Places since 1994, and includes some original 1920s Spanish Revival and Art Deco style buildings. Here are some of the most significant:

• The Natatorium (604 South Georgia Street), a 1922 Gothic Revival-style structure that started as an indoor pool and was later converted to a dance hall.
• San Jacinto Fire Station , next door to the Natatorium. Built in 1926, this fire station remained in operation until 1975.
• Adkinson-Baker Tire Company (3200 West Sixth Avenue), a 1939 service station.
• Texaco Gas Station (3512 West Sixth Avenue), from 1937, its special feature is that it is covered in white porcelain tiles. Today it is a restaurant.
• Martin Phillips 66 Service Station (3821 West Sixth Avenue), in operation from 1930 to 1990. Its owner, Herb Martin, was known for his generosity. In addition to doing his job, he helped needy travelers by offering free gasoline, and the opportunity to spend the night at the gas station.

Just outside of downtown you’ll also find a typical Route 66 roadside attraction, it’s Huge Pair of Legs , a sculpture representing a portion of 2 giant legs; the work itself isn’t much but should still be noted among the kitschy Mother Road attractions.

The quarter horse is a breed of American horse selected by cowboys in the 1800s to work with cattle by crossing mustangs with English thoroughbreds. The museum tells the story of breeding these animals through photos, costumes, accessories and the most prestigious awards. There is also a Hall of Fame, honoring horses and jockeys who have distinguished themselves throughout history.

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 7 a.m. Admission is $7 for adults, $3 for children and teens ages 6-18, and $6 for those over 55.

If you’re interested in the world of RVs and camping, this is the museum for you.

Jack and Trent Sisemore , father and son, have been collecting RVs for over 25 years. They select the most curious vintage models, refurbish them and then display them in the museum. The vehicles range from the 1930s to the 1970s, and the installations are especially detailed. In fact, each camper is complete with all the furnishings and everyday items, such as kitchens, porches and other camping accessories. In addition, bicycles, motorcycles and automobiles are also on display.

The museum is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday until 4 p.m. Admission is free.

Located in the airport complex, the Texas Air and Space Museum has an extensive collection of aircraft, as well as documents, photos and newspaper articles about the development of the flight industry in the Panhandle.

A few new pieces arrive each year, but in general the collection includes airliners and military aircraft, and helicopters. The centerpiece is a training aircraft for NASA’s Shuttle program, used by astronaut Rick Husband, a native of Amarillo and after whom the airport was named.

The museum is open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free, but voluntary donations are accepted.

This small classic car museum is relatively new to the scene of things to see in Amarillo , having only come into existence in 2015. The collection includes models from 1920 to 2012, including military jeeps, Corvettes, and hot rods, the historic cars tuned for more power. The cars on display are changed often to ensure an ever-changing experience.

The museum can be visited by guided tour Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (last tour at 3 p.m.). Admission is $10 for adults, with free admission under 12.

The colorful rooms at the Big Texan Steak Ranch are arranged to depict a classic Wild West town, and furnished in the same manner. Staying here is a fun experience to stay with the cowboy and pioneer theme. Plus, in the summer you’ll have access to the famous Texas-shaped swimming pool. Meals are not included in the price.

If you prefer a more restrained and classic American motel, along I-40 you will find several alternatives, Among them, I recommend the Ashmore Inn & Suites , and the Best Western Santa Fe Inn , comfortable and clean, with the possibility to have breakfast included.

All accommodations in Amarillo

We start, of course, always with the Big Texan Steak Ranch . Aside from the 4.5-pound steak challenge, the restaurant also serves normal, affordable meals. The menu mainly includes steaks, ribs, and burgers, but there are also vegetarian entrees, seafood dishes, and Tex-Mex. Beware of the mountain oyster: despite the name, it’s not oysters at all, but fried bull testicles! There’s also a beer garden behind the main building, with a good selection of American beers.

Another very popular restaurant in Amarillo is the Coyote Bluff Cafe , which has also appeared on the popular television show Man vs. Food. This small restaurant is known for its hearty burgers. The highlight is the burger from hell , a super spicy burger, only for the brave.

If you want to try the famous Texan barbecue while avoiding the crowds of the Big Texan, try Tyler’s Barbecue. This is a spartan restaurant where food is served on plastic plates and trays, but is of excellent quality. On the menu you will find ribs, pulled pork and brisket, accompanied by classic southern side dishes: cole slaw, mac n’ cheese and beans.

Amarillo is linked to Route 66, but also to the country atmosphere and the world of cowboys. In fact, the city hosts several themed events, including the Tri-State Fair & Rodeo in the third week of September, and the World Championship Ranch Rodeo , held in November. If your trip coincides with these dates, it’s worth attending, to witness an authentic American rodeo.

The city is also mentioned in several songs, including:

• Amarillo by Morning , a great country classic. Recorded in 1973 by Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser, it was brought to success by former rodeo champion George Strait ten years later.
• Get Your Kicks on Route 66 , composed by Nat King Cole in 1946. The song lists the major cities through which the Mother Road passes, including Amarillo. The song is so famous that it has been rearranged by countless artists, including Chuck Berry, the Rolling Stones, and Depeche Mode.

Finally, not everyone knows that the prairies around Amarillo appear in the final scene of 1989’s Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

Things to Do Near Amarillo, Texas

Here are some of the main attractions that you can visit within a short distance of Amarillo.

Palo Duro Canyon is a state park in Texas, and is located 40 miles south of Amarillo.

At 120 miles in length and 6 miles in average width, it is the second largest canyon in the United States, after the very famous Grand Canyon in Arizona . It represents a pleasant natural detour from the Route 66 route , and allows you to see beautiful views of red rocks that are somewhat reminiscent of Utah .

Here you can take the 15-mile scenic drive through the canyon floor, ride horses or mountain bikes, and venture out on one or more of the 16 hiking trails.

The most iconic is the Lighthouse Trail , a 5 miles linear trail with a 500 feet elevation gain that leads to the rock formation known as the Lighthouse. 

This important museum on the history of the Panhandle is located on the campus of West Texas A&M University in Canyon, a small town 20 miles south of Amarillo.

Its collection has over 3 million items including artifacts, vehicles, Native and American art, firearms, furniture pieces, and more. The items on display tell the story of the lives of the people who inhabited the region, from prehistoric times and early settlements, through cowboy times and on to the oil boom. There’s even a reconstruction of a 19th century pioneer town , complete with schoolhouse, saloon, and barn.

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $12.50 for adults, $6 for children ages 4-12, and $10 for those over 65.

Located 100 miles southeast of Amarillo, Caprock Canyon is famous for its bison herd . It is a wide canyon characterized by high red rock walls, grasslands, and the small Lake Theo . Here you can take the scenic route, go hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and swimming activities by the lake.

There are 11 official hiking trails, the most popular of which is the Eagle Point Trail , 2 miles and 450 feet of elevation gain. A small natural rock arch and some bison can be seen along the trail.

The park is open daily from 8 am to 10 pm. Admission is $5 per person for adults, with free admission under 12 years old. This is also a state park, so you will not be able to use the America the Beautiful pass .

A must-see stop along Route 66 in Texas , but which I recommend even if your itinerary is not focused on the Mother Road, is the small town of Adrian , 50 miles west of Amarillo. It is very popular because it is located exactly halfway between Chicago and Santa Monica . Take exit 23 off of I-40, and continue on Service Road, which is nothing more than dear old Route 66. After a couple of miles, you’ll see a huge sign on the right, showing you how the distance to the two cities is identical: 1139 miles.

Opposite is the Midpoint Cafe , a restaurant where time seems to have stood still in the 50s. You can stop for lunch, but what you must try are the ugly crust pies. I recommend a classic Apple Pie in full Granny Duck style, unbeatable in its simplicity.

Warning: Operating hours can change and closures for extraordinary events can occur, so we strongly suggest to check the venues official websites.

Valeria Rovellini

I'm Valeria and I love road trips. My favorite trip? The Historic Route 66.

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Shelburne faith column: Nobody can see what’s coming

Almost every day — sometimes several times a day — I hear my buddies in the gray hair/no hair generation confessing (or is that complaining?) that they had no idea what life would be like when they got to that age.

What would we have done differently if we had foreseen that one day, almost without warning, many of our physical abilities would vanish? It never occurred to me that one day I would no longer be able to climb a ladder or trim a tree or till a flowerbed.

Back when I was just beginning my ministry and we were living on a shoestring salary, pastors could choose whether to pay social security. Many of my young colleagues opted out. Now that I’ve been receiving those retirement checks every month for almost two decades, I’m glad I didn’t, but my decision was not based on information or insights. At that young age I didn’t have a clue what kind of financial challenges I would face when I turned 80.

Over fifty years ago, a leader in my church gave me some good advice. “You need to begin providing now for your retirement years,” he urged me. He knew that our denomination made up of totally independent congregations would provide no pension or retirement support. So he taught me how to buy and rebuild worn-out houses. At that time I enjoyed playing carpenter or roofer or plumber to renovate those shacks, but looking back now, I thank the Lord for that guidance that got me ready to be unemployed and disabled and old.

What are you doing to get ready for seemingly distant tomorrows?

Do you enjoy hiking or fishing or golfing or just walking around the block? Then do it today. While you still can.

Sooner than you may suspect, you may not be able to. It just takes one injury, one illness, or a few calendar page turns to put an end to the activities are now your normal fun.

I realize that Jesus taught us to live in the present and not waste our energy worrying about tomorrow, but that was not a restriction on wise planning for the future.

We pray to the Lord, “Give us this day our daily bread,” and he does. But one way he does that is by showing us wise ways to handle today’s blessings and to make sure that we enjoy them while we can.

Gene Shelburne is pastor emeritus of the Anna Street Church of Christ, 2310 Anna Street, Amarillo, Texas. Contact him at [email protected], or get his books and magazines at www.christianappeal.com. His column has run on the Faith page for almost four decades.

From Harvard to UT Austin to USC, college protests over Gaza are spreading. See our map.

As least 300 students were arrested at Columbia University and City College in New York Wednesday as protests against the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza continued across the U.S.

In Los Angeles, riot police entered the University of California, Los Angeles, early Wednesday in response to a UCLA plea to restore order on campus. University officials cited multiple acts of violence in protester encampments, police said.

Protests have been erupting at colleges across the country, with nearly 60 schools reporting on-campus protests as of April 25.

More than 800 people have been arrested in confrontations with police, according to a USA TODAY review of news reports.

The movement, which calls for an end to civilian casualties in Gaza, started at Columbia University on April 17. About 100 Columbia students have been arrested, and the protests have been spreading to other colleges in the U.S. and overseas.

More than 34,000 deaths have been reported in Gaza since Israel invaded the Gaza Strip after a Hamas attack that killed almost 1,200 people in Israel on Oct. 7.

Where are college protests taking place?

Unable to view our graphics? Click here to see them. 

What do protesters want?

Demands by students and other protesters include:

• A cease-fire in Gaza.
• A halt of U.S. military aid to Israel.
• An end of universities investing endowment money in Israel and in companies supporting Israel.
• A recognition of a right to protest on campus without retribution.

What’s happening in the protests?

Students are setting up protest camps – essentially groups of tents on campus spaces – as a way of maintaining solidarity and visibility.

Some college officials have responded by sending police to force students to disband.

At Columbia, President Minouche Shafik gave students until Friday morning to remove their tents . At Emory University in Atlanta, officers used tear gas on protesters and arrested a number of them.

The University of Southern California closed its campus and asked Los Angeles police to remove demonstrators. About 100 people were arrested .

Learn more : More than 30,000 lives lost — Visualizing the death and destruction in Gaza

Live local coverage : UT-Austin professors plan protest with students, PSC calls for Hartzell's resignation

Read more: Live updates on protests .

Is there a campus protest we missed? Email [email protected] with a news article covering it and we'll add it to our list.

Contributing: John Bacon, Anthony Robledo, Eduardo Cuevas, Jorge L. Ortiz, Zachary Schermele, Ramon Padilla and Shawn J. Sullivan

Sources: USA TODAY Network reporting and research; Reuters

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FOX 7 Austin photographer among dozens arrested at pro-Palestinian protest at UT campus

A photojournalist with FOX 7 Austin was arrested during a pro-Palestinian protest at the University of Texas at Austin on Wednesday.

Video footage posted on YouTube by FOX 7 Austin shows the photographer taking footage of the moment law enforcement began pushing back the protest line, resulting in the photographer being pushed into an officer. A Texas Department of Public Safety trooper pulled him backward before detaining him, according to FOX 7 Austin.

In another clip shared on X, formerly Twitter, the photographer identified himself as Carlos and said that he was being pushed and was told he had hit an officer. When asked if this has ever happened and if he told troopers he was a journalist, Carlos said, "No, this has never happened to me. I was just covering things and they were pushing. Yeah, I told him that I was the press. This one says I was hitting an officer. I was not hitting nobody."

Carlos was charged with criminal trespassing, FOX 7 reporter Meredith Aldis said on X . He was released from Travis County Jail Thursday morning, after he was booked at 8:29 p.m. Wednesday, FOX 7 reporter Jessica Rivera shared on X .

At least 30 individuals were detained during the rally , which was organized by the Palestine Solidarity Committee, part of Students for Justice in Palestine.

The protest aimed to urge an end to the Israel-Hamas war , aligning with national student demands for universities to divest from Israeli companies and for the U.S. government to cease military support for Israel.