Did you know that Palo Duro Canyon near Amarillo is the second largest canyon in the United States, stretching an impressive 120 miles long and up to 20 miles wide? This natural wonder is just one of many surprising attractions waiting for you in the vibrant city of Amarillo, Texas. Nestled in the heart of the Texas Panhandle along the historic Route 66, Amarillo blends authentic cowboy culture with quirky roadside art and breathtaking natural landscapes.
The breathtaking Palo Duro Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Texas”
Getting to Amarillo & Planning Your Journey
Located in the Texas Panhandle, Amarillo is easily accessible by various transportation methods. The city serves as a major stop along Interstate 40 (which follows much of historic Route 66) and is also intersected by Interstate 27, making it a convenient road trip destination.
Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport serves the city with daily flights
By Air
Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport (AMA) offers daily flights from major hubs including Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Denver, and Las Vegas. The airport is located about 10 miles east of downtown, making for a quick transfer to your accommodations.
Ready to Book Your Flight to Amarillo?
Find the best deals on flights to Amarillo from major airlines and start your Texas adventure.
By Car
Amarillo is a popular road trip stop, located approximately 4.5 hours from Dallas, 4 hours from Oklahoma City, and 4 hours from Albuquerque. The drive through the Texas Panhandle offers scenic views of the wide-open plains that characterize this region.
Need a Rental Car in Amarillo?
Explore Amarillo and the surrounding attractions at your own pace with a rental car.
Best Time to Visit Amarillo & Weather Tips
Amarillo experiences a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons. The best times to visit are during spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when temperatures are mild and comfortable for outdoor activities.
Spring brings wildflowers and comfortable temperatures to the Amarillo region
Seasonal Highlights
- Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures (60-80°F), wildflowers, and fewer crowds make this an ideal time to visit Palo Duro Canyon.
- Summer (June-August): Hot days (90-100°F) but perfect for evening activities and the TEXAS Outdoor Musical at Palo Duro Canyon.
- Fall (September-November): Pleasant temperatures (65-85°F) and beautiful foliage in the canyon areas.
- Winter (December-February): Cold temperatures (30-50°F) with occasional snow, but fewer tourists and unique winter views.
Packing Tips
- Layers are essential year-round due to temperature fluctuations between day and night.
- Sturdy walking shoes for exploring Palo Duro Canyon and other outdoor attractions.
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) is necessary even in cooler months.
- Rain gear for occasional thunderstorms, especially during summer months.
- Warm clothing for winter visits when temperatures can drop below freezing.
Getting Around Locally
While having your own vehicle is the most convenient way to explore Amarillo and its surrounding attractions, the city does offer some public transportation options for getting around the central areas.
Historic Route 66 runs through downtown Amarillo, making it a perfect area to explore
Rental Car
The most flexible option for exploring both the city and attractions like Palo Duro Canyon (30 minutes from downtown). Major rental companies are available at the airport and in the city.
Amarillo City Transit
The city bus system operates Monday through Saturday with routes covering major areas of the city. However, service is limited and doesn’t reach outlying attractions.
Rideshare & Taxis
Uber and Lyft operate in Amarillo, along with local taxi services, providing convenient transportation within the city limits.
Where to Stay in Amarillo
Amarillo offers a range of accommodation options from budget-friendly motels along Route 66 to upscale hotels in the downtown area. For a truly unique experience, consider staying at one of the themed accommodations or even camping in Palo Duro Canyon.
The Big Texan Motel features a distinctive Texas-shaped swimming pool
Downtown & Route 66
Stay in the heart of Amarillo’s historic district with easy access to restaurants, shops, and nightlife. The Courtyard by Marriott at the Historic Fisk Building offers modern amenities in a beautifully restored landmark.
Unique Experiences
The Big Texan Motel offers themed rooms and a Texas-shaped pool adjacent to the famous Big Texan Steak Ranch. For a rustic experience, book one of the cabins or “glamping” options within Palo Duro Canyon State Park.
Family-Friendly Options
Many hotels along I-40 and near medical districts offer family-friendly amenities including pools, complimentary breakfast, and spacious rooms. The Embassy Suites and Holiday Inn Express are popular choices.
Find Your Perfect Amarillo Accommodation
Compare prices and availability for hotels, motels, and unique stays throughout Amarillo.
Dining & Local Cuisine in Amarillo
Amarillo’s dining scene celebrates Texas flavors with an emphasis on hearty steaks, authentic Tex-Mex, and down-home barbecue. From iconic establishments to hidden local gems, the city offers a diverse range of culinary experiences.
The legendary 72-ounce steak challenge at The Big Texan Steak Ranch
Must-Try Amarillo Dining Experiences
The Big Texan Steak Ranch
This iconic Route 66 establishment is famous for its 72-ounce steak challenge: finish it in one hour and it’s free! Even if you’re not up for the challenge, the restaurant offers excellent steaks in a fun, Western-themed atmosphere.
Tyler’s Barbeque
Consistently ranked among the best BBQ joints in Texas, Tyler’s serves up mouthwatering brisket, ribs, and sausage with all the traditional sides. Their Thursday-only pork chops have a devoted following.
Youngblood’s Cafe
A local favorite for breakfast and lunch, serving generous portions of comfort food classics. Don’t miss their chicken fried steak, a Texas staple done to perfection.
Authentic Tex-Mex cuisine is a staple of Amarillo’s dining scene
Local Favorites
- 806 Coffee + Lounge: Hip café in the Route 66 Historic District serving excellent coffee, breakfast tacos, and light fare in a cool atmosphere.
- Golden Light Cantina: Amarillo’s oldest restaurant (est. 1946) known for outstanding burgers and live music on weekends.
- Coyote Bluff: A tiny, no-frills spot with a big reputation for their “Burger from Hell” and other spicy specialties.
- Jorge’s Mexican Bar & Grill: Family-owned restaurant serving authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes with homemade tortillas.
Top Attractions & Activities in Amarillo
From quirky roadside art to natural wonders, Amarillo offers a diverse range of attractions that showcase the unique character of the Texas Panhandle. Here are the must-see sights that should be on every visitor’s itinerary.
The iconic Cadillac Ranch is one of America’s most famous roadside attractions
Iconic Amarillo Attractions
Cadillac Ranch
Perhaps Amarillo’s most famous attraction, this public art installation features ten vintage Cadillacs half-buried in the ground, nose-down. Visitors are encouraged to bring spray paint and add their own colorful mark to this ever-changing canvas.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Just 30 minutes from downtown Amarillo lies the “Grand Canyon of Texas” – the second largest canyon in the United States. With over 30 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, this natural wonder offers breathtaking views and outdoor adventure.
Historic Route 66
Amarillo’s stretch of the “Mother Road” includes the Route 66 Historic District, a vibrant area with antique shops, restaurants, and art galleries housed in beautifully preserved buildings from the road’s heyday.
The iconic Lighthouse Rock formation is a highlight of Palo Duro Canyon
More Unique Attractions
- American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum: Celebrating the horse that helped settle the American West with interactive exhibits and beautiful art.
- Amarillo Botanical Gardens: Four acres of beautiful gardens featuring a tropical conservatory and seasonal displays.
- Wonderland Amusement Park: Family-friendly park with rides, games, and attractions for all ages.
- Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum: Unique collection of vintage RVs and campers, including the RV from the movie “RV” with Robin Williams.
- Combine City: Similar to Cadillac Ranch but with combine harvesters instead of cars – another quirky roadside photo opportunity.
Explore Amarillo’s Top Attractions
Book guided tours, activities, and experiences to make the most of your Amarillo visit.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Amarillo boasts a surprisingly rich cultural scene with excellent museums, performing arts venues, and year-round events that celebrate the region’s Western heritage and contemporary arts.
The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum is the largest history museum in Texas
Must-Visit Museums
Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum
Located in nearby Canyon, this is the largest history museum in Texas with over 3 million artifacts spanning art, history, paleontology, geology, and petroleum. Their Pioneer Town recreation is particularly impressive.
Amarillo Museum of Art
Features a diverse collection including Asian art, early American photography, and contemporary works. The museum hosts rotating exhibitions and educational programs throughout the year.
Texas Air & Space Museum
Aviation enthusiasts will enjoy this collection of historic aircraft and space artifacts, including a rare Lockheed JetStar once used by President Johnson.
The TEXAS Outdoor Musical performs during summer evenings in Palo Duro Canyon
Cultural Experiences & Festivals
- TEXAS Outdoor Musical: Running each summer since 1966 in Palo Duro Canyon’s Pioneer Amphitheatre, this spectacular show celebrates the history and spirit of the Texas Panhandle.
- Amarillo Symphony: One of the oldest continuously operating orchestras in the region, performing classical and contemporary works at the Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts.
- Center City Block Party: Annual summer festival featuring multiple stages of live music, food vendors, and family activities in downtown Amarillo.
- Tri-State Fair & Rodeo: Held each September, this event includes a PRCA rodeo, livestock shows, carnival rides, and concerts.
- Yellow City Sounds Music Festival: Celebrating local and regional musicians across multiple venues in Amarillo.
Outdoor Adventures in and around Amarillo
The rugged beauty of the Texas Panhandle provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor recreation. From hiking in dramatic canyons to fishing in serene lakes, Amarillo offers plenty of opportunities to connect with nature.
Hiking trails in Palo Duro Canyon offer spectacular views of the colorful rock formations
Palo Duro Canyon Adventures
As the crown jewel of outdoor recreation in the area, Palo Duro Canyon offers numerous activities:
Hiking
Over 30 miles of trails range from easy walks to challenging hikes. The Lighthouse Trail (5.7 miles round trip) leads to the park’s iconic rock formation and is the most popular route.
Mountain Biking
Several trails are open to mountain bikers, including the challenging Lighthouse Trail and the more moderate Givens, Spicer & Lowry Running Trail.
Horseback Riding
Experience the canyon like the early settlers with guided horseback rides through Old West Stables, available for all skill levels.
Horseback riding offers a traditional way to experience Palo Duro Canyon
More Outdoor Activities
- Lake Meredith National Recreation Area: Located 45 minutes north of Amarillo, this reservoir offers fishing, boating, swimming, and camping.
- Wildcat Bluff Nature Center: Just outside Amarillo with 600 acres of trails showcasing native plants and wildlife of the High Plains.
- Zip Line Adventures: Soar above Palo Duro Canyon on zip lines that offer thrilling views of the dramatic landscape.
- Caprock Canyons State Park: About 100 miles from Amarillo, this park features stunning red rock formations and is home to the official Texas State Bison Herd.
- Ross Rogers Golf Course: Municipal course offering two 18-hole layouts for golfers of all skill levels.
Ready for Outdoor Adventure?
Book guided hiking tours, horseback riding experiences, and more outdoor activities in Amarillo.
Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Amarillo
Make the most of your Amarillo adventure with these helpful tips and local insights that will enhance your experience in the Yellow City.
Downtown Amarillo offers a mix of historic architecture and modern amenities
Local Customs & Etiquette
- Amarillo embraces its Western heritage – cowboy boots and hats are common everyday attire, not just for special occasions.
- Texans are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Don’t be surprised if strangers strike up conversations or offer assistance.
- When visiting Cadillac Ranch, bring your own spray paint and take any empty cans with you when you leave.
- Tipping is customary (15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, $3-5 for hotel housekeeping per day).
- Respect private property, especially when photographing roadside attractions or rural areas.
Safety & Weather Considerations
- Summer temperatures can exceed 100°F – stay hydrated and use sun protection when outdoors.
- Thunderstorms can develop quickly in spring and summer – check weather forecasts regularly.
- Flash flooding can occur in canyon areas during heavy rain – never attempt to cross flooded roads or trails.
- Winter can bring sudden snowstorms and icy conditions – check road conditions if traveling during winter months.
- Amarillo is generally safe, but take standard precautions like locking vehicles and being aware of your surroundings.
Bring your own spray paint to leave your mark at Cadillac Ranch
Additional Tips for a Great Visit
- Distances: Attractions like Palo Duro Canyon are outside the city limits – plan for driving time between sights.
- Photography: Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photographing Palo Duro Canyon’s colorful rock formations.
- Souvenirs: The NAT (Nelson Antique Mall) on Route 66 and the shops at Palo Duro Canyon Visitor Center offer unique local souvenirs.
- Events: Check the Amarillo Convention & Visitor Council website for current events during your visit.
- Local Specialties: Try Amarillo’s famous “Calf Fries” (a local delicacy) if you’re feeling adventurous!
Ready to Explore Amarillo?
From the breathtaking natural beauty of Palo Duro Canyon to the quirky charm of Cadillac Ranch and the rich Western heritage throughout the city, Amarillo offers a truly unique Texas experience. Whether you’re driving along Route 66, savoring Texas-sized steaks, or hiking through the second largest canyon in the United States, Amarillo’s blend of natural wonders, roadside attractions, and genuine Western hospitality creates unforgettable memories.
Pack your sense of adventure and your appetite for both food and exploration – Amarillo is waiting to surprise and delight you with its distinctive Panhandle charm. As locals say, once you wear out a pair of boots here, you’ll never want to leave!
Start Planning Your Amarillo Adventure Today!
Find the best deals on flights, accommodations, and activities for your trip to the Yellow City.
