Amarillo On A Map

Are you planning a trip to Amarillo, Texas? This city is known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and amazing food scene. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, foodie, or simply looking to relax and unwind, Amarillo has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

Amarillo is home to some of the most iconic landmarks and attractions in Texas. The Cadillac Ranch, a public art installation featuring ten classic Cadillac cars buried nose-down in the ground, is a must-visit. The Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the second-largest canyon in the United States, offers breathtaking views and outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and horseback riding. The American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum, the largest equine breed registry and membership organization in the world, is a great place to learn about the history of the American Quarter Horse.

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, Amarillo has plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The Don Harrington Discovery Center, a hands-on science museum, is a great place for families with children. The Amarillo Botanical Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city, features a wide variety of plants and flowers. The Wonderland Amusement Park, a family-owned and operated amusement park, offers rides and attractions for all ages.

Food Scene

Amarillo’s food scene reflects the city’s diverse culture and history. For a taste of Texas-style barbecue, head to Tyler’s Barbecue or Dyer’s Bar-B-Que. For a unique dining experience, try the Big Texan Steak Ranch, where you can try to finish a 72-ounce steak in under an hour. For some of the best Tex-Mex in town, visit Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant or Jorge’s Mexican Bar & Grill.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling on a budget? No problem! Amarillo offers plenty of ways to save money while still enjoying all the city has to offer. Many of the city’s top attractions, such as the Cadillac Ranch and the Amarillo Botanical Gardens, are free to visit. The city also has a wide variety of affordable accommodations, including budget-friendly hotels and motels.

Outdoor Adventures

Amarillo’s natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities make it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to the Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the city has several other parks and outdoor spaces to explore, including the Amarillo Zoo and the Amarillo Botanical Gardens. The city also has several golf courses, bike trails, and hiking trails.

Historical Landmarks

Amarillo has a rich history that can be seen in its many historical landmarks. The Harrington House, a historic home built in 1914, is now a museum that offers tours and educational programs. The Kwahadi Museum of the American Indian, which showcases the history and culture of the Plains Indians, is another must-visit. The Texas Panhandle War Memorial, a monument honoring the men and women who served in the military, is a great place to pay your respects.

Family-Friendly Activities

Amarillo is a great destination for families with children. The Amarillo Zoo, located in Thompson Park, is home to over 200 animals from around the world. The Don Harrington Discovery Center, mentioned earlier, is another great place for families to explore. The Wonderland Amusement Park, also mentioned earlier, offers rides and attractions for all ages.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something a little different, Amarillo has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences waiting to be discovered. The Texas Air & Space Museum, located at Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport, offers a unique glimpse into the history of aviation and space exploration. The Amarillo Railroad Museum, which features exhibits on railroad history and model trains, is another great off-the-beaten-path attraction.

Natural Wonders

Amarillo’s natural beauty is truly awe-inspiring. In addition to the Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the city has several other natural wonders to explore. The Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument, a site where Native Americans quarried flint for thousands of years, is a fascinating destination. The Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, located just north of the city, offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking.

Vibrant Nightlife

When the sun goes down, Amarillo comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. The city has several bars, nightclubs, and live music venues to choose from. The Golden Light Cantina, a historic bar and live music venue, is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The Hoots Pub, a country music bar and dance hall, is another great place to spend an evening.

Local Markets

If you’re looking for a taste of local flavor, head to one of Amarillo’s many local markets. The Amarillo Farmers Market, open from May to October, features a wide variety of locally grown produce, baked goods, and crafts. The Amarillo Antique Mall, a 20,000 square foot space filled with antique and vintage treasures, is another great destination for shoppers.

Beaches and Mountains

While Amarillo is located in the middle of the Texas Panhandle, it’s still possible to enjoy a day at the beach or in the mountains. The city is within driving distance of several beautiful beaches, including Galveston and South Padre Island. The Rocky Mountains are also just a short drive away.

Cultural Immersion

Amarillo’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its many museums, art galleries, and cultural events. The Amarillo Museum of Art, located on the campus of Amarillo College, features a wide variety of art from around the world. The Amarillo Symphony and the Lone Star Ballet offer world-class performances throughout the year. The city also hosts several cultural festivals and events, including the Amarillo Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s Cinco de Mayo celebration and the Tri-State Fair & Rodeo.

Art and Music Scene

Amarillo’s art and music scene is thriving, with several galleries, museums, and venues showcasing local and national talent. The Cerulean Gallery, located in downtown Amarillo, features contemporary art from around the world. The Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts, a state-of-the-art venue, hosts performances by the Amarillo Opera, the Amarillo Symphony, and other world-class artists.

Walking Tours

One of the best ways to explore Amarillo is on foot. The city has several walking tours that offer a glimpse into its history and culture. The Historic Route 66 Walking Tour, which takes visitors through downtown Amarillo and along the historic Route 66, is a must-visit. The Amarillo Art Trek, a self-guided tour of Amarillo’s public art installations, is another great way to explore the city on foot.

Architectural Marvels

Amarillo is home to several architectural marvels, including the Santa Fe Building, a historic skyscraper that once housed the headquarters of the Santa Fe Railroad. The Harrington Regional Medical Center, a modernist building designed by architect Paul Rudolph, is another must-see. The city also has several historic homes and buildings that have been beautifully restored.

Historical Sites

Amarillo’s history is rich and varied, with several sites and landmarks that reflect its past. The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, located in nearby Canyon, Texas, is the largest history museum in Texas and features exhibits on the history of the Texas Panhandle. The Llano Cemetery, one of the largest cemeteries in Texas, is the final resting place of several famous Texans, including the legendary cowboy Charles Goodnight.

Biking Routes

Amarillo’s flat terrain and wide streets make it a great destination for cyclists. The city has several bike trails and routes, including the Amarillo Bike Route, which takes cyclists through some of the city’s most scenic areas. The Palo Duro Canyon State Park also has several bike trails for cyclists of all levels.

Wellness Retreats

If you’re looking for a place to relax and recharge, Amarillo has several wellness retreats and spas to choose from. The Spa at the Big Texan, located at the Big Texan Steak Ranch, offers a variety of spa services, including massages and facials. The Amarillo Wellness Center, located in downtown Amarillo, offers acupuncture, massage therapy, and other holistic treatments.

Adventure Sports

Amarillo’s natural beauty and wide open spaces make it a great destination for adventure sports. The city has several opportunities for rock climbing, including the boulders at the Palo Duro Canyon State Park. The city