Explore the Best things to do in Amarillo. Amarillo isn’t just a pit stop on Route 66; it’s a vibrant town nestled in the heart of cowboy country. This destination is where you can casually take a selfie with a buried Cadillac, discover the mysteries of the helium era, and savour a piece of the well-known Texas pie on Route 66. As you will discover, this vibrant city is brimming with exciting activities to enjoy.

Therefore, in this blog post, we will highlight some of the best things to do in Amarillo that you should take advantage of.

When is the Best Time to Visit Amarillo?

What do you like most? The best time to visit Amarillo depends on your interests. Spring and Fall are excellent times to see when the weather is mild, and many visitors enjoy outdoor activities, as it’s neither too cold nor too hot. Summer is appropriate if you are keen on festivals and other events.

However, be prepared for hot temperatures that can sometimes exceed the 90s.
Winter (December-February) can be pretty cold, with occasional freezing temperatures. Snowfall is unusual, but it gets chilly. Then again, if you are into holiday happenings or skiing, that could be the ideal moment.

12 Best Things to Do in Amarillo 

Here are some of the top activities to experience in Amarillo:

#1 Check out the Cadillac Ranch 

Amarillo’s Cadillac Ranch is undoubtedly the most famous one; you will always find it one of the top places to visit among tourists. This particular piece has a fascinating story behind who produced this art in 1974 under the direction of famous local Amarillo Stanly Marsh III, who used an old Cadillac collection sticking out of the ground as the material.

The cars are lined up one after another with their tails raised, constantly in motion as anyone can paint on them. It’s right off I-40, west of Amarillo, Texas, with plenty of parking spaces available for visitors at Cadillac Ranch.

Each experience is unique due to its liveliness, which constantly changes. Once in Amarillo, you must check out Cadillac Ranch, which affords you an activity you’ll love.

• Location: 13651 I-40 Frontage Rd, Amarillo, TX 79124, United States
• Timing: Open 24 hours (Sun-Sat)
• Phone No: +18333302650
• Google Maps: Get Direction

#2 Visit Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Indeed, it would help if you remembered to visit Palo Duro Canyon State Park before leaving Amarillo. Beyond that, this canyon is popularly known as the “Grand Canyons of Texas”, the address of which is the second largest canyon ever known in America and has other outstanding scenic natural traits to offer.

For the whole experience, go for “Texas” outdoor musical drama at its natural theatre over the summer. Palo Duro Canyon State Park is ideal for nature and outdoor enthusiasts visiting Amarillo. It is also among the top thrilling things to do in Amarillo.

• Location: Canyon, TX 79015, United States
• Website: https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/palo-duro-canyon
• Timing: 7 am–9 pm (Sun-Sat)
• Google Maps: Get Direction

#3 Visit The Amarillo Museum of Art

Art enthusiasts should make a point to visit The Amarillo Museum of Art. It is excellent, with Asian art, American photos, European paintings, and modern art. They often host exhibits from various places, so there will always be something new there.

The museum is easy to locate since it is in Amarillo College. It’s an excellent place to spend an afternoon of art viewing and thinking about creativity, culture, etc.

And guess what? Zero charges are required here, so anyone who loves art can walk in and glance around. This place accommodates all family members; therefore, it is one of the most incredible things to do in Amarillo.

• Location: 2200 S Van Buren St, Amarillo, TX 79109, United States
• Website: http://www.amoa.org/
• Timing: 11 am–5 pm ((Mon-Sat)
• Google Maps: Get Direction

#4 Stroll through the Amarillo Botanical Gardens

Amarillo Botanical Gardens offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It spans four acres; the garden features various plants, flowers, trees, well-maintained pathways, and a tropical conservatory.

The Gardens also host concerts annually, as well as sales of plants and educational programs for different ages. This most colourful part of the Texas Panhandle is ideal for a leisurely walk, picnic, or just sitting with nature. The best way to spend time with your family and friends is to visit this place in Amarillo.

• Location: 1400 Streit Dr, Amarillo, TX 79106, United States
• Website: http://www.amarillobotanicalgardens.org/
• Timing: 9 am–7 pm (Mon To Sat)
• Google Maps: Get Direction

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#5 Experience Live Theater at the Amarillo Little Theatre

The Amarillo Little Theatre is one of the country’s oldest community theatres and continuously operates. It is an active theatre that exhibits many local talents, including acting, directing, and designing.

The Theatre’s programming includes classic dramas and comedies, contemporary shows, and musicals, ensuring there’s something for anyone who enters the building. Its small size and high-quality production methods make it a pleasant experience for anybody looking to attend live Theatre.

If you or your partner loves watching movies, dramas, or shows, then coming to this place is one of the fantastic things to do in Amarillo.  

• Location:  2019 Civic Cir, Amarillo, TX 79109, United States
• Website: http://www.amarillolittletheatre.org/
• Phone No: +18063559991
• Google Maps: Get Direction

#6 Go to Big Texan Steak Ranch

It would only be a trip to Amarillo to eat at The Big Texan Steak Ranch, where they have a 72-ounce steak challenge. It is free to consume a big steak with all its accompaniments within an hour. Otherwise, many tasty Texas dishes are on the extensive menu while one enjoys a fantastic ambience with a natural southwestern touch.

This restaurant also includes a gift shop, brewery, and even an inn where guests can stay overnight. That’s quintessential Amarillo – excellent food paired with quirky and enjoyable experiences. Visiting this place is one of the most beautiful things to do in Amarillo for people who love different cuisines. 

• Location: 7701 I-40, Amarillo, TX 79118, United States
• Website: https://bigtexan.com/
• Timings: 10 am–10:30 pm (Sun-Sat)
• Google Maps: Get Direction

#7 Historic Route 66

One of the most enjoyable things to do in Amarillo involves travelling down the section of Historic Route 66 that remains unchanged since old times were still around. A cluster of vintage shops, galleries, and diners along Sixth Avenue evokes the nostalgic ambience of the bustling days of Route 66.

Explore The Nat, formerly a dance hall and now an antique shop. Not to mention grabbing a snack at one of those traditional diners along this street. 

Travelling down Route 66 in Amarillo feels like going back to days when road trips were an essential part of American culture. It is an exploration of history!

• Location: Los Angeles, CA, USA
• Google Maps: Get Direction

#8 Check out the Don Harrington Discovery Center

Don Harrington Discovery Centre caters to families and individuals interested in science and technology. The exhibits in this interactive museum are hands-on and focused on space, physics, biology, earth sciences, and more. The Space Theater planetarium features state-of-the-art technology, showcasing astronomy and the wonders of the universe on its screen.

Furthermore, the Discovery Center hosts events like workshops and educational programs year-round. If you are interested in science, it is a beautiful place to visit and one of the most fascinating things to do in Amarillo.

• Location:  1200 Streit Dr, Amarillo, TX 79106, United States
• Website: https://discoverycenteramarillo.org/
• Timing: 9:30 am–4:30 pm (Mon-Sat)
• Google Maps: Get Direction

#9 American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum

Amarillo is known as the “Helium Capital of the World” and the “Yellow Rose of Texas.” It is renowned as the birthplace of the American Quarter Horse breed. For some insights into this horse world, visit them at the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum.

This institution takes you through these iconic horses’ history and contribution to ranching, racing, and rodeo in America. Visitors get a mix of exciting displays alongside videos and drawings that make the world of quarter horses alive.

• Location: 2601 E Interstate Dr, Amarillo, TX 79104, United States
• Website: http://aqha.com/foundation
• Timing: 9 am–4 pm (Mon-Sat)
• Google Maps: Get Direction

#10 Texas Air & Space Museum

Those not indifferent to aviation will be thrilled to visit the Texas Air & Space Museum at Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport. There are more than a few vintage planes, bombers, attack aircraft, and more aeronautical items.

Moreover, guests may also see a Boeing B-52 Stratofortress and a Grumman OV-1 Mohawk there. If you value guided tours, they will happily show you around. An educational system is available to help you understand the flight scope.

• Location: 10001 American Dr, Amarillo, TX 79111, United States
• Website: http://www.texasairandspacemuseum.org/
• Timing: 10 am–4 pm (Mon-Sat)
• Google Maps: Get Direction

#11 Discover the Amarillo Zoo

The Amarillo Zoo is located in the Thompson Park area. It is a refreshing family getaway where children can observe an extensive collection of animals, including lions, tigers, reptiles, bears, and beautiful birds taken from all over the world.

The zoo is small, so exploring and getting closer to animals is easy. Moreover, the zoo provides unique programs that teach people about different species of animals.

Furthermore, various exciting activities go on in the zoo, including Boo at the Zoo and Zoo Lights, which build up personal experiences. Exploring the Amarillo Zoo is among the fun things to do with your family and friends in Amarillo. 

• Location: 700 Comanchero Trail, Amarillo, TX 79107, United States
• Website: https://zoo.amarillo.gov/
• Timing: 9:30 am–5 pm (Mon-Sat)
• Google Maps: Get Direction

#12 The Tri-State Fair & Rodeo  

Tri-State Fair & Rodeo is one of Amarillo’s most significant events for residents and visitors. This fair includes roller coasters, games booths, livestock auctioning, and various food courts. 
The rodeo features top cowboys competing against each other in events such as bull riding and barrel racing.

In addition, this carnival also gives live musical performances and other entertainment while exhibits make the Tri-State Fair & Rodeo environment more festive. Hence, locals call it the epitome of everything they love about Amarillo.

• Location:  3301 SE 10th Ave, Amarillo, TX 79104, United States
• Website: http://www.tristatefair.com/
• Timings: 8:30 am–12 pm, 1–5 pm (Mon-Sat)
• Google Maps: Get Direction

Also Read: 12 Once in a Lifetime Things to Do in Los Angeles By a Local

Where to stay in Amarillo?

These are the three top-rated hotels in Amarillo, with some of the best reviews from people who have stayed here:

1. Home2 Suites by Hilton Amarillo

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• Price: 135$./ Per Night 
• Location: 8251 W Amarillo Blvd, Amarillo, TX 79124, United States
• Phone No: +18068037777
• Check-in time: 3 PM
• Check-out time: 11 AM
• Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/amaamht-home2-suites-amarillo/
• Google Maps Directions: Get Directions

It is a three-star hotel where you will get to spend a very peaceful time with a unique and cosy bedroom, and apart from that, you will also get a kitchen, a workout room, and complimentary breakfast. Their service is excellent, and this hotel has 4.4 stars on Google.

2. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Amarillo West, an IHG Hotel

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• Price: $146/ Per Night
• Location: 8330 W Amarillo Blvd, Amarillo, TX 79124, United States 
• Phone No: +18064182505
• Check-in time: 3 PM
• Check-out time: 12 PM
• Website: https://www.ihg.com/
• Google Maps Directions: Get Directions

This hotel also has four stars on Google and has a lot of different facilities, such as a vast freshwater swimming pool. They also provide guests with complimentary breakfast, wi-fi, and parking facilities. They have also put a lot of effort into making their guests comfortable. The rooms here are also very cosy and relaxed, and you will be able to make a different memory.

3. Drury Inn & Suites Amarillo hotel

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• Price: 144$./ Per Night 
• Location: 8540 I-40, Amarillo, TX 79106, United States
• Phone No: +18063511111
• Check-in time: 3 PM
• Check-out time: 11 AM
• Website: https://www.druryhotels.com/
• Google Maps Directions: Get Directions

This hotel is appreciated for its spacious and well-equipped rooms. It also offers a good breakfast with many options, including gluten-free choices. It’s clean, new, and dog-friendly.  

A Complete Video in Amarillo

Conclusion 

Amarillo may not be a hotspot for most travellers, but thanks to its hidden gem status, it stands out among others. Amarillo offers breathtaking roadside scenery, expansive canyons, and a rich blend of Texas history, outdoor activities, and artistic expression.

Therefore, immerse yourself in the culture and lifestyle beyond tourist destinations. You never know when and where you’ll encounter something new and fascinating, so keep exploring as much as you can.

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