Things To Do
in Amarillo
Amarillo sits on the eastern edge of the Texas Panhandle and mixes wide-open prairie landscapes with a small-city Western vibe. Its history is rooted in cattle ranching, the railroad and Route 66, giving the city a strong cowboy and roadside-culture identity. Nearby natural attractions like Palo Duro Canyon provide dramatic red-rock scenery within a short drive.
The city is practical and approachable — ideal for road-trippers, outdoor lovers and travelers seeking authentic Texas Panhandle culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with breakfast at the iconic Big Texan Steak Ranch, famous for its 72-ounce steak challenge. After breakfast, take a stroll down Historic Route 66, where you can admire vintage signs and quirky shops that reflect the charm of the Mother Road. Stop by the Route 66 Historic District to capture some breathtaking photographs of the preserved buildings.
Visit the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame and Museum, where you can learn about the history and significance of this beloved breed. Enjoy lunch at a local diner along the route, savoring classic American comfort food. Spend your afternoon exploring the quirky Cadillac Ranch, where you can spray paint your own design on the iconic half-buried cars.
As the sun sets, head to the Palo Duro Canyon for a scenic drive and enjoy the beautiful landscape. Grab dinner at a local barbeque joint, where you can experience the rich flavors of Texas-style cooking. End your evening with a live performance at the Texas Musical Drama, showcasing the area's history through song and dance.
Begin your day at the Amarillo Museum of Art, where you can explore the diverse art collections and rotating exhibitions. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, indulging in homemade pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Afterward, take a moment to enjoy the outdoor sculptures in the museum's garden.
Visit the historic Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts, where you can learn about upcoming shows and local artists. Enjoy lunch at a nearby food truck park, sampling various cuisines from the vibrant local food scene. In the afternoon, head to the Amarillo Public Library to check out community events or local art displays.
Dine at one of Amarillo's renowned steakhouses, experiencing the flavors of Texas in a relaxed atmosphere. After dinner, catch a performance at the Globe-News Center, ranging from concerts to theatrical productions. Wrap up your evening with a stroll through the vibrant downtown area, enjoying the lively atmosphere and local nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $2.50-4 |
| 🚕Taxi / short ride-share | $6-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $80-140 |
| ⛽Gas (per gallon) | $3.00-4.00 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to dramatic natural attractions like Palo Duro Canyon
- Strong Western and Route 66 cultural character
- Affordable compared with larger Texas cities
- Good spot for road-trippers and outdoor activities
- Hot, windy summers and occasional harsh winter weather
- Limited public transportation and sparse rural services
- Smaller dining and arts scene compared with major metro areas
- Attractions can be spread out, requiring a car
Places to Visit in Amarillo
Visit one of these nice places.
Second-largest canyon in the U.S.; dramatic red-rock formations, layered cliffs and the Lighthouse spire offer epic sunrise and sunset shots.
Row of half-buried, graffiti-covered Cadillacs along Route 66 — colorful, interactive and perfect for quirky roadside photography.
Neon signs, vintage motels and classic diners provide nostalgic urban photography backdrops, especially after dusk.
Water views, rock outcrops and wide skies for landscape and wildlife photography; better in spring and autumn for milder light.
Well-kept floral displays and themed gardens that are ideal for macro and portrait photography in a calm setting.
Food in Amarillo
Amarillo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Locally sourced steaks and ribeyes are a must — found at steakhouses like The Big Texan (famous for its 72-oz challenge) and smaller local grills.
Must-Try!
Smoked brisket and beef ribs reflect Texas barbecue traditions; try regional pits and smokehouses for tender meat with savory bark.
Classic Tex-Mex plates are widely available — enchiladas, fajitas and street-style tacos are staples in local casual restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market (spring–fall) with local produce, baked goods and occasional food trucks; try fresh pies, honey and salsas.
Scattered food trucks and Route 66 vendors serve breakfast tacos, barbecue and regional comfort foods — great for quick, inexpensive local bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents are generally friendly and polite — greet people, make small talk and use please/thank you. A casual, respectful attitude is appreciated.
Much of the surrounding land is private ranch property; do not trespass on posted land and close gates if asked to pass through farmland or ranch roads.
Western wear and cowboy boots are common and culturally significant; avoid making fun of local traditions and be respectful at rodeos or ranch events.
Safety
Tipping in Amarillo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary: 15–20% in restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, $2–5 for hotel housekeeping per night, and rounding up or 10–15% for taxi/ride-share. If service is exceptional, consider tipping more.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still useful for small vendors, tipping and some diners. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly available. ATMs are common in town but may be scarce in rural areas, so carry some cash for excursions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry and often windy — daytime highs commonly reach the 90s–100s °F (32–40+ °C). Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, stay hydrated and expect strong sun.
Pleasant temperatures and clear skies make it one of the best times to visit; cooler nights and vivid sunsets are common, especially in October.
Winters are cold and can be windy; temperatures can dip below freezing with occasional snowfall or ice. Some trails and roads may be slick — check conditions before heading out.
Mild and variable weather with spring blooms and possible thunderstorms; winds can be strong and dust storms are possible on dry days.
Amarillo at Night
Hiking in Amarillo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive trail network including the Lighthouse Trail, Paseo del Rio and more strenuous routes — dramatic canyon scenery and varied lengths for all abilities.
About 1.5–2 hours southeast of Amarillo; red rock canyons, bison herds and multi-use trails for hiking and horseback riding.
Hiking around water edges and rocky outcrops, with opportunities for birdwatching and scenic overlooks.
Short trails and interpretive walks combined with unique geological history; combine with a visit to Lake Meredith for a full day.
Airports
How to reach Amarillo by plane.
Local airport with regional flights to major hubs (e.g., Dallas, Denver). About a 15–20 minute drive from downtown; car rental and shuttle options are available.
Lubbock's airport is roughly 120 miles south (about 2 hours) and offers additional regional and some national connections; useful if flight options into Amarillo are limited.
Oklahoma City's airport is larger with more flight options but is about a 4.5–5 hour drive (roughly 270 miles); good for travelers combining visits to Oklahoma and the Panhandle region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population; many families with deep local roots and ties to ranching and agriculture.
A substantial and growing part of the community contributing to cultural life, cuisine and local businesses.
Present in the community with local neighborhoods, churches and civic organizations.
Smaller populations with historical ties to the region and nearby tribal communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is hugely popular at the high school and small-college level; Friday night games draw community crowds and embody local spirit.
Rodeos, livestock shows and equestrian competitions reflect the ranching heritage and are major cultural events in the Panhandle.
Amateur and youth baseball/softball leagues are common, and local college teams attract fans during their seasons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Amarillo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are more limited than meat dishes; look for salads, veggie enchiladas, grilled vegetable plates and bakeries. Inform servers — many restaurants will adapt sides and tacos.
Vegan choices are available at a few cafes and some newer restaurants; expect to rely on salads, sides and modified Tex-Mex items. Bringing snacks can be helpful in more rural areas.
Gluten-free requests are usually accommodated in sit-down restaurants (steaks, grilled meats, salads). Cross-contamination can be an issue at bakeries and some diners, so communicate needs clearly.