Amarillo is known for its picturesque landscapes and unique attractions. It’s a great little city to visit whether you’re just driving through or have made it a designated pit stop on your road trip.
When your eyes aren’t fixated on the gorgeous sunny landscapes, feel free to take them to another of Amarillo’s natural focal points – Palo Duro Canyon. Located just outside Amarillo, Palo Duro is America’s second-largest canyon after the Grand Canyon. And even though it may be number two when it comes to size, there’s nothing second-best about it. The valley stretches as far as the eye can see, and its stunning layers change colors as the sun moves across the sky. And if you stay long enough, you’re sure to have a herd of buffalo slowly make their way into your line of sight as well.
As you explore Amarillo, be sure to bring a can of your favorite color spray paint and check out Cadillac Ranch located just west of the city on Interstate 40. It’s an art installation with 10 Cadillacs buried headfirst into the earth and can be seen from great distance. The cars represent the golden age of the American automobile and are open for the public to paint.
When your appetite strikes, you’ll definitely want to venture over to The Big Texan Steak Ranch and Brewery for some mouthwatering grub. This is the only place where you can watch people attempt to devour a 72-ounce steak in under an hour to get it free of charge.
Once you’ve eaten to your stomach’s content, head on over to the U.S. Route 66-Sixth Street Historic District. It’s a strip of road filled with things to see: art galleries, collectible and antique stores, clubs, bars in historic buildings and a rich history. Route 66 was not only considered the Mother Road of America, but the stretch running through Amarillo is also the city’s first residential and business district. And if the Historic District isn’t enough, drive south on Interstate 27 to the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum. Some say it’s the largest historical museum in Texas. We say it might just be time for you to go and find out for yourself.