Amarillo made for a perfect stop on my Texas road trip — I couldn’t get the old hit song, “Is this the way to Amarillo?” out of my mind the whole way there! Tucked away in the heart of the Texas Panhandle, this charming city is where the iconic Route 66 meets cowboy culture and is home to one of the largest canyons in the U.S. In this article, I’ll share which sights in Amarillo are absolutely worth visiting, why a certain steakhouse feels more like an amusement park than a place to dine, and how you can embrace your inner cowgirl (or cowboy).
What’s Going on in Amarillo?
Amarillo is located in the northernmost part of Texas, within the Panhandle— a slim stretch of land extending into Oklahoma, resembling the handle of a frying pan. The area is dotted with numerous large ranches, and the city historically served as a key stop on Route 66 connecting Chicago to Los Angeles.
So if you really want to get to know Texas, you’ve come to the right place: Here you’ll experience the Texas of cowboys and endless expanses, paired with a healthy dose of American nostalgia.
Historic Route 66 in Amarillo
Having already explored a few places along the so-called Mother Road in Illinois, I was all the more excited to find Route 66 again in Amarillo. Here, too, the historic road has been replaced by modern highways and now runs right through the city, along Sixth Avenue in the San Jacinto District.
Read also: 8 Great Stops Along Route 66 in Illinois
Today, this vibrant neighborhood features small antique shops, quirky secondhand stores, and charming cafés. Make sure to visit Aunt Eeks, a winding shop full of books, vintage decor, and curiosities, as well as Chapterhouse Books. The owner of the bookstore actively supports the LGBTQ+ and immigrant communities in the San Jacinto District, offering a much-needed safe space in these challenging times.
By the way: Every June, Amarillo hosts the Texas Route 66 Festival in the San Jacinto District—featuring classic cars, live music, and street vendors.
Want to see more of Texas?
Find all the blog posts here
Cadillac Ranch: Amarillo’s Most Famous Photo Spot
Ten Cadillacs, buried upside down in the Texas soil and covered with countless layers of colorful graffiti: Cadillac Ranch is Amarillo’s most famous attraction and a tribute to the golden age of Route 66.
The art installation has been located in a field beside Interstate Highway I-40 since 1974 and is accessible for free at any time. It is unique because visitors are invited to leave their mark by spray-painting the cars. Participation is highly encouraged, and occasionally, visitors gift spray paint cans to others on-site, or you can bring your own. As a result, the Cadillac Ranch is constantly changing its appearance.
Tip: It’s best to visit at sunset. The colorful cars look especially impressive in the warm light. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes if it’s raining.
Cowgirls & Cowboys in the West: Horseback Riding Along the Palo Duro Canyon
Texas cowboy culture certainly has a contagious charm. You often see Texans dressed in cowboy boots, hats, and accessories, which might inspire you to experience the cowboy lifestyle yourself. “Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West” offers an ideal chance to do just that at Los Cedros Ranch, located just outside the city. After a successful hotel career, owner Phyllis left the business world behind to embrace ranch life, hiring authentic cowgirls to work on her farm.
After a short introduction, you’ll be riding along the rim of Palo Duro Canyon, enjoying stunning views of the red-orange cliffs. Phyllis has rescued numerous horses from other ranches and given them a loving new home, clearly showing her dedication. And don’t worry, even as a beginner, you’re in good hands—the cowgirls will match you with the perfect horse.
Tip: Closed-toe shoes and long pants are required; long-sleeved shirts are recommended. And do better than I did—bring a hat. Or, for the full experience, a cowboy hat!
Palo Duro Canyon: The Second-Largest Canyon in the United States
Did you know Palo Duro Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the U.S., following the Grand Canyon? Stretching roughly 190 kilometers and reaching depths of up to 300 meters, it slices through the flat terrain of the Panhandle.
If you have more time, you can go hiking or mountain biking in Palo Duro Canyon State Park, or drive down the Scenic Drive to the bottom of the canyon. But keep in mind, as with anywhere in the region: it gets extremely hot in the summer, so take the park rangers’ warnings seriously and plan your activities for the morning hours.
If you’re heading to Lubbock, consider taking a detour to Caprock Canyons State Park, where wild bison roam.
Read also: Best Things To Do in Lubbock, Texas
Buc-ee’s: The Legendary Gas Station Known for Its Superlatives
Although it may seem odd to recommend a gas station—but Buc-ee’s is a Texas icon. On long road trips, frequent fuel stops are necessary, making this a logical spot to pause. This station is yet another striking example of how everything in Texas really is oversized.
You’ll find what feels like hundreds of gas pumps here, with a store behind them the size of a Walmart, packed with snacks, travel gadgets, and Texas merchandise featuring the chain’s mascot, a beaver. Buc-ee’s also prides itself on having the cleanest gas station restrooms in America. It’s just crazy.
Where To Eat and Drink in Amarillo
Of course, you can get plenty of classic Texas fare in Amarillo. But if you’re looking for a change of pace, you’ll find plenty of options here, too. Here are my recommendations:
The Big Texan Steak Ranch
Amarillo is home to what is arguably Texas’s most famous steakhouse, The Big Texan Steak Ranch, which feels more like an amusement park than a restaurant. Crowds flock here; there’s a huge souvenir shop stocked with all kinds of merchandise, and entertainment everywhere. In the massive hall, reminiscent of a cross between an Oktoberfest tent and a giant barn, steaks are served in every variety. The entire experience includes live music at your table; roaming musicians often play and sing nearby, creating an lively atmosphere where everyone laughs, eats, and chats—truly unforgettable.
The restaurant gained international fame for its 72-ounce steak challenge: anyone who can consume the steak—about two kilograms—plus the sides in under an hour eats free. The contestants sit on a small stage at the restaurant’s center, cheered on by the entire crowd. It’s a lively spectacle—quirky, yet definitely worth witnessing—and very much characteristic of Texan culture.
Little Laos
If you’ve been in Texas for a few days and want to escape the barbecue and large portions, I have a true hidden gem to recommend. Little Laos features a plain interior but offers genuine Laotian and Thai cuisine. Perhaps it was the sweltering Texas heat, but for a moment, I truly felt as if I were in Southeast Asia.
Smokey Joe’s
Located right in the heart of historic Route 66, Smokey Joe’s is exactly the kind of dive bar you’d imagine after watching countless American TV shows and movies—only this one’s the real deal. The menu offers the usual fare, from burgers to chicken wings. You don’t come here so much for the food as for the atmosphere.
Café Moonwater
At Café Moonwater, the decor blends shabby chic with country charm. Although this style isn’t typically my preference, the café is charming and a delightful alternative to standard diners, perfect for a coffee or a light snack. If you’re exploring the San Jacinto District, it’s worth making a slight detour.
Where To Stay in Amarillo
Honestly, hotel choices in Amarillo are quite limited. Instead of charming boutique options, you’ll mostly encounter chain hotels and numerous motels along the interstate. It’s worth doing some research, as some motels located right on the highway are better suited for a quick overnight stop. The most distinctive option is The Big Texan Steakhouse, which has its own motel next to the restaurant, featuring a matching Americana theme—it’s about as classic as it gets.
Useful Tips for Your Trip to Amarillo
Getting There: Amarillo is located along I-40, about 600 kilometers northwest of Dallas and quite a distance from other popular destinations in Texas. My route was a bit unusual—you can find the full itinerary here: My Road Trip Through Texas
Best time to visit: Spring and fall are ideal. June has a special charm thanks to the Route 66 Festival—the atmosphere is truly fantastic. However, it can already get quite hot then.
Transportation: A car is a must. The attractions are spread out, and there is virtually no public transportation. Book your rental car for Texas here
Mobile Internet: For the U.S., I suggest using an eSIM that you can set up before your flight. In the sparsely populated Panhandle, long and isolated roads make it wise to have at least one cell phone with internet for safety reasons, such as when dealing with car trouble. Personally, I prefer using Saily or Holafly while in the U.S.
Looking for even more inspiration for your next trip to the U.S.? Here you’ll find all articles about travel destinations in the U.S.
Note: My road trip to Texas was made possible by Travel Texas.
Leave a Reply