Amarillo TX is a one-of-a-kind destination with things to do that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s the kind of place where you can see a chopper in the air, visit an airport named after Rick Husband, the astronaut who lost his life aboard the Columbia space shuttle, and watch a live concert by Def Leggend!
Amarillo Zoo
The Amarillo Zoo is a great place to visit during a family vacation. It features all kinds of warm blooded mammals as well as reptiles, birds and amphibians. It is also home to bison and other native animals.
The city of Amarillo is asking for help in identifying a strange animal-like figure that appeared on security cameras outside the zoo last month. The image was released on May 21, and so far no one knows what it is.
Founded in 1955 the Amarillo Zoo is a great location to share the wonders of the animal world with kids of all ages. It is located in Thompson Park and is designed for fun, discovery and lifetime memories. The zoo also has picnic areas, playgrounds, beautiful lakes, swimming, tennis and walking trails.
Palo Duro Canyon
Palo Duro Canyon is one of the most fascinating attractions in the Texas panhandle. The state park is a stunning natural wonder with miles of hiking trails, a beautiful canyon floor, and a variety of camping accommodations.
Hiking to the famous Lighthouse formation is an experience that you can’t miss if you want to see the canyon in its full beauty. The hike takes around two hours depending on your speed and fitness level.
Visit the Canyon Gallery and Visitor Center for a deeper understanding of the history behind this magnificent canyon. You can also visit the CCC Overlook for a fantastic view of the canyon. The best time to visit the park is in the spring and fall when the temperatures are mild.
Cadillac Ranch
This one-of-a-kind roadside attraction is a must on any Route 66 bucket list. Adding to this unique piece of folk art is encouraged; graffiti artists are allowed to touch up the cars with spray paint.
The ten Cadillacs were half-buried in a field by a group of hippies imported from San Francisco, along with a silent partner, Amarillo millionaire Stanley Marsh 3. The cars—ranging from a 1949 Club Sedan to a 1963 Sedan de Ville—are aligned east to west, illustrating the evolution of the Cadillac tail fin.
The snaking line of Cadillacs are known for being covered in a kaleidoscope of colors and have inspired similar attractions like Truckhenge in Kansas and VW Slug Bug Ranch in Texas. While the story behind these buried cars is a bit hazy, the legend has it that Marsh 3 was an eccentric millionaire who loved to rattle the locals with his offbeat roadside edifices.
Big Texan Steak Ranch
If you’re looking for a fun place to eat some steak and take in the ambiance of the old west, this is a great option. It’s a bit of a tourist trap, but there are plenty of cool things to see and do here. Plus, their steaks are amazing!
The Big Texan is well known for its 72 oz steak challenge. If you can eat the entire meal, including shrimp cocktail, salad, baked potato, and dinner roll within an hour, you get your meal for free. Only about 6% of people manage to do this!
This restaurant is famous for its burgers and ribs as well. The place is a must-see for tourists and locals alike. The staff is friendly and taking photos is encouraged.
Downtown Amarillo
Whether you’re an aviation buff or an art lover, there are plenty of attractions to check out in Downtown Amarillo. You can explore a museum dedicated to the American Quarter Horse, and visit the Texas Air & Space Museum. This is a unique historic attraction with a variety of civilian and military aircraft on display.
The Downtown Amarillo Cultural District is home to a number of public art pieces and historical buildings. The Harrington House is a local landmark that features antique furniture from the 1800s. There are also many other exhibits on display, including a regency-style cabinet and custom finials shaped like urns.
Visiting the Big Texan Steak Ranch is another must-do when you’re in Amarillo. This western-style town is known for its over-the-top signage and cowboy-themed attractions.
