Fun Things to Do in Amarillo, Texas: A Quirky Guide
Amarillo, Texas, often gets overlooked as just a stopover on the way to somewhere else. But this underrated city has a surprising number of fun and unique things to offer. From quirky museums to wide-open spaces, there's something for everyone in Amarillo.
1. Embrace Your Inner Cowboy at the Cadillac Ranch
One of Amarillo's most iconic landmarks, the Cadillac Ranch is a must-visit for any road tripper. This quirky art installation features ten Cadillacs half-buried in the ground, painted in vibrant colors. Feel free to add your own graffiti to the cars and snap a few photos with this unusual backdrop.
2. Explore the Wild West at the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum
Learn about the history of the American West at the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum. This massive museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, including dinosaur fossils, Native American pottery, and antique carriages. Don't miss the hands-on exhibits that allow you to experience what life was like on the frontier.
3. Get Lost in the Maze at the Amarillo Botanical Gardens
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the beautiful Amarillo Botanical Gardens. These gardens feature a variety of themed areas, including a rose garden, a cactus garden, and a children's garden. You can also get lost in the maze or take a leisurely stroll through the trails.
4. Catch a Show at the Amarillo Little Theatre
Enjoy a night out at the Amarillo Little Theatre, where you can catch a variety of live performances, from classic plays to modern musicals. The theatre is housed in a historic building with a charming atmosphere.
5. Experience the Wild West at the Big Texan Steakhouse
If you're feeling hungry, head to the Big Texan Steakhouse for a truly Texan dining experience. This famous restaurant is known for its 72-ounce steak challenge, which comes with a side of fries, baked beans, and a salad. If you can finish the entire steak within an hour, it's free!
6. Take a Scenic Drive Through Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Palo Duro Canyon State Park is the second-largest canyon in the United States and offers stunning scenery. You can hike, bike, or drive through the park and enjoy breathtaking views of the canyon walls.
7. Visit the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum
Learn about the history of the American Quarter Horse at the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum. This museum features interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and championship horses.
8. Enjoy a Day at the Amarillo Zoo
Spend a day with the animals at the Amarillo Zoo, which is home to over 1,500 animals from around the world. You can see lions, tigers, monkeys, and many other fascinating creatures.
9. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
For a truly unforgettable experience, take a hot air balloon ride over Amarillo. You'll get a bird's-eye view of the city and the surrounding countryside.
10. Have a Picnic at Thompson Park
Thompson Park is a beautiful urban park with plenty of green space for picnicking, playing, or just relaxing. You can also rent a paddleboat or take a walk along the lake.
FAQs
How to find the best local eats in Amarillo?
Ask the locals! They'll be happy to recommend their favorite spots. You can also check online reviews or look for local food trucks.
How to experience the nightlife in Amarillo?
Amarillo has a variety of bars and clubs to choose from. You can find live music, dancing, and sports bars.
How to plan a day trip from Amarillo?
There are several day trip options from Amarillo, including Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, and the Cadillac Ranch.
How to stay safe while exploring Amarillo?
Amarillo is generally a safe city, but it's always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.
How to make the most of your time in Amarillo?
Do your research and plan your itinerary in advance. Be sure to leave some time for spontaneity and exploration.