15+ Best Things To Do in Amarillo, Texas

Nestled in the Texas Panhandle, Amarillo stands as a vibrant crossroad of culture and history. This city, a hidden gem on the iconic Route 66, offers an array of experiences, from exploring Palo Duro Canyon, the second largest canyon in the United States, to indulging in the local live music scene. Amarillo’s welcoming atmosphere is matched by its dynamic blend of nature, culture, and culinary delights.

Your journey could lead you to the public art installations that dot the city, including the quirky Cadillac Ranch, or to interactive exhibits celebrating local art. Fuel your adventures at unique restaurants, including the famed Big Texan Steak Ranch, where the bold flavors of Texas come to life on your plate. With every step through Amarillo’s landmarks and its bustling streets, your Texan bucket list will begin to take shape, creating an unforgettable tapestry of experiences in this friendly panhandle city.

Historical Attractions and Museums

In Amarillo, you’ll discover a rich tapestry of history and cowboy culture. Explore a range of museums celebrating everything from equine lineage to local heritage and Native American history.

American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum

Experience the enduring legacy of the American Quarter Horse. Immerse yourself in exhibits that showcase the horse’s impact on transportation, work, and sport through interactive displays and a fascinating collection of artifacts.

Amarillo Historical Museum

Delve into the region’s past with a visit to the Amarillo Historical Museum. Examine a variety of artifacts and photographs that preserve Amarillo’s story from its early pioneer days to the present.

Amarillo Railroad Museum, Inc.

For train enthusiasts, the Amarillo Railroad Museum offers an in-depth look at the significance of railroads in the development of the Texas Panhandle, complete with train tours and educational programs.

Kwahadi Museum of the American Indian

Discover the rich heritage of the American Indian at the Kwahadi Museum. This museum features an impressive array of Native American artifacts, including traditional Kwahadi Kiva ceremonial Indian costumes and performances.

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Art and Culture

Amarillo boasts a vibrant art scene with an array of cultural experiences, from esteemed art institutions like the Amarillo Museum of Art to meticulously preserved historic sites such as the Harrington House.

Amarillo Museum of Art

At the Amarillo Museum of Art, you’ll discover a diverse collection that ranges from Asian to European and modern American works. Established in 1972, the museum offers exhibitions, educational programs, and special events to enrich your cultural palate.

Harrington House Historic Home

Step into the Harrington House Historic Home for a slice of Amarillo’s history enveloped in architectural beauty. The home dates back to 1914 and stands as a testament to early 20th-century life, revealing the personal touches of its original occupants, the Harrington family.

Leisure and Recreation

Amarillo offers an array of leisure experiences ranging from the tranquility of botanical gardens to the exhilarating rides of a local amusement park. Whether your interest lies in nature’s serene beauty or the thrill of amusement, these attractions cater to all ages and preferences.

Amarillo Botanical Gardens

Discover a living collection of vibrant flora at the Amarillo Botanical Gardens. Stroll through the themed areas, including a fragrant herb garden, and pause by the serene koi pond for a moment of reflection.

Wonderland Amusement Park

For a dose of excitement, Wonderland Amusement Park stands out as a top attraction. Brace yourself for a day filled with laughter on rides that range from child-friendly to adrenaline-pumping.

Wildcat Bluff Nature Center

Immerse yourself in the local ecosystem at Wildcat Bluff Nature Center. Lace up your hiking boots and explore over 5 miles of trails that offer a glimpse into the region’s diverse wildlife and landscapes. If you prefer biking, picturesque trails await your adventure.

Family Fun and Interactive Experiences

Amarillo offers engaging activities for families with a focus on interactive learning and wildlife appreciation. Dive into a world of wonder at the hands-on exhibits and get up close with the native and exotic animals.

Amarillo Zoo

The Amarillo Zoo allows you to encounter a variety of animals from around the globe. Engage with animal exhibits that cover everything from the fierce big cats to the gentle herbivores.

• Exhibits: Lions, kangaroos, bears, and more
• Location: NE 24th Ave, Amarillo, TX

Don Harrington Discovery Center

Your visit to the Don Harrington Discovery Center will immerse you in the marvels of science and creativity. Children’s interactive exhibits ensure that your young ones can learn about the world through play and curiosity.

• Highlights: Space Theater, KinderStudio
• Location: Streit Dr, Amarillo, TX

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Outdoor Adventures and Parks

Discover the natural beauty of Amarillo through its zest for the outdoors. From breathtaking canyons to serene parks, your adventure awaits in the rugged landscapes and well-manicured green spaces of this Texas Panhandle city.

Thompson Memorial Park

Thompson Memorial Park serves as a haven for a variety of recreational activities. You can enjoy picnicking under the shade of tall trees, indulge in fishing at the tranquil lakeside, or take part in the sheer joy of riding well-groomed biking trails.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers you a majestic outdoor experience. Engage in hiking or horseback riding along miles of trails, set up camp under the stars, or explore the rich colors and historic features of the second-largest canyon in the United States. With every step, the park reveals the raw beauty of nature and the spirit of the great outdoors.

Unique Attractions and Landmarks

Amarillo offers a compelling blend of artistic installations and historical landmarks that reflect its rich cultural tapestry and innovation.

Cadillac Ranch

Discover a quintessential public art installation off Route 66: Cadillac Ranch. Created by Ant Farm in 1974, this display features ten Cadillacs buried nose-first into the ground. Bring a spray can to leave your own mark on this ever-evolving canvas of public art.

Amarillo’s Route 66 Historic District

Stroll through the Route 66 Historic District where the spirit of the vintage Americana is palpable. This stretch, part of the original U.S. Route 66, is lined with quirky shops and dining spots like The Big Texan Steak Ranch, giving you a taste of the city’s past meshed with present energy.

Helium Time Columns Monument

Celebrate scientific milestones at the Helium Time Columns Monument. Constructed in 1968 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of helium’s discovery, this monument not only honors Amarillo’s role in scientific advancements but also contains time capsules illustrating human progress.

Aviation and Transportation

Amarillo, Texas offers a rich tapestry of aviation history and exhibits. As you explore, you’ll find collections showcasing the technological advancements and contributions of the region to both air and space travel.

Texas Air & Space Museum

Discover a treasure trove of aviation artifacts at the Texas Air & Space Museum, located at the Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport. Your journey through the annals of flight history includes up-close encounters with aircraft that marked significant milestones in aviation, as well as those that played pivotal roles in military history. Beyond aircraft, the museum displays documents, photographs, and exhibits that weave the story of local and national aviation development.

• Address: 10001 American at Tiltrotor Dr, Amarillo, TX 79111-1213
• Contact: (806) 335-9159
• Hours: Open now 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Watch history come alive as you step amidst exhibits featuring a DC-3 and a NASA Shuttle training aircraft, evidence of the Panhandle’s deep involvement in air and space exploration.

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Points of Interest and Other Attractions

In the heart of Texas, Amarillo holds a treasure trove of experiences with its Second Amendment Cowboy statue embodying the spirit of the Old West. Your journey along Route 66 reveals a bygone era—the essence of Americana—embodied by art galleries and eateries. As you step back in time, imagine tales of cowgirls and cowboys who once rode the plains.

Discover specialty museums that narrate a rich heritage or find solace at Amarillo Civic Center, an epicenter for cultural events. Not to be missed is the quirky Combine City, where farming meets art. Floating Mesa, a local curiosity, defies the horizon, challenging your perceptions.

For an authentic Texas experience, catch a rodeo or unwind to smooth jazz in local venues—both hidden gems that add to your personal bucket list of memories to cherish.

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