Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Amarillo, Texas

If you’re interested in exploring the historical Old West in the United States, the lively city of Amarillo in Texas provides an excellent destination.

In many aspects, Amarillo represents a quintessential Texan community, offering opportunities to experience local flora and fauna in various desert parks, as well as savor traditional Texan cuisine including steaks and grilled meats.

If you seek a more modern experience, Amarillo also features contemporary attractions like craft beer breweries and art galleries alongside its historic sites and museums.

Furthermore, Amarillo is situated along the renowned Route 66, making it essential to visit this historically significant road through its historic district and a unique art installation composed of classic Cadillac cars.

1. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Palo Duro Canyon State Park is recognized as one of the most stunning attractions, not only in Texas but throughout the entire United States.

The park consistently ranks among the top ten parks in the nation and boasts the distinction of being home to the second-largest canyon in America.

For outdoor enthusiasts, this destination is indispensable, providing opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

For a longer stay, visitors can camp in the park, and birdwatchers will find a diverse range of resident indigenous species.

Wildlife is abundant, so bringing a camera is advisable for capturing some of the animals inhabiting this area.

A visitor center is also available to provide information about the park.

2. The Big Texan Steak Ranch Brewery and Hotel

The Big Texan Steak Ranch Brewery and Hotel is renowned for its extraordinary steak challenge.

Therefore, if you wish to test your ability with a 72 oz steak, this is the perfect location.

The steak challenge entails consuming a 72 oz steak along with an appetizer, salad, and potato within one hour.

If successful, the meal is complimentary; however, failing to complete it results in a payment of $72.

If the challenge is not appealing, you can still enjoy the extensive standard menu featuring classic Texan dishes.

3. TEXAS- The Musical

Visit the Pioneer Amphitheater in Palo Duro Park to immerse yourself in Texas history conveyed through music.

TEXAS- The Musical is renowned nationally, narrating the evolution of Texas from its early political and historical background to the present day.

This captivating performance features Native Americans, cowboys, pioneers, among other engaging storylines, and has been staged during the summer months for the past 50 years.

Should you find yourself in town from June to August, be sure to attend this open-air performance set in a scenic landscape.

Additionally, there is an opportunity to enjoy a delightful traditional Texan barbecue dinner as part of the event package.

4. Route 66 District

Amarillo is integral to the historic Route 66 and is featured in the celebrated song ‘(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66’. This led to the establishment of the dedicated Route 66 District in Amarillo.

This district spans one mile and is abundant with historical architecture and a variety of eclectic shops.

Visitors will discover antique shops, craft boutiques, art galleries, and numerous dining establishments.

Here, local restaurants serve traditional Texan cuisine, alongside bars and venues for live music.

This district embodies the classic Route 66 experience.

5. Amarillo Little Theatre

While Texas may be synonymous with barbecues and cowboys, Amarillo also serves as a cultural and artistic hub, exemplified by the Amarillo Little Theatre.

Recognized as one of the oldest and continuously operating theaters in the nation, attending a performance here allows you to appreciate a significant historical and cultural venue in Texas.

6. Amarillo Opera

Established in 1988, Amarillo Opera has flourished in the city since its inception.

The inaugural production was Madame Butterfly by Puccini, and it has since encompassed a wide array of concerts featuring various musical styles.

With over 75 members, the opera is committed to education and to preserving the artistic heritage of Amarillo, attracting over 500,000 attendees each year.

7. The Cadillac Ranch

The Cadillac Ranch is one of the most iconic art installations in the country, created in 1974 by a group of local artists.

This vibrant installation celebrates Route 66, as Amarillo is located along this historic route, composed of ten Cadillac cars that are half-buried in the Texas earth.

Originally intact, the cars have been transformed over time by visitors who adorned them with a spectrum of colors and graffiti, further enhancing their appeal.

This artwork enjoys considerable recognition in popular culture, so be sure to experience this historic cultural landmark firsthand.

8. Amarillo Symphony

The Amarillo Symphony hosts multiple performances each season, making it essential for visitors to seize the opportunity to experience this musical ensemble if they are in town during a performance.

Productions occur at the Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts and encompass various genres, including celebrated works by composers like Beethoven and Bach.

9. Don Harrington Discovery Center and Space Theater

Should you look for an engaging indoor activity in Amarillo during inclement weather, the Don Harrington Discovery Center and Space Theater is a wonderful option for families with children.

This center is dedicated to science and space exploration, boasting many interactive exhibits aimed at stimulating hands-on learning.

The goal of the museum is to inspire young minds in an entertaining manner, featuring themed segments such as The Space Gallery and Critter Row.

10. Amarillo Zoo

Animal enthusiasts should not overlook the opportunity to visit Amarillo Zoo, which spans 15 acres and is home to more than 60 distinct species.

Some animals are native to Texas, while others hail from various continents, such as the resident African lions.

Notable species include cockatoos, Emperor Scorpions, and Green iguanas.

Visitors can either observe the animals or participate in educational programs designed to impart knowledge about the zoo’s diverse flora and fauna.

11. Lone Star Ballet

Founded in 1975, the Lone Star Ballet is renowned for its annual production of the Nutcracker. Therefore, if you find yourself in town during the holiday season, be sure to attend.

The ballet strives to train young dancers while entertaining the community and presents an array of captivating performances throughout the year to highlight local talent.

The company adeptly amalgamates diverse dance styles in addition to classical ballet, so consult local listings for current events when you are in town.

12. Amarillo Botanical Gardens

While Texas is often associated with desert landscapes, the Amarillo Botanical Gardens offer a stunning display of lush greenery.

The gardens cover an area of 4 acres and feature seasonal themes along with specialized areas such as a Japanese Garden and a butterfly garden.

For those wishing to see exotic species, the Mary E. Bivins Tropical Conservatory presents various tropical plants, in addition to fragrance and xeric gardens found on the property.

Guided tours are available, allowing participants to learn about the gardens’ history and explore the rich diversity of flora and fauna present.

13. Splash Amarillo

If the heat of Texas becomes overwhelming, consider visiting Splash Amarillo where you can quickly cool off.

This family-friendly water park offers a wide range of amenities, including wave pools and water slides for an entertaining day.

If you prefer a more tranquil experience, enjoy the Lazy River or engage in sand volleyball and basketball on the park’s dry land.

14. The Wildcat Bluff Nature Center

For those eager to discover the picturesque outdoor vistas of Texas, the Wildcat Bluff Nature Center is an ideal destination.

Situated near downtown Amarillo, the center encompasses 600 acres of grasslands, offering visitors rich natural experiences.

This site is historically significant, as it was once part of the Gregg-Marc Wagon Trail connecting Santa Fe and Fort Smith, with remnants of the trail remaining intact.

Visitors can explore a selection of hiking trails while enjoying the native wildflowers in the area and learn more about the Texas ecosystem at the Nature Center.

15. Amarillo Historical Museum

To delve deeper into the history of Texas and the city of Amarillo, the Amarillo Historical Museum is an excellent resource.

The museum showcases a collection of exhibits that narrate the evolution of Amarillo from a small settlement to a thriving metropolis, featuring galleries filled with diverse memorabilia, including antiques and photographs.

Although established in 2013, this museum has rapidly become one of the most popular and swiftly growing institutions in the area.