A city of arts and monuments, renowned for its meat restaurants, Amarillo is one of the most visited destinations in Texas. A pleasant stop on the historic Route 66.

Amarillo, an Authentic Escape in the Heart of Texas

Amarillo, the Yellow Rose of Texas, is well known as an industrial and nuclear powerhouse, but far less so as a travel destination. If you're a vegetarian, feel free to skip ahead after the homage paid to Cadillac Ranch, a monumental street art installation that dots Route 66. But if you love good food, steaks or hamburgers, treat yourself to the fine dining restaurants throughout the city.

Annexed by the State of Texas in 1889, Amarillo experienced spectacular economic growth thanks to its vast ranches; ranchers from across America came here for cattle slaughter and shipment. The specialties of local restaurants bear witness to this agricultural tradition.

Beyond that, Amarillo delights its visitors with its monuments, museums and its immense canyon. It's a worthwhile stop on a trip to Texas.

History

"Amarillo" is a Spanish word meaning "yellow." Near the city lay Lake Amarillo, whose shores were stained with ochre soil. Wealthy American farmers worked the site beginning in 1877, when it was known as Oneida.

However, it was J.I. Berry who earned the honor of founding the city in April 1887. He chose irrigated land along the railroad connecting Fort Worth to Denver. The new city, from which the Querecho Indians had been expelled, took the name Amarillo.

By popular vote, Amarillo became the seat of Potter County. The economy took off fully with large-scale meat production, which could be shipped without difficulty thanks to the rail network and freight service.

Until 1918, the meat trade was the primary source of income for residents, supplemented by grain crops (wheat, corn, soybeans). Then the discovery of natural gas and crude oil attracted businessmen to the city. From 1927 until 1990, the United States government maintained the world's largest helium reserve there.

After the economic depression of the 1930s, tourism helped revitalize the local economy, aided by the development of the road network. Amarillo became a crossroads hub where federal routes 66, 60, 87 and 287 converge.

Today

"Amarillo at the heart of Western traditions", comments the États-Unis tourism board website. Though somewhat flattering, this marketing message does justice to Amarillo's current atmosphere. Despite becoming increasingly modern, the city of roughly 200,000 inhabitants remains deeply attached to its cowboy traditions and rodeo competitions.

What to See in Amarillo?

Cadillac Ranch

A very popular attraction, Cadillac Ranch is a series of ten Cadillacs half-buried in the ground with their rear fins sticking up. It traces the evolution of America's second-most famous car brand between 1949 and 1963. Travelers on the Mother Road habitually stop in front of the site to tag it. From being covered in graffiti, the Cadillacs are almost unrecognizable. The custom remains strong, and all tourists are expected to participate!

Kwahadi Kiva Indian Museum

Culture enthusiasts won't be disappointed visiting the Kwahadi Kiva Indian Museum. It's the tribal heritage of the Pueblos in all its splendor that can be discovered here, with its songs, vibrantly colored textiles and handmade jewelry. The Kwahadi Dancers often perform on stage. For reference, the Pueblos once colonized the high plains of Texas before being driven out by the Spanish.

Amarillo Museum of Art

Stop by the Amarillo Museum of Art if you're in the mood to discover contemporary visual art compositions. Its permanent collection includes no fewer than 1,800 pieces: paintings by Texas masters, American photographs, prints, engravings and lithographs signed by artists from Oklahoma, bronze and wooden sculptures, and more. You'll recognize a few celebrated works from the French, German and Italian schools.

Amarillo Zoo

Located in Thompson Park, less than 5 minutes from downtown, the Amarillo Zoo is a popular recreational destination for families. More than 70 animal species from around the world reside in the park, ranging from common ones like red foxes and bison to endangered species like the Bengal tiger. Various educational programs invite discovery of the unique aspects of animal life.

Route 66 Historic District

The Route 66 Historic District preserves the vintage soul of the famous American highway. Between Art Deco facades, neon signs, galleries, antique shops and retro diners, this corner of Amarillo plunges you into the mythical atmosphere of the 1950s and the legendary Texas road trips.

American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum

Dedicated to the emblematic horse of Texas, the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum traces the history of the quarter horse, a pillar of cowboy culture. Interactive exhibits, period artifacts, photographs and sculptures honor the riders and breeders who shaped the identity of the American West.

Amarillo Botanical Gardens

A true oasis in the heart of the city, the Amarillo Botanical Gardens reveal tropical greenhouses, pools, butterflies and exotic plants. Peaceful strolls sit alongside seasonal exhibitions and a Japanese garden, offering a haven of coolness and serenity after the dust of the Texas Panhandle.

Texas Air & Space Museum

The Texas Air & Space Museum tells the aerospace and space story of Texas. You'll discover historic aircraft, vintage engines, flight simulators and fascinating anecdotes about American aviation pioneers.

Slug Bug Ranch

Located in Conway, about thirty kilometers from Amarillo, Slug Bug Ranch takes the concept of Cadillac Ranch and reimagines it with five Volkswagen Beetles buried in the ground. Less crowded, this original, colorful and free-access site will charm you if you love street art and photography.

What to Do in Amarillo?

Enjoy a Steak at Big Texan Steak Ranch

Ordering meat dishes is one of the must-dos when on a road trip to Amarillo. Steaks, lamb chops, roasted pork tenderloin, chicken grilled steaks or ham—the array of authentic dishes seems endless on restaurant menus.

The Big Texan Steak Ranch, located along Interstate 40, is an address not to be missed. This world-famous steakhouse offers a culinary challenge: down a 2-kilogram steak in one hour. If you succeed, the meal is free; otherwise, it will cost you $72. If you think your stomach is too small to take on the challenge, go just for the experience.

Explore Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Need to escape the crowds and recharge your batteries? Set off for Palo Duro Canyon, a maze of endless gorges adorned with rock formations that are a feast for the eyes. It is, behind Arizona's Grand Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the United States by size.

Descend the canyon, hunt for birds to photograph, take a horseback riding session through mesquite and juniper forests, or stargazing in the clarity of the night sky… You'll have plenty to choose from. A magnificent park just 40 km from the city.

Have Fun at Wonderland Amusement Park

The Wonderland Amusement Park, located in Thompson Park, is an essential family destination. Roller coasters, water rides, a Ferris wheel and candy stands delight young and old alike. The vintage and friendly atmosphere extends the magic of Texas summers.

Attend Local Festivals

Amarillo pulses to the beat of its Texas festivals that celebrate culture, music and Western spirit. In June, the Texas Route 66 Festival brings the city alive with concerts and vintage cars, while the Amarillo Coors Cowboy Club Cattle Drive parades herds and cowboys through downtown.

In September, the Tri-State Fair & Rodeo draws crowds with its rides, agricultural competitions and equestrian shows. Finally, in November, the prestigious WRCA World Championship Ranch Rodeo brings together the best cowboys in the country for four days of rodeos and thrills.

Practical Information

When to Visit?

Located in Tornado Alley, Amarillo is unfortunately known for its unpredictable climate. Hail, droughts and devastating tornadoes afflict agriculture without sparing tourism.

To visit Amarillo with favorable weather, plan your departure for spring, from March to April. Otherwise, summer, with its intense heat but perfectly clear skies, is also an option. From May to August, the city experiences only 6 rainy days.

From Dallas, expect about 6 hours of driving (500 km) via US-287, a pleasant route through the plains of north Texas. From Oklahoma City, reach Amarillo in 4.5 hours via Interstate 40, a mythical Route 66 itinerary.