This Texas Panhandle city is home to the Big Texan Steak Ranch's famous 72-oz steak challenge. Nearby Palo Duro Canyon draws hikers, while Lake Meredith brings anglers.
In the Texas Panhandle, Amarillo experiences dramatic temperature swings and prairie winds. You can climb down into the 800-foot depths of Palo Duro Canyon, add your own spray paint designs to the buried Cadillacs at Cadillac Ranch, or browse antique shops in century-old buildings along Route 66. The city processes nearly a quarter of America's beef supply, maintaining its strong cattle-ranching identity.
Exploring Palo Duro Canyon
You'll find Palo Duro Canyon 16 miles southeast of Amarillo, stretching across 120 miles of Texas landscape. The canyon walls reveal distinct layers of orange and red rock, dropping to depths of 800 feet. More than 30 miles of trails wind through the canyon for mountain biking, hiking, or horseback riding. Each summer evening, you can watch the outdoor musical "TEXAS" in the canyon's amphitheater, where performers tell regional stories through music and dance.
Walking Route 66 Historic District
Walk through 13 blocks along 6th Street to experience a preserved section of America's most famous highway. Local businesses operate from 1920s and 1930s buildings, with antique shops and restaurants serving Texas barbecue and Tex-Mex cuisine. On weekends, street musicians fill the air with music, creating an atmosphere that recalls the road's busy past.
Adding Your Mark at Cadillac Ranch
Ten Cadillacs point skyward from their nose-down position in a field west of Amarillo. This 1974 art installation changes daily as visitors add new layers of spray paint to the cars. Bring your own paint to contribute to this evolving artwork that has inspired similar installations across the country.
Experiencing Cultural Venues
You can attend symphony concerts, ballet performances, and touring Broadway shows at the Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts throughout the year. From September to May, the Amarillo Little Theatre puts on classic and contemporary plays. Both venues maintain regular schedules of local and touring productions.
Understanding Local Industry
Two major industries shape Amarillo's economy: beef processing and helium production. The helium plant, operating since 1928, makes Amarillo the world's primary source of this essential gas. Local meat packing facilities employ thousands and process approximately 25% of the nation's beef supply.
Family Activities
Wonderland Amusement Park in Thompson Park has rides for all ages, plus an adjacent zoo and picnic areas. The water rides become especially popular during hot Texas summers. Around the park, you can walk on maintained trails or relax in open green spaces.
Weather and Climate Considerations
Pack for variable weather - Amarillo's temperature can swing 40 degrees within 24 hours. Spring brings tornadoes and hailstorms, while winter includes snow and strong northerly winds. Plan your visit for early fall or late spring when temperatures stay mild and severe weather is less common.
