5-Day Wild West Adventure in Amarillo

Experience the Wild West on a budget in Amarillo!

21 June 2023

A trip to Amarillo on a limited budget can still be enjoyable. Start by exploring the iconic Cadillac Ranch, then head to Palo Duro Canyon State Park for hiking and camping. Finish off your trip by sampling delicious Texas-style barbecue at The Big Texan Steak Ranch.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Route 66 Adventure

  • Check into the historic Amarillo Motel for a true Route 66 experience
  • Have breakfast at the famous 66 Diner, known for its milkshakes and classic cars
  • Drive down Route 66 and stop at Cadillac Ranch, where you can spray paint a car
  • Visit the quirky RV Museum to see vintage trailers and campers
  • Shop for souvenirs at the quirky Route 66 Emporium
  • End the day with a steak dinner at The Big Texan Steak Ranch, where you can attempt to eat a 72-ounce steak for free
Day 2

Art and Culture

  • Start the day with breakfast at Roasters Coffee & Tea Co and grab a coffee to go
  • Visit the Amarillo Museum of Art to see exhibits featuring artists from Texas and the Southwest
  • Stop by the beautiful Harrington House, a historic mansion turned art gallery
  • Explore the downtown area and visit galleries and studios on the First Friday Art Walk
  • Attend a performance at the Amarillo Symphony or Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts
  • Dine at Tyler's Barbeque, a local favorite for classic Texas-style BBQ
Day 3

Natural Wonders

  • Start the day with breakfast at Ye Olde Pancake Station for classic diner fare
  • Visit Palo Duro Canyon State Park, known as the Grand Canyon of Texas
  • Hike one of the many trails and take in stunning views of the canyon and wildlife
  • Take a scenic drive through the park and stop for a picnic lunch
  • Attend the outdoor musical drama TEXAS at the park's Pioneer Amphitheater
  • Have dinner at El Tejavan for authentic Tex-Mex cuisine
Day 4

Family Fun

  • Have breakfast at the beloved GoldenLight Cafe & Cantina, a local landmark since 1946
  • Visit Wonderland Amusement Park and ride the thrilling roller coasters and water rides
  • Explore the Don Harrington Discovery Center, an interactive science museum for all ages
  • Have a family-friendly lunch or dinner at the Smokehouse Cafe, serving BBQ and burgers
  • Catch a movie at the historic Amarillo Starlight 4 Drive-In Theater, a nostalgic experience
  • Grab a late-night snack at the popular Whataburger chain, a Texas favorite
Day 5

Western Heritage

  • Start the day with breakfast at Sharky's Burrito Company for a unique twist on breakfast burritos
  • Visit the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame and Museum to see exhibits about the history and culture of these horses
  • Explore the history of the American cowboy at the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum
  • Have lunch at The Frying Pig, serving up creative sandwiches and sides in a quirky atmosphere
  • Take a scenic drive on the iconic Texas Loop 335, known as the "Soncy Corridor"
  • End the day with a sunset dinner at the Westgate Mall's rooftop restaurant, Fire Slice Pizzeria, with views of the cityscape.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Amarillo, United States by plane is to fly to Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport, which is located about 14km from the city center.

Car

The best way to get to Amarillo, United States by car is to drive on Interstate 40, which cuts through the city. The total driving distance from Dallas to Amarillo is approximately 564 miles, and it takes around 8 hours to reach there.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no train stations in Amarillo or nearby areas. Therefore, traveling by train is not an option to get to Amarillo.

Boat

Since Amarillo is located in the middle of the United States, there are no ports or waterways that provide direct access to the city by boat. Therefore, traveling by boat is not an option to get to Amarillo.

Bus

Taking a bus to Amarillo is possible by using Greyhound Lines, which runs daily buses to Amarillo from various cities in the United States. The bus station in Amarillo is located at 702 S Tyler St.

Destination

Amarillo

Encountering a giant cowboy boot and a 72-ounce steak challenge upon arrival may make you wonder if you've landed in a quirky alternate universe - but fear not, you've simply reached the gateway city to the Wild West. Welcome to Amarillo!

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Amarillo Adventure: Cowboys, Canyons, and Texas-Sized Fun!

Amarillo, located in the heart of Texas, is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip. Known for its warm hospitality and wide array of attractions, the city offers something for everyone. From exploring the stunning Palo Duro Canyon State Park, to visiting the thrilling Wonderland Amusement Park, and indulging in delicious Texan cuisine at local restaurants, Amarillo promises an unforgettable family adventure.

Amarillo Adventures: Graffiti, Gluttony, and Good Times

A trip to Amarillo, United States offers a variety of family-friendly activities and attractions for an enjoyable vacation. Families can explore the famous Cadillac Ranch, where vintage cars are buried halfway in the ground, allowing kids to express their creativity through spray painting. Don't miss the Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the second-largest canyon in the United States, offering stunning views, hiking trails, and camping opportunities suitable for all ages. Finish off the trip with a visit to Wonderland Amusement Park, an exciting theme park with thrilling rides, games, and entertainment options that will keep the whole family entertained.

4-Day Wild West Adventure in Amarillo

For a budget-friendly trip to Amarillo, start by exploring the natural beauty of Palo Duro Canyon State Park, where you can hike, bike, or horseback ride through a breathtaking landscape. Next, visit the unique Route 66 Historic District for a taste of local culture and history, or stop by the Amarillo Zoo for a fun family outing. Finally, indulge in some classic Texas barbecue at one of the many affordable diners and restaurants around town.

Amarillo Adventure: A Fun-Filled Day Trip

Amarillo, located in the Texas Panhandle, offers a unique blend of Western heritage and modern attractions. Visitors can explore iconic sights such as the Cadillac Ranch and the American Quarter Horse Museum, or enjoy the city's outdoor offerings such as Palo Duro Canyon State Park. With a variety of dining options and shopping opportunities, Amarillo makes for a memorable vacation destination.