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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
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.

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.

More travel plans

4-Day Adventure Guide to Amarillo, Texas

A trip to Amarillo, United States would be an exciting experience for tourists seeking a unique twist to their vacation. This vibrant city offers a wide range of attractions such as historical landmarks, rodeo museums, and the renowned Cadillac Ranch. Nature enthusiasts can also explore famous parks and wildlife sanctuaries that showcase the breathtaking beauty of Texas.

5-Day Wild West Adventure in Amarillo

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.

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.

Romantic One-Day Getaway to Amarillo

Amarillo, located in the Texas panhandle, is a charming city that offers plenty of romantic activities for couples. You can start by exploring the stunning Palo Duro Canyon then enjoy a romantic horseback ride at Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West. Finish it off with a romantic dinner at the Plaza Restaurant, known for its delicious Tex-Mex cuisine and an old-fashioned ambiance.