Is Amarillo worth visiting?
You’ve probably heard the songs or seen photos of graffiti-covered Cadillacs half-buried in the desert. It’s quirky, for sure, but is it worth the stop?
After our first trip through one very hot September afternoon, Amarillo left a strong impression. Between the traffic, road construction, and stockyards, I swore we’d never come through again. I’m from the suburbs of the mid-Atlantic and we just don’t have cows like that.
But over the next few years, several road trip commitments had us passing straight through the Texas Panhandle. Amarillo was unavoidable. Thankfully, some fellow travelers clued us in to the wacky, wonderful world of “Bomb City”.
Now? It’s one of our favorite stops when crossing the plains.
So, Is Amarillo Worth Visiting?
We say yes—without hesitation. It’s quirky, it’s colorful, and it’s packed with hidden gems. Amarillo has way more going on than you might think. Let’s dig in.
Don’t Let
First Impressions Fool You
A lot of people write off Amarillo. It’s flat. It’s dry. It’s in the middle of nowhere. And if you’re just blasting down I-40, it can feel like nothing more than a spot to refuel and grab a burger.
But that’s the thing: if you don’t stop, you’ll miss the magic. Amarillo is more than a roadside rest stop. It’s a city full of surprises, stories, and a certain kind of West Texas charm you won’t find anywhere else.
The Quirky Art That Put Amarillo on the Map
Let’s get this out of the way: Amarillo is home to some truly bizarre attractions. Cadillac Ranch? Giant legs in a field? A floating mesa illusion? Yes, yes, and yes.
These oddball installations are more than just Instagram backdrops—they’re part of Amarillo’s identity. If you haven’t seen our deep dive into these offbeat treasures, take a scroll through our Weird Things to Do in Amarillo post.
From buried Cadillacs to anonymous art pranks, Amarillo does weird with flair.
But don’t mistake quirky for shallow—these pieces often come with layered backstories, local legends, and just enough mystery to make you want to dig deeper.
If you haven’t seen our deep dive into these offbeat treasures, check out our full guide to weird things to do in Amarillo.
Amarillo’s Must-See Roadside Attractions
- Cadillac Ranch – The classic row of graffiti-covered Cadillacs buried nose-first in the dirt.
- The Giant Pair of Legs – Yes, just two massive legs standing alone in a field.
- Richard Daniel Baker Peace Park-A colorful tribute to peace, love, and Amarillo’s artsy undercurrent—complete with painted rocks and a whole lot of heart.
- Slug Bug Ranch– Like Cadillac Ranch’s little cousin, this row of half-buried VW bugs is covered in graffiti and just as photo-worthy—minus the crowds.
- Helium Monument – A nod to Amarillo’s scientific side, with time capsules buried beneath.
Beyond the Roadside:
Amarillo Has Range
If you think Amarillo is only about roadside weirdness, think again.
Sure, the quirky stops are part of the fun—but after 20+ years of road travel, we’ve learned to look a little deeper. Amarillo has way more to offer than roadside photo ops. From canyon trails to vintage treasures, this city has range and it’s worth slowing down for.
Outdoor Adventure
Palo Duro Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the United States, blew us away. You can hike, bike, or stare out at the sunset and feel small in the best way possible. It’s one of those places that sneaks up on you with its beauty.
History and Culture
The Route 66 Historic District is another gem—retro neon signs, antique shops, vintage diners, and murals that tell a story on every corner. Whether you’re a history buff or just in it for the vibes, it’s a walk worth taking.
Local Museums and Galleries
And then there’s the museums. Amarillo has a museum for just about everything from vintage RVs to the stunning botanical Gardens. Whatever your interest, art, nature, or history, there’s something here that’ll surprise you.
You’ll find all of this and more in our Things to See in Amarillo: The Ultimate Guide, if you’re ready to build out your own itinerary.
Where the Locals Eat
(and You Should Too)
Now let’s talk food.
We love small local spots tucked away from the main road. Don’t be afraid to ask a local where they’d go for authentic tacos or a slice of homemade pie, and follow their lead. You’ll usually end up with a great meal and an even better story.
The Big Texan Experience
Of course, you can’t visit without hearing about The Big Texan Steak Ranch, home of the legendary 72-ounce steak challenge. Even if you’re not attempting the feat, it’s worth popping in for the spectacle and the true West Texas experience.
Local Favorites Worth the Detour
Amarillo knows its way around a steak, for obvious reasons. But the city’s culinary scene stretches beyond beef. We’ve found cozy Tex-Mex joints, vibrant food trucks, and funky little cafes that welcome you like family.
Our absolute favorite is Coyote Bluff Cafe, a legendary local spot famous for its incredible green chile cheeseburgers and lively atmosphere. Be warned, though, the locals line up early for supper – it’s that good!
The People Are
Part of the Experience
We’re not just talking about friendly waitstaff or helpful rangers—we’re talking about locals who want to talk, who share stories with ease, who make Amarillo feel like more than a spot on the map.
From bartenders to locals to travelers like us, it’s easy to strike up a conversation over queso.
It’s not just what Amarillo has, it’s how it makes you feel. It’s a handshake and a howdy. It’s a town that’s proud of its quirks, its dust, its charm.
So… Is Amarillo Worth Visiting?
Absolutely!
If you’re rushing through, it might not look like much. But slow down, and Amarillo starts to open up. It’s got art that makes you scratch your head, nature that makes you pause, and people that make you feel welcome.
Whether you’re in an RV, driving Route 66, or just looking for something different, it’s worth the stop.
Planning Your Trip to Amarillo
Best Time to Visit:
Spring and fall bring cooler temps and prettier views—perfect for exploring the canyon or cruising Route 66.
How Long to Stay:
Two nights give you enough time to hit the highlights and get a feel for the city. Three or more lets you dig deeper and take a horseback ride in Palo Duro.
Where to Stay in Amarillo
Whether you’re rolling through in your RV or looking for a fun weekend stop, Amarillo has plenty of options—from quick overnight stays to scenic, memorable stays.
RV Travelers:
If it’s an in-and-out overnight, we suggest Big Texan RV Ranch or Amarillo KOA Journey—both are easy to access from I-40 and offer solid amenities for a quick stop.
But if you’ve got more than one night, head straight for Palo Duro Canyon. Waking up inside the canyon is something special—and totally worth the extra drive. Just be sure to book ahead if you’re visiting in peak season.
Not in an RV? Browse hotels near Palo Duro Canyon for a cozy base close to the trails.
Hotel Folks:
Want to stay close to the action? Browse hotels near Amarillo’s Historic Route 66 District to stay within walking distance of vintage shops, neon signs, local diners, and public art.
Looking for Unique?
From retro motels to modern glamping tents, Amarillo has some unexpected finds. Explore unique Amarillo stays here and discover something that fits your vibe—and your budget.
Final Thoughts
Amarillo surprised us. It continues to surprise us each time we pass through. It’s got grit, creativity, and a whole lot of character—plus, it’s perfectly placed for road trippers heading west.
And if you’re planning a trip, be sure to check out our Map It-RV Travel Journal to track all the weird, wild stops you won’t want to forget.
And if you’ve already been to Amarillo, we’d love to hear what you thought. Did it surprise you too? Drop us a line and let us know!
