4-Day Wild West Adventure in Amarillo
Experience the heart of Texas without breaking the bank in Amarillo.
21 June 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
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.
Travel plan
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- Check into the Courtyard Amarillo Downtown hotel, a great budget option located in the heart of the city.
- Explore the famous Cadillac Ranch, an art installation featuring ten half-buried Cadillacs covered in graffiti.
- Visit the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum for a glimpse into the area's rich history.
- Grab a bite to eat at The Big Texan Steak Ranch, known for their 72 oz steak challenge and Texas-sized portions.
- Catch the nightly light show at the iconic Amarillo sign on Route 66.
- Start the day with breakfast at Coyote Bluff Cafe, a hidden gem serving up delicious burgers and breakfast burritos.
- Drive a few miles outside of town to the Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the "Grand Canyon of Texas", for a day of hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
- Stop by the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame and Museum to learn about the region's equestrian history.
- Enjoy a steak dinner at Tyler's Barbeque, a local favorite.
- Catch a show at the historic Amarillo Little Theatre, which has been producing plays and musicals since 1927.
- Start the morning at The 806 Coffee + Lounge, a cozy spot serving up great coffee and live music.
- Visit the Amarillo Museum of Art to see their impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.
- Take a stroll through the Amarillo Botanical Gardens, showcasing a variety of plants and flowers native to the region.
- Grab lunch at the Yellow City Street Food, a food truck featuring fusion cuisine with a Texan twist.
- Spend the afternoon at the Don Harrington Discovery Center, a hands-on science museum for all ages.
- Have breakfast at Pancake Station, a charming diner serving up classic breakfast favorites.
- Visit the iconic and historic U.S. Route 66-Sixth Street Historic District for a bit of nostalgic charm and vintage shopping.
- Stop by the Amarillo National Center to catch a rodeo or livestock show.
- Grab a final meal at El Tejavan Mexican Restaurant, a family-run spot with great food and friendly service.
- Take one final stroll through downtown Amarillo before bidding farewell to the Wild West.
Length of stay
Type of trip
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.