Located in the heart of the Texas Panhandle, Amarillo is a place that often goes overlooked when talking about Texas. However, this city is far from being ordinary. With its rich culture, unique history, and endless outdoor recreational opportunities, Amarillo is a hidden gem that deserves to be discovered.
Amarillo is known for its stunning natural landscapes, and the Palo Duro Canyon is a must-visit destination. Known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas”, the Palo Duro Canyon stretches over 120 miles long, and it’s the second-largest canyon in the United States. The canyon offers hiking trails, campsites, and horseback riding tours. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, don’t miss the chance to explore this majestic canyon.
Aside from the Palo Duro Canyon, Amarillo has plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities, including Lake Tanglewood, which is a 500-acre man-made lake surrounded by beautiful homes, hiking trails, and picnic areas. The lake is an excellent spot for fishing, swimming, and water sports. Another favorite destination among locals is the city’s park system, which consists of 50 parks, and they all have something different to offer.
One of the most unique features of Amarillo is its Route 66 heritage. Amarillo was once one of the main stops along the famous roadway, and it’s still dotted with iconic landmarks and attractions. The Cadillac Ranch is one of the most famous, where 10 Cadillacs are buried in a field with their tail fins sticking straight up in the air. Visitors are invited to leave their mark by spray-painting the cars.
Amarillo is also home to the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame and Museum, which honors the history and impact of the American Quarter Horse. The museum is a fascinating look into the world of this iconic breed. Furthermore, the city features several art & history museums, such as the Amarillo Museum of Art, the Amarillo Botanical Gardens, and the Don Harrington Discovery Center.
Amarillo’s thriving culinary scene is another aspect of this city that should not be missed. The city is known for its steakhouses, and the Big Texan Steak Ranch is the most iconic. Here you can get the famous 72-ounce steak, which is free if you can eat it in under an hour. However, it’s not just steak that Amarillo has to offer. The city has a diverse range of cuisine, including Mexican, BBQ, Italian, and Asian.
In conclusion, Amarillo is a fascinating place to visit, and it has a lot more to offer than meets the eye. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, cultural tourism, or just trying new foods, Amarillo has something for everyone. So, if you plan to visit Texas, make sure to include Amarillo on your list of destinations. You won’t be disappointed.