The Bomb City, Rotor City, the Yellow Rose of Texas, Oneida whatever you choose to call this biggest Panhandle settlement.
The Original name, Amarillo, is Spanish-originated meaning ‘Yellow’.
I love how nature speaks in this lovely city through arts, culture, and history.
I’m sure you will love it too!
Because how we prefer you to be at ease while traveling, we have taken time to select the 39 best things you will surely find fun in Amarillo.
Best And Fun Things To Do In Amarillo
1. A visit To The Cadillac Ranch
A visit to this amazing art installation will leave you breathless because it’s everything you didn’t imagine it to be.
One amazing fact about this place is its free accessibility.
Millionaire Stanley Marsh is teaming up with the San Franciscan art collective Ant Farm to publicize this art establishment.
One fascinating thing here is the liberty given to visitors to add art paintings on the cars too.
2.The Big Texan Steak Ranch & Brewery
This is perfect for lovers of food. They host a steak challenge.
Do you think you have a heavy appetite?
Try this challenge out, 72 oz steak, salad, appetizer, and potato to be eaten within an hour.
Get a meal for free if you emerge the winner.
It’s not a compulsory competition though.
So you can also come to enjoy oysters, fried potatoes, and mushrooms cooked to perfection.
Even if you are not a food person, you would not want to miss out on visiting this place.
3. Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum
This is another free amazing site.
Everything about Unusual and Vintage RVs that you can think of can be found here.
RVs from 1930 are still available on display here. Did you know that the world’s oldest existing Fleetwood is housed here?
Come see the wonder yourself.
Because there is more that I’m not saying to this oldest RV dealership in Texas.
4. Amarillo Zoo
If you are vacationing with your kids and your entire family.
This is a perfect place to catch fun for the whole family.
The 88 species of animals ranging from reptiles to amphibians, arachnids, and lots more are worth seeing.
The foxes, bison, etc are on display. Charming birds, tigers, turtles, and many more to see.
Since 1955, they have hosted multiple festivals. You should not miss out on this festival if you are in town.
5. Don Harrington Discovery Center
Visiting this Discovery Center created in 1968 can end up being the best thing you will do in Amarillo.
A very educational place to take your kids to. Especially if you raise a curious one.
Overflowing with things to keep your hands and minds busy all through your visit.
Learning about space and the earth’s weather conditions.
This is one of the best things to do while vacationing in Amarillo.
6. Route 66 Historic District
The Route 66 Historic District is another fun place to take the kids to if you want to teach them something new.
They are buildings from way back in the 20th century.
Lots of activities to indulge in, including shopping, and local aesthetics to mention but a few.
7. Cowgirls And Cowboys In The West
Being new to a city can make you look dumb at times especially when you need to get things done but can’t because you don’t know how to.
Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West help you manage your events and your trips.
They are good at what they do, trust me.
Taking you through the cowboy threats of the city like the horse riding experience.
If you haven’t been a fan of taking adventures, this is the best time for you to give it a try.
8. Amarillo Botanical Gardens
Although Texas is seen as a dry and deserted location. There are lots of spots that can pass to be perfect for tourism.
The Amarillo Botanical Gardens is a perfect example.
There are different themed plants you will love like the Japanese garden, butterfly garden, and fragrance garden.
Perfect for pictures.
The good part here is, there is an option to learn more about the unique plants here.
9. Amarillo Little Theatre
This is another fun place to visit while in Amarillo.
The theatre is one of the oldest.
They host very unique shows. A blended mix of everything, giving you a little of everything historic and exquisite.
My favorite spot here is the cocktail and refreshments after the show.
You might want to book on time to avoid missing out on the r fun activities available.
10. Amarillo Historical Museum
This Museum has been in existence since 2013.
It has exhibited thrilling items to keep them in check on being popular throughout the years.
You get to go back in time through the photographs and antiques. It’s an amazing experience you don’t want to miss out on.
This Museum has few obstructions.
To get a ticket, you will have to place a booking beforehand.
11. Palo Duro Canyon State Park
How do you say you visited Amarillo without getting to see Palo Duro Canyon State Park?
As the nation’s second biggest crayon is it just unfair to you to not visit here?
From camping to hiking to riding you name it.
You just have to choose the fun that works best for you and dive in.
There are over 150 campsites available here.
12. American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum
A lot to learn about horses, anatomy, and even riding with just a visit.
You can’t get bored. If you don’t enjoy g and the rest, you can just read your eyes with the fascinating paintings by Orren Mixer.
You get to learn about the medals and series of equipment and riding tools you see displayed.
13. Wonderland Amusement Park
Wonderland Amusement Park was founded in 1951.
It was earlier called Kiddie Land and had just three rides. But now, the park has over 30 interesting rides and still counting.
That’s a good one!
There have been able to capture the hearts of the entire city as people troop in now and then.
It’s a perfect spot for a casual date with that special one. If you just want to relax and talk.
14. Wildcat Bluff Nature Center
Don’t grow fear yet, there are your guides available to take you on this marvelous adventure.
I love thr nature and flowers you can see almost everywhere.
But others may prefer hiking trails where they can hike.
If you pay attention you can see the remains of the wagon trail of Gregg-Marc Wagon Trail too.
15. Amarillo Opera
Over 500,000 people attend their shows every year.
This should just be enough to convince you if you still had doubts about visiting here.
It’s been dated way back from 1988. It aims to preserve the culture and art of Texas.
16. Bill’s Backyard Classics
There are lots of events hosted here often where you can see mad cool cars like military jeeps and corvettes.
Lots of classic cars. Even some historic ones you probably can’t find anywhere else. Cars existing since 1928.
17. Texas Air & Space Museum
You won’t be wrong if you say there are lots of findings to get from this Aviation Museum.
You learn more about the famous Rick Husband who the airport, housing this museum was named after.
This gives you a clear picture of the history of space and air travel.
Also, you will grow a sense of respect for those who sacrificed a lot to make sure it was a success.
Lots of iconic aircraft are on exhibit like the C-7A which was invented in 1958. It displays the training crafts astronauts underwent.
The fun part is you are allowed to climb in and see for yourself.
18. Amarillo Museum Of Art
The Museum has successfully gathered lots of exhibits since it opened in 1972.
And all these articles are thrilling to observe.
You can get enough information about the cultural scene by just paying a visit to this museum.
The Museum is housed inside the city’s main college.
With over 2,000 exhibits, some dating back to 2nd century Hindu and budhi historical culture for display.
I love how the Western and Asian arts are blended here.
And it’s free entry for all.
19. Texas Outdoor Musical
This is not in Amarillo to say. But it happens to be very close to it.
They host an outdoor musical drama that has been in existence for over 59 years now.
The show cast characters from Native America, Cowboys, and all. Telling tales about the chronology of the state.
If you wish you catch this show, you will have to place your bookings earlier enough.
20. Harrington House
This ancient house from 1914 has been kept in good condition.
You can see most of the original pieces of furniture are still in good shape.
It used to be a property of Jonh and Pat Landergin but Don and Sybil Harrington bought it
The historic Harrington House is a home dating back to 1914.
History buffs will find a visit to be one of the best things to do in Amarillo.
The home was built by John and Pat Landergin, a set of cattlemen, and then purchased by oil and gas industry leaders Don and Sybil Harrington.
The Harrington House has a stunning neoclassical style that has been perfectly preserved.
The arts here are on display.
21. Amarillo Railroad Museum
My most thrilling experience here is the ancient cars and engines you see in the railway garden.
But there is so much sightseeing that hasn’t been exhausted yet.
Imagine getting to see the Nuclear weapons used by the Department of Energy.
You don’t only get to see it. You get to take a tour of it too!
This is a really fun place to be!
22. Kwahadi Museum Of The American Indian
They are not open every time so it will be best if you try to book your ticket beforehand.
In other to not miss out on all the fun exhibitions here.
This museum is new but it is proven worthy because of the quality of history it has on the Native Americans in this region.
Everything is displayed to enlighten you about the culture and background of the Native Americans.
23. Tascosa Drive-In
This is another nice spot you won’t regret for a date or familiar time out.
They show two movies every night on weekends.
The snack stands are doing great jobs so you don’t have to worry about carrying loads from home.
The tickets are very affordable at pocket-friendly prices.
It will surprise you when you find out this article was not even doing justice to explaining the fun you get in this place.
24. Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum
This happens to be the biggest history Museum in Texas.
They take you back in time to know more about dinosaurs and not what you hear or read in friction.
The ancient museum opened in 1912 is not in Amarillo but it doesn’t take more than a 30 minutes drive to get there.
It is also educational. You can have fun while learning.
From arts to history to geology exhibits all are things to see in this amazing place.
25. Ozymandias On The Plains
This is a poetic spot. The historic gales told about this particular spit are thrilling.
It’s a sight you need to behold yourself.
Good literature students are conversant with the iconic Shelley poem, Ozymandias.
It will be beautiful to see it play out right before your eyes.
26. Amarillo Symphony
In 1924, a particular orchestra that hosts programs and concerts that the entire family can watch and be entertained was created.
They called it, The Amarillo Symphony.
They put on shows most weekends.
If you are in town, this is one you should be sure to attend.
27. Combine City
This is one interesting site to see in Amarillo.
Probably because of the tales behind its existence.
It is said that the founder, Orville Ladehoff didn’t know what to do about his abandoned, deteriorated combine.
His wife jokingly told him to bury it. He did. Today it is a site everyone wants to look at.
It is locked away from the general public now, but you can catch a good glimpse of it while driving past.
28. Pantex Plant
This is not in Amarillo, but taking a drive down here can pass to be one fun thing to do.
It is just 17 miles away from the city.
This plant is only found in this part of the country.
It was created initially as the bomb factory for the second world war in 1942.
29. Amarillo Civic Center Complex
The Amarillo Civic Center Complex is a special spot.
Perfect a date.
You can check out and book a space to see an event.
There are hockey matches, wrestling matches, musical concerts, etc.
30. Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument
I love places like this that let you get involved.
It is fun for the whole family too.
In case you think you will get confused about activities to be involved in.
There are tour guides happily waiting to take you through programs and experiences best suitable for your age and stamina.
For over 13,000 years ago, it was a settlement for people.
There are lots of activities like riding, camping, hunting, and others.
31. Floating Mesa Of Amarillo
Stanley Marsh 3 has been responsible for funding this amazing project.
It’s a must-see for everyone vacationing in Amarillo.
I would not want to spoil the fun for you. You should check out this magical site.
32. Texas Panhandle War Memorial Center
Names of veterans from 26 countries are celebrated to honor those heroes who died.
The archway was dedicated to all living veterans in 1999.
It’s a touching thing to see. Today you can see expansion and improvements made to accommodate more veterans who died recently.
All who sacrificed so much and even their lives in building a great America are honored.
33. Go hiking
There are too many hiking trails to just miss out on going for a hike.
We talked about a few of them earlier.
All you need to do is find a spot that suits you the most and hike you go!
34. Blend In (Make new friends)
This could end up being your most valued experience.
Amarillo is a place you will be glad to network.
It will be advantageous to you during your stay and even after.
Who knows? You just might be considering relocating to this city in no due time.
35. Try Out Local Dishes
We already know the city of Amarillo is a cowboy city. Mostly famous for their cattle ranch history.
It is just wrong to come to this city in Texas and not have enough steaks and barbeque.
This is my favorite part of traveling actually. Trying out local dishes. Especially the ones you know can’t miss out on being delicious.
36. Go Shopping
Remember those you left at home.
If you are on an office vacation, get nice gifts for your kids and family members back home.
And make sure you don’t leave yourself out. Add this to your bucket list.
37. Participate In Community Projects
There is no better way to appreciate life than to give back to humanity.
Anyways you can. It could be monetary, or it might be human labor.
Just find a pet project ongoing in the area you are in and contribute to that society.
38. Take Photographs At Iconic/ Memorable Places
One of the reasons people embark on tours is to have beautiful memories.
There is no better way I can think that you can use to preserve those memories that pictures.
You can’t stop the clock but you can capture moments in pictures.
Those you will cherish for a lifetime.
39. Have A Time Of Your Life
This is the main purpose of any vacation.
Do things that make you happy. If at the end of your tour you don’t go back refreshed, the whole prices and home go to waste.
Read Also;
- 21 Best & Fun Things To Do In Denton (TX)
- 23 Best and Fun Things To Do In Killeen (TX)
- 23 Best And Fun Things To Do In Ardmore
Conclusion
I always try to indulge my readers to try new things.
Go on adventures, not the ones you are used to but definitely, you can handle.