Amarillo Texas Has Lots to Offer and Do

 Amarillo Texas is a city full of attractions. It boasts an exciting arts scene, top-notch restaurants, and captivating museums to discover. The name Amarillo derives from the Spanish word for yellow, signifying both the hue of soil along the banks of Amarillo Creek and wildflowers during spring and summer. Additionally, it means a cattle shipping point since this region was once a major transportation hub for cattle driven from the Panhandle, Plains, and eastern New Mexico.

1. Amarillo Zoo

The Amarillo Zoo is a fantastic family attraction in Texas located in Thompson Park. Here, you'll find plenty of animals like bison and big cats as well as reptiles, birds, and amphibians to observe. Plus, it's an enjoyable place for kids to explore with plenty of events taking place throughout the year! This zoo is situated in an idyllic park, offering shaded picnic areas, playgrounds, and a swimming area to guests. As it's a popular tourist destination, the animals here are very friendly too! Bring your kids to the zoo; they'll love getting up close to all the animals and it's a great opportunity for family bonding. Plus, there are various events like animal shows and parades you can participate in at the zoo.

In May, a mysterious figure was spotted outside the zoo and now officials are uncertain as to its identity. A news release from the city-states that camera footage captured what appeared to be a "long creature" standing on what appear to be its two legs outside the fence of the zoo. The city is now asking the public for help identifying it. They need to know if it's a person wearing an odd hat who likes to walk at night, a large coyote on its hind legs, or even a Chupacabra! People have been intrigued by what the creature may be. Some have speculated it could be Sonic the Hedgehog or Captain Jack Sparrow from Pirates of the Caribbean; others have even suggested it could be a skinwalker, an ancient mythological being in Navajo culture that can shape-shift into an animal form.

2. The Big Texan Steak Ranch

The Big Texan Steak Ranch, situated on historic Route 66, has been serving diners since 1960. It's renowned for its 72-ounce steak challenge - diners must finish an entire meal of steak, shrimp cocktail, baked potato, salad, and dinner roll within one hour or less to receive it free! The restaurant is decorated in a Western theme and features staff dressed in cowboy hats. Additionally, there are arcade games, fresh fudge, and fun surprises waiting for you in the lobby. In addition to steaks, The Big Texan Steak Ranch also serves mountain oysters and a selection of appetizers, sandwiches, and desserts. Every Tuesday night guest can enjoy live music and other entertainment at The Big Texan Steak Ranch. Diners at this restaurant can choose to eat in either the main dining room or in a beer garden. The brewery on-site serves beer, as well as wine and spirits.

Bob Lee opened this restaurant in 1960. As a child growing up in the Midwest, his fascination with stories and movies set in Texas inspired him to create a steakhouse that captured the essence of the Old West. He wanted to offer people a chance to experience true Texan culture, so he opened The Big Texan along Route 66 near the Amarillo stockyards. Today, this restaurant is a quirky saloon-style steakhouse that offers diners the 72-ounce steak challenge and has its own gift shop. It has been featured in multiple movies such as Waking Up in Reno and Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations. The challenge began in 1960, when restaurant owner Bob Lee held a contest with a cowboy who claimed he could eat four and a half pounds of steak within an hour. Impressed by their performance, Lee offered anyone who could match it free food. Since then, thousands of carnivores have successfully completed this feat at The Big Texan.

3. Route 66

Amarillo is not only packed with history, but it also boasts plenty of iconic Route 66 attractions. Situated at the midway point on this iconic highway, Amarillo makes for a great stopover for anyone wanting to view this iconic highway. Amarillo boasts several museums worth exploring during your stay. The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum is a great starting point, where you can learn about the region's prehistoric arrowheads and pottery from the Late Triassic Period as well as firearms used during the Old West. Visit the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum to gain knowledge about this beloved breed that was so beloved among cowboys in Texas. Additionally, you'll find photographs and trophies commemorating those who won contests that the horses competed in.

Be sure to visit the iconic Cadillac Ranch of Amarillo, one of Route 66's most famous landmarks. This artwork displays ten Cadillac cars carved into the ground in the shape of a pyramid - truly an impressive sight! Amarillo boasts several historic motels that remain operational today. A great place to stay in the Bel-Aire at 112 W Amarillo Blvd, which opened its doors in 1955 and remains in operation today. If you're interested in exploring some of Amarillo's historic hotels, an older alignment of Route 66 can be taken. Though this route requires more walking from the town center, the views are worth it when you see these unique structures up close.

4. Amarillo Museum of Art

The Amarillo Museum of Art, situated on the campus of Amarillo College, is a contemporary art museum that displays both permanent and temporary exhibitions. Among its collections are American paintings, prints, drawings and sculptures; Asian art from The Price Collection; Tibetan Tsakli and Manuscripts; as well as European masterpieces. The museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, having maintained high standards since 1979. It primarily specializes in temporary exhibitions and education, presenting fifteen art exhibitions annually across all media and periods from cutting-edge to traditional. Additionally, it provides gallery talks and educational programs to promote an appreciation for art in all forms. Furthermore, events like art after dark, 5 in 5, and 22HUNDRED foster community involvement by providing opportunities for engagement with members. At its center is an intricate HO scale model train layout replicating the Santa Fe railroad in great detail. This is one of the few places in Amarillo where visitors can actually walk around a real live model train!

5. Amarillo Railroad Museum

Amarillo is a city that has plenty to offer visitors. Its history, culture and delicious food make it an ideal destination. You can explore its museums, hike in its mountains or dine at local restaurants - there's something for everyone here! Train enthusiasts must visit the Amarillo Railroad Museum. Admission is free and they have an accurate model railroad layout depicting Texas Panhandle trains. The museum boasts an impressive collection of antique and modern trains, along with some live steam locomotives. Open Thursday evenings from 7:30 pm to 9 pm, they welcome visitors to explore their displays. Another must-visit museum in Amarillo is the Panhandle Plains Historical Museum at West Texas A&M University in Canyon. Here, visitors can learn about the region's history through an impressive collection of historic artifacts and photographs.

For something truly thrilling, ziplining over Palo Duro Canyon is a must. Not only will it be an exhilarating experience but the views are simply stunning as well. Amarillo Botanical Gardens are a must-see, boasting over 4 acres of stunning gardens to explore. Plus, their Tropical Conservatory is worth exploring as well. Finally, the Amarillo Zoo is an excellent option for families and kids alike. With its vast collection of animals, there are plenty of activities for all ages to enjoy. For architecture buffs, the Downtown Historic District is a must-visit. Here you'll find numerous buildings and churches filled with history as well as plenty of public art sculptures.