10 Things to Do in Amarillo, TX This Weekend

Welcome to Amarillo, where rugged cowboy culture meets the big city atmosphere. The name of the city means "yellow" in Spanish, and there are different stories about how the city got its name. Most believe the name comes from the yellow soil in the area. Whether you live in Amarillo or just visiting and trying to figure out what to see, we have your guide to things to do. The city of Amarillo has a distinct culture that is still reflected in the things to do area today. Whether you are looking for your next big adventure or your new favorite food, Amarillo has it. Take a look at our Top 10 Places to Visit!

Top 5 Attractions in Amarillo

1. Texas Air and Space Museum

Welcome to the Texas Air and Space Museum in Amarillo, TX!

The Texas Air and Space Museum is located near the Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport. It is filled with civilian and military aircraft as well as many other air and space artifacts. The museum has 6 indoor exhibits, including one called The Wars, which highlights the aircraft utilized in many different wars from WW1 through Desert Storm. They also have full-size aircraft throughout the museum to view. This is a great way to learn more about Texas and American aviation history up close and see the planes that helped create history.

The museum is open Monday-Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM. Visit today!

10001 American DR Amarillo, TX 79111

2. Tailfins at Cadillac Ranch

Looking to get outside and see a local Amarillo landmark? Visit Cadillac Ranch! Some interesting facts about Cadillac ranch are that it was created in 1974, and each of the 10 Cadillacs has a tailfin from a different year. This is a fantastic local roadside attraction that is a must-see on your Amarillo bucket list!

13651 I-40 Frontage Rd Amarillo, TX 79121

3. Amarillo Zoo

Looking for something fun to do on a beautiful sunny day? Check out the Amarillo Zoo!

The Amarillo Zoo was founded in 1955 and covers 15 acres in Thompson Park. The zoo is home to over 80 species of animals and is designed to make learning about the animals fun! Currently, the zoo has mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians and invertebrates. Some of their most popular animals are the African Lion, the Brazilian Rainbow Boa, and the Mexican Red-Knee Tarantula. They also offer several educational programs and camps throughout the year! Visit their website for more information!

700 Comanchero Amarillo, TX 79107

4. Texas Route 66 Visitor Center

Have you heard of Route 66 but want to know more? You're in the right place here in Amarillo, TX, head to the Route 66 visitor center to learn more about this historic road and its enduring legacy. If you've seen the movie Cars, you likely remember its depiction of Route 66 and learn more about the real-life history of this road that has shaped the area so much. You can even find cool merchandise to commemorate this iconic piece of American history. Learn more by visiting the website to see what you can expect.

1900 6th Ave Amarillo, TX 79106

5. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Palo Duro Canyon is known for being the second largest canyon in the United States and it lies right in the heart of the Panhandle.

The state park has over 30 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails as well as camping and glamping, geocaching and bird watching. If you live in or are visiting Amarillo, the Palo Duro Canyon needs to be on your bucket list! They also have the Texas Outdoor Musical in the summer! The park is open daily from 7 AM to 7 PM. Make sure to check their website before visiting!

11450 Park RD 5 Canyon, TX 79015

Top 5 Amazing Places To Eat In Amarillo

The Big Texan

BBQ

Visiting Amarillo and trying to figure out if everything is bigger in Texas? Stop by The Big Texan and find out with some Texan-size servings and amazing Texan-style cooking. Speaking of things that are better in Texas, you have to try out Texas BBQ and enjoy a large rack of ribs or a Texan size cut of steak. You can even eat for free if you complete the 72-ounce steak challenge and eat it in under an hour!

7701 Interstate 40 East Access Rd Amarillo, TX 79118

Bangkok-Tokyo

Thai

Bangkok-Tokyo is a popular Thai restaurant serving classic Thai dishes and a full sushi menu. We recommend starting off with an order of the spring rolls and then ordering the spicy peanut chicken as your main dish. Stop in today!

2413 S Western ST Amarillo, TX 79109

Blue Sky

Hamburgers

Blue Sky is most well known for their juicy, fresh made hamburgers. Their burgers are so good, they have been voted the best burger since 2003! They won the Best of Amarillo from the Amarillo Globe News and Accent West Magazine and the Best of the West by KCBD Lubbock! Their hamburger buns are made fresh daily and their meat is never frozen. Stop in today!

5060 S Coulter ST Amarillo, TX 79119

Palace Coffee

Coffee Bar

If you want to start your day with a cup of coffee, look no further than Palace Coffee in Amarillo, TX! Palace Coffee strives to serve the best coffee roasted in-house and create a welcoming space for everyone. While everything on the menu is amazing, we highly recommend their honey badger drink or Aztec Mocha! Stop in today to their inviting Amarillo store and enjoy a cup of some of the best coffee you’ll find anywhere.

817 S Polk St #2, Amarillo, TX 79101

Braceros Mexican Grill and Bar

Mexican

Braceros Mexican Grill and Bar has been open in Amarillo for over 15 years and is owned and operated by Jaime Santillan. Jamie is from Zacatecas, Mexico and she strives to bring traditional Mexican dishes to Amarillo. They are one of the highest-rated restaurants in the area, making them a must-try!

2822 SW 6th AVE Amarillo, TX 79106

Schools in Amarillo, TX

Amarillo Independent School District

Testimonials

I have lived at the Country Club Villas since August of 2024. I am coming up on two years here and I have absolutely loved my experience in these apartments. It has amazing accommodations and I could not have chosen a better first apartment. The management and leasing office staff are beyond amazing and helpful. They have always treated me with kindness, and I have always felt respected as a tenant. Maintenance always makes sure I am comfortable, and respond to my requests quickly.
- Google

My daughter and I have lived at Country Club Villa for the past four years. What I initially thought would be a temporary stop has truly become our home! We absolutely love the area, and the staff is top tier. They are supportive, helpful, and understanding. The maintenance crew is always thorough and quick to respond whenever we need assistance. The environment is safe and comforting, which means so much to us. This is by far the best apartment community we have lived in, and I highly recommend
- Apartment Ratings

We went from living in the country with no close neighbors to living in an apartment at Country Club Villas. At first I kept thinking it's only temporary but after being there a couple of months I realized "hey this is home". The office and maintenance staff are great if you need anything. It is always communicated if water has to be turned off or anything else going on. We get a prompt notice if a package has been delivered. The grounds are always nice and clean.
- Apartment Ratings

I have lived here for almost 3 years, come next year. We absolutely adore the staff. Anything and everything that I come to bother them with, they get it taken care of fast. They’re always very polite, funny, and caring to any issues you may have going on. The maintence crew always does a very thorough job on what’s going on, and very quick to come help! The environment is safe, comforting, and welcoming. This is by far the best apartments we have lived in
- Google

I’ve been here about a year and a half and my only complaint really is the parking as there is times I have needed to park at Walmart after a really late shift and the parking is completely full, the staff is always so kind. My apartment is amazing, the pool is refreshing. The gym could definitely use some more equipment! The younger generations would appreciate this apartment, it’s simple for just starting out. If I had to live in an apartment until the end of time, it would be here 100%
- Google

My husband and I have lived here going on two years, we love it. The front staff is always kind and eager to help. The maintenance crew are quick to respond and are very nice. The property itself is beautiful with all the trees. We love living here.
- Google

Love the place wouldn’t change anything about it. It’s a lovely place to live. Have had all great experiences with the staff and maintenance crew that work here. Really stay on top of everything and with great detail.
- Apartment Ratings

Beautiful grounds. Awesome management. Very responsive maintenance. Probably the best value in town.
- Google

Wonderful place to live! Excellent customer service from office ladies and maintenance.
- Google