48 hours in Amarillo

Looking for the perfect two-day adventure in Amarillo, TX? Whether you're a first-time visitor or a local looking to rediscover the city, this 48-hour itinerary has you covered. From exploring iconic landmarks like Cadillac Ranch to hiking the stunning Palo Duro Canyon, you’ll experience the best of Amarillo’s culture and natural beauty. And after a day of adventure, you can unwind and recharge at either the Studio 6 Amarillo, TX - West Medical Center or Studio 6 Suites Amarillo, TX - West Medical Center, where comfort and convenience meet. Get ready for a trip filled with memorable sights, delicious eats, and a cozy place to call home!

Day 1: Explore Amarillo’s Top Attractions

Stay: Studio 6 Amarillo, TX - West Medical Center or Studio 6 Suites Amarillo, TX - West Medical Center

Studio 6 Amarillo, TX - West Medical Center or Studio 6 Suites Amarillo, TX - West Medical Center are an ideal spot for your two-day stay in Amarillo. With convenient access to I-40, you’re never far from the best sights. The hotel offers spacious rooms with kitchenettes, free Wi-Fi, and a pet-friendly environment, providing everything you need to make your stay comfortable while you explore Amarillo.

8:00 AM – Breakfast at Palace Coffee Company Kick off your morning at Palace Coffee Company, located downtown. Enjoy their freshly brewed coffee and artisan pastries, perfect for getting you energized for the day.

9:00 AM – Cadillac Ranch Your first stop is Cadillac Ranch. This quirky roadside attraction features 10 half-buried Cadillacs, covered in colorful graffiti. Bring some spray paint and make your mark on this iconic art installation.

10:30 AM – Route 66 Historic District Next, head over to the Historic Route 66 District on 6th Avenue. Spend your morning exploring antique shops, boutiques, and art galleries. Don’t forget to snap a few pictures of the vintage signs and the historic buildings.

12:00 PM – Lunch at The Big Texan Steak Ranch No visit to Amarillo is complete without stopping at The Big Texan Steak Ranch. Try their famous steak, or if you're feeling bold, attempt the 72 oz. steak challenge. For those wanting something lighter, the chicken fried steak is a great option.

1:30 PM – Palo Duro Canyon State Park After lunch, drive 30 minutes south to Palo Duro Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the U.S. Spend the afternoon hiking the scenic trails, with the Lighthouse Trail being a must-see for panoramic views. If you’re into mountain biking or horseback riding, the park offers options for that too.

4:30 PM – Amarillo Zoo On your way back to town, stop at the Amarillo Zoo. Located in Thompson Park, it features a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and exotic reptiles. It's a relaxing and educational break after your adventure in Palo Duro Canyon.

6:00 PM – Return to Studio 6 Amarillo for a Refresh Head back to your room at Studio 6 to freshen up and relax after a busy day. Take advantage of the kitchenette if you’d like to enjoy a light snack before heading out for dinner.

7:30 PM – Dinner at Saltgrass Steak House For dinner, enjoy some Texas-style comfort food at Saltgrass Steak House. From steaks to seafood, this spot offers a great variety of Southern favorites. Their famous BBQ baby back ribs and Texas T-bone steak are delicious options.

9:00 PM – Drinks at 6th Street Saloon End your night at the lively 6th Street Saloon. Enjoy craft beers, cocktails, and live music in a casual atmosphere. It’s a great place to unwind and soak in some local culture.

11:00 PM – Return to Studio 6 Amarillo, TX  Head back to your room for a well-deserved rest. Enjoy the comfort of your spacious room, and prepare for another exciting day in Amarillo.

Day 2: Dive Deeper into Amarillo’s Culture

8:00 AM – Breakfast at Ye Olde Pancake Station Start your second day with a hearty breakfast at Ye Olde Pancake Station. Known for their fluffy pancakes and classic American breakfast options, it's the perfect place to fuel up before more exploration.

9:30 AM – Amarillo Botanical Gardens Begin your day with a peaceful stroll through the Amarillo Botanical Gardens. The lush gardens, vibrant flowers, and tranquil ponds provide a serene environment to enjoy the morning. Make sure to visit the tropical conservatory for an impressive collection of exotic plants.

11:00 AM – Don Harrington Discovery Center For some family-friendly fun, head over to the Don Harrington Discovery Center. This interactive science and space museum offers hands-on exhibits for both kids and adults. Explore the planetarium, try out the interactive displays, or catch a special exhibition if available.

12:30 PM – Lunch at Coyote Bluff Café Coyote Bluff Café is a local favorite for lunch, offering mouth-watering burgers and flavorful Tex-Mex dishes. The "Burger from Hell" is a must-try for those who enjoy a spicy challenge, or go for the classic "Steak Burger."

2:00 PM – American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum Dive into Amarillo’s equestrian culture at the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum. Learn about the history of this iconic breed, and explore exhibits that celebrate the role of quarter horses in the development of the American West.

3:30 PM – Texas Air & Space Museum For aviation enthusiasts, the Texas Air & Space Museum is a fascinating stop. The museum showcases historic aircraft, space artifacts, and memorabilia from Texas’ contributions to aerospace technology. You can even get a guided tour to learn more about the displays.

5:00 PM – Return to Studio 6 Amarillo for a Break After a busy day, return to Studio 6 to relax and recharge. Take a nap, freshen up, or enjoy some downtime before your evening plans.

7:00 PM – Dinner at Yellow City Street Food For dinner, try Yellow City Street Food, a trendy spot offering gourmet street food with an Amarillo twist. From craft tacos to inventive burgers, their menu changes frequently, making it a great spot for food lovers.

9:00 PM – Sunset at Palo Duro Canyon’s TEXAS Outdoor Musical Cap off your trip with an evening at the TEXAS Outdoor Musical in Palo Duro Canyon. This famous outdoor show depicts the history of Texas with live music, dancing, and a dramatic backdrop of the canyon. Watching the sun set over the canyon while enjoying this theatrical performance is an unforgettable experience.

11:30 PM – Return to Studio 6 Amarillo End your 48-hour adventure back at Studio 6. After two days of excitement, unwind in your room and enjoy the convenience of the hotel's amenities before calling it a night.

With so much to see and do, Amarillo offers an exciting blend of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and local charm. Whether you're marveling at the vibrant art of Cadillac Ranch, hiking the majestic Palo Duro Canyon, or savoring Texas-style cuisine, this 48-hour itinerary ensures you’ll make the most of your visit. And after a full day of exploring, Studio 6 Amarillo, TX - West Medical Center or Studio 6 Suites Amarillo, TX - West Medical Center provides the perfect place to relax and recharge, offering all the comforts you need for a great stay.