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Panhandle Plains road trip

The Panhandle Plains offers the chance to slow down, take in the scenery and learn about local history. From exploring the nation’s second-largest canyon to leaving your mark at Cadillac Ranch to kicking back at a winery, there is so much to discover!

Get to know the Panhandle Plains

From Amarillo to San Angelo and Wichita Falls, there are so many hidden gems to uncover as you take in the Panhandle Plains.

Day 1: Taking in Amarillo

Take in the rugged beauty of Amarillo by exploring Route 66, discovering Palo Duro Canyon, and taking in the history and mouth-watering local eats along the way.

Route 66

Spanning over one mile, the Route 66 Historic District offers restaurants, bars, antique shops and more. The 6th Street Antique Mall is home to over 100 vendors showcasing their rare, collectible finds.

Drunken Oyster

You’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to the French Quarter when visiting this restaurant. For a classic dish, you can’t go wrong with shrimp and grits.

Cadillac Ranch

No trip to Amarillo is complete without visiting this infamous stop. Since 1974, visitors have awed over the row of Cadillacs buried into the ground. Be sure to bring spray paint with you as visitors are allowed to decorate the cars!

Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum

Located on the Texas A+M campus, this is Texas’ largest history museum. Visitors can immerse themselves in the life-size replica of a Pioneer Town, admire fine art and learn about the history of petroleum in Texas.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Did you know the second largest canyon in the country, behind the Grand Canyon, is in Texas? You need to see it for yourself. Take in the otherworldly views as you explore the canyon’s natural beauty.

Day 2: Exploring Lubbock

As you continue your journey through the Panhandle Plains, be sure to stop in Lubbock for unique museums, nature escapes and some classic Texas BBQ.

Prairie Dog Town

Located inside Mackenzie Park, Prairie Dog Town started in the 1930s and was the first protected area of its kind. With newly built viewing areas, visitors can watch prairie dogs and burrowing owls scurrying around.

American Windmill Museum

As the largest windmill museum in the world, you’ll find yourself leisurely strolling around for hours. With detailed signage of each windmill’s history, there is so much to discover and learn here.

The West Table Kitchen and Bar

Experience the charm of West Texas at this industrial eatery. Diners rave about the unique menu items like Vietnamese seasoned steak.

Lubbock Lake National Historic Landmark

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this landmark is an archaeological site dating back 12,000 years. The park offers “Landmark After Dark Night Hikes” allowing visitors to explore over 300 acres of land with a guide.

Llano Estacado Winery

Found in 1976, this is one of the oldest wineries in Texas. Sitting on over 3-acres of beautiful vineyards, pass the afternoon sipping award-winning wines made in Texas.

Day 3: San Angelo and Abilene

Take in the charm of San Angelo and Abilene by enjoying local nature retreats, classic drive-in movie theatre experiences and phenomenal food.

Mary E Lee Park

This beach-front park boasts over 6 acres of land to explore. From swimming at Lake Nasworthy to boating to picnicking, this park offers the perfect spot to spend the afternoon.

Peasant Village Restaurant

Ever since discovering his great-grandmother’s cookbook from the 1780s, Chef Art Helfer has been inspired to bring flavors from around the world to his diners. With phenomenal food and a solid wine list, this restaurant is a must.

Abilene State Park

Once a campground for Comanche Indians, this park offers an array of landscapes. Lake Abilene is a no-wake lake and with rentals available, it makes for the perfect location to kayak or canoe.

Everman Park

The perfect stop if you’re traveling with kids (or kids at heart!). This park showcases an array of storybook-themed sculptures – you’ll have fun trying to identify them all!

The Grace Museum

This museum sits within what used to be the Grace Hotel, which was built in 1909. Be sure to check out Spark – a new area offering 30+ interactive stations perfect for kids and families.

Town + Country Drive-In Theatre

Step back in time to enjoy a classic, drive-in movie experience. The theatre is currently showing each Friday, Saturday and Sunday night at 8:30 PM – and it’s dog-friendly!

Day 4: Ending in Wichita Falls

Close off your exploration of the Panhandle Plains in Wichita Falls where you’ll discover funky museums, nature escapes and stellar dining.

The Deep End

Fun for travelers of all ages, this video arcade offers $5 all-day free play. That means for just $5 you can play any arcade game your heart desires, from classics like Skee-Ball to virtual reality games, you’ll want to spend all day here.

The Highlander Public House

Boasting the biggest patio in town, this is the ideal stop for classic pub food. Diners can’t get enough of the fish and chips, and fried pickle spears.

P’s Crazy Car Museum

Featuring over 40 classic cars and free admission, this unique museum is definitely worth a visit. It’s only open on Saturdays from 10 AM – 2 PM so be sure to plan accordingly.

Lucy Wichita Falls Park

Located in the center of the city, the 170+ acre park provides the perfect nature retreat. A peaceful, scenic trail walk will lead you to the Falls – be sure to check out the swinging bridge on the Big Wichita River as well!

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