Amarillo Texas on Route 66 – Cadillac Ranch Big Texan & More!

Alright folks, let’s cruise down the iconic Route 66 and experience the vibrant heart of Amarillo, Texas. Amarillo’s story is one of railroads, wide-open spaces, and the legendary Mother Road itself. It’s a place where the spirit of the West meets the open highway, offering a unique blend of history and modern attractions.

When you’re exploring Route 66 in Amarillo, two destinations stand out as must-sees: the Cadillac Ranch and the Big Texan Steak Ranch. These aren’t just roadside attractions; they’re integral parts of the Amarillo experience, drawing visitors from across the globe.

First up, the Cadillac Ranch. This isn’t your typical car lot. Ten Cadillacs, planted nose-down in the Texas soil, create a truly unique and interactive art installation. Grab a can of spray paint – any color you like – and become part of the ever-evolving artwork. It’s a fun, quirky, and unforgettable experience, a perfect photo opportunity, and a chance to leave your own mark on this Route 66 icon. The Cadillac Ranch, that quirky monument to automotive art, wasn’t born from a deep-seated love of Cadillacs by some Amarillo native. It’s the brainchild of a group of artists known as The Ant Farm, with the financial backing of Stanley Marsh 3, a Texas millionaire and a bit of an eccentric himself. Marsh, known for his public art installations (he also commissioned the “Floating Mesa” nearby), wanted something that would make people stop and think, something that would spark conversation. The Ant Farm, a collective of avant-garde artists, came up with the Cadillac idea. Ten Cadillacs, models ranging from 1948 to 1963, were purchased, their noses ceremoniously buried in a field just off Route 66 in 1974. The cars weren’t chosen for any particular reason other than they were readily available and represented the tail-fin era of American automotive design. Initially, the Cadillacs were pristine, but Marsh and The Ant Farm always intended for them to be interacted with. People naturally started spray-painting them, and that became part of the art itself. Over the years, the Cadillacs have become a canvas for countless artists, both amateur and professional, transforming the installation into a constantly evolving piece of public art. It’s a testament to the power of art to engage and provoke, and it’s become an undeniable icon of Route 66.

Next, we have the Big Texan Steak Ranch. If you’re hungry, and I mean Texas hungry, this is the place to be. Home of the famous 72-ounce steak challenge, the Big Texan is a culinary landmark. Think you can conquer this massive steak, along with all the trimmings, in under an hour? If you do, it’s on the house! Even if you’re not quite up for that challenge, the Big Texan’s larger-than-life atmosphere and classic cowboy charm make it a must-visit.

Beyond these two famous stops, Amarillo’s Route 66 offers much more to discover. Explore the Historic District along 6th Avenue, between Georgia and Western. This area offers a glimpse into Amarillo’s past, with its preserved buildings, unique shops, and diverse dining options. It’s a great place to stroll, soak in the atmosphere, and imagine the bustling days of Route 66’s heyday.

Amarillo’s history is rooted in the late 19th century, when the arrival of the Fort Worth and Denver City Railroad spurred its growth. The name “Amarillo,” meaning “yellow” in Spanish, likely refers to the region’s soil or wildflowers. But it was Route 66 that truly solidified Amarillo’s place on the map. This iconic highway, stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica, played a pivotal role in the development of the American West, and Amarillo was right in the thick of it.

So, as you journey down Route 66, be sure to experience the unique charm of Amarillo. From the quirky Cadillac Ranch to the legendary Big Texan, and the historic streets in between, Amarillo offers a taste of Texas hospitality and a journey through the heart of Americana. And while you’re visiting the Cadillac Ranch area, you might notice some other interesting spots nearby, like the Cadillac Ranch Gift Shop and the 2nd Amendment Cowboy – separate businesses that add to the local flavor. Enjoy the ride, and discover the stories that make this stretch of Route 66 so special.

Route 66 Attractions in Amarillo, Texas.

1. Cadillac Ranch: This iconic art installation features ten buried Cadillacs placed at an angle in a field. Visitors are encouraged to spray paint the cars, resulting in a constantly changing and colorful display.
2. The Big Texan Steak Ranch: Known for its massive 72-ounce steak challenge, the Big Texan Steak Ranch has been a Route 66 landmark since 1960. The restaurant’s distinctive cowboy-boot-shaped sign is a recognizable sight.
3. Route 66 Historic District: This area in downtown Amarillo features restored and preserved buildings from the Route 66 era. It offers a glimpse into the past with vintage signage, shops, and eateries.
4. Amarillo Route 66 Museum: This museum provides insights into the history of Route 66 and its impact on Amarillo and the surrounding region. It showcases exhibits, artifacts, and memorabilia related to the highway’s heyday
5. Cadillac Ranch Gift Shop and the 2nd Amendment Cowboy