Amarillo Overview:
If you ever wanted to feel like you were "really in Texas," head to Amarillo. This old cowtown has a distinctly western feel and is home to several top attractions, such as Palo Duro State Park.Amarillo History:
Amarillo traces its history back to the 1500s, when Spanish explorers visited the area. El Camino Real, the trail used by the Spanish for exploring much of the New World, ran through Amarillo. The US Army held two important Indian battles at nearby Palo Duro Canyon in 1874. Amarillo and the surrounding Panhandle Plains also played an important role in the heyday of the cattle drive era. In 1887 Amarillo became the county seat of Potter County and in 1913 Amarillo became the first city in Texas to adopt a city commission/city manager form of government.Amarillo Hotels:
Amarillo's Parkview House Bed & Breakfast, 806-373-9464; Best Western Amarillo Inn, 806-358-7861, Courtyard by Marriott, 806-467-8954; Holiday Inn, 806-372-8741Amarillo Attractions:
Amarillo is home to a surprising number of attractions. Palo Duro Canyon is just a short drive away, as is Cadillac Ranch. In town, the Panhandle Plains Historical Museum, American Quarterhorse Hall of Fame, Wonderland Amusement Park, and the Kwahadi Museum of the American Indian give visitors plenty of options. Amarillo is also home to the Big Texan Steak Ranch, famous for it's offer of a free 72 ounce steak to anyone who can eat it in an hour. And, don't forget, Amarillo is situated on historic Route 66.
