Blog Summary
Whether you’re passing through on a classic Route 66 road trip or headed west on I-40, Amarillo RV Resort makes the perfect overnight or weekend stopover to explore the Texas Panhandle. Located just off the interstate, this well-equipped RV park is a convenient, quiet place to rest—but don’t hit the road too fast. Amarillo offers more than just wide-open skies. With quirky roadside attractions, jaw-dropping canyons, local BBQ joints, and a thriving arts scene, it’s worth exploring—even if you’re only staying a night or two. This guide highlights the must-see spots, quick excursions, and hidden gems you can experience with a short stay at Amarillo RV Resort.
Why Stay at Amarillo RV Resort?
Located along the historic Route 66 corridor and just minutes off I-40, Amarillo RV Resort is a favorite among road-trippers, snowbirds, and RV travelers who need a restful break between destinations.
On-Site Amenities Include:
- Full-hookup RV sites with 30/50 amp service
- Extra-long pull-through sites ideal for big rigs
- Indoor heated swimming pool and hot tub
- Clean, climate-controlled bathhouses and laundry facilities
- Dog park and pet-walking area
- Free Wi-Fi
- Friendly, efficient check-in for late arrivals
Whether you’re staying for just one night or squeezing in two, Amarillo RV Resort makes it easy to park, relax, and recharge.
Drive Times to Amarillo’s Top Attractions
Most major Amarillo attractions are less than 20 minutes from the resort, making it easy to pack in a few fun stops—even on a short stay.
- Cadillac Ranch – 5 minutes
- Route 66 Historic District – 12 minutes
- Big Texan Steak Ranch – 4 minutes
- Palo Duro Canyon State Park – 30 minutes
- American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum – 8 minutes
- Downtown Amarillo / Polk Street – 10 minutes
- Jack Sisemore RV Museum – 7 minutes
- Amarillo Zoo & Thompson Park – 14 minutes
- Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum (Canyon, TX) – 25 minutes
Must-See Amarillo Attractions for a Short Stop
1. Cadillac Ranch
Perhaps Amarillo’s most iconic roadside attraction, Cadillac Ranch is a surreal public art installation where ten Cadillacs are buried nose-first into the Texas soil. Bring your own spray paint and leave your mark on the ever-evolving canvas.
Distance from Amarillo RV Resort: 10 minutes west via I-40
2. The Big Texan Steak Ranch
This Route 66 staple is more than just a restaurant—it’s an experience. Famous for its free 72-ounce steak challenge (if you can eat it all in one hour), The Big Texan also features a quirky gift shop, brewery, and hotel. It’s a must-stop for foodies and photo ops.
Distance from Amarillo RV Resort: 4 minutes
3. Route 66 Historic District
Stroll through Amarillo’s slice of Mother Road history. Vintage signage, antique shops, art galleries, and retro diners line this 13-block district. Stop at Golden Light Cafe, one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants on Route 66, for a burger and a cold drink.
Distance from Amarillo RV Resort: 12 minutes
4. Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Got a few extra hours? Drive 30 minutes south to the second-largest canyon in the United States. With dramatic red rock cliffs and sweeping desert views, Palo Duro offers short hikes, a scenic drive, and picnic spots that make the detour worth every mile.
Distance from Amarillo RV Resort: 30 minutes
Best Quick Trails:
- Paseo del Rio Trail (1-mile loop)
- Rojo Grande Trail (2.4-mile out-and-back)
- Visitor Center Scenic Overlook
5. Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum
See vintage trailers, rare motorcycles, and RV memorabilia from the golden age of road travel. This small museum is free to enter and only takes about 30–45 minutes to enjoy.
Distance from Amarillo RV Resort: 7 minutes
6. American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum
Horse lovers and western history buffs alike will appreciate this beautifully curated museum featuring exhibits, life-sized statues, and rodeo lore.
Distance from Amarillo RV Resort: 8 minutes
7. Downtown Amarillo & Polk Street
Explore Amarillo’s revitalized downtown, where local shops, art murals, and craft coffee spots like Palace Coffee await. Grab a drink at Six Car Pub & Brewery or browse books at Burrowing Owl.
Distance from Amarillo RV Resort: 10 minutes
Bonus: Seasonal Events and Local Flavor
Depending on when you’re passing through, you might catch:
- Amarillo Community Market (Saturdays in summer)
- Hoodoo Mural Festival (September)
- Tri-State Fair & Rodeo (September)
- Christmas in the Gardens at Amarillo Botanical Gardens (December)
Food & Drink You Can’t Miss
Short on time but still want a taste of Amarillo?
- Tyler’s Barbeque – Authentic Texas BBQ
- Ye Olde Pancake Station – Perfect for a hearty breakfast
- Coyote Bluff Cafe – Famous for their “Burger from Hell”
- Calico County Restaurant – Homestyle cooking and cinnamon rolls
- Six Car Pub & Brewery – Craft beer, burgers, and rooftop views
1-2 Night Itinerary: The Perfect Stopover
Day 1: Arrival + Evening
- Check in at Amarillo RV Resort
- Visit Cadillac Ranch before sunset
- Dinner at Big Texan Steak Ranch
- Relax in the indoor hot tub or walk the dog
Day 2: Morning Departure
- Breakfast at Ye Olde Pancake Station
- Explore the Jack Sisemore RV Museum
- Stop downtown or visit Quarter Horse Museum before hitting the road
Optional Extra Night: Use the extra time to hike at Palo Duro Canyon or attend a seasonal event.
Google Map: Your Route to Adventure in Amarillo
Key Takeaways
- Amarillo RV Resort is the perfect 1–2 night stopover on your I-40 or Route 66 journey
- Minutes from iconic stops like Cadillac Ranch and The Big Texan Steak Ranch
- Easy access to downtown Amarillo, historic Route 66, and Palo Duro Canyon
- Full-service amenities and late check-in make travel simple
- Great food, quirky attractions, and scenic Texas views await—even on a short stay
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Amarillo RV Resort from I-40?
Just minutes off Exit 75, making it a convenient stop for travelers heading east or west.
Can I check in late?
Yes. The resort offers easy, after-hours check-in for travelers arriving late in the evening.
How long should I stay in Amarillo?
Most guests stay 1–2 nights, enough time to explore Cadillac Ranch, grab a great meal, and see a few sights before continuing their journey.
Are pets allowed at Amarillo RV Resort?
Yes. The resort is pet-friendly and includes a fenced dog park and open areas for walking.
What is the best time of year to visit Amarillo?
Spring and fall offer mild weather, but Amarillo is open year-round. Expect hot summers and occasional snow in winter.
Ready to Rest, Refuel, and Explore?
Whether you’re chasing sunsets across Route 66 or exploring the wide-open spaces of the Texas Panhandle, Amarillo RV Resort is your place to reset. Even if your stay is short, the memories—and the photos—will last a lifetime.