As the song says, millions of people have gotten their kicks on Route 66 in the nearly 100 years since its opening. Among the more recent of these travelers is Cleveland County City Lifestyle and OKC Lifestyle publisher Jimmy Darden, who is no stranger to the sights, sounds and attractions to be experienced along the historic highway.
One of many key stops along Route 66 is Amarillo, Texas, where Jimmy spent several days during his latest trip. There’s lots of fun to be had in the panhandle city, so whether you’re interested in downtown night life, quirky art galleries, learning about Route 66, visiting the nation’s second largest canyon (Palo Duro), or something in between, a stop in Amarillo is well worth your time.
Where to Begin?
While there are obviously lots of shopping opportunities in Amarillo and along Route 66, two of them really stood out on his recent trip, Jimmy said.
First is Texas Ivy Antiques. Opened in 1997 in the heart of Amarillo’s historic district, this unique antique store caters to Route 66 travelers from around the world. Now in its second generation, co-owners Dora Meroney and Linda Kelley are dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Route 66 through their wide variety of items.
Next is the Lile Art Gallery, also in the historic district. It’s owned by local artist, historian and famed Route 66 tour guide Bob “Crocodile” Lile. Along with showcasing Route 66 memorabilia and work from local artists, the gallery is also the exclusive home of Bob’s hand-crafted Cadilite jewelry. These uniquely beautiful creations are set with colorful shaped and polished paint pieces from the nearby Cadillac Ranch (see below). Like Texas Ivy Antiques, this art gallery welcomes visitors from across the globe.
“I had such a great visit at both these places,” Jimmy said. “They have all sorts of interesting stuff to look at, and they love to share stories and keep the history of Route 66 alive. They are truly sweet people, and I learned so much from them.”
The Canyon & the Cadillacs
If it’s nature you’re looking for, the 30,000-acre Palo Duro Canyon, just 30 minutes from Amarillo, is an awesome choice. Second in size only to the Grand Canyon, it’s 800 feet deep and contains 15,000 acres of hiking and biking trails. There’s also a state park with cabins, a zip line adventure, outdoor drama performances and many other entertainment options.
“The scenery is absolutely gorgeous, and if you like hiking, especially, there is no better place in the country for it,” Jimmy observed.
If canyons and hiking aren’t to your taste, it’s not too far a drive to a different kind of sight. The Cadillac Ranch (made famous in the Bruce Springsteen song of the same name), is a curious site: 10 Cadillacs standing in an empty field, each covered in a kaleidoscope of spray-painted colors and looking like semi-buried Hot Wheels. Visitors are encouraged to bring spray paint and add their own touches, and the ranch is now an iconic Route 66 attraction.
Where to Eat
Dining options abound in Amarillo, and on his recent trip Jimmy discovered some new favorites. Among them are Crush Wine * Bar * Grill, a staple of downtown Amarillo that offers an upstairs patio with fire pits and a wonderful panoramic view of downtown, a full cocktail bar and an excellent menu.
“It’s a very high-energy place, and they host a lot of events,” Jimmy said. “The food was wonderful, and I had a great time there.”
Cask & Cork, self-described as home of “creative food and trendy craft beverages,” is another popular eatery featuring a four-story patio, rooftop restaurant, a full menu and more than 150 wines and rotating craft beers.
Where to Stay
Housed in an historic 100-year-old building in downtown Amarillo, the Barfield, Autograph Collection is owned by Marriott and is one of the city’s first luxury boutique hotels, boasting “timeless elegance and classic cattle-culture charm,” including a Prohibition-era speakeasy, a recreation club and an on-site steak and Italian restaurant.
“I loved my stay there,” Jimmy said. “The rooms were awesome, and it was so cool being in such an old building. It felt like stepping backward in time.”
Travelers also may enjoy a stay at the conveniently located Fairfield Four Points by Sheraton, Amarillo Central (centrally located on 1-40), is a great place for families, Jimmy noted, with lots of dining options and easy access to all downtown activities, including Hodgetown, home of the local minor league baseball team, the Sod Poodles.
The highway will officially turn 100 years old in 2026, and to celebrate AAA has created the AAA Route 66 Road Fest, which will feature multiple events leading up to the centennial. (Learn more at Route66RoadFest.com).
“I have traveled Route 66 many times, and I expect that to continue,” Jimmy said. “It is such an integral part of our nation’s history, and no matter what you’re into, there is so much to see and do. I highly recommend it to everyone.”
