For the weekend warriors, a quick trip to enjoy something you never thought you’d see is top priority. We see you, we know you, and we’re here to give you a quick guide to five of the most unique places to visit in the Lone Star state, as well as highlights of each city for your next weekend whirlwind!
Jump around the blog:
1. Amarillo, TX
Route 66
The mother road called and wants you to get your kicks on Route 66! Explore history, culture, shopping, restaurants and more on your cruise through the inspiration for countless books, movies, TV shows, and songs. Amarillo is the largest city on the Oklahoma-Texas-New Mexico stretch of Route 66 and is central to honoring the history of the first road helping connect Americans.
Big Texan Steak Ranch
Have you heard of a 72 oz steak? Do we have a show for you at the Big Texan Steak Ranch! Since 1960, the Big Texan has been a stable of Amarillo culture and has been featured in Hollywood movies and various food programs! Join the panhandle natives and learn what we mean when we say everything is bigger in Texas!
Antique & Thrift Shopping
For the heart that bleeds for antique and thrift shopping, Amarillo is the hub of West Texas finds! Explore previously loved furniture, one-of-a-kind jewelry, and an antiquing emporium with over 30,000 square feet of beauty!
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
The second largest canyon in the United States at 800 feet deep and 30,000 acres wide, Palo Duro Canyon State Park calls to all with the spirit of the West! 15,000 acres of hiking and biking trails combined with Humvee tours and the outdoor musical drama TEXAS in the summer, you’ll find beautiful sights and incredible heights!
Cowgirls & Cowboys in the West
If you’re ready to ride or it’s been your dream for years, Cowgirls & Cowboys in the West will have you saddled up, saddled out, and seeing the sunrise! Experience horseback riding at Los Cedros Ranch or feel like real cowfolk with a private Chuck Wagon meals at Palo Duro Canyon’s rim.
2. Marfa, Texas
Named for a book character, Marfa was established in 1883 as a water stop and freight
headquarters for many railways. As the desert wind whisks you through this seemingly typical Texas town, you’ll find the wild flames of artists from around the world burn bright, be it day or night.
Chinati Foundation
The vibes of Marfa are unmatched desert terrain and minimalist art scene founded by Donald Judd by the creation of the Chinati Foundation. A site for the permanent installation of large-scale art, Judd sought to meld art, architecture, and land while building community and supporting artists through public programs. Explore the foundation with a tour filled with art and love.
Prada Marfa
A short distance outside of Marfa stands the iconic Prada Marfa. Created by Elmgreen & Dragset in 2005, this permanent art installation is located in the Chihuahua desert and is called a “pop architectural land art project.” Enjoy the fashion freedom of the structure and make sure you take a picture – Beyonce did too!
Marfa Mystery Lights
Are they headlights or something from another galaxy? As you close your evening in Marfa, don’t miss out on the shroud of the Marfa Mystery Lights. Featured in episodes on Unsolved Mysteries, King of the Hill, and So Weird, these lights are best experienced at the Marfa Lights Viewing center or at the annual Marfa Lights Festival!
3. Terlingua, Texas
In this mixed landscape of art, ruins, and restored beauty, you’ll find the former mercury mining town of Terlingua.
Big Bend National Park
Known for the beauty of “splendid isolation,” Big Bend National Park echoes vibrant sounds of 5300+ species and endless ecosystems. Called “Texas’ Gift to the Nation,” the 1252 square miles of nature will bring you bright moments of curiosity and awe.
Terlingua Cemetery
For those who respect the adventures of the past, the Terlingua Cemetery holds souls from the early 1900s on. Surrounded by forests of crosses, explore the beauty of one of the most photographed places in Texas.
The Starlight Theatre
Ending your evening singing and dancing at The Starlight Theatre. Formerly a movie house, you’ll enjoy live entertainment. Don’t worry, you can also grab an app and your nightcap!
4. Glen Rose, Texas
Discover your path from the prehistoric, to 1890’s railroad expansion with a moonshine stop along the way in this dynamic community.
Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
Let’s meet where the wild things are in Glen Rose! Join the ostriches, cheetahs, zebras, and more in protecting endangered species at Fossil Rim Wildlife Center. Don’t forget to share a snack with the giraffes!
Dinosaur Valley State Park
Not only can you find the jungle in Glen Rose, but you’ll also be transported to a land before time at The Dinosaur Valley State Park. Perfect for the hiker, the biker, the camper, and the fossil fiend, there’s a place for all. Don’t forget to explore the real dinosaur tracks of Acrocanthosaurus and Sauroposeidon from over 100 million years ago!
Dinosaur World
Add the next stop in your dino-day and visit Dinosaur World. Dig for fossils and make friends with the life-sized dinosaur statues at this outdoor museum.
5. Round Top, Texas
Wildflower blankets and drifting hills groove you along to the rhythm of Round Top– population 90.
Round Top Festival Institute
As you drift into town, be swept away with the melodies of classical pieces of the Round Top Festival Institute by The James Dick Foundation for the Performing Arts. With a community of musical minds from conservatories and universities worldwide, performances of students and faculty will whisk you into unexpected directions and can be heard from public radio stations nationwide!
Round Top Antiques Fair
There are people who love the Superbowl, some the Indy 500, but for some in the vintage shopping community, the Round Top Antiques Fair is the main event! Explore The Big Red Barn for 30,000 square feet of art, furniture, and accessories; hop to The Continental Tent for the best of authentic antiques. Worried about carrying your treasures to your car or want to ship something back home? Don’t be – the fair has you covered with porters and shipping on site. Mark your calendars for the tri-annual spectacular.
Ellis Motel
Take a ride on the bar side at Ellis Motel. You’ll enjoy fanatic drinks and a slice of the best vibes for a take-it-easy mandate. While you’ll absolutely want to take a snooze overnight at this eclectic, spunky spot, this drink dive is only for the thirsty.
Wherever your weekend getaway takes you, you’re guaranteed to go back home with
memories and magic!
