Top Five Popular Attractions to See Between Amarillo and Dallas
Are you planning a road trip between Amarillo and Dallas? Make the most of your journey by stopping at these top five popular attractions along the way. From quirky museums to stunning national parks, these destinations are sure to make your trip an unforgettable experience.
The Route and Halfway Point: Frederick, OK
Starting from Amarillo, the journey to Dallas spans over 350 miles and takes around 5 to 6 hours. To break up the drive, Frederick, Oklahoma, makes for a great halfway point to stop and explore. The small town of Frederick is home to the Historic Ramona Theatre, which hosts concerts and local performances. Visitors can also learn about the town's history at the Pioneer Heritage Townsite Museum or stroll along the picturesque Tillman Creek.
Top Five Places to See
1. Cadillac Ranch
If you're a fan of art and cars, then Cadillac Ranch is a must-see destination along Route 66. This unique art installation features ten vintage Cadillacs buried nose-first in a field, covered in colorful graffiti and spray paint. Visitors are welcome to add their artistic touch to the cars, making for a constantly evolving display of creativity and expression.
2. Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Known as the "Grand Canyon of Texas," Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers breathtaking views of towering rock formations and vibrant red cliffs. Visitors can hike, bike, or horseback ride on the many trails throughout the park, or enjoy a scenic drive through the canyon. The park also hosts popular outdoor theatrical performances during the summer months.
3. Barry B. Telford Unit
The Barry B. Telford Unit is not your typical tourist attraction, but it's a fascinating look at the history of the Texas prison system. The Telford Unit is a maximum-security prison that offers a unique program called Freedom to Choose, which allows inmates to learn valuable job skills and take college courses. Visitors can learn about the program and talk to inmates about their experiences.
4. National Multicultural Western Heritage Museum
Located in Fort Worth, the National Multicultural Western Heritage Museum celebrates the contributions of African American, Native American, and Hispanic pioneers in the American West. Visitors can browse exhibits featuring artwork, artifacts, and interactive displays, making for a fun and educational experience for all ages.
5. Dinosaur Valley State Park
Travel back in time at Dinosaur Valley State Park, where visitors can see the footprints of dinosaurs that lived over 100 million years ago. The park's main attraction is the dinosaur tracks in the riverbed, which are visible when the water levels are low. Visitors can also hike or bike on the many trails throughout the park, or go swimming and fishing in the river.
Conclusion
The best route for this trip is to take I-40 east from Amarillo to Fort Worth, then head south on I-35 towards Dallas. This route takes you past several of the top attractions on our list, including Cadillac Ranch, Palo Duro Canyon, the Telford Unit, and the National Multicultural Western Heritage Museum. Whether you're a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or art lover, there's something for everyone on this unforgettable road trip between Amarillo and Dallas.