Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving from Amarillo, Texas to Roswell, New Mexico

Are you planning to take a road trip from Amarillo, Texas to Roswell, New Mexico? You're in for a treat! This route is full of mesmerizing landscapes, charming towns, and unique attractions that will make your journey unforgettable. From the vast plains of Texas to the desert terrain of New Mexico, each stop has something special to offer. To help you plan your trip, we've put together a list of the top places to see when driving from Amarillo, Texas to Roswell, New Mexico. Let's hit the road!

Explore the Best Places along the Amarillo to Roswell Route!

1. Cadillac Ranch - Amarillo, Texas

You can't visit Amarillo without stopping at the iconic Cadillac Ranch. Located on the historic Route 66, this roadside attraction features ten classic Cadillac cars buried nose-down in a field. Visitors are encouraged to bring spray paint cans and leave their mark on the cars, making it a colorful and interactive art installation. It's a must-visit destination for art lovers and anyone who wants to experience the thrill of spray painting a car.

2. Palo Duro Canyon State Park - Canyon, Texas

The Palo Duro Canyon State Park is one of the most scenic and underrated gems of Texas. As the second-largest canyon in the United States, it is also known as the "Grand Canyon of Texas." The park boasts of a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, camping, and rock climbing. Take a drive along the scenic route, and you'll see breathtaking views of the red cliffs and rock formations. Don't forget to catch the outdoor musical drama, "Texas," which is performed every summer.

3. Tucumcari, New Mexico

Stop for a break at Tucumcari, New Mexico, and travel back in time to the heyday of Route 66. The town is full of motels, restaurants, and shops that boast of neon signs and retro architecture. Take a walking tour of the town's murals that showcase the community's rich history and cultural heritage. You'll also find the Tucumcari Historical Museum that displays artifacts and memorabilia from the town's past.

4. White Sands National Park - Alamogordo, New Mexico

Head south from Tucumcari, and you'll end up in the mesmerizing landscape of the White Sands National Park. The park's awe-inspiring white gypsum sand dunes stretch out over 275 square miles, and you'll feel like you've landed on another planet. Take a hike, rent a sled, or go horseback riding on the dunes. Don't forget to catch a sunrise or a sunset; the light reflected on the white sands is breathtaking.

5. Roswell, New Mexico

Finally, you'll reach your destination, Roswell, New Mexico, famous for the 1947 UFO incident. Visit the International UFO Museum and Research Center, which provides detailed information on the incident, UFO sightings, and alien encounters. Relax at one of the town's many restaurants, breweries, and cafes, which boast of unique alien-themed décor.

Conclusion

Overall, a road trip from Amarillo, Texas, to Roswell, New Mexico, is a must-do for anyone who loves exploring the beauty, history, and culture of the Southwest. You'll see some of the most unique and mesmerizing landscapes, towns, and attractions that the region has to offer. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the journey!