Texas Panhandle Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Texas Panhandle, USA. Explore the rich cultural heritage, natural attractions, and hiking/biking routes of this hidden gem in West Texas.


Introduction to Texas Panhandle

Located in the westernmost part of Texas, USA, Texas Panhandle is a region that boasts a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Spanning over 26,000 square miles, the region is home to great plains, rolling hills, rugged canyons, and sweeping vistas. From unique museums and historical sites to outdoor adventures and scenic drives, Texas Panhandle has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Texas Panhandle

Whether you’re looking to explore the cultural heritage or enjoy outdoor activities, Texas Panhandle has plenty of attractions to offer. Here are some of the must-visit places in the region:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum: Located in Canyon, TX, this museum is dedicated to showcasing the cultural and historical heritage of Texas Panhandle. The museum boasts over 2 million artifacts, including rare fossils, Native American artifacts, and 19th-century firearms.

  • Texas Air & Space Museum: Located in Amarillo, TX, this museum showcases the history of aviation and space exploration.

  • National Ranching Heritage Center: Located in Lubbock, TX, this museum celebrates the history of ranching in Texas.

Natural Attractions of Texas Panhandle: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Palo Duro Canyon State Park: Located in Canyon, TX, Palo Duro Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the United States. The park offers plenty of hiking and biking trails, horseback riding, and camping opportunities.

  • Caprock Canyons State Park & Trailway: Located in Quitaque, TX, this park offers stunning scenic views and outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

  • Lake Meredith National Recreation Area: Located in Fritch, TX, this reservoir offers plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Texas Panhandle

Texas Panhandle offers some of the best hiking and biking routes in Texas. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  • Lighthouse Trail: Located in Palo Duro Canyon State Park, this 6-mile round-trip trail offers stunning views of the park’s iconic Lighthouse rock formation.

  • Caprock Canyons Trailway: This 64-mile trail runs through the Caprock Canyons State Park and connects to the trail systems of three other parks in the region.

  • Paso Por Aqui Trail: Located in the Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument, this short trail offers a glimpse into the ancient history of Texas.

Best Things to Do in Texas Panhandle: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Texas Panhandle offers plenty of other activities to keep you entertained. Here are some of the best things to do in the region:

  • Helicopter Tours: Take a scenic helicopter tour of Palo Duro Canyon or other scenic areas of Texas Panhandle.

  • Horseback Riding: Go on a guided horseback ride through the canyons and plains of Texas Panhandle.

  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: Get a bird’s eye view of the region with a hot air balloon ride.

Week-Long Itinerary for Texas Panhandle

If you’re planning to spend a week in Texas Panhandle, here’s a sample itinerary to make the most of your trip:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum and Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Day 2 Explore the Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument and Lake Meredith National Recreation Area
Day 3 Take a guided horseback ride through the Caprock Canyons State Park & Trailway
Day 4 Visit the Texas Air & Space Museum and the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum
Day 5 Go on a hot air balloon ride followed by a visit to the Don Harrington Discovery Center
Day 6 Explore the National Ranching Heritage Center in Lubbock and enjoy live music at Amarillo’s outdoor concerts
Day 7 Visit the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo before bidding farewell to the Texas Panhandle

Food and Drink Scene of Texas Panhandle

Texas Panhandle is known for its hearty cuisine and local delicacies. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in the region:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Calf Fries: Also known as mountain oysters, calf fries are deep-fried bull testicles, a unique delicacy of Texas Panhandle.

  • Barbecue: Texas-style barbecue is a must-try when in the region.

  • Chicken Fried Steak: This dish is a popular comfort food in Texas, often served with gravy and mashed potatoes.

Local Beverages

  • Texas Wines: Texas Panhandle is home to several award-winning wineries, producing a variety of wines.

  • Beer: The region has a booming craft beer scene, with several microbreweries producing their own unique brews.

Where to Stay in Texas Panhandle: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels or budget-friendly hostels, Texas Panhandle has plenty of options. Here are some of the best places to stay in the region:

  • Historic 1927 Phillips Hotel in downtown Borger
  • The Big Texan Motel in Amarillo
  • Courtyard Marriott in Amarillo
  • Staybridge Suites in Midtown
  • The Downtowner in Lubbock

What to Buy in Texas Panhandle: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to bring back home, here are some of the best options:

  • Texas Barbecue Sauce
  • Alibates Flint Artifacts
  • Texas-themed T-Shirts and Hats
  • Texas Panhandle Sticker and Magnets

Local Culture and Customs of Texas Panhandle

Texas Panhandle has a unique culture, heavily influenced by its Western and Native American heritage. The region is known for its cowboy culture, traditional ranching practices, and friendly hospitality. Some of the common customs in the region include:

  • Respect for Elders: Elders are held in high regard in the region, and their advice and opinions are often sought.

  • Neighborhood Barbecue: Regular neighborhood barbecues are a common custom in Texas Panhandle, where residents gather to socialize and enjoy traditional barbecue dishes.

Best Time to Visit Texas Panhandle

The best time to visit Texas Panhandle is from March to May and from September to November when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thinner. Summers can get scorching hot, while winters can be bitterly cold, so plan accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Texas Panhandle

Do:

  • Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of the local customs and traditions of Texas Panhandle.

  • Explore the Outdoors: Texas Panhandle offers some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the state, so make sure to explore the outdoors.

  • Try the Local Food and Drinks: Texas Panhandle is known for its unique culinary scene, so make sure to try the local delicacies and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Keep the region clean and do not litter.

  • Trespass: Be respectful of private property and do not trespass.

  • Disturb Wildlife: Respect the local wildlife and do not disturb them.

Safety and Health

Safety in Texas Panhandle

Overall, Texas Panhandle is a safe region to visit. However, some parts of the region are prone to tornadoes and thunderstorms, especially during the summer months. Make sure to check weather updates and take necessary precautions.

Health in Texas Panhandle

Texas Panhandle has several hospitals and medical facilities, but medical emergencies can be costly, so make sure to get adequate travel insurance. Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever are also prevalent in the region, so take precautions against ticks and other insects.

Getting to Texas Panhandle: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Texas Panhandle

  • Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport
  • Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport
  • Midland International Air & Space Port

Bus Stations Near Texas Panhandle

  • Greyhound Bus Station in Amarillo
  • Greyhound Bus Station in Lubbock

Other Options

  • Amtrak operates a train service between Chicago and Los Angeles, with stops in several cities in Texas.

  • Driving: Texas Panhandle is easily accessible by road, with several major highways running through the region.

How to Get Around in Texas Panhandle

The best way to explore Texas Panhandle is by car. However, taxi services and ride-sharing apps are also available in the larger cities.

Where to Go Next from Texas Panhandle: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to explore other destinations after Texas Panhandle, here are some nearby options:

  • Abilene, TX: This city is located about 3 hours south of Lubbock and is known for its Frontier Texas museum and Abilene Zoo.

  • Oklahoma City, OK: Located just over 4 hours northeast of Amarillo, Oklahoma City is known for its cowboy culture, museums, and entertainment scene.

  • Santa Fe, NM: Located about 5 hours northwest of Amarillo, Santa Fe is known for its unique arts and culture scene, outdoor activities, and rich history.

Conclusion

Texas Panhandle is a hidden gem in West Texas, waiting to be explored. From stunning natural landscapes to unique cultural attractions, the region has something for every type of traveler. With this comprehensive travel guide, you are all set to plan your next adventure to this beautiful part of Texas!

Palo Duro Canyon Palo Duro Canyon Panhandle region of Texas Panhandle region of Texas U.S. Route 287 in North Texas U.S. Route 287 in North Texas


    High Plains
    Llano Estacado
    North Central Plains
    Northern Edwards Plateau