Dumas Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, accommodations, food, and culture in Dumas, Texas with this comprehensive travel guide. From hiking and biking routes to local cuisine, find everything you need to plan your ideal adventure.


Introduction to Dumas

Dumas is located in the High Plains region of Texas, situated in the northwestern part of the state and close to the Oklahoma border. Named after Louis Dumas, a French-Canadian hunter who lived in the area in the mid-1800s, Dumas was originally a railroad town that grew into a thriving agricultural and oil-producing community. Today, Dumas boasts a rich history, picturesque scenery, and plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities.

List of Places to Visit in Dumas

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of Dumas’s biggest draws is its wealth of cultural and historical attractions. The town has several museums and historical sites that are worth checking out:

  • Window on the Plains Museum: Located in the historic district of Dumas, this museum chronicles the town’s history and showcases a variety of exhibits, including an old-time schoolhouse, farm equipment, and the impressive 1920s-era Dumas Hotel.
  • Bureau of Land Management Dumas/Moore County Rim and Shinnery Nature Trail: This 2.2-mile nature trail is located just south of Dumas and offers visitors the chance to explore the shinnery oak ecosystem unique to the area.
  • XIT Museum: This museum, located roughly 30 miles southwest of Dumas in Dalhart, showcases the history of the XIT Ranch, which once encompassed over 3 million acres of land in Texas and New Mexico. Visitors can see displays on ranch life, cowboys, and the cattle drives that defined the region’s history.

Natural Attractions of Dumas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For those who love the great outdoors, Dumas is the perfect destination. The town is surrounded by rolling hills and vast prairies, providing ample opportunities for outdoor adventures and scenic drives. Some of the must-visit natural attractions include:

  • Lake Meredith: A sprawling reservoir located about 40 miles north of Dumas, Lake Meredith is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming. Visitors can also hike or bike along the scenic trails that surround the lake.
  • Caprock Canyons State Park: Located roughly 90 miles southeast of Dumas, this state park is known for its stunning red-rock canyons, diverse wildlife, and hiking trails that lead visitors to picturesque vistas.
  • Palo Duro Canyon: Dubbed the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” Palo Duro Canyon is a breathtaking natural wonder located about an hour’s drive south of Dumas. Visitors can hike, bike, or horseback ride through the canyon or take in the stunning views from the scenic overlooks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dumas

Dumas and its surrounding areas offer several hiking and biking routes for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the best places to explore by foot or bike include:

  • The Rim Trail: This 4.8-mile trail is located south of Dumas and offers stunning views of the shinnery oak ecosystem. It’s a popular spot for hikers and birdwatchers.
  • The Greenbelt: This multi-use trail system runs through Dumas and its neighboring towns. The trail spans roughly 12 miles and is popular among hikers, cyclists, and joggers.
  • Palo Duro Canyon State Park: As one of the state’s most popular parks, Palo Duro Canyon boasts over 30 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. Visitors can explore the park’s scenic vistas and colorful rock formations on the park’s many trails.

Best Things to Do in Dumas: Activities and Tours

Dumas offers visitors a wide range of activities and tours. Some of the best things to do when visiting the town include:

  • Visit the Window on the Plains Museum: This museum provides a fascinating glimpse into Dumas’s history and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the town’s past.
  • Explore the Dumas/Moore County Rim: This nature trail offers visitors the chance to see the unique shinnery oak ecosystem and spot a variety of birds and other wildlife.
  • Take a Scenic Drive: Dumas and its surrounding areas boast picturesque scenery and plenty of opportunities for scenic drives. Visitors can explore the area on the various backcountry roads that wind through the countryside.
  • Attend the Dogie Days Festival: This annual festival, held in August, is a celebration of Dumas’s western heritage and features rodeo events, a parade, and plenty of fun activities for the whole family.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dumas

For visitors who want to get the most out of their trip to Dumas, here’s a sample week-long itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Window on the Plains Museum and explore downtown Dumas
Day 2 Hike the Rim Trail and spot some wildlife
Day 3 Take a scenic drive and visit Lake Meredith
Day 4 Visit the XIT Museum in Dalhart
Day 5 Explore Palo Duro Canyon and hike some of the park’s many trails
Day 6 Attend a local rodeo or festival
Day 7 Relax and enjoy some of Dumas’s local cuisine and shopping opportunities

Food and Drink Scene of Dumas

Dumas may be a small town, but it offers plenty of fantastic dining options for visitors. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Steaks: As a town situated in the heart of cattle country, it’s no surprise that Dumas is home to several great steak houses. Some of the best options include the Red Top Steakhouse and Kountry Kitchen.
  • Barbecue: Texas is known for its delicious barbecue, and Dumas is no exception. Visitors can enjoy smoked brisket, ribs, and other mouthwatering dishes at spots like Smokey Joe’s Barbecue and Mesquite Wood BBQ.
  • Tex-Mex: Dumas’s proximity to the Mexican border means visitors can indulge in some delicious Tex-Mex cuisine. Some of the best options include the Hidalgo Grill and Cattle Exchange Steakhouse and Mexican Grill.

Local Beverages

Visitors to Dumas can also enjoy a variety of local beverages, including:

  • Craft Beer: Dumas has its own craft brewery: Dumas Station Brewing. Visitors can enjoy a range of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and seasonal offerings.
  • Wine: Texas is home to several award-winning wineries, and visitors to Dumas can sample some of the state’s best wines at spots like Gillis Winery and Vineyards and Bar Z Winery.

Where to Stay in Dumas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

When it comes to accommodations, Dumas offers a variety of options for visitors. Some of the best places to stay include:

  • Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites: This hotel is located in central Dumas and offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as a fitness center and indoor pool.
  • La Quinta Inn & Suites Dumas: This hotel offers affordable rates and plenty of amenities, including free breakfast, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center.
  • Best Western Windsor Inn: This hotel is located just a short drive from downtown Dumas and offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as an indoor pool and hot tub.

What to Buy in Dumas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When it comes to shopping in Dumas, visitors can find a variety of unique souvenirs and local products, including:

  • Western Gear: Dumas’s western heritage is on full display at local shops like Cowtown Western Wear and Boots. Visitors can find everything from cowboy hats to boots and western apparel.
  • Artwork: Local art galleries like The Gallery on 6th showcase the work of talented Texas artists and offer visitors the chance to take home a one-of-a-kind piece of art.
  • Local Treats: Visitors to Dumas can also stock up on local treats like pecans, salsas, and homemade jams and jellies at spots like Ellwood’s Country Store and Texas 4-Star Outfitters.

Local Culture and Customs of Dumas

When visiting Dumas, it’s important to be aware of the town’s unique culture and customs. Some things to keep in mind include:

  • Western Heritage: Dumas is proud of its western heritage, and visitors should be respectful of this aspect of the town’s culture.
  • Friendliness: Texans are known for their friendliness, and this is certainly true of the residents of Dumas. Visitors can expect a warm welcome and plenty of hospitality.
  • Religious Traditions: As a predominantly Christian town, visitors should expect to see plenty of churches and religious symbols throughout Dumas.

Best Time to Visit Dumas

The best time to visit Dumas is between March and November, when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are in full swing. Summers can be hot and dry, so visitors should be prepared for high temperatures. Winters can be cold, with occasional snowfall, but the town is still a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dumas

Do:

  • Explore the Outdoors: Dumas is surrounded by picturesque scenery, and visitors should take advantage of the town’s many outdoor recreational opportunities.
  • Try the Local Cuisine: Dumas has a fantastic food scene, and visitors should sample some of the town’s delicious barbecue, Tex-Mex cuisine, and craft beer.
  • Learn About the Local Culture: Dumas has a rich history and culture, and visitors should take the time to explore the town’s many cultural and historical attractions.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Visitors should respect Dumas’s natural beauty and avoid littering or damaging the town’s natural resources.
  • Be Disrespectful: Visitors should be respectful of Dumas’s residents and avoid making derogatory or insensitive comments about the town’s culture or customs.
  • Trespass: Visitors should respect private property and avoid trespassing on land or property that doesn’t belong to them.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dumas

Dumas is a safe town with low crime rates. Visitors should take the same precautions they would in any unfamiliar place and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight or walking alone at night.

Health in Dumas

Dumas has several medical providers, including Dumas Family Health Clinic and Moore County Hospital. Visitors with pre-existing conditions should bring all necessary medications with them, and travelers should take precautions to avoid tick bites during the warmer months.

Getting to Dumas: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Dumas

The nearest airports to Dumas are Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport, located approximately 55 miles south of Dumas, and Liberal Mid-America Regional Airport, located approximately 95 miles north of Dumas.

Bus Stations Near Dumas

Dumas is served by Greyhound Bus Lines, with a station located downtown.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Dumas, with major highways including US Route 87 and State Route 152.

How to Get Around in Dumas

Dumas is a small town, and visitors can easily explore it on foot or by bike. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available for those who need them.

Where to Go Next from Dumas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

For those who want to continue their adventure in Texas, there are several nearby destinations and excursions worth visiting:

  • Amarillo: Located just 55 miles south of Dumas, Amarillo is a hub of activity with a bustling downtown and fascinating cultural attractions.
  • Palo Duro Canyon State Park: As mentioned earlier, this state park is a must-see for visitors to Dumas.
  • Route 66: The historic Route 66 is a short drive from Dumas, and visitors can explore the famous landmarks and attractions along this iconic stretch of highway.

Conclusion

Dumas may be a small town, but it offers big opportunities for outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and fun-filled activities. Whether you’re interested in hiking and biking, trying local cuisine, or learning about the town’s history and culture, Dumas has something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can plan their ideal adventure and make the most of their trip to this charming Texas town.

Street in downtown Dumas Street in downtown Dumas