Groom Travel Guide

Discover everything you need to know for a trip to Groom, a charming town located in Texas Panhandle. Learn about the best things to do, where to stay, and local culture and customs.


Introduction to Groom

Nestled in Texas Panhandle, Groom is a small, charming town worth exploring. From its stunning natural scenery to rich cultural heritage, Groom offers a lot of fantastic experiences for visitors. In this guide, we take a closer look at the places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and where to eat in Groom.

List of Places to Visit in Groom

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, Groom has something to offer. Here are some places that you should definitely add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Groom Cross: The Groom Cross is an iconic landmark located right off of Route 66. The towering metal cross stands at 190 feet, making it one of the tallest in the Western Hemisphere. It is lit up at night, creating a striking sight.
  • Britten Leaning Water Tower: This water tower has become a popular destination for travelers along Route 66. It leans at a 10-degree angle, providing an excellent photo-op.
  • Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ: Located just 10 minutes from Groom, the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ is a massive cross made of steel. It stands at 19 stories tall and is visible across the town.

Natural Attractions of Groom: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Palo Duro Canyon State Park: Known as the ‘Grand Canyon of Texas’, this State Park is located just outside of Amarillo and boasts stunning views of the canyon. Here you can go hiking, biking, or horseback riding, or simply enjoy a scenic drive through the canyon.
  • Lake Greenbelt: Located just a few miles from Groom, Lake Greenbelt is a perfect spot for fishing, boating, and swimming. The lake offers several parks and picnic spots, making it an ideal family destination.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Groom

If you’re looking for some outdoor adventure, Groom has several hiking and biking trails. Here are some of our favorites:

  • Comanche Trail: A 5-mile hike through the Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Comanche Trail offers some of the most scenic views in the area.
  • Lake Greenbelt Nature Trail: A 2-mile trail that circles the lake, this easy hike offers stunning views of the water and surrounding countryside.
  • Givens, Spicer & Lowry Running Trail: This 10-mile trail winds through the rugged terrain of Palo Duro Canyon, providing stunning views of the park’s unique rock formations.

Best Things to Do in Groom: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are plenty of other activities and tours that you can take in Groom.

  • Route 66: Groom is a must-visit for any Route 66 enthusiast. The town is located along the historic route, providing a glimpse into the past.
  • The Cadillac Ranch: Located in Amarillo, just a short drive from Groom, the Cadillac Ranch is a unique art installation featuring 10 colorful Cadillac cars buried nose-first in the ground.
  • Brewery Tours: Groom has several breweries that offer tours so that visitors can learn about the brewing process while sampling some of the local drafts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Groom

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Groom, here’s what we suggest:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Groom Cross, Britten Leaning Water Tower, and Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ
Day 2 Explore Palo Duro Canyon State Park and go hiking or biking
Day 3 Visit Lake Greenbelt and enjoy water activities and picnics
Day 4 Take a Route 66 tour and visit the unique attractions along the way
Day 5 Visit Amarillo and see the Cadillac Ranch
Day 6 Take a brewery tour and try some local drafts
Day 7 Rest and relax in one of Groom’s charming Bed and Breakfasts

Food and Drink Scene of Groom

Groom has several excellent restaurants and bars that offer a range of cuisines and drinks. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicken Fried Steak: A classic Southern comfort food that you must try while in Groom. Many local restaurants offer their version of this dish.
  • Barbecue: Texas is known for its barbecue, and Groom is no exception. Try one of the local BBQ joints for some mouth-watering meat cooked low and slow.

Local Beverages

  • Texas Wine: Groom is located in the Texas Panhandle, which has several wineries and vineyards. Try a local wine at one of the area tasting rooms or pair it with your meal.
  • Texas Beer: Groom has several local breweries that produce a variety of beers. Try some of their unique brews while on your brewery tour.

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

Groom has several accommodation options, including hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • The Bed & Breakfast at Calico Cottage: This charming B&B offers cozy rooms, homemade breakfast, and lovely garden views.
  • Best Western Plus: Located near the Groom Cross, the Best Western Plus offers comfortable rooms, free breakfast, and a fitness center.

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

Groom has several shops and boutiques that offer unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some things you should consider bringing home:

  • Route 66 memorabilia: Groom is located on Route 66, making it an excellent place to buy souvenirs related to the historic route.
  • Texas Wine: As mentioned before, Groom is located near several vineyards and wineries, making it a perfect place to purchase Texas wine.
  • Local Crafts: Groom has several artisan shops that specialize in local handmade crafts such as pottery, woodworking, and jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Groom

Groom has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its art, architecture, and cuisine. The locals are friendly and hospitable, and you should feel welcome while exploring the town.

Best Time to Visit Groom

The best time to visit Groom is between March and May when the weather is mild, and the wildflowers are in bloom. Fall can also be a great time to visit as the temperatures are cooler. However, if you prefer warmer weather, visit during the summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Groom

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and drink.
  • Visit the outdoor attractions and parks.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural attractions
  • Ignore safety warnings while cutting across local hikes.
  • engage with the local wildlife without proper guidance.

Safety and Health

Safety in Groom

Groom is a generally safe town, but visitors should take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. It’s essential to be vigilant in areas known for petty theft, especially in crowded tourist spots.

Health in Groom

There are no major health concerns in Groom, but visitors should take precautions when hiking, such as bringing plenty of water and sunscreen and wearing appropriate clothing.

Getting to Groom: Transportation Options and Logistics

Groom is located off of Interstate 40 and is easily accessible by car. Here are some other transportation options:

Airports Near Groom

The closest major airport to Groom is the Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport, located approximately 40 miles away from Groom.

Bus Stations Near Groom

Greyhound Bus Lines has a bus station in Amarillo, which is located approximately 40 miles away from Groom.

Other Options

There are several car rental agencies in Amarillo, making it a great place to rent a car for your trip.

How to Get Around Groom

The best way to get around Groom is by car. Rent a car or drive your own to explore all that the town has to offer. Some attractions may also offer shuttle services, so be sure to ask at your accommodation or the visitor centers.

Where to Go Next from Groom: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Groom is located in the Texas Panhandle and is near many other great destinations. Here are some nearby cities and attractions that you can visit:

  • Amarillo: Just a 40-minute drive from Groom lies Amarillo, a bustling city known for its outdoor activities and art scene.
  • Lubbock: Located a 2-hour drive from Groom, Lubbock is home to many museums, galleries, and music venues.
  • Palo Duro Canyon State Park: Just a short distance from Groom, Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers many more trails, camping options & wildlife.

Conclusion

Groom is a charming town full of history, natural beauty, and friendly people. Whether you’re interested in hiking, wildlife, culture, or food, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest. Use this guide to help plan your visit, and you’ll surely have a trip to remember.

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