McLean Travel Guide
This comprehensive guide to McLean, Texas highlights the best things to do, see, and eat in this small town, as well as essential travel tips and advice.
- A Comprehensive Travel Guide to McLean, Texas
- List of Places to Visit in McLean
- Hiking/Biking Routes of McLean
- Best Things to Do in McLean: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for McLean
- Food and Drink Scene of McLean
- Where to Stay in McLean: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in McLean: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of McLean
- Best Time to Visit McLean
- Do’s and Don’ts of McLean
- Safety and Health
- Getting to McLean: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in McLean
- Where to Go Next from McLean: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
A Comprehensive Travel Guide to McLean, Texas
Located in the High Plains of the Texas Panhandle, McLean is a small town with a big heart. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and array of cultural attractions, there are plenty of reasons to visit this charming community. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, McLean has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll highlight the best things to do, see, and eat, as well as essential travel tips and advice for your trip to McLean.
List of Places to Visit in McLean
This list features some of the top attractions in and around McLean, which are categorized into culturally important attractions, natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, tours, week-long itinerary, food and drink scene, where to stay, what to buy, local customs, best time to visit, do’s and don’ts, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations and excursions.
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
McLean is home to several museums and historical places that offer visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the area.
Devil’s Rope Museum
Situated in the middle of the Texas Panhandle, the Devil’s Rope Museum tells the fascinating story of barbed wire. Visitors can learn about the history of barbed wire, explore exhibits showcasing different types of wire, and enjoy an outdoor display of over 500 barbed wire varieties.
Historic McLean Main Street
A trip to McLean is not complete without a visit to the historic downtown area. Main Street is home to several buildings and landmarks that reflect the town’s fascinating history, such as the Phillips 66 gas station and the I-40 Rattler monument.
Texas Route 66 Museum
Texas Route 66 Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in McLean. Exhibits showcase the history of Route 66 in Texas, including vintage cars and cabins, signs, and several exhibits that explore the golden age of Route 66.
Natural Attractions of McLean: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
In addition to its cultural attractions, McLean is well-known for its stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking scenery or outdoor adventures, there are plenty of things to see and do in and around McLean.
Mesalands Dinosaur Museum
Mesalands Dinosaur Museum offers visitors the chance to explore the history of the area through prehistoric fossils and dinosaur skeletons. Visitors can take a guided tour or browse exhibits on their own.
Red River Valley
The Red River Valley is one of the most picturesque areas of the Texas Panhandle. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives and hiking trails, or stop and admire the stunning views of the river.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Palo Duro Canyon State Park is the second-largest canyon in the United States and one of the most popular natural attractions in the Texas Panhandle. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, hiking trails, and camping opportunities.
Hiking/Biking Routes of McLean
McLean has miles of trails and routes that are perfect for hiking and biking enthusiasts.
Caprock Coulee Trail
The Caprock Coulee Trail is an easy to moderate two-mile hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding canyons and mesas.
Black Kettle Trail
The Black Kettle Trail is a 13-mile moderate to advanced biking trail that winds through the rugged terrain of the Black Kettle Grasslands.
Best Things to Do in McLean: Activities and Tours
There are plenty of things to do and see in McLean, no matter what your interests or hobbies may be.
Route 66 Motorcycle Tours
Route 66 Motorcycle Tours offers guided tours along the famous Route 66. Visitors can choose from several tour options, such as a guided tour of the historic Route 66 in Texas or a tour of Route 66 attractions across the country.
Wine Tasting at Red River Winery
Red River Winery is a local favorite, offering some of the best wines in the Texas Panhandle. Visitors can taste an array of wines and sample gourmet cheeses, sausages, and crackers in the cozy tasting room.
Antique Shopping
McLean is home to several antique shops, where visitors can browse an array of unique and vintage items. The McLean Antique Mall is a popular option, boasting over 10,000 square feet of antiques and collectibles.
Week-Long Itinerary for McLean
If you’re planning a week-long trip to McLean, here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your visit.
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Explore Main Street and visit the Devil’s Rope Museum |
| Day 2 | Hike the Caprock Coulee Trail |
| Day 3 | Take a guided tour of Route 66 |
| Day 4 | Visit Palo Duro Canyon State Park and Mesalands Dinosaur |
| Day 5 | Experience the local food and drink scene in McLean |
| Day 6 | Shop for souvenirs and relax in McLean’s parks |
| Day 7 | Visit the Texas Route 66 Museum and Black Kettle Trail |
Food and Drink Scene of McLean
McLean is home to an array of local eateries and restaurants that serve up delicious food and drinks.
Must-Try Dishes
Chicken Fried Steak
The chicken fried steak is a Texas classic, and McLean does it right. The 66 Nut House Café serves up a delicious version of this local favorite.
Barbecue
Texas is known for its barbecue, and McLean is no exception. Smokin’ Joe’s BBQ serves up some of the best brisket, ribs, and pulled pork around.
Local Beverages
Red River Valley Winery
The Red River Valley Winery features an array of locally made wines, including chardonnay, merlot, and shiraz.
McLean Coffee Company
The McLean Coffee Company is a cozy café that serves up a range of coffee drinks, as well as pastries and other light bites.
Where to Stay in McLean: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
From hotels to hostels, McLean has several options for travelers looking for comfortable accommodations.
Red River Inn
The Red River Inn is a historic hotel that offers comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and a charming atmosphere.
The Cactus Inn
The Cactus Inn is a budget-friendly option that offers clean rooms and basic amenities.
What to Buy in McLean: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
There are plenty of unique souvenirs and local products available in McLean.
Route 66 Memorabilia
McLean is located on the historic Route 66, and visitors can find an array of Route 66 memorabilia, ranging from postcards and stickers to vintage signs and license plates.
Barbed Wire Art
The Devil’s Rope Museum features an array of barbed wire art, including sculptures and other unique creations made from barbed wire.
Local Culture and Customs of McLean
McLean is a friendly town with a laid-back atmosphere. Visitors should always be respectful of local customs and traditions, which include an appreciation for the area’s rich history and natural beauty.
Best Time to Visit McLean
The best time to visit McLean is in the spring when the weather is mild and the wildflowers are in bloom. However, McLean’s charm is year-round, making it a great destination any time of the year.
Do’s and Don’ts of McLean
Do:
- Visit the local museums and historical sites
- Explore the town’s natural beauty and hiking trails
- Enjoy the local food and drink scene
Don’t:
- Swim or fish in the area’s rivers and streams without proper permits
- Litter or damage the environment
- Be disrespectful of local customs and traditions
Safety and Health
Safety in McLean
McLean is a safe destination, but visitors should always take the necessary precautions, such as keeping their belongings secure and being aware of their surroundings.
Health in McLean
Visitors should always stay hydrated and protect themselves from the sun when exploring the area’s natural beauty.
Getting to McLean: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near McLean
The closest airport to McLean is Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport, which is located approximately 80 miles away.
Bus Stations Near McLean
Greyhound has a bus station in Amarillo, which is located approximately 80 miles away from McLean.
Other Options
Visitors can also reach McLean by car or motorcycle via Interstate 40.
How to Get Around in McLean
McLean is a small town, and most of the attractions and activities can be reached by foot.
Where to Go Next from McLean: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Visitors to McLean can explore nearby destinations and excursions, such as the Palo Duro Canyon State Park and the city of Amarillo.
Conclusion
McLean offers visitors a unique glimpse into the history, culture, and natural beauty of the Texas Panhandle. From its museums and historical sites to its stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures, McLean has something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a week-long trip or just passing through, McLean is a destination that should not be missed.
