Weekend in Amarillo: Top Things to Do — Palo Duro to Bomb City Distillery
Planning a weekend trip and wondering what to do in Amarillo, Texas? You’re in the right place. Amarillo has a way of surprising visitors with its mix of wild West history, breathtaking landscapes, and a rising food-and-drink culture that adds a fresh layer of excitement. While Palo Duro Canyon is often the first stop on any Amarillo itinerary, the crown jewel for a memorable evening is without question Bomb City Distillery — a local hotspot that has transformed the city’s nightlife with handcrafted spirits and Texas-inspired hospitality.
This blog will guide you through a perfect weekend in Amarillo, highlighting the must-see spots and showing you why no itinerary is complete without a tasting at Bomb City Distillery.
Starting Your Weekend: Morning at Palo Duro Canyon
Your Amarillo adventure should begin with the “Grand Canyon of Texas” — Palo Duro Canyon. Just 25 miles from the city, this natural wonder is the second-largest canyon in the United States. Whether you’re hiking the Lighthouse Trail, taking in the sweeping red-rock views, or catching the famed outdoor musical Texas during the summer, this place is a breathtaking reminder that Amarillo is more than just a stop on Route 66.
As you wander through Palo Duro’s rugged trails, keep in mind that Amarillo is a city of contrasts: natural beauty by day, urban flavour by night. Which is exactly why you’ll want to plan your evening at Bomb City Distillery, where Texas craftsmanship takes on an entirely new meaning.
Midday in Amarillo: Classic Local Stops
After the canyon, return to the city for a midday adventure. Amarillo offers quirky attractions that add charm to any weekend visit. Cadillac Ranch, with its spray-painted cars jutting out of the desert soil, is an Instagram must. The American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame and Museum showcases Amarillo’s equestrian heritage. And for art lovers, the downtown district offers murals and galleries that reflect Amarillo’s creative spirit.
These midday stops are fun, but they’re also a great lead-up to what truly sets Amarillo apart for adults looking for something memorable: its thriving distillery scene. If you’ve read our Ultimate 1-Day Itinerary in Amarillo, you already know how seamlessly Bomb City Distillery fits into any schedule.
Evening Highlight: Tasting at Bomb City Distillery
Now comes the moment your Amarillo weekend has been building toward — a visit to Bomb City Distillery. This isn’t just another stop; it’s the experience that makes your weekend unforgettable.
Bomb City Distillery is known for its handcrafted small-batch spirits that reflect Amarillo’s bold character. Whether it’s smooth whiskey, bright gin, or seasonal cocktails, each sip tells a story rooted in Texas craftsmanship. Visitors are welcomed into an atmosphere that blends industrial-chic design with warm, local hospitality.
For travellers searching “what to do in Amarillo Texas” after dark, the answer is clear: book a tasting or simply walk in to enjoy signature cocktails that put a modern twist on local flavours. You won’t just taste Amarillo; you’ll feel its soul in every pour.
Why Bomb City Distillery Is the Must-Do in Amarillo
You might wonder why a distillery stands out among so many Amarillo attractions. Here’s why Bomb City Distillery is more than just a bar:
Authentic Local Craftsmanship: Spirits are crafted on-site with attention to detail you can taste.
Atmosphere: It’s where Amarillo locals mingle with travellers, creating a truly welcoming environment.
Events and Tours: From guided tastings to special events, there’s always something happening to make your visit unique.
If you’re planning a longer trip or love the idea of exploring multiple distilleries, you’ll want to read our guide on how to plan a weekend getaway around distillery tours. It’s the perfect resource for turning Amarillo into a flavour-filled escape.
Making the Most of Your Weekend
When building your Amarillo itinerary, balance is key. Palo Duro Canyon gives you nature and adventure, Cadillac Ranch offers a touch of quirky Americana, and Bomb City Distillery ties it all together with flavour, relaxation, and nightlife energy. By combining these experiences, you’ll have a weekend that feels both adventurous and indulgent.
Here’s a simple breakdown of how your Amarillo weekend could look:
Morning: Explore Palo Duro Canyon trails.
Afternoon: Stop by Cadillac Ranch and downtown Amarillo art spots.
Evening: Settle into Bomb City Distillery for tastings, cocktails, and an atmosphere you won’t forget.
Why Amarillo Weekends Belong on Your Travel List
Amarillo is often underestimated as a travel destination, but that’s what makes it so special. It’s not crowded like other Texas cities, yet it offers experiences that are uniquely its own. When people search “what to do in Amarillo Texas,” they’re often surprised by just how much the city delivers.
Palo Duro Canyon connects you with nature, Cadillac Ranch gives you a taste of Amarillo’s creative spirit, and Bomb City Distillery immerses you in its evolving nightlife. Together, they create a weekend worth talking about long after you’ve left.
Amarillo is more than a quick stop along I-40 — it’s a destination where adventure, art, and craftsmanship meet. A weekend here should absolutely include Palo Duro Canyon and Cadillac Ranch, but no itinerary is complete without experiencing Bomb City Distillery.
So the next time someone asks you what to do in Amarillo, Texas, you’ll know exactly what to say: hike Palo Duro, snap photos at Cadillac Ranch, and raise a glass at Bomb City Distillery. It’s the perfect balance of Texas adventure and local flavour.
