Planning a trip to the Texas Panhandle often leads people to the same question: what to do in Amarillo Texas if you only have one day? This vibrant city is more than a quick pit stop on I-40 or a quirky Route 66 highlight. With a mix of natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and a buzzing local food-and-drink scene, Amarillo can easily fill a day with memorable moments. And to make that day truly special, you’ll want to end it with a handcrafted tasting at Bomb City Distillery — Amarillo’s own small-batch distillery that gives travelers a real taste of the city.

Below is the ultimate one-day itinerary designed for first-time visitors who want to see the iconic sights, enjoy authentic Texas flavor, and cap it all off with an unforgettable distillery experience.

Morning: Start with the Texas Sunrise at Palo Duro Canyon

No Amarillo itinerary is complete without Palo Duro Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Texas.” Just a 30-minute drive from downtown, this state park greets early risers with breathtaking views and colorful sunrise skies. Spend a couple of hours hiking one of the shorter trails, like the Lighthouse Trail, or enjoy a leisurely picnic breakfast with panoramic views.

If your time is limited, even a scenic drive through the canyon provides plenty of photo opportunities. By starting here, you’ll capture the outdoor essence of Amarillo before moving on to its city highlights.

Mid-Morning: Route 66 Historic District

After the canyon, head back into town and stroll the Route 66 Historic District. This stretch is lined with antique shops, art galleries, and vintage neon signs that make it feel like a step back in time. It’s one of the best places to snap iconic photos, hunt for unique souvenirs, and get a sense of Amarillo’s personality.

Grab a light snack or coffee here to fuel up before continuing your adventure. Don’t linger too long, though — the afternoon is when Amarillo’s cultural flavor really starts to shine.

Early Afternoon: Cadillac Ranch

One of the quirkiest stops in Texas, Cadillac Ranch is a must-see for travelers wondering what to do in Amarillo Texas that’s truly unique. The half-buried Cadillacs, painted and repainted by visitors from all over the world, stand in the middle of a field just west of town. Bring a can of spray paint if you’d like to leave your own colorful mark.

It’s a quick stop but an essential part of Amarillo’s identity — fun, offbeat, and endlessly creative.

Late Afternoon: Downtown Amarillo and Bomb City Distillery

After a morning packed with sightseeing, it’s time to slow down and savor Amarillo at its finest. Head downtown, where you’ll find art murals, boutique shops, and — most importantly — Bomb City Distillery, the city’s only locally owned and operated craft distillery.

This is more than just a drink stop. A visit to Bomb City is a hands-on way to experience Amarillo’s creativity and craftsmanship. The distillery produces small-batch vodka and whiskey that reflect the spirit of the Panhandle. Tours take you behind the scenes, showing how raw ingredients are transformed into smooth, carefully balanced spirits. Tastings let you sample these creations, and the cocktail menu features signature drinks you won’t find anywhere else.

To make the most of your stop, check out the Insider Tips for Scoring VIP Spots on Popular Distillery Tours before you go. These tips help ensure you book the best time slot, avoid crowds, and experience the distillery in the most immersive way possible.

Evening: Dinner, Drinks, and Nightlife

Once you’ve enjoyed your distillery tour and tasting, it’s time to wrap up your Amarillo adventure with a hearty dinner. The city is famous for its steakhouses — The Big Texan is an iconic choice — but Amarillo also offers cozy bistros and lively Tex-Mex spots. After dinner, you can return to Bomb City’s cocktail lounge for a nightcap or explore live music venues scattered around downtown.

If you’re planning a weekend trip, you might even build your itinerary around multiple tours, as explained in How to Plan a Weekend Getaway Around Multiple Distillery Tours. It’s a smart way to see more of Amarillo’s growing craft scene while still enjoying the outdoor and cultural attractions.

Why Bomb City Distillery Belongs on Every Amarillo Itinerary

You might wonder why a distillery should be part of a list of what to do in Amarillo Texas when the city already has so many iconic sights. The answer is simple: Bomb City Distillery represents the beating heart of local culture. Palo Duro Canyon shows you the landscape, Cadillac Ranch gives you the art, and Route 66 reveals the history — but Bomb City lets you taste the city itself.

Unlike chain restaurants or generic bars, Bomb City is unique to Amarillo. It’s a gathering place where locals and visitors connect, where cocktails are crafted with the same care as the distillation process, and where every sip carries a sense of place. For travelers who want a complete picture of Amarillo in just one day, skipping this experience would leave a major gap.

Tips for Maximizing Your Amarillo Day Trip

Book Your Distillery Tour in Advance: Visit Bomb City Distillery to reserve your spot, especially if you’re visiting on weekends.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking in the canyon, the Route 66 district, and downtown.
Plan for Weather: The Panhandle can be unpredictable, so pack sunscreen, a hat, and a light jacket.
Leave Room in Your Schedule: Amarillo has a way of surprising you with spontaneous art shows, live music, or local events — especially downtown near the distillery.

Wrapping Up Your 1-Day Amarillo Itinerary

So, what to do in Amarillo Texas if you only have one day? Start with the breathtaking landscapes of Palo Duro Canyon, soak in the history and quirkiness of Route 66 and Cadillac Ranch, then head downtown for the cultural highlight of your trip — Bomb City Distillery. Whether you join a guided tour, relax with a handcrafted cocktail, or take home a bottle of small-batch vodka, you’ll leave with a memory that captures Amarillo’s true flavor.

This itinerary balances outdoor adventure, local history, and vibrant nightlife while giving Bomb City Distillery its rightful place as the capstone to your day. By the time you leave, you’ll have more than photos of painted Cadillacs and canyon sunsets — you’ll have tasted Amarillo itself.

What to Do in Amarillo, Texas: The Ultimate 1-Day Itinerary (with a Bomb City Distillery Tasting)