5 Fantastic Tours & Things To Do In Amarillo

Amarillo is a surprising city that’s more than just a stop along historic Route 66. It offers a mix of outdoor adventures, quirky attractions, and local history that makes it a fun place to explore. We particularly like the Amarillo, Palo Duro Canyon and Route 66 Day Trip for its combination of stunning scenery and cultural highlights.

This tour takes you to the most visited sights in Amarillo, including the impressive Palo Duro Canyon and nostalgic Route 66 landmarks. It’s a great way to experience the area’s natural beauty and historic charm in one day.

While Amarillo’s outdoor offerings shine, the city also offers creative ways to explore its streets, such as scavenger hunts that turn sightseeing into a game. Whether you’re up for a guided day trip or a self-guided challenge, there’s something here for every traveler.

Below, we’ve rounded up the best tours and activities with practical insights to help you choose what fits your interests and schedule.

Quick Overview

Our list covers a variety of tours and things to do in Amarillo, including a comprehensive day trip to Palo Duro Canyon and Route 66 (Tour #1), several engaging scavenger hunts like the Amarillo Art & Elms and Amazing Amarillo, as well as more casual, app-based adventures like Operation City Quest and Wacky Walks. Keep reading to find out what makes each one special.

1. Amarillo, Palo Duro Canyon and Route 66 Day Trip

At number 1, this day trip is the only comprehensive tour in Amarillo offering a set itinerary that hits both natural and historic highlights. Priced at $779.23 for a group of up to 10 people, it’s ideal for families or small groups wanting an all-inclusive experience in about six hours. The tour kicks off in Downtown Amarillo, where you’ll see historic buildings and learn about the city’s roots.

From there, the journey takes you to Palo Duro Canyon, known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” where you get to walk and explore the Big Cave and Goodnight’s Dugout—both fascinating glimpses into the area’s rugged past. The canyon visit includes light hiking, with opportunities to shop at gift shops and enjoy the scenic views.

The itinerary also includes a stop in Canyon, TX for lunch and shopping in Canyon Square, offering a taste of local life. The final stop is the iconic Cadillac Ranch, where you can add your own spray paint art to the vintage cars.

Reviewers praise the guide’s deep knowledge and the mix of outdoor and cultural experiences, with one calling it “very informative and fun.” This tour is best suited for travelers who want a mix of history, outdoor adventure, and iconic photo ops—all in one day.

Bottom Line: It’s a hassle-free, well-rounded tour that covers Amarillo’s must-sees in a single trip, perfect for those who want a guided experience that combines scenery and storytelling.

2. Self-Guided Amarillo Scavenger Hunt: Amarillo Art & Elms

Number 2 on our list is the Self-Guided Amarillo Scavenger Hunt, priced at just over $12 per person. This app-led tour lasts about two hours and offers a flexible way to explore Amarillo’s art scene and its famous elms.

It’s ideal for history buffs, art lovers, or anyone wanting a different perspective on the city. You’ll receive digital photos of your discoveries and solve clues while walking from one hidden gem to another.

What makes this hunt distinctive is its focus on local art pieces, historic buildings, and unique elm trees scattered around the city. It’s perfect for a small group or family looking for a relaxed, interactive outing that doesn’t require a reservation. Because it’s self-paced, you can pause for photos or snacks whenever you like.

Reviewers appreciate how this hunt reveals Amarillo’s secrets without the pressure of a formal tour. It’s a clever, affordable way to see a side of Amarillo that many visitors overlook.

Bottom Line: If you enjoy exploring at your own pace and want a fun challenge that combines art, history, and nature, this is a great choice. It’s especially suited for locals or travelers with limited time.

3. Amazing Amarillo Scavenger Hunt

Next, the Amazing Amarillo Scavenger Hunt offers a more immersive, interactive experience with a remote, live host guiding you through the city via your phone. Priced at about $23.20 per person, it lasts approximately two hours and combines aspects of a tour, puzzle-solving, and social experiment.

This company specializes in custom events across North America, and this particular hunt offers a mix of fun challenges and cultural insights.

This adventure is ideal for travelers who enjoy gamified experiences and want a bit of friendly competition. The live host provides encouragement and hints, making it suitable even if you’re new to scavenger hunts. Since it’s designed to be interactive, it’s perfect for groups wanting a lively, memorable activity that feels more like a game show than a traditional tour.

Reviewers haven’t left detailed comments, but the company’s reputation for creative events adds confidence that it’s a playful, engaging way to discover Amarillo.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for an innovative, social activity that combines technology and local discovery, this hunt offers a unique option to explore Amarillo’s streets with some fun challenges.

4. Explore Amarillo with a Scavenger Hunt by Operation City Quest

Number 4, the Operation City Quest is a budget-friendly, flexible way to see Amarillo in about two hours. For just $10 per person, you’ll use an app to find objects and complete challenges scattered around the city. It’s perfect for those who prefer to set their own pace and enjoy a competitive edge, as you can compare your score with others nationwide.

The appeal here is the simplicity—you don’t need a guide, just your phone and a willingness to move around. The remote host offers chat support, so help is just a click away if you get stuck.

It’s suitable for families, groups, or solo travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of friendly competition. While it may lack the depth of a guided tour, it makes up for it with affordability and flexibility.

Bottom Line: If you’re on a budget but still want a structured, interactive experience, this scavenger hunt provides quick fun and the chance to see Amarillo through a playful lens.

5. Explore Amarillo with a Unique Scavenger Hunt by Wacky Walks

Rounding out our list is Wacky Walks, which offers a humorous, royal-themed scavenger hunt. Priced at $10 per person, this two-hour game turns Amarillo into a kingdom where you compete to be crowned King or Queen.

You’ll find quirky items and complete wacky challenges, all while trying to outsmart your opponents. During the game, a group member might challenge your reign for the crown, adding a playful twist.

This activity is perfect for groups who love humor and a little friendly rivalry. The app guides you through the city’s streets, making it a lively way to explore while having a good laugh. Although it’s a newer activity without reviews yet, its creative concept promises a lighthearted, entertaining experience suitable for families or friends looking for something outside the usual sightseeing routine.

Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a fun, silly way to see Amarillo and enjoy some laughs, this scavenger hunt is a perfect choice.

How to Choose the Right Tour or Activity

When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time, and interests. For a comprehensive day exploring both natural wonders and local history, the Palo Duro Canyon day trip offers excellent value.

If you prefer a more relaxed, flexible experience, the self-guided Amarillo Art & Elms or Operation City Quest are great options. For a playful, social activity, the Amazing Amarillo or Wacky Walks offer dynamic ways to discover the city.

Booking early is advisable, especially for guided tours, as spots can fill quickly. Think about whether you want an outdoor adventure, a cultural exploration, or just a fun challenge. Amarillo’s diverse offerings mean there’s something to match almost every interest and schedule.

Final Thoughts

From guided trips through striking landscapes to inventive scavenger hunts that add a twist to sightseeing, Amarillo offers a variety of ways to enjoy the city. The Amarillo, Palo Duro Canyon and Route 66 Day Trip stands out for its balanced mix of outdoor beauty and local history, while the scavenger hunts bring a playful, social element for curious explorers.

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone who loves a good game, Amarillo can deliver a memorable experience.

Booking early ensures you won’t miss out—so pick your adventure and get ready to explore this surprising Texas city.