Hidden Gems: Small Towns Near Amarillo, Texas Worth Exploring

When the weekend gets here, we all dream of a getaway from Amarillo. You would love to visit somewhere. The problem is that you may not have the extra time or funds to go somewhere far. Luckily, we have so many great places in our backyard.

You can pack the car with food and family and head out on the road. The car's destination is somewhere near that has stuff to offer. Whether you are looking for adventure, shopping, or a new restaurant, the Texas Panhandle has much to offer.

Most places will take you around an hour to get to. Then you still have plenty of time to explore. You can opt to spend the night to make a weekend out of it, or just head home after a very fulfilling day trip.

Weekend Trips You Can Take This Weekend

1. Canyon, TX

20 minutes south of Amarillo

Home to Palo Duro Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the U.S., Canyon is a great escape with hiking in the Canyon and heading back to town for some shopping and a bite to eat. Make sure you hang around long enough to get all of your meals in, since there are plenty of places to eat. From the newly opened Pondesetta and The Lumberyard. There are also staples like Mickey's Place, Buff's, and Feldman's Wrong Way Diner.

2. Panhandle, TX

30 minutes northeast

A true "blink-and-you’ll-miss-it" town with friendly locals and hidden surprises. Check out the small town shopping at Dixon Creek Boutique. Make sure you grab a bite at Panther Pizza or Brickstreet 200. Make sure you explore the town. Make a stop at the Carson County Square House Museum, it's packed with Panhandle history.

3. Tulia, TX

1 hour south

Nestled between Amarillo and Lubbock, Tulia offers a peaceful pace, with murals, a restored downtown, and rich Plains heritage. Make your plans to stop at the Swisher County Museum inside Tulia City Hall. Take a stop at the El Camino, it's a must-visit place. Find a place to grab some Keeter's sausage to bring home for another time.

4. Borger, TX

1 hour northeast

Take a trip to Borger and you won't regret it. Start with a stroll through Huber Park. There are trails, picnic areas, and, of course, playgrounds for the kids. Check out what is going on at the Dome, check and see if there are any events. Don't miss a trip to Lake Meredith, grab a pole, and see if you can reel in dinner. If not, there are plenty of places to enjoy a meal: The Plaza, Onions, Dottie's Donuts, and Julio's Subs. There are plenty of places to choose from. Take a tour through the Hutchinson County Historical Museum.

5. Hereford, TX

1 hour southwest

Of course, you can't miss the “Beef Capital of the World.” Hereford is a meat-lover’s dream. Don't sleep on The Ranch House, Hereford Bar & Grill, or Dakota's Steak House for a great meal. You can get some shopping done at Texas Threads or splash around YMCA Hereford Aquatic Center. Go for a walk or play at either Jaycee or Dameron Park. You can also spend some time at Deaf Smith County Museum.