5 Senses Coffee House

Amarillo's natural beauty is all around you when you're in this part of the world, but in order to get the big picture of this area's rustic beauty, make plans to visit the Palo Duro Canyon State Park. This majestic haven occupies more than 20,000 acres in Armstrong and Randall Counties just south of Amarillo. While you're here enjoying the numerous scenic lookout points, you can take advantage of the various activities that are available that include camping, horseback riding, hiking, nature study, bird watching and mountain biking. And whether you're on your way in or out, the scenic drive to the area is nothing short of breathtaking.

Find out how tough and resilient the original inhabitants of the Texas Panhandle were by taking in the various exhibits and displays at the Panhandle Plains Historical Museum. The venue has the distinction of being the largest history museum in the state, and none of that space is wasted in telling the dramatic stories of how life on the plains came to be. Also, don't miss the beautiful collection of Texas art that includes Southwest American Indian art. Dig a little deeper as you pass through the paleontology and archeology areas that lead to the present day with the inclusion of some cutting edge modern art. From a lone sagebrush to art that reflects the present day, the wide panorama of it all is waiting to be seen at the Panhandle Plains Historical Museum.

If you want to find a variety of specialty shops while getting a taste of Amarillo's past, check out the Historic Route 66 downtown. The shops usually don't stay open late, so starting your shopping excursion either just after 10 am or before 5 pm is a good idea. Aside from these great little stores, you'll enjoy the rustic architecture that harkens back to a time when there were horses in the streets instead of cars. Even with it's modern update this area has retained that dusty, old-time feeling and a lot of character that you'll enjoy while shopping the streets of this district.