Panhandle Plains

Tucked between Oklahoma and New Mexico, the Panhandle Plains region in Texas is the northernmost area of the state. Abilene, Amarillo, and Lubbock are the area’s three largest cities. One thing that tourists will notice is the Panhandle Plains region houses many impressive parks, classic western towns, and amazing vistas. Many travelers overlook the Panhandle Plains when visiting Texas, yet there is more to see and do in this region than most would believe.

The weather in the Panhandle Plains can vary greatly. Spring is generally warm with rain showers, while summers can be hot and dry. Fall is an excellent time to visit as the nights tend to cool down, while days are still warm and sunny. Winters also vary. It can freezing rain, sleet, and snow one day and then be warm the next. If you come to this region of Texas, be prepared for changing weather. Sunscreen is generally a must throughout the year.

What makes the Panhandle Plains a unique are to visit? First, this is the home of the late Buddy Holly, the popular 1950s rocker who shaped the world of music today. The historic Route 66 also passes through the Panhandle Plains. While it no longer appears on maps today, Route 66 once passed through Shamrock, McLean, Amarillo, Vega, and Adrian. For those who want to glimpse the historical road, a trip across the Panhandle Plains is the best way to experience it. Throughout the Panhandle Plains, tourists will find many horse or cattle ranches, historic sites, national parks, state parks, and breathtaking canyons. The scenery changes frequently, so one shouldn’t set their sights on visiting just one city or town.

Starting with the most northern area of the Panhandle Plains, tourists can visit Amarillo or Palo Duro Canyon. Palo Duro Canyon is one of the area’s many state and national parks. With more than 15,000 acres, Palo Duro Canyon is popular with hikers and outdoors enthusiasts. Not to mention, the huge Palo Duro Canyon is the second largest in all of the United States. Caprock Canyon is to the east. Lubbock is more central on the western half of the area, while areas like Big Spring, Lake Colorado City, and Abilene are to the south. The eastern border of the Panhandle Plains leads to Possum Kingdom, Fort Richardson, Lake Arrowhead, and Copper Breaks.

Many areas found in the Panhandle Plains have a rich history dating back to the 1800s. For this reason, the Panhandle Plains Historical Museum in Canyon, Texas has grown to be the state’s largest historical museum and sees many visitors throughout the year. It is suggested that those who want to understand how the Panhandle Plains developed through history must visit the museum. The friendly staff is more than willing to offer advice on attractions that tourists should not miss.

In Abilene, visitors are treated to a historic city with modern conveniences. The city’s zoo, art galleries, museums, and theater offerings provide plenty of entertainment. It is not uncommon to see real cowboys sauntering down the streets of Abilene.

For the true feel of the Old West, Amarillo is an excellent choice. With many ranches, theaters, symphonies, and even the American Quarter Horse Museum, Amarillo is a treasured destination. TEXAS Legacies is an outdoor theatre that holds productions when the weather allows. For daring diners, head to Amarillo’s Texan Steak Ranch & Opry, an establishment that offers a free meal to anyone who can finish their 72-ounce steak dinner.

Lubbock, former home of Buddy Holly, is home to the Buddy Holly Walk of Fame. Other attractions that make this a popular tourist destination include the National Cowboy Symposium and Celebration and a number of impressive wineries. Founded in 1876, Lubbock also has its share of historic buildings.