Amarillo is a city that surprises travelers with its blend of rugged natural beauty and quirky roadside attractions. It’s a place where the wide-open spaces of Texas meet the charm of Route 66 and the history of the Old West. What makes Amarillo especially appealing for tours is its diversity—whether you want a guided adventure through Palo Duro Canyon or a playful scavenger hunt around downtown, there’s something to fit every style. We especially like the Amarillo, Palo Duro Canyon and Route 66 Day Trip for its mix of natural scenery, history, and fun stops, including the memorable Cadillac Ranch. For those with a sense of adventure or a love of local quirks, these tours offer genuine experiences beyond the usual tourist spots.
If you’re trying to decide which tour suits your visit best, this list covers a range of options. From full-day excursions with expert guides to quick, app-led scavenger hunts, you’ll find something to match your schedule and interests. Let’s take a closer look at each, so you can pick the perfect way to explore Amarillo.
1. Amarillo, Palo Duro Canyon and Route 66 Day Trip
At number one on our list, the Amarillo, Palo Duro Canyon and Route 66 Day Trip offers a comprehensive experience of Amarillo’s top sights in just one day. This guided tour is perfect if you want to see the natural beauty of Palo Duro Canyon—often called the “Grand Canyon of Texas”—and learn about the area’s history, all with the convenience of a small group. Priced at $779.23 per group, it’s a good value considering the included transportation, guiding, and several stops.
The tour starts in downtown Amarillo, where you’ll explore historic buildings and learn about the city’s past. Then, it’s a scenic drive to Palo Duro Canyon, where you’ll see the striking rock formations and take a quick hike or explore the Big Cave and Goodnight’s Dugout. Afterward, the group heads to Canyon for lunch, shopping, and a look at local landmarks like the Sad Monkey Train. The afternoon ends with a drive to Cadillac Ranch, with spray paint provided for your own mural. The guide makes the history and stories lively, making this a well-rounded introduction to Amarillo.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a guided, all-in-one day trip that covers history, natural scenery, and fun stops. It’s ideal for those who appreciate storytelling and want a balance of outdoor activity and cultural insights.
2. Self-Guided Amarillo Scavenger Hunt: Amarillo Art & Elms
For a flexible way to explore Amarillo, the Self-Guided Amarillo Scavenger Hunt: Amarillo Art & Elms is a popular option. For only $12.31 per person, you get an app-led adventure that takes you around the city, solving clues related to local art and the many elms lining Amarillo’s streets. This tour is perfect for spontaneous explorers, groups celebrating a special event, or locals who want to see their city from a new perspective.
The hunt lasts about two hours, but you can go at your own pace. You’ll walk between clues, take photos with digital copies provided afterwards, and learn some fun secrets about Amarillo’s neighborhoods. It’s a good way to combine sightseeing with a bit of friendly competition, making the city’s familiar sights come alive in a new way.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who like self-paced activities, want to incorporate some local art and history, and enjoy light walking with a challenge. It’s a budget-friendly, flexible experience perfect for quick visits or repeat trips.
$12.31 per person
3. Amazing Amarillo Scavenger Hunt
The Amazing Amarillo Scavenger Hunt offers a more immersive, interactive experience with a high-tech twist. Starting at $23.20 per person, this hunt is designed by a company based in Austin and operates in over 300 cities. It features a live remote host who provides encouragement and guidance through your phone, blending technology with human interaction.
This scavenger hunt is a mix of tour, puzzle, and social challenge, as you discover hidden corners of Amarillo while completing tasks and seeking clues. What sets it apart is the live host aspect, which adds a layer of real-time support and fun. It’s perfect for groups that want a tailored experience, or for those looking for something different from standard guided tours. The interactive component means you’ll be solving mysteries, completing creative challenges, and competing for the top spot on the leaderboard.
Bottom line: Best for tech-savvy travelers who want an engaging, interactive adventure and enjoy solving puzzles in a social setting. It’s a creative way to see Amarillo and keep everyone entertained.
$23.20 per person
4. Explore Amarillo with a Scavenger Hunt by Operation City Quest
At number four, the Explore Amarillo with a Scavenger Hunt by Operation City Quest offers a straightforward and budget-friendly way to explore in about two hours. Costing just $10 per person, it’s an easy activity that relies on an app to guide you through the city’s sights and challenges.
This hunt allows you to choose your own route in any order, making it flexible for your schedule. You’ll look for objects, complete tasks, and earn points, all while competing with your travel companions or against other teams nationwide. The app includes a remote chat host for troubleshooting or hints if needed, adding reassurance for first-timers.
Bottom line: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers or those who prefer a flexible, self-directed experience. It’s a fun, casual way to get a taste of Amarillo’s streets and landmarks.
$10.00 per person
5. Explore Amarillo with a Unique Scavenger Hunt by Wacky Walks
Finally, Wacky Walks offers a quirky twist on city exploration. The Explore Amarillo with a Unique Scavenger Hunt by Wacky Walks is priced at $10 per person and features a royal-themed game. Using an app, you’ll find bizarre items and complete wacky tasks to earn points and challenge your fellow players for the crown of King or Queen.
This game adds a humorous, playful element that’s especially well-suited for families, groups of friends, or anyone looking for a lighthearted adventure. The game’s competitive aspect keeps everyone engaged, and the tasks are designed to entertain and amuse rather than just educate.
Bottom line: Best suited for those seeking a humorous, family-friendly activity that combines sightseeing with silly challenges and friendly competition in Amarillo.
$10.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour in Amarillo
When deciding on the best tour for your visit, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you prefer a guided, full-day experience with historical insights and natural beauty, the Amarillo, Palo Duro Canyon and Route 66 Day Trip is a great pick. For a more relaxed, self-paced approach, the Self-Guided Amarillo Scavenger Hunt provides flexibility and affordability.
If you want an interactive, tech-driven experience, the Amazing Amarillo Scavenger Hunt offers a unique, social adventure, while the Operation City Quest is ideal for those seeking a quick, budget-friendly activity. For families or groups with a playful streak, Wacky Walks’ royal-themed hunt adds a fun, humorous element to city exploration.
Booking early is advisable, especially for guided tours or special events, to secure your spot. Consider the best time to visit, typically spring or fall when Amarillo’s weather is most agreeable, and plan around your interests—whether natural scenery, history, or just good fun.
Final Thoughts
Amarillo offers a variety of tours that cater to different travel styles and interests. For a comprehensive experience, the Palo Duro Canyon day trip is hard to beat. If you’re more about spontaneous fun or local discovery, the array of scavenger hunts provide budget-friendly, engaging ways to see the city. Whether you prefer guided or self-guided adventures, one thing’s certain: Amarillo’s charm isn’t just in its wide-open spaces but also in the stories and surprises waiting to be uncovered.
Start planning early, pick the tour that best fits your style, and get ready to discover Amarillo from a fresh perspective. Happy exploring!