10 Unique North Texas Attractions : Roadside Oddities, Great Museums, Cute Prairie dogs!
Are you planning a road trip through North Texas and want to go beyond the usual tourist stops? This blog is packed with quirky roadside north Texas attractions, legendary restaurants, and fascinating museums we visited on a fun-filled weekend road trip through Amarillo, Lubbock, Odessa, and Midland.
Quirky Roadside Landmarks
Cadillac Ranch — Amarillo, TX
Cadillac Ranch is one of the most iconic North Texas attractions. These half-buried, spray-painted Cadillacs rise out of the desert-like field just off I-40.
You’re encouraged to join the fun by painting directly on the cars. If you forgot your spray paint, don’t worry—there’s a nearby shop selling paint and souvenirs. A kind stranger gave us her leftover spray can, and we ended up having a blast decorating a car! It was fun!
📍 Address: 13651 I-40 Frontage Rd, Amarillo, TX
Second Amendment Cowboy (Muffler Man) — Amarillo, TX
Just a short drive from Cadillac Ranch is this vintage roadside statue of a cowboy with a big hat and a bold stance. It’s one of the few remaining “Muffler Men” statues—a nostalgic piece of Americana!
Next door is a Route 66-themed gift shop, where we had a fun chat with the staff about Cadillac Ranch and Texas weather.
📍Address: 2601 Hope Rd, Amarillo, TX
Midway Point of Route 66 — Adrian, TX
Marking the halfway point of the famous Route 66, this spot is simple but iconic. Although the café in front of the sign was closed when we visited, the photo op alone was worth the stop.
📍Address: 301 I-40, Adrian, TX 79001
Fun Food Stops & Route 66 Icons
Buc-ee’s — Amarillo, TX
This mega gas station and convenience store is a beloved Texas attraction—especially famous for its clean restrooms and tasty brisket sandwiches.
We always stop for the fresh-made brisket sandwich, which is juicy and flavorful. There are plenty of snack options, salads, drinks, and exclusive Buc-ee’s merchandise.
📍Address: 9900 E Interstate 40 Hwy, Amarillo, TX
The Big Texan Steak Ranch & Brewery — Amarillo, TX
One of the best-known roadside attractions in North Texas, The Big Texan Steak Ranch & Brewery is home to the legendary 72-ounce steak challenge. We didn’t attempt it—but the steaks we ordered were tender and tasty.
The whole property feels like a mini-theme park with a gift shop, arcade, and quirky exhibits. We even took home our iced tea cups as souvenirs!
📍Address: 7701 I-40, Amarillo, TX
Museums & History Attractions
American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum — Amarillo, TX
We didn’t go inside the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum this time, but the beautiful horse statues outside were impressive. It’s a must-visit for horse lovers and those interested in Western heritage.
📍 Address: 2601 E Interstate Dr, Amarillo, TX
National Ranching Heritage Center — Lubbock, TX
The National Ranching Heritage Center is a free outdoor/indoor museum at Texas Tech University that features historic ranch buildings that give a glimpse into life on the Texas frontier.
You’ll walk through cabins, barns, and more, perfectly preserved to tell the story of ranching.
We didn’t expect so much from this place, but it was amazing. We learned a lot about ranching and its history. I highly recommend visiting the National Ranching Heritage Center if you come nearby.
📍 Address: 3121 4th St, Lubbock, TX
Permian Basin Petroleum Museum — Midland, TX
While we didn’t have time to explore the exhibits, the Permian Basin Petroleum Museum’s shop had great oil-themed souvenirs. (We bought a cool t-shirt even though our time was limited because of our return flight.
It’s located near the airport, making it a good stop before flying out.
📍 Address: 1500 I-20, Midland, TX
Natural & Replica Wonders
Prairie Dog Town — Lubbock, TX
This quirky, family-friendly attraction lets you observe prairie dogs. There is no fence, so you can watch the prairie dogs closely in the park.
They’re surprisingly active and adorable, munching on veggies and popping out of burrows.
📍 Address: MacKenzie Park Rd, Lubbock, TX
Stonehenge II — Odessa, TX
Located at the University of Texas Permian Basin, this replica of England’s Stonehenge is fun to visit and free to explore.
It brought back memories of seeing the real one in the UK!
📍 Address: Preston Smith Rd, Odessa, TX
FAQ: Hidden North Texas Attractions
Q: What are the best roadside attractions in North Texas?
A: Some of the most fun stops include Cadillac Ranch Amarillo, the Big Texan Steak Ranch, and the Second Amendment Cowboy Statue.
Q: Is Cadillac Ranch worth visiting?
A: Definitely! It’s one of the most iconic and quirky attractions in Texas, where you can spray paint cars and take unique photos.
Q: Are there free museums in North Texas?
A: Yes—many! The National Ranching Heritage Center in Lubbock offers free admission and is rich in Texas history.
Final Thoughts
Our West Texas road trip was full of surprises—from spray-painting Cadillacs to eating giant steaks and exploring hidden prairie dog villages. If you’re looking for north Texas attractions that are off the beaten path, I hope these quirky spots and museums help you plan a fun and memorable adventure!
Want to explore natural wonders next? Don’t miss my companion post:
