Oklahoma City To Amarillo: Best Route & Stops

Planning a road trip from Oklahoma City to Amarillo? You're in for a treat! This drive across the Oklahoma and Texas panhandles offers a mix of scenic landscapes, quirky roadside attractions, and historical landmarks. Whether you're looking for the quickest route or a more leisurely journey with plenty of stops, this guide will help you plan the perfect road trip.

Choosing Your Route: I-40 vs. US-60

There are two main routes you can take from Oklahoma City to Amarillo:

• Interstate 40 (I-40): This is the most direct and fastest route, covering approximately 260 miles and taking around 4 hours to drive without stops. I-40 is a major highway with well-maintained roads and plenty of services along the way, making it a convenient option for those who want to reach Amarillo quickly.
• US-60: For a more scenic and less-traveled route, consider taking US-60. This highway winds through smaller towns and offers glimpses of the Oklahoma and Texas landscapes. While it's a longer drive, adding about an hour to your journey, US-60 provides a more relaxed and authentic road trip experience.

Must-See Stops Along the Way

No matter which route you choose, there are several interesting places to stop and explore between Oklahoma City and Amarillo. Here are some highlights:

Along I-40

• Lucille's Service Station (Hydro, OK): This beautifully restored 1920s gas station is a Route 66 landmark. Lucille Hamons, the “Mother of the Mother Road,” operated the station for over 50 years, offering friendly service and advice to travelers. Today, it's a museum where you can learn about the history of Route 66 and Lucille's legacy.

• Stafford Air & Space Museum (Weatherford, OK): Named after astronaut General Thomas P. Stafford, this museum features exhibits on the history of aviation and space exploration. You'll see real spacecraft, flight simulators, and artifacts from the Space Race. It's an inspiring place for space enthusiasts of all ages. — School's Open? Your Guide To Daily Schedules

• Route 66 Museum (Clinton, OK): Located right off I-40, this museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of Route 66. The museum features exhibits that showcase the evolution of the Mother Road, from its early days as a dirt track to its heyday as a popular tourist route. You'll see vintage cars, roadside memorabilia, and interactive displays.

• Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, TX): This iconic art installation is one of the most famous roadside attractions in Texas. Ten Cadillacs are buried nose-first in the ground, each covered in layers of colorful spray paint. Visitors are encouraged to add their own touch by bringing a can of paint and leaving their mark on the cars. — Giants Vs 49ers: Epic Showdown Analysis

Along US-60

• Roman Nose State Park (Watonga, OK): This park is a hidden gem in western Oklahoma, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can hike, fish, swim, or simply relax by the lake. The park also has a historic lodge and cabins if you want to spend the night.

• Little Sahara State Park (Waynoka, OK): Experience the desert in Oklahoma at Little Sahara State Park. These towering sand dunes are perfect for off-roading, sandboarding, or simply exploring. The park has designated areas for different activities, making it a fun and safe place to visit.

• Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument (Fritch, TX): Learn about the history of flint mining in the Texas panhandle at this national monument. For over 13,000 years, people have quarried the colorful Alibates flint for tools and weapons. Take a ranger-led tour to see the quarries and learn about the geology and history of the area. — Vine's Return: What To Expect In 2024

Planning Your Itinerary

To make the most of your road trip from Oklahoma City to Amarillo, it's helpful to plan an itinerary in advance. Here's a suggested itinerary for a two-day road trip:

Day 1: Oklahoma City to Clinton/Weatherford

• Morning: Depart from Oklahoma City and head west on I-40.
• Mid-day: Stop at Lucille's Service Station in Hydro for a glimpse of Route 66 history.
• Afternoon: Visit the Stafford Air & Space Museum in Weatherford for an out-of-this-world experience.
• Evening: Check into a hotel in Clinton or Weatherford and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Clinton/Weatherford to Amarillo

• Morning: Visit the Route 66 Museum in Clinton to learn more about the Mother Road.
• Mid-day: Continue west on I-40 towards Amarillo.
• Afternoon: Make a stop at the iconic Cadillac Ranch and add your own artwork to the cars.
• Evening: Arrive in Amarillo and check into your hotel. Enjoy a famous steak dinner at The Big Texan Steak Ranch.

Tips for a Successful Road Trip

• Check the weather: Oklahoma and Texas weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to check the forecast before you go and pack accordingly.
• Plan your stops: Research the attractions you want to visit and plan your route and timing accordingly.
• Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water and snacks for the road.
• Take breaks: Driving long distances can be tiring, so be sure to take breaks every few hours to stretch your legs and refresh.
• Enjoy the journey: The best part of a road trip is the journey itself, so relax, have fun, and make some memories!

FAQs

• How long is the drive from Oklahoma City to Amarillo? The drive from Oklahoma City to Amarillo is approximately 260 miles via I-40, which takes about 4 hours without stops. Taking US-60 adds about an hour to the journey.

• What are some must-see stops along the way? Some popular stops include Lucille's Service Station, the Stafford Air & Space Museum, the Route 66 Museum, Cadillac Ranch, Roman Nose State Park, Little Sahara State Park, and Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument.

• What is the best time of year to take this road trip? The spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather for a road trip from Oklahoma City to Amarillo. Summers can be hot, and winters can be cold and snowy.

• Are there any good restaurants along the way? Yes, there are many great restaurants along the route. In Amarillo, The Big Texan Steak Ranch is a popular choice for steak lovers. You'll also find plenty of local diners and cafes in the smaller towns along the way.

• What should I pack for this road trip? Pack comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a map, a GPS device, a first-aid kit, and plenty of water and snacks.

Conclusion

The road trip from Oklahoma City to Amarillo is a fantastic journey filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're a Route 66 enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a fun adventure, this drive has something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to experience the best of Oklahoma and Texas!