Must See

Cadillac Ranch

Amarillo, Texas

TexasRoadside Attraction

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Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas is one of the most recognizable roadside attractions on Route 66. The art installation consists of ten Cadillac cars, all half buried, nose down in the dirt, slanted and standing in a row. Each one is a different model, spanning from a 1949 Club Sedan to a 1963 Sedan de Ville.

The Texas roadside attraction is located on historic Route 66 (and modern day I-40) and has been attracting visitors since 1974. Originally the cars were located two miles east but, as Amarillo grew and property became prime, it was dug up and replanted in 1997.

Cadillac Ranch was made by The Ant Farm, a San Francisco media-based collective founded by Chip Lord (1944) and Doug Michels (1943 – 2003). Sponsored by Texas millionaire Stanley Marsh 3, the cars were meant to both perplex locals and serve as tribute to the evolution of the Cadillac tailfin.

It’s hard to believe the cars in this Cadillac graveyard ever had a standard factory-issue paint job because one of the signatures that brings this attraction to life is now spray paint. Visitors are encouraged to bring a can (or several cans) of spray paint and add their own touches to the cars. They each wear an ever-changing coat of paint that looks completely different from sunset to sunrise each day.

In September 2019, an arsonist set fire to the oldest of the cars. Luckily no structural damage was had to the vintage Cadillac though it is in noticeably worse wear than the others.

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Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas Route 66 Roadside Attraction

Cadillac Ranch

5 based on 1 reviews

Address:

13651 I-40 Frontage Rd, Amarillo, TX 79124

Hours:

Open 24/7

Cost:

Free

Phone Number:

(833) 330-2650

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Photos of Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas

Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas Route 66 Roadside Attraction
Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas Route 66 Roadside Attraction
Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas Route 66 Roadside Attraction
Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas Route 66 Roadside Attraction
Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas Route 66 Roadside Attraction

Know Before You Go

To make the most of your visit to Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas, here are some things to know before you go.

What hours is Cadillac Ranch open?

Cadillac Ranch is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can visit at any time.

Is there an admission fee?

No. Cadillac Ranch is free to visit: there are no tickets, no entry fees, and no admission gate.

Can visitors spray paint the Cadillacs?

Yes! Part of the experience of Cadillac Ranch is that you can bring your own spray paint and leave your mark. While spray painting the cars is encouraged, be respectful and leave nothing behind but art! If you bring spray paint to leave your own mark, don’t leave the can on the ground.

Where can you buy spray paint to bring to Cadillac Ranch?

Part of the fun of visiting Cadillac Ranch is spray painting the cars. There are several paces nearby where you can pick up a can:

Many people also leave their half-used cans of spray paint behind. So, if you don’t bring your own, you should still be able to find a few cans to use.

Are there restrooms, shade, or other amenities on site?

No. There are no restrooms and very little to no shade. Pack accordingly and bring water and sun protection. Sometimes a beverage or souvenir truck will be open on site, but they are not always there of open.

What Cadillac Ranch souvenirs are available?

At the Cadillac Ranch Gift Shop & RV just off the site, you can grab T-shirts, caps, magnets, decals, stickers, and other Route 66 merch honoring the ranch’s iconic imagery.

The most unique souvenirs are the Cadilite (or Cadillac Ranch paint) jewelry pieces, sold by Lile Art Gallery in Amarillo. These are made from the colorful, layered paint chips that fall from the Cadillacs over time—then cut, polished, and set in sterling silver to create pendants, earrings, bracelets, and more. This crafted jewelry is one of the most unique Route 66 souvenirs to bring home from your journey.

What is parking like and how do you access the site?

There’s plenty of parking for vehicles of all sizes along the wide dirt shoulders of the frontage road. From there, you’ll walk across a field or through a gate to get to the cars.

What are the best times to visit (day/time/season)?

While Cadillac Ranch is open 24/7. It’s best to visit during daylight hours when the sun is up. Early morning or late afternoon offer good light for photos and fewer crowds. Avoid going out very late at night, after the sun has gone down, if you want to see things clearly or get good photos, since there’s very little lighting at the attraction.

In terms of season, spring and fall tend to be more comfortable (less Texas heat), though any time is a good time to visit.

What should you bring for your visit?

Bring a can of spray paint or two if you want to join in the fun activity of painting the cars. If you don’t bring one, many people leave half-empty cans behind, but bringing your own ensures you’ll be able to participate. Bring a bag to stash your spray paint cans after you’re done, so you can carry them out without littering.

Also consider bringing water, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses because the attraction is out in a wide-open area with no shade. Wear comfortable shoes with a grip (especially if it has recently rained) as the cars are located in an uneven field of dirt.

And don’t forget your camera! You’ll want to capture everything!

Is this a popular Route 66 attraction?

Yes! Cadillac Ranch is one of the most popular roadside attractions on Route 66. It is one of our picks for the Top 10 Texas Route 66 Roadside Attractions, 66 Route 66 Attractions Worth Pulling Over For, and 66 Most Instagrammable Spots on Route 66.

Where to Stay Near Cadillac Ranch

Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest with a stay at one of these Route 66 hotels in Amarillo, Texas.

Big Texan Motel

The Big Texan Steak Ranch is best known for its 72-ounce steak challenge. Whether you try to beat the clock for a free meal or not, you can mosey on over across the parking lot to extend your visit at the Big Texan Motel. Attached to the world famous steakhouse, the Big Texan Motel in Amarillo, Texas features 54 units and a Western theme.

The Barfield

The only full-service boutique hotel in Amarillo, The Barfield is housed in the historic Barfield building in the heart of downtown Amarillo. The hotel’s 112 accommodations, feature custom-designed furnishings and luxurious finishes. Enjoy high-speed WiFi, Smart TVs, ergonomic workspaces, and an in-room refreshment center.

Atrea Inn

Atrea Inn is a charming farmhouse boutique hotel. Conveniently located near I-40 and a short drive to the Route 66 historic district in Amarillo, this property boasts a family-friendly courtyard with BBQ pits and a morning breakfast to prepare you for the day on the road.

Enhance your visit to Amarillo with a tour! Whether you love the outdoors, walking tours, or family-friendly adventures, there are plenty of options for everyone.

Attractions Near Cadillac Ranch on Route 66

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Planning your Route 66 road trip? Our Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit is your go-to resource for crafting the perfect itinerary! With over 1,300 stops, including quirky roadside attractions, historic sites, and classic diners, our toolkit helps you prioritize what matters most to you. It’s the ultimate guide to making your road trip truly unique and memorable. Ready to hit the road? Start planning your adventure now! #Route66 #Route66RoadTrip #Route66TravelPlanning

Is road trip planning driving you crazy?

Let the Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit be your guide.

Are you ready to hit the Mother Road but feeling overwhelmed with planning? The Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit is your one-stop solution! Spanning 2,448 miles of pure Americana, Route 66 is packed with quirky attractions, historic sites, and unforgettable experiences—so why settle for a generic, outdated itinerary? Our toolkit offers a customizable travel spreadsheet with over 1,300 stops, a detailed eBook, and a step-by-step video guide to help you craft your dream Route 66 road trip. Don’t miss out—start planning your perfect Route 66 adventure today!

Reviews & Ratings

5 based on 1 reviews

1 Review of Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas

  1. Cadillac Ranch is always a fun stop on Route 66! It’s always been super crowded when I get there so hopefully next time I’ll find an “off” time without as many people (good luck to me!).

    Reply

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