Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ

Groom, Texas

TexasRoadside Attraction

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As you roll through the wide-open stretches of the Texas Panhandle on Route 66, there’s one landmark you truly can’t miss…because you’ll see it long before you get there. Rising 190 feet into the sky, the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas, is so massive it can be spotted from up to 20 miles away.

Built in 1995 by Steve Thomas of Pampa, Texas, this impressive roadside structure (often called the Groom Cross) took eight months to complete with the help of 100 welders working in two locations. Once finished, it took seven flatbed trucks to move the giant steel pieces from Pampa to Groom, where they were assembled into what would become one of the most iconic landmarks on the Mother Road.

The stainless steel cross stands 190 feet tall, weighs a staggering 2.5 million pounds, and was specifically engineered to withstand the harsh winds that blow across the Texas Panhandle. While it’s often dubbed the “Largest Cross in the Western Hemisphere,” it’s actually the second-tallest cross in the United States—just a few feet shorter than the 198-foot “Cross at the Crossroads” in Effingham, Illinois, which was directly inspired by the one in Groom.

At the base, you’ll find detailed biblical sculptures, including the Stations of the Cross, the Last Supper, and the Empty Tomb. There’s also a chapel, visitor center, gift shop, restrooms, a fountain, and religious art installations for travelers looking to pause and reflect during their road trip.

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Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas | Groom Cross on Route 66

Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ

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Address:

112 I-40, Groom, TX 79039

Hours:

8:00am - 8:00pm (Friday - Monday)
9:00am - 5:00pm (Tuesday - Thursday)

Cost:

Free

Phone Number:

(806) 248-9006

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Photos of the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas

Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas | Groom Cross on Route 66
Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas | Groom Cross on Route 66
Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas | Groom Cross on Route 66
Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas | Groom Cross on Route 66
Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas | Groom Cross on Route 66
Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas | Groom Cross on Route 66
Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas | Groom Cross on Route 66
Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas | Groom Cross on Route 66
Last Supper Sculpture at Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas | Groom Cross on Route 66
Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas | Groom Cross on Route 66
Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas | Groom Cross on Route 66
Last Supper Sculpture at Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas | Groom Cross on Route 66
Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas | Groom Cross on Route 66

Know Before You Go

To make the most of your visit to the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas, here are some things to know before you go.

What is the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ?

The Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ is a massive Christian monument in Groom, Texas. Standing 190 feet tall and weighing approximately 1,250 tons, the cross has become one of the most recognizable landmarks in the Texas Panhandle and can be seen from up to 20 miles away. It was completed in 1995 and attracts visitors from across the country.

Where is the giant cross on Route 66?

The cross is located at 112 I-40 in Groom, Texas, just off Interstate 40 and historic Route 66, about 40 miles east of Amarillo. The site is easily accessible from Exit 112 and is impossible to miss as you approach Groom.

How tall is the cross?

The cross stands 190 feet (58 meters) tall, roughly the height of a 19-story building. It remains one of the tallest freestanding crosses in the United States.

Is there an admission fee?

No. Admission to the cross and grounds is free. Donations are accepted to support the ministry and maintenance of the site.

What are the hours?

The grounds are open 24/7, though visitor center and gift shop hours may vary. It is a good idea to check with Cross Ministries before making a special trip.

Where can you park?

There is plenty of parking for vehicles of all sizes in the attached lot.

Is this a popular Route 66 attraction?

Yes. The towering cross, detailed sculptures, and wide-open Texas landscape make it one of the most photographed landmarks along Interstate 40 and historic Route 66. It is one of our picks for the Top 10 Texas Route 66 Roadside Attractions.

Where to Stay Near the Groom Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ

Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest with a stay at one of these Route 66 hotels near this Route 66 roadside attraction.

Chalet Inn

Chalet Inn is a budget-friendly Route 66 motel in Groom, Texas. Located close to restaurants in town, this property offers air conditioning and free WiFi and parking.

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.

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 the Groom Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ 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!

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