Why leave your four-legged travel buddy behind when Amarillo rolls out the welcome mat for pets? With its wide-open landscapes, scenic trails, dog-friendly patios, and spacious parks, Amarillo is a dream destination for travelers who road trip with their furry companions. This Texas Panhandle city is packed with pet-approved adventures, whether your dog loves to hike, socialize, or simply snooze under a café table.
If you’re looking to combine outdoor fun, delicious eats, and fresh air with plenty of tail wags, this pet-friendly road trip to Amarillo is the perfect escape. From canyon walks to off-leash dog parks, here’s where to go when you’re hitting the road with your best friend.
Overview of Amarillo’s Pet-Friendly Appeal
Amarillo strikes a rare balance for pet lovers: it’s a big enough city to offer great dining and attractions, yet it’s surrounded by natural spaces where dogs can stretch their legs. Many of the city’s best outdoor destinations welcome leashed pets, and several restaurants offer outdoor patios where dogs are treated like VIPs.
Whether you’re hiking scenic trails at Palo Duro Canyon, playing fetch at local dog parks, or walking Route 66 with your pup in tow, Amarillo makes it easy to include pets in your travel plans. Plus, with affordable pet-friendly lodging, accessible green spaces, and welcoming local vibes, this road trip will have tails wagging all the way.
Best Pet-Friendly Parks and Trails in Amarillo
1. Palo Duro Canyon State Park
This dramatic canyon—second largest in the U.S.—is the ultimate outdoor adventure for dogs and humans alike. Most trails are pet-friendly (on leash), and dogs love exploring the red dirt paths, creek crossings, and shaded picnic spots.
Address: 11450 Park Rd 5, Canyon, TX 79015
Hours: Daily, 7 AM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: $8 per person; dogs free
Famous For: Scenic canyon hikes with leashed dogs allowed
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring extra water for your pup—temperatures soar quickly in the canyon, especially in summer.
2. John Stiff Memorial Dog Park
This large, well-maintained off-leash dog park is split into separate areas for large and small dogs. With grass, shaded benches, water fountains, and double-gated entry, it’s a great place to let your dog run and play with local pups.
Address: 4800 S Bell St, Amarillo, TX 79109
Hours: Daily, 5 AM – Midnight
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Fenced off-leash zones with shade and amenities
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Avoid midday heat in summer—mornings and evenings are cooler and less crowded.
3. Rock Island Rail Trail
This paved 4-mile trail follows an old rail line and offers a safe, easy walking path through Amarillo. It’s popular with locals for jogging and dog-walking, and there are plenty of shade trees and benches along the way.
Address: Trailhead at 7th & Crockett St, Amarillo, TX 79101
Hours: Open 24/7
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Leashed dog-friendly city trail with shaded paths
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Pack waste bags—stations may not be available at every entry point.
4. Wildcat Bluff Nature Center
This nature preserve features over 5 miles of peaceful, scenic trails where dogs on leash are welcome. You’ll hike through prairie grasses and wildflowers with views of the West Texas plains. It’s calm, quiet, and perfect for mellow pups.
Address: 2301 N Soncy Rd, Amarillo, TX 79124
Hours: Tue–Sat, 9 AM – 5 PM
Approx Cost: $4–$6; dogs welcome on leash
Famous For: Gentle nature trails and open skies
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring water for both you and your dog—there are no fountains on the trails.
5. Medical Center Park (Medi Park)
This family-friendly park near downtown features open green lawns, a pond, and walking paths perfect for leashed dogs. It’s not as remote as other trails, but it’s a good mid-city option for a calm walk or picnic with your pup.
Address: 1100 Wallace Blvd, Amarillo, TX 79106
Hours: Daily, 6 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Dog-friendly city park with water views and walking loops
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Combine your visit with a stop at nearby pet-friendly coffee shops.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants & Patios in Amarillo
1. GoldenLight Café & Cantina
As Amarillo’s oldest restaurant, GoldenLight offers not only great burgers and chili but also a dog-welcoming patio. They even bring out water bowls for thirsty pups.
Address: 2908 SW 6th Ave, Amarillo, TX 79106
Hours: Mon–Sat, 11 AM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$20
Famous For: Iconic burgers and Route 66 atmosphere
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Head here after a walk along the nearby Rock Island Rail Trail.
2. Palace Coffee Company
This popular café welcomes dogs on its shaded outdoor patio, making it a great stop for morning brews or afternoon treats. Staff are always happy to offer your pup a bowl of water.
Address: 420 15th St, Canyon, TX 79015
Hours: Mon–Sat, 7 AM – 8 PM
Approx Cost: $5–$10
Famous For: Local roasted coffee and cozy outdoor seating
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Order a cold brew for yourself and a pup cup (whipped cream treat) for your dog.
3. Six Car Pub & Brewery
With a rooftop patio that’s open to well-behaved dogs, this pub is perfect for winding down after a day of exploring. Try their house-made brews and tacos while your dog chills beside you.
Address: 625 S Polk St, Amarillo, TX 79101
Hours: Tue–Sun, 11 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $15–$30
Famous For: Craft beer and dog-friendly rooftop seating
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a short leash—rooftop space is limited, but worth it for the views.
Pet-Friendly Places to Stay in Amarillo
1. Drury Inn & Suites Amarillo
This reliable, mid-range hotel chain is known for being pet-friendly, offering spacious rooms and easy access to grassy outdoor areas for potty breaks.
Address: 8540 W Interstate 40, Amarillo, TX 79106
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $130–$180
Famous For: Free breakfast, pet perks, and comfort
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Call ahead to request a ground-floor room for easier pet access.
2. My Place Hotel-Amarillo
With in-room kitchens and no-fuss pet policies, this is a solid base for road trippers traveling with dogs. It’s conveniently located near parks and dining spots.
Address: 2208 Cinema Dr, Amarillo, TX 79124
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $100–$150
Famous For: Affordable stays with pet-friendly amenities
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Request a room near an exit for late-night walks.
3. Sleep Inn & Suites West Medical Center
Affordable and comfortable, this hotel welcomes pets with minimal fees and has open green spaces nearby for quick walks.
Address: 6915 I-40 W, Amarillo, TX 79106
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $85–$120
Famous For: Budget-friendly, clean rooms, and pet access
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Check with the front desk about local pet parks—they often have great suggestions.
Packing Tips for Pet Road Trips
- Leash, collar with ID tag, and poop bags
- Collapsible water bowl and treats
- Pet-safe sunscreen (especially for light-colored dogs)
- Bed or blanket for comfort in the car and hotel
- Updated vaccination records (in case of emergency)
- Chew toys or puzzle toys to keep dogs entertained
- Portable fan for cooling down on hikes
- Paw wipes for post-trail cleanups
- First aid kit with pet-specific items
- Backup leash and harness—just in case
Local Tips and Seasonal Advice
Spring and fall offer the best weather for dogs
Avoid peak summer afternoons—asphalt and trails can burn paws
Always carry water—many parks don’t have dog fountains
Keep dogs leashed at all times unless in a designated off-leash area
Check park rules before entering with your pet—some trails or buildings may restrict access
Many Amarillo locals travel with dogs—don’t hesitate to ask for pet-friendly recs!
Conclusion
A pet-friendly road trip to Amarillo delivers the best of both worlds: scenic landscapes and shared adventure. Whether you’re hiking canyon trails, sipping coffee on a dog-friendly patio, or just strolling through a quiet park, this city offers endless ways to explore with your best friend by your side.
So pack the leash, fill up the gas tank, and hit the open road. With its pet-welcoming spirit and wide-open skies, Amarillo is ready to treat you—and your pup—to the Texas road trip of a lifetime.
