Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum

Texas-sized stories get their due at the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, the largest history museum in Texas. Permanent collections cover topics from paleontology and petroleum to Native Americans and early pioneers. Whether you’re a fan of vintage cars, excited about Southwestern art, or drawn to the recreated village of an old-time Texas town, this landmark museum is full of surprises.

Learn more

2503 Fourth Ave., Canyon, Texas, 79015

The basics

The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum is housed in a Southwestern art deco building on the West Texas A&M University campus—spot 75 cattle brands from West Texas surrounding the entrance. While most visitors spend around two hours exploring its wide-ranging exhibits, history buffs might want longer. The museum also hosts special exhibits spanning high fashion, heritage, and art.

Show all

Things to know before you go

Great for families: Dinosaur fossils and interactive displays are a big hit with children. (Kids three years old and under are also free.)
The museum is accessible to wheelchair users, with handicapped parking at the north entrance. Wheelchairs and strollers are available to loan from the front desk.
Food and drinks are not allowed in the museum, but water fountains are throughout the buildings.

Show all

How to get there

The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum is located on the West Texas A&M Campus in Canyon, Texas, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) south of Amarillo. Most visitors come via car, as public transit is limited in the area. Parking is available on Victory Drive, which borders the museum’s west side, and in a lot facing the museum’s main entrance.

Show all

When to get there

The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum is open daily in summer, from Labor Day to Memorial Day, with a more limited schedule through fall and winter. Check the museum website before visiting—the website lists rotating exhibits, talks, film screenings, and other events to time your visit around.

Show all

These are the best museums in Amarillo, Texas

Amarillo is small by Texas standards, but it boasts an outsize museum collection. The Jack Sisemore RV Museum offers plenty of vintage style. The American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum celebrates the American breed with interactive and educational exhibits. The Texas Air & Space Museum has both civilian and military aircraft. The Kwahadi Museum of the American Indian offers a chance to discover the culture, art, and artifacts of Native Americans.

Show all