Cadillac Ranch in Texas 2024-2025

Anyone with a can of spray paint can come and leave a short message or paint on these cars. This is the best place to write "I was here!"

Best time: September–May

If you're drawn to the spirit of roadside Americana, Cadillac Ranch is a must-see. This iconic public art installation near Amarillo, Texas, features 10 Cadillac cars buried nose-first in the ground, showcasing the evolution of the car model from 1949 to 1963. The installation symbolizes both the rise of American automobile culture and the golden age of Route 66. Visitors are encouraged to leave their mark by spray-painting the cars, turning the site into a constantly evolving canvas of creativity and self-expression.

Best Time To Visit

It’s best to avoid visiting in summer, as temperatures can exceed 30 °C, making outdoor activities less comfortable.

Location

Cadillac Ranch is located along the south access road of I-40, just east of the Arnot Road exit in Amarillo, Texas. Open 24/7 year-round with no admission fee, it’s a quick and iconic roadside stop. Nearby, you’ll find the Route 66 RV Ranch, featuring the 2nd Amendment Cowboy and a gift shop. From there, Cadillac Ranch is less than a minute's drive westbound. Note that there isn’t designated parking, so plan accordingly for your visit.

History of Cadillac Ranch

Cadillac Ranch was created in 1974 by artists Chip Lord, Hudson Marquez, and Doug Michels. Initially placed in a wheat field, the artwork was relocated in 1997 to a cow pasture three kilometers west, ensuring it stayed away from Amarillo's expanding city limits. Originally painted in their factory colors—turquoise, yellow, gold, and blue—the cars quickly became a public canvas as visitors began painting and leaving their marks on them.

Amarillo: What To See

Amarillo offers a blend of outdoor adventures, cowboy culture, and artistic charm. Just 30 minutes from the city, Palo Duro Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the U.S., invites visitors to hike, camp, or horseback ride under the expansive West Texas sky. Dive into Amarillo's rich heritage at the American Quarter Horse Association Museum or embrace local flavor with the famous 72-ounce steak challenge at The Big Texan Steak Ranch. For art enthusiasts, Historic Route 66, Cadillac Ranch, and performances at the Globe-News Center showcase Amarillo's creative side.