Clarendon TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Clarendon, Texas.
1. Saint's Roost Museum
LOCAL HISTORY AND HERITAGE
The Saint's Roost Museum is housed in the former Adair Hospital, which was built by JA Ranch owner Cornelia Adair in 1910. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located just off SH 70 South. Staff provide abundant information that makes this specialty museum stand out even among the many small history museums in the region.
2. Clarendon Aquatics Center
SUMMER COOLING AND FUN
The Clarendon Aquatics Center opened downtown in 2021 as one of the newest attractions in the city. The center operates from Memorial Day weekend through the summer months. It features several water attractions for people of all ages to enjoy.
3. Greenbelt Lake
YEAR-ROUND OUTDOOR RECREATION
Greenbelt Lake is situated about five miles north of Clarendon on SH 70 and provides recreational activities throughout the year. Popular activities include fishing, boating, and camping for both visitors and locals. The lake's Kincaid Park on the south side offers amenities including RV hook-ups, a covered picnic area, and a disc golf course.
4. Whistle-Stop Trade Days
LOCAL MARKET EXPERIENCE
Whistle-Stop Trade Days is a popular flea and street market in Clarendon that draws visitors looking for unique finds. The market offers a variety of vendors selling everything from antiques to handmade crafts and local products. Visitors have rated this attraction highly, giving it a 4.8 rating for its authentic local shopping experience.
5. 1887 Fort Worth & Denver Depot
HISTORIC RAILROAD HERITAGE
The 1887 Fort Worth & Denver Depot is located on the Saints' Roost Museum grounds and has been meticulously restored to its former glory. The historic depot houses several railroad and transportation-related displays that showcase the region's rich transportation history. This attraction provides visitors with a glimpse into Clarendon's important role in the development of railroad transportation in Texas.
6. Sandell Drive-In
VINTAGE OUTDOOR CINEMA
The Sandell Drive-In, located on SH 70 North, opened in 1955 and continues to show the latest movies during the summer months. This nostalgic venue offers a unique movie-watching experience under the stars that appeals to both locals and tourists. Beyond being a cinema, the drive-in also serves as the home of a special ministry year-round.
7. Mulkey Theatre
DOWNTOWN ENTERTAINMENT HUB
The Mulkey Theatre, built in 1946, is located in the heart of downtown Clarendon and shows first-run movies throughout the year. Beyond films, this historic venue hosts special events including concerts, plays, and game nights. The theatre serves as a cultural centerpiece for the community, bringing entertainment options to residents and visitors alike.
8. Kincaid Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
Kincaid Park is located on the south side of Greenbelt Lake, providing a variety of outdoor recreational facilities. The park features RV hook-ups for campers, a covered picnic area for family gatherings, and a disc golf course for sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the lake while taking advantage of the park's many amenities.
9. Historic Route 66
ICONIC AMERICAN HIGHWAY
Historic Route 66 passes near Clarendon, offering visitors a chance to experience part of America's most famous highway. The route features historic landmarks, vintage gas stations, and classic roadside attractions that harken back to the golden age of American road trips. Tours and day trips along Route 66 are available for those wanting to explore this iconic piece of American history.
10. Palo Duro Canyon
BREATHTAKING NATURAL WONDER
Palo Duro Canyon, known as the Grand Canyon of Texas, is located within driving distance of Clarendon and offers spectacular natural scenery. Visitors can explore over 30 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails through the second-largest canyon in the United States. The canyon's colorful rock formations, wildlife, and outdoor activities make it a must-visit destination in the region.
11. Amarillo Botanical Gardens
DIVERSE PLANT COLLECTIONS
The Amarillo Botanical Gardens showcase a variety of plants and themed gardens in a tranquil setting not far from Clarendon. The gardens feature a tropical conservatory, outdoor gardens representing different ecosystems, and seasonal displays that change throughout the year. Educational programs and special events make this a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.
12. Cadillac Ranch
ICONIC AMERICANA ART
Cadillac Ranch is a famous public art installation featuring ten Cadillacs half-buried nose-first in the ground, located near Amarillo and accessible from Clarendon. Visitors are encouraged to bring spray paint to add their own colorful contributions to this ever-changing monument. Created in 1974 by the art group Ant Farm, this quirky roadside attraction has become an enduring symbol of American pop culture and road trip nostalgia.
13. The Big Texan Steak Ranch
LEGENDARY TEXAS DINING
The Big Texan Steak Ranch is famous for its 72-ounce steak challenge and authentic Texas steakhouse atmosphere, located within driving distance of Clarendon. The restaurant features Western décor, live entertainment, and a gift shop selling Texas souvenirs and memorabilia. Since opening in 1960, it has become not just a place to eat but a tourist destination in its own right.
14. Caprock Canyons State Park
HOME OF TEXAS BISON
Caprock Canyons State Park, located in the nearby town of Quitaque, is home to the official Texas State Bison Herd and offers spectacular red rock canyon scenery. The park features more than 90 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding through diverse terrain. Visitors can also enjoy camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing in this 15,000-acre natural preserve.
15. American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum
EQUESTRIAN HERITAGE CENTER
The American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum in Amarillo celebrates the history and impact of America's most popular horse breed. The museum features interactive exhibits, fine art, and artifacts that tell the story of how Quarter Horses shaped the American West. Educational programs and special events make this a worthwhile day trip for visitors staying in Clarendon.