B&E Travel | 2022

TRAVEL S

ummers are for road trips, and plenty of amazing destinations are a short drive from the city. The wonders of Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum are just a few minutes away, as are the scenic views and authentic experiences of Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West. Tucumcari awaits just a couple hours down I-40. And a little further north, on your way to the mountains, be sure to grab a bite and a drink at Cold Beer, New Mexico.

[ SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION ]

T

wo hours west of Amarillo on I-40, Tucumcari, New Mexico (pronounced “TWO-come-carry”) is a relaxed, rural community packed with Route 66 nostalgia, Old West history, and wide-open vistas. Originally founded as a railroad camp in 1901, the town was incorporated in 1908, and became part of Route 66, also known as the Mother Road, in 1926.

Route 66 runs through Tucumcari and is lined with historic motels, classic neon, and unique shops and eateries. Most known for the moniker “Tucumcari Tonite!” there is a wide variety of lodging for people traveling the highway to stop for the night and enjoy comfortable accommodations.

Museums and murals draw visitors into Tucumcari.

The Mesalands Dinosaur Museum and Natural Science Laboratory features a 40-foot-long skeleton of Tovosaurus (a carnivore relative of Tyrannosaurus rex), many interactive displays, and the world’s largest collection of bronze skeletons and fossils.

History buffs will enjoy exploring the Tucumcari Historical Museum, which is located in a 1903 schoolhouse.

Each room has themed exhibits filled with artifacts and memorabilia. The displays also fill annex buildings on the property, two of which house a 1926 Chevrolet Fire Truck and an original chuck wagon.

The Tucumcari Railroad Museum is located along the tracks in the recently restored, 1926 Spanish-style historic depot. It offers a step back into the history and development of the Union Pacific Railroad in Tucumcari with pictures and artifacts. Visitors can even take a turn at the controls of a GP38 diesel locomotive simulator.

Classic car lovers will not be disappointed with a stop at the Route 66 Museum where there are several on display, including a 1929 Ford Model A Sedan and a 1956 Mercury Montclair, along with historic photos and other memorabilia.

There are nearly 100 murals in Tucumcari. Most of them are easily sighted and accessed along Tucumcari Boulevard, while others can be found on businesses and buildings throughout town. A mural map is available at the Tucumcari Chamber of Commerce to help visitors explore these unique pieces of art, many of which have a hidden object or message.

Come discover our stretch of the historic mother road and experience the small town charm and hospitality of Tucumcari, New Mexico.

VISITTUCUMCARINM.COM

TRAVEL

[ SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION ]

TRAVEL

Colfax Tavern & Diner aka Cold Beer, NM Why should Texas Panhandle residents visit Colfax Tavern & Diner? Folks should visit Colfax Tavern & Diner at Cold Beer, New Mexico, to experience a unique atmosphere in the middle of nowhere. It’s a convenient stop on a trip to the mountains for a relaxing, entertaining break. We have great food, more than 20 draft beers on tap, a full bar and cornhole boards on the patio. Our place is family- and dog-friendly.

How long has Colfax Tavern & Diner been open? Colfax has been a historic local watering hole since 1929. The current owners, Danny and Shelly Quartieri, since 2016 have expanded and improved the overall integrity of the establishment. Since then it has become a favorite for tourists and locals to visit.

What do visitors seem to enjoy the most? Our visitors enjoy the green chile cheeseburgers and fresh pizza! The choice of draft beers (28 to be exact) is exceptional and reflects the entire state of New Mexico. The outdoor patio is a fan favorite, too.

What do you consider a “must-see” or “must-do”? The scenery of Northern New Mexico is exceptional. Hiking, fishing, and our Annual Honky-tonk Hodgepodge (FREE music festival!)

Aug 5-6, 2022. Visit our Facebook page for more event details.

What’s one thing that will surprise visitors?

We have a lot of wildlife in the area. Many of our patrons have seen elk, antelope, deer and even bears while visiting Cold Beer, New Mexico.

32230 US 64 CO L FAX CO U N T Y, N E W M E X I CO 575.376.2229 COLDBEERNM.COM

TRAVEL

Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West Why should Texas Panhandle residents visit Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West? We are a true and authentic Western experience. Our beautiful Texas ranch, our incredible Quarter Horses, and our knowledgeable wranglers make our horseback riding and chuck wagon experiences a lifetime memory for all who visit us.

How long has Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West been in business? Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West just celebrated its 11th year in operation.

What do visitors seem to enjoy the most?

Our horses, land and our history. We are the No. 1-rated attraction in Amarillo on Tripadvisor!

What do you consider a “must-see” or “mustdo”? Our 2-hour and sunset riding experiences are phenomenal! Our guests love them!

What’s one thing that will surprise visitors?

Our guests are amazed at how well we—and our horses—take care of them on our horseback rides.

They feel like they are real cowgirls and cowboys when they are finished!

19100 FM1258 | AMARILLO, TX 806.672.9256 COWGIRLSANDCOWBOYSIN THEWEST.COM [ SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION ]

TRAVEL

PanhandlePlains Historical Museum Why should Texas Panhandle residents visit PanhandlePlains Historical Museum? In PPHM’s tremendous holdings, visitors find the heart of Texas art, the free spirit of the Taos and Santa Fe schools of art, and unsurpassed Southwest American Indian art. They can unlock the hidden world of the ancient past through the paleontology, geology and archeology areas, while learning about the rich history of the region and seeing some of the finest examples of fashion in the Textiles Gallery. Exhibits change constantly and there is always something new to see. From dinosaurs to modern art, from saddles to automobiles, PPHM has it all.

How long has PPHM been open? Since 1933.

What do visitors seem to enjoy the most? Visitors love our Pioneer Town because they are immersed in the “Old West” and truly experience it firsthand, from pumping water at the well to sitting in the old school house. We also know people love our paleontology and imagining what life was like when dinosaurs roamed the earth.

What do you consider a “must-see” or “must-do”? Pioneer Town, dinosaurs and of course, our amazing art collections.

We have two very special exhibits this summer: “Objects of Enchantment,” which is about our favorite fairy tales and “Quinceañera Traditions.” Our special exhibits are always a must-see.

What’s one thing that will surprise visitors? PPHM always surprises people by the sheer size and the amount of things you can learn and engage with. It is truly a place that all generations can enjoy.

2503 FOURTH AVE. | CANYON, TEXAS 8 0 6 .6 51 . 2 2 4 4 | PA N H A N D L E P L A I N S .O R G