Ever heard about or drove past one of those places on the interstate and wish you had stopped? Well, then in your travels be sure that you take a trip to the iconic Big Texan in Amarillo for an unforgettable experience! This beloved landmark has been delighting locals and Texas visitors since 1960 with its distinct country charm and down-home atmosphere. From delicious dining to rodeo-style games, you’ll get a taste of the Lone Star State that is sure to have you wanting more.
Overview of the Big Texan
The Big Texan offers a one-of-a-kind experience for anyone passing through or visiting the Amarillo area in the Lone Star State. You’ll find a 
range of things to eat and do, from traditional Texas barbeque to a fortune teller and slot machines. Of course, no visit would be complete without exploring the rich history of this treasured landmark, which dates back to 1960. Whether you’re looking for an authentic taste of Texas or wanting to create unforgettable memories with friends and family, the Big Texan is sure to have something for you! The Big Texan is located on the famous Route 66 in Amarillo. The main attraction of this restaurant property is the one-of-a-kind 72 ounce steak dinner, which has been so popular that it’s served more than 90,000 people! But if steak isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other dishes to choose from. From burgers and chicken wings to salads and sandwiches, you’re sure to find something delicious at the Big Texan. There’s also a variety of events hosted here throughout the year, such as flight weeks, live music shows, and even rodeo competitions. So get ready to explore this iconic Texas destination!
Parking and Exterior
We were actually passing through the area on our stop at the Big Texan in Amarillo. Our first visit here is when we had our travel trailer and finding a place to park was very easy. For context, we had a 32 foot overall length trailer being hauled by a Ford F-150 at a about total of 55 feet in length. There is a large truck parking lot in the back of the restaurant and we found a spot next to a semi. The bottom line here is parking is stress and hassle free even for the largest of RVs. The exterior of the property is in the old west theme and is adorned with various statues including cows and even a dinosaur. Our kids got a charge out of looking at all of the decorations.
Inside the restaurant
One of the first things you’ll notice upon entering the Big Texan is the gift shop. Here you can find a wide variety of items emblazoned with the restaurant’s iconic logo, including t-shirts, hats, and other
souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to pick up a memento of your visit to the Big Texan. We were able to grab a couple of metal signs. This is one of my favorite ways to spend money on RV road trips. Once you’ve finished browsing the gift shop, you’ll be able to take in the restaurant’s unique decor. The Big Texan is decorated with a Western theme, with cowhide-covered chairs and tables, cowboy hats hanging from the ceiling, and other rustic touches throughout the restaurant. It’s a fun and lively atmosphere that sets the stage for a memorable meal. If you’re waiting for a table or just looking for something to do before your meal, the Big Texan also offers a variety of games and activities. There’s a mechanical bull you can ride, a shooting gallery, and even a small zoo with alligators, buffalo, and other animals. It’s a great way to pass the time and add to the overall experience of visiting the Big Texan.
The Big Texan in Amarillo Menu
The Big Texan menu was larger than I thought it would be and is pretty extensive given that the restaurant is famous for its steaks. There is a wide variety of mouth-watering options, from classic steaks and burgers to delicious seafood and Tex-Mex dishes. To be honest, going in to this restaurant I wasn’t expecting too much, considering its kitschy iconic roadside attraction look. Let’s just say after eating at the Big Texan, I have tried to plan our route around making a stop, or making excuses to travel along I-40 when we were nowhere near that area.
Appetizers
The Big Texan offers a variety of appetizers and sides. Some of the most popular options include the fried mushrooms, jalapeno poppers, onion rings and mountain oysters (if you don’t know what they are – look it up!). The restaurant also offers a wide selection of sides including salad.
The 72 ounce Steak Challenge at The Big Texan in Amarillo
Looking for the big steak in Texas? One of the most popular items featured in many television shows, blogs and YouTube videos on the menu is the 72 oz. steak challenge. This iconic challenge is a true test of will power and appetite, as diners are given an hour to consume a massive 72 oz. steak, baked potato, salad, shrimp cocktail, and a roll. Think you can dine on this whopper of a meal at your table? Forget about it. You’ll have to eat on a stage so the entire restaurant can see you attempt to win your pig out contest. Those who are able to finish the entire challenge are rewarded with a free meal and a placed on the Wall of Fame. Don’t finish? You’ll be out $72 for the food.
What did we order?
For those who aren’t up for the challenge, the Big Texan offers a wide variety of other delicious options. There was no way we were going to take on the 72oz steak challenge, but let me say that the portions didn’t disappoint. I had the porterhouse and Tanja had a ribeye. Both of these steaks were huge, not to mention delicious! We grabbed a couple of photos of our 
meal that I have included here.
The steak menu includes a variety of cuts, including ribeye, sirloin, t-bone, and prime rib. From our experience when we have been here, all steaks are cooked to perfection and served with a variety of sides. The steaks came with a choice of two sides, rolls and butter. The restaurant also offers a selection of seafood dishes, including shrimp, salmon, and a filet.
Accommodations
The RV Ranch at the Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo, Texas
The RV Ranch is a great option for travelers who are looking for a convenient and comfortable place to stay while exploring the area. This RV park offers a variety of amenities to make your stay as enjoyable as possible, including full hook-ups, laundry facilities, and a convenient location just minutes from downtown Amarillo. The ranch even offers free shuttle service to the restaurant from the RV park, so you don’t have to worry about more driving after a long day on the road. Relax and have a few beverages if you enjoy that.
Conclusion
Overall, the Big Texan Steak Ranch is much more than just a restaurant – it’s a destination. We think it is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves great food and a unique dining experience. With a wide variety of delicious options, friendly service, and a fun atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a special occasion. Whether you’re looking to take on the 72 oz. steak challenge, browse the gift shop, or just enjoy the unique atmosphere and activities, the Big Texan has something for everyone. So next time you’re in Amarillo, be sure to stop by and see what all the fuss is about.
I’d like to know if you took the 72oz steak challenge and were able to conquer it (or not). Drop a comment below and let’s talk about featuring you on this page!
