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Finding a car rental in Amarillo is simple with Road Genius. Compare prices of vehicles from dozens of suppliers around Texas with no booking fees. Pick up at Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport or downtown and drive straight to Route 66, Palo Duro Canyon or Cadillac Ranch on wide-open roads with plenty of free parking.
Car Rental Locations & Options
Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport (AMA) offers a straightforward and efficient car rental experience at counters conveniently located inside the terminal.
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Airport (Terminal) | • Rental counters inside baggage claim area • On-site car lot (no shuttle needed) • Quick, easy process at smaller airport • Short wait times (usually under 15 minutes) • Major companies represented | • Slightly higher rates due to airport fees • Limited selection of specialty vehicles • May have fewer upgrade options |
| Downtown Locations | • Potentially lower rates • Convenient if already staying downtown | • Limited hours (usually 8am-6pm) • Requires transportation from airport • Fewer company options |
Car Rental Prices
Low-cost rental tips
- Price out airport vs downtown pick-up: AMA's on-site counters are convenient but include extra airport fees. If you're already heading downtown, compare those rates and see if a quick rideshare saves money.
- Shift your dates by a day: Midweek pickups in Amarillo (Tue–Thu) often ring in cheaper than weekend starts, especially during summer and spring-break periods.
- Recheck prices 7-10 days before travel: Outside major holidays, cars in the Panhandle rarely sell out. A fresh quote can uncover last-minute markdowns.
- Choose a compact for flat Texas highways: Palo Duro's roads are paved. Smaller cars cost less to rent and sip less fuel on those wide-open drives.
- Fill up away from the airport: Stations along I-40 in town are usually 30–40¢ per gallon cheaper than near AMA. Top off before returning to dodge pricey refuel fees.
Car rental prices in Amarillo 2025/2026
Parking and Driving
Parking in Amarillo is generally abundant and often free, making it one of the more convenient Texas cities for drivers.
| Area | Parking Options | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown | • Free street parking • Public lots | • City removed all meters • Some areas may have time limits (2 hours) |
| Route 66 District (6th St) | • On-street parking • Small public lots | • Free and plentiful • Best to park once and explore on foot |
| Westgate Mall Area | • Large free lots | • Even during peak shopping times, finding spaces is rarely an issue |
| Palo Duro Canyon | • Designated areas at trailheads and viewpoints | • Entry fee covers parking • Arrive early on summer weekends |
| Cadillac Ranch | • Informal area along frontage road | • Free access • No formal lot, just pull off on the side |
Local Driving Regulations
- Right turns allowed on red after complete stop (unless signed otherwise)
- School zones are 20 mph when lights flashing
- Seat belts required for all passengers
- Move over or slow down for emergency vehicles that have flashing lights
- Always stop for school buses that have flashing red lights
Weather Considerations
- Winter can bring occasional snow and ice, especially on bridges and overpasses
- Strong winds are common in the Panhandle. Be cautious if you have a high-profile vehicle
- Summer brings intense heat. Check your vehicle's cooling system
Why rent a car in Amarillo
Get a rental car to see:
- Palo Duro Canyon State Park – Lighthouse Trail, canyon rim viewpoints
- Cadillac Ranch – art cars, photo stops
- Route 66 Historic District – diners, stores
- Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument – visitor center, quarry sites
- Lake Meredith – boating, fishing spots
Local Rental Locations
- Abilene, TX
- Brownsville, TX
- Car Rental El Paso International Airport (ELP)
- Car Rental Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport (LBB)
- Car Rental San Antonio International Airport (SAT)
- El Paso, TX
- Lubbock, TX
- MAF Airport
- McAllen, TX
- MFE Airport
- Midland, TX
- Odessa, TX
- San Antonio, TX
FAQs
Is it necessary to rent a car in Amarillo?
Yes, we highly recommend you rent a car. Amarillo has very little public transportation, and its attractions are spread out. You'll need a car to get around easily.
What type of vehicle is best for exploring Amarillo and surrounding areas?
A standard sedan works for most visitors. If you plan to explore Palo Duro Canyon or rural areas a lot, you might want a small SUV since it sits higher off the ground. However, the canyon roads are paved, so any car can handle them.
Are there toll roads in Amarillo?
No, there are no toll roads in Amarillo or the Panhandle region. You won't have to worry about toll fees or carrying a transponder.
How is winter driving in Amarillo?
Winter can bring some snow and ice. City crews clear the main roads quickly, but you should be careful on bridges and overpasses because they freeze first. If forecasters predict a blizzard, you should consider postponing your trip as road conditions can get bad very quickly.
