Discover How Amarillo Locals Give Directions in the Most Unique Way

When moving to Amarillo, it can take a little bit for you to get your bearings. Getting around town isn't something that will come naturally. You've got to accept some weird things, like the multiple Wolflin Avenues we have that aren't connected. You'll be tempted to ask for directions, but beware, there are some things you need to know first. We give directions based on certain landmarks in Amarillo.

Historic And Obvious Landmarks In Amarillo, Texas

Fortunately, if you're new to town, directions will sometimes include a reference to a fairly obvious landmark. These landmarks stand out like sore thumbs and are impossible to miss. Things like Hodgetown, the FirstBank Southwest Tower, and the Santa Fe Building.

These landmarks can typically be seen just by looking in the general vicinity of where they're located. As a newcomer, you can give and receive directions based on these landmarks and sound like you know what you're talking about.

If you don't know how to find one of these landmarks, just driving in their general direction will usually solve your problems. If you're driving downtown (where these examples are located) be sure to keep an eye out for those confusing one-way signs. They take a while to get used to. "The Bus Station" will be referenced at one point.

Know Where Your Nearest Walmart Is Located

Walmart is also a big landmark in giving directions. It's understandable considering they're located along major roads in town. They're also impossible to miss. You need to know where the nearest Walmart is before you get directions.

Some of the Walmart stores you'll need to know are on Georgia, Coulter, and Amarillo Blvd. Heads up, things can get a little confusing here. There are also the "Neighborhood Markets" that you need to be aware of. Make sure you know where the Walmarts are in town before you go exploring.

If You Worship Or Not, Know Where The Churches Are

I can't even begin to count the number of times someone gave me directions and they told me to make a turn near a church. Before I familiarized myself with our places of worship, I spent a lot of time thoroughly confused.

It's going to happen. Churches are one of a couple of things that we have on every street corner in Amarillo. Be prepared to be told to drive in a direction and then turn at such-and-such church.

Toot'n Totums Are Everywhere. They're The Perfect Landmark.

Whether you're stopping for gas, a snack, or custody drop-off, Toot'n Totums are part of the fabric of Amarillo life. They are the second of a couple of things we have on every street corner. One of the easiest ways to give directions is to drop in a Toot'n Totum.

The only confusing part is the fact that they are literally everywhere. It's hard to drive anywhere in Amarillo without passing twelve of them. If you aren't sure of which Toot'n Totum you're looking for, you may turn four blocks earlier than you meant to. Pay attention.

You'll Need To Know About Things That Don't Exist Anymore

This is the aggravating part of getting directions in Amarillo, but it happens more often than you'd believe. People who have been here a lot longer than you remember the way things used to be. For some reason, they'll give you directions based on their nostalgia and not on your need to get to your job interview on time.

Drive around for a little while. Familiarize yourself with the abandoned buildings in Amarillo. We've written several stories about abandoned places and businesses that have left town for good. It would be wise to check some of them out before venturing out. Some old head will tell you to turn at the Crystal Pistol, and you'll be lost for days.

You've got this. Familiarize yourself with these things, and there's a chance you'll get directions from someone that makes sense.