History of Cadillac Ranch
Back in 1974, the wealthy landowner wanted some art that would baffle the locals. He really nailed it! With ten Cadillacs half/buried nose first, he created art that would become not just a roadside attraction, but also a destination for road-trippers! They range from a 1949 Club Sedan to a 1963 Sedan de Ville. While you can still tell they were once automobiles… I don’t think you can decide what model car any of them are any longer.
The walk from the parking area & the souvenir trailer to the cars.
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Everything to know when booking a VRBO
Before You Visit
The pull for many people is the welcoming of the graffiti on the cars. So make sure you come prepared. We were able to stop at a local Wal-Mart (affiliate link) and spend a few dollars on spray paint for our trek to the cars. I highly recommend you come prepared with your paint.
The local Wal-Mart has the largest selection of spray paint I have ever seen.
The cars are a short distance from the road through a dirt (or mud) field. We got lucky and went when it was a dry week in Amarillo. If you go when it has rained or is raining… be ready for the massive amounts of mud.
So many cars, so weird to see them in such a position and so colorful.
Grafitti Rules
It certainly feels odd to paint on the cars! But it is allowed!
There is a very clear sign out by the road to not paint beyond that point. It should go without saying paint the cars and nothing else. There are plenty of cars, so plenty of “canvas” to leave your mark, don’t paint the road… that’s tacky.
I know I would never have to say this to YOU, so this is for other people…. Don’t litter. There are trash cans. This is a free roadside attraction. No one should have to pick up after grown adults. Sometimes people do leave behind paint cans that still have paint. But empty or broken cans are for the trash.
Location of Cadillac Ranch
I read that around two million visitors find the spot annually!! There is roadside parking (no bathrooms).
When we visited there was a truck/trailer set up with various touristy souvenirs as well as paint cans for sale. But I wouldn’t always count on it being there for your paint needs.
Address for Cadillac Ranch
13651 I-40 Frontage Rd, Amarillo, TX
