Cadillac Ranch
Amarillo, Texas
Bring your own can of spraypaint and leave your fleeting mark at the public art installation known as Cadillac Ranch. Spraypainting would otherwise be considered vandalism, but here it is encouraged and contributes to a surprisingly beautiful collective artwork by visitors.
Located just west of Amarillo in a flat field, ten Cadillacs were buried nose-first in the ground showing the successive evolution of the iconic Cadillac tailfin. The original installation was created in 1974, however was relocated in 1997 two miles west to move further from the expanding city of Amarillo. This eccentric art installation is part of the unique Texas culture. Thousands of layers of thick dripping spray paint add a cool 3D effect.
Special needs:
This art installation is in a field, however it is flat and suitable for wheelchairs. The traffic directly around the Cadillacs has resulted in eroded soil that can make a muddy mess after rains. However this does not deter most people. Amarillo is often windy, so expect the odor from spray paint to travel.
Know before you go:
- Depending on the number of visitors and West Texas winds, the smell of spray paint can be strong.
- Bring your own can of spray paint, and visitors will often leave behind partially-used cans of what they did not finish. One can per family of four would be ample for a 30 minute spray session if everyone takes turns.
- Recent rain will leave standing water or mud near the cars since there is not grass due to heavy foot traffic.
- Trash from empty spraypaint cans and lids are distracting and careless towards this art installation. Carry out whatever you carry in.
How to get there:
Cadillac Ranch
13651 I-40 Frontage Rd
Amarillo, TX 79124
Open to the public 24/7, free entrance. Park on the roadside and enter through the designated gate.
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