6 Best Hotels in West Texas and the Panhandle, Texas

Cowboy, Native American, and Hispanic cultures are reflected in the furnishings and artwork of this gorgeously restored historic hotel, built in the 1920s by renowned architect Henry Trost, across from the downtown railroad tracks. There are several types of accommodations: the original upstairs rooms, some with shared hallway baths; a hacienda-style courtyard with posh adobe quarters; and three renovated homes with elegant bedrooms. The property sits on 27 acres with fragrant gardens.

Next door to Far Flung Outdoor Center and just 3 miles from the western boundary of Big Bend National Park, the outfitter operates 12 freestanding casitas with hardwood floors, flat-screen TVs, kitchenettes, two pillow-top queen beds, and back porches with rocking chairs. There are two common courtyards with propane grills, dining tables, and tidy Southwestern landscaping.

As Amarillo's only downtown hotel, this 10-story Courtyard is in the 1920s Fisk Medical Arts Building, within five blocks of the convention center. Rooms are well configured and feature amenities appropriate for both business and leisure travelers. Although breakfast is not included in the price of the room, the Bistro restaurant offers a decent variety of options, including Starbucks coffee plus health foods and comfort foods, with both indoor and outdoor seating (weather permitting). The bar opens each evening. There is no elevator in the parking garage, so it's best to unload your luggage for checking in before parking your car.

A National Historic Landmark, this 1930 Spanish baroque–style hotel provided the set for the 1956 movie The Giant, starring Rock Hudson and Elizabeth Taylor. Rooms vary in size and amenities. The small pool, lounge, courtyard, gallery, gift shop, restaurant, and memorabilia room where you can watch The Giant make for a pleasant stay.

The former cavalry post turned ghost town is now a privately owned collection of Western-theme tourist attractions with a golf resort, spa, riding stables, convenience store, RV park, and hiking trails, adding up to the nicest place to eat, shop, and overnight within 25 miles of the park. The main lodge is the Badlands Hotel, a two-story affair with a lobby staircase and an opulent Tiffany chandelier. Upstairs hallways have the slightly saucy aura of an old bordello. The rooms, to be sure, are outfitted with everything modern. In addition, there are time-share condos across the "boardwalk," a Pueblo-style motel, the Cavalry Post, down the street, and a nearby RV Park. Badlands guests can use the motel's swimming pool. An upscale but casual restaurant and lounge are a walk through a breezeway.