Welcome to Conway, Texas
Tucked away in the Texas Panhandle, Conway, Texas is a small dot on the map that punches far above its weight when it comes to Route 66 roadside charm. Just 30 miles east of Amarillo, Conway serves as a quick but memorable stop for travelers heading west along the Mother Road. Its blend of offbeat art, quirky installations, and classic Route 66 spirit makes it a must-see stop—even if just for a photo op.
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A Brief History of Conway, Texas
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Founded in the early 1900s as a rural ranching and farming community, Conway was named after H.B. Conway, a local landowner. The town was a small railroad stop for the Chicago, Rock Island and Gulf Railway and never grew large, but it gained unexpected fame in the mid-20th century thanks to its position along U.S. Route 66.
During Route 66’s heyday, Conway catered to passing motorists with gas stations, a café, and motels. Over time, most businesses closed as traffic moved to Interstate 40, but the quirky charm remains—especially thanks to one standout roadside attraction.
Weather in Conway, Texas
Much like Amarillo, Conway experiences a semi-arid climate with:
- Hot summers with average highs in the 90s
- Cold, windy winters with occasional snow
- Spring and fall being the best seasons for comfortable travel
Travelers in RVs or vintage cars should be mindful of strong winds and wide temperature swings throughout the day.
The Story of Route 66 in Conway
When Route 66 was commissioned in 1926, it ran directly through Conway along what is now the I-40 service road. Conway’s service stations and roadside businesses provided welcome relief to cross-country travelers for several decades. By the 1970s, the new Interstate bypassed most of the old businesses, but the area remained part of Route 66 lore.
Today, Conway is most famous for its whimsical response to a nearby attraction in Amarillo: Cadillac Ranch.
Route 66 Attractions to See in Conway
1. The Slug Bug Ranch (aka Bug Ranch)
Location: I-40 Frontage Rd, Conway, TX 79068
This funky roadside art installation was created in 2002 as a tongue-in-cheek parody of Cadillac Ranch. Instead of Cadillacs, five Volkswagen Beetles (or “slug bugs”) are buried nose-first into the ground. Travelers are encouraged to spray paint the cars and snap photos. There’s a spooky abandoned gas station and gift shop nearby that adds to the quirky atmosphere.
🛑 Tip: The site is free and open to the public year-round, but the best lighting for photos is in the morning or late afternoon.
2. Ghost Signs and Abandoned Buildings
As you drive through Conway, look for the remains of old Route 66 businesses, including foundations of former motels and a shuttered Phillips 66 gas station. These remnants are great for fans of ghost towns and historic Americana.
Lodging Near Conway on Route 66
Conway doesn’t offer overnight accommodations, but nearby Amarillo has plenty of Route 66-themed motels. Here are a few recommended options:
- Big Texan Motel (7701 I-40 East, Amarillo, TX) – Western-themed rooms and steakhouse next door
- The Barfield Hotel (Downtown Amarillo) – Upscale boutique stay with historic charm
- Route 66 Inn (2806 E Amarillo Blvd) – Budget motel on the original alignment
Places to Eat Near Conway on Route 66
Conway itself has no active restaurants, but you’ll find food options in Amarillo (30 minutes west) or Groom (15 minutes east). Here are nearby places worth the short drive:
- The Grill at The Big Texan Steak Ranch (Amarillo) – Classic Texas steakhouse
- The Grill on 66 (Groom, TX) – Casual diner offering burgers and breakfast on the old route
Tips for Visiting Conway, Texas
- Bring spray paint if you want to tag the Bugs at Bug Ranch.
- Wear closed-toe shoes—the ground can be rough and littered with debris.
- Visit during daylight—the Bug Ranch has no lighting at night and is best enjoyed in sunlight.
- Be respectful of the art and the environment. While it’s interactive, it’s also fragile.
Final Thoughts on Conway
Though tiny, Conway, Texas proves that even the smallest stops along Route 66 can deliver a memorable experience. The Bug Ranch offers a quirky, artistic twist on the roadside attractions that define the Mother Road, and the town’s quiet, weather-worn remnants serve as a living museum of mid-century travel culture. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect Instagram photo or simply taking in the vast Texas sky, Conway is a worthy stop on your Route 66 journey.
