A town like Amado, in southern Arizona, is not necessarily on our radar. Not many folks are flocking to this tiny, rural agricultural community, which has just under 50 residents. But what most travelers fail to realize is that it’s an ideal pit stop on a road trip through Arizona. It’s the kind of place where you can soak up the local culture and learn the traditions. Plus, there are several remote hiking trails within minutes of Amado. This means slow travel enthusiasts will love it here. Another reason to stop in? To snap a pic of the entrance of the Longhorn Grill and Saloon featuring the largest longhorns that you will ever see. The 30-foot giant, eye-catching structure is one of those roadside attractions in Arizona that is worth taking a quick detour to visit. A second bonus? The juicy brisket Reuben that’s on the menu. 

Move over, Longhorn Steakhouse, the real longhorn is in Amado, just 40 miles south of Tucson. If you’ve driven on I-19 towards Nogales, you might have spotted this colossal skull with the 30-foot horns from the highway. Located at the entrance of Longhorn Grill and Saloon, the oversized skull has become somewhat of a local legend. It was featured in several movies, including the 1995 film Boys on the Side starring Drew Barrymore. 

Fun fact: The skull was built in the 1970s by local artist Michael Kautza, famous for other giant sculptures in Arizona. So, in case you were wondering if the roadside attraction is real… sorry to say, but it’s not. It was built using concrete, rebar, and stucco. 

Over the years, the space was used as a roofing company, a bait shop, and a clothing store. But if you ask me, I think that it’s the perfect spot for a steakhouse restaurant. Don’t you agree? And you won’t find another restaurant entrance like this in the country. It’s truly striking and unique. This only means that this iconic roadside attraction is worth a pit stop. 

Of course, the main reason to visit is to snap pics as you walk through the eye-catching cow‑skull doorway. Or to take selfies with the towering structure in the backdrop. And while the skull and horns are striking during the day, you won’t believe how much the sculpture comes alive at night. The reddish/orangish lights from inside the restaurant give the skull a sinister appearance. Some folks have said it’s one of the coolest entrances they have ever seen. And I can’t disagree. 

But that’s not all, folks. Inside the Western-themed restaurant, there are additional longhorns, including another massive sculpture behind the bar. So, you’ll want to step inside to take a look at it, too. As for the restaurant, Longhorn Grill and Saloon opens daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. On the menu, expect delicious steaks, BBQ, and sandwiches, so don’t leave without treating yourself to a good meal. Order the brisket Reuben, you won’t be disappointed. 

If you want to stay in Amado for a bit, there are plenty of outdoor activities here. Take a hike to the Old Baldy and Mount Wrightson Summit Trail to soak up the breathtaking views of the Santa Rita Mountains. Birdwatchers, you’ll be happy to know that Amado is a paradise for over 150 species of birds. Needless to say, don’t leave your binoculars at home.

For those interested in astronomy, plan your trip on a Friday to tour the Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory. Not only will you enter the “largest satellite facility of the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory,” but you’ll also tour the visitor center with astrophysics exhibits and see live science demonstrations. And when you’re done with the attractions, stop by the shops in town to rub elbows with the locals. 

To be honest, between the iconic longhorns and the outdoor activities, a trip to Amado is well worth it. After all, you don’t want to miss your chance to see one of the best roadside attractions in Arizona.

What is your favorite landmark in Arizona? Tell us all about it on our nomination page. You never know, we might feature it in a future article. 

Need more inspiration? Take a fun road trip through Arizona and fall in love with the state all over again.