The Texas Panhandle gets its name from how it protrudes at the top of the state, much like the handle of a pot or pan. The landscape on the Panhandle is dominated by agriculture and petroleum. Visitors to this area of Texas have a variety of experiences waiting to be discovered, such as Adobe Walls, an ancient Spanish trading post that is today a contemporary historical attraction. A full quarter of the Panhandle is known as the Llano Estacado, often translated as Staked Plain. It is part of what was once called the Great American Desert and represents one of the largest expanses of flat land in the world.

The town of Lubbock can be found on the Llano Estacado, and is well known locally as the birthplace of early rock and roller Buddy Holly. The Lake Meredith National Recreation Area near Amarillo is another favored destination on the Panhandle, popular with anglers and campers.