Discover Lamar, Colorado: Your Guide to Visiting Landmarks and Landscapes in Southeastern Colorado

he Lamar Theatre, an older movie theater with a partially art deco facade, under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds. — The historic Lamar theatre in downtown Lamar, Colorado

Welcome to Lamar, in the heart of Southeastern Colorado! If Lamar isn’t on your radar, you’re not alone—many travelers pass over Colorado’s eastern plains in favor of the towering Rockies to the west.

But Lamar, Colorado, is packed with unexpected delights and, dare I say, hidden gems. It makes a fantastic basecamp for uncovering the best of southeastern Colorado. This guide will show you why, whether you’re stopping by for a day or settling in for a more extended stay. From historic landmarks to outdoor adventures, there’s plenty to discover. And if you’re willing to learn a little bit of history, you might see the open skies and vast prairies in an entirely new light.

Table of Contents – Discover Lamar, Colorado

[show]

About Lamar, Colorado

Along U.S. Highway 50 on the edge of the Arkansas River floodplain, Lamar was born as a railroad town and has steadily evolved into a thriving regional center. Today, it’s the county seat and largest community in Prowers County.

The Founding of Lamar

Lamar was founded by Kansas businessman I.R. Holmes and his Santa Fe Railroad partner A.S. Johnson. The town’s namesake, Lucius Quintus Cincinnatus Lamar, Secretary of the Interior from 1885 to 1888, strongly advocated for railroad expansion into Colorado’s Arkansas River Valley.

When cattleman Amos R. Black wouldn’t cooperate with the Santa Fe Railroad to build a townsite at Blackwell Station adjacent to his land, the railroad took matters into its own hands.

On May 22, 1866, Black was mysteriously summoned to Pueblo on “urgent business.” That same night, a railroad crew dismantled the Blackwell Station depot and buildings, loaded them onto flatcars, and moved them about three miles (4.8 km) east to the new townsite of Lamar.

The relocated depot was operational the next day, as track had already been laid in Lamar. Settlers arrived by train, purchasing lots from the Santa Fe Railroad.

A three-story building made of light brown stone blocks stands under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds. The words "DAVIES BROS. 1902" are carved into the stone at the top. The ground floor has storefront windows with red awnings and entrance doors. A vintage-style lamppost stands in front of the building. Davies Hotel Building, Lamar, Colorado. — The historic Davies Hotel building in downtown Lamar

Lamar had a general store, lumber yard, saloons, and land offices within a week. Two months later, it had over 100 homes, a restaurant, and a newspaper.

A fire destroyed the original depot, but Lamar’s current train depot still welcomes visitors. Read more about this train depot below.

Agriculture and the Dust Bowl in Lamar

Agriculture in Colorado—and the West—boomed thanks to land laws like the Homestead Act of 1862. Southeastern Colorado towns, including Lamar, grew into agricultural hubs, with ranching and farming forming the region’s economic backbone. Railroads helped move goods efficiently, but intensive agriculture and a dry climate made the land vulnerable to environmental strain.

Additionally, after World War I, farm prices declined from 1920. Later, the great depression saw even lower prices.

Moreover, a severe drought from 1930 to 1936 resulted in the Dust Bowl, devastatingly impacting Lamar and the surrounding areas. Over-plowing and the removal of native grasses meant massive dust storms darkening the skies in strong prairie winds.

With topsoil literally blowing away, crops failed, and livestock choked. Families abandoned their farms in search of better conditions elsewhere.

Significant changes in farming techniques followed, with government programs promoting soil conservation and sustainable agricultural practices to prevent future disasters.

The Lamar Canal, a calm waterway reflecting the soft light of sunset, flows through an industrial or commercial area. The canal is lined with grassy banks and concrete structures. A small white building with a yellow gate sits on the left bank. A simple metal railing bridge crosses the canal. In the background, several large white cylindrical tanks and parked semi-trucks are visible along a road. Power lines stretch across the sky, which is a blend of pale blues and oranges. — A scenic view of the Lamar Canal reflecting the sunset. Water infrastructure like the canal is critical in supporting the arid region’s agricultural industry.

Today, Lamar’s agricultural industry is thriving even in the face of ongoing challenges. According to the USDA 2022 Census of Agriculture, Prowers County had over $429 million in farm products, the 6th highest of Colorado’s 64 counties. These goods primarily include cattle, corn, wheat, sorghum, and hay.

Lamar as a Launchpad: Why This Town Makes a Great Home Base for Travel

Lamar sits at the crossroads of three major highways—US 50, 287, and 385—making it a convenient and worthwhile stop on any road trip across southeastern Colorado. While some travelers may just pass through, this small town offers enough interest and activities to make it worth a stay. It’s also close to National Historic Sites, a scenic state park, and prime birdwatching spots—more on all those later.

With a population of around 7,500, Lamar is just the right size: easy to explore, but full of traveler-friendly amenities:

Dining: Grab a bite at cozy diners, local steakhouses, or one of several Mexican restaurants.
Lodging: Choose from national hotel chains or local rooms, a welcoming bed and breakfast, a convenient RV park, or one of several vacation rentals.
Essentials: You’ll find gas stations and grocery stores to keep your trip running smoothly.

Historic and Cultural Highlights in Downtown Lamar, Colorado

Lamar Welcome Center at the Train Depot

Founded as a railroad town, Lamar is still anchored by its 1907 red brick train depot.

Amtrak’s daily Southwest Chief route stops at this historic depot, which appears on the National Register of Historic Places.

The depot also houses a Colorado Welcome Center, an official state visitor center with information (and restrooms) for travelers.

The 1907 Train Depot in Lamar, Colorado, a red brick building with a green-trimmed roof, under a clear blue sky. A sign reads "COLORADO WELCOME CENTER". — Lamar’s 1907 Train Depot, also a Colorado Welcome Center

Showcasing Prairie School architecture, the low, horizontal orientation of the building reflects a connection to the land. The limestone band around the building, as well as the diamond patterns in the window sashes, were also influenced by the Prairie School.

The depot site also features:

Historic steam locomotive Engine 1819
A 100-year-old windmill
A vintage water tank

A large, black steam locomotive with the number "1819" prominently displayed on the front and side sits on tracks under a clear blue sky. The train has white-rimmed wheels and various mechanical components are visible. Behind the train, there is a red-roofed building, a wooden windmill structure, and bare trees. At the Colorado Welcome Center in Lamar, Colorado. — Locomotive 1819, built in 1906 and in service until 1956

The Madonna of the Trail Monument

Just steps from the depot at Main and Beech Streets stands the striking Madonna of the Trail Monument. One of 12 identical statues placed across the country from Bethesda, Maryland to Upland, California, it honors the pioneer spirit of women who helped settle the American West.

A bronze statue titled "Madonna of the Trail" stands on a multi-tiered stone pedestal against a clear blue sky. The statue depicts a pioneer woman in a bonnet, clutching a baby in her left arm and holding the hand of a young boy who stands to her right, looking up at her. The woman wears a long dress and sturdy boots. The pedestal has inscriptions carved into its stone faces. In the background, power lines stretch across the sky. To the left, a leafy green tree is visible. To the right, across a paved area that appears to be a street or plaza, a few buildings and a white van are seen. The overall impression is of a monument dedicated to pioneer mothers, situated in an outdoor setting. — Lamar’s Madonna of the Trail Monument

Each statue marks a point on the historic National Old Trails Road–a transcontinental route that followed several of the country’s prior landmark trails. In Lamar, that trail is the Santa Fe Trail Mountain Route (1821-1880).

Downtown Lamar Historic Walking Tour

Take a step back in time with the self-guided Historic Downtown Lamar Walking Tour, created by Prowers County. Covering just a half-mile (0.8 km) stretch of Main Street, the tour highlights the town’s rich heritage through notable architecture and historic landmarks, including the train depot and the Madonna of the Trail. Here are a few additional standout stops:

Prowers County Courthouse (1929): Built with granite from the same quarry as the Empire State Building, this Classical Revival building was designed by Robert K. Fuller and A.E. Danielson & Sons. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1981, it’s a striking example of civic architecture from the era.
Lamar Theatre (1911): This Art Deco gem originally served as a hardware and furniture store before becoming a beloved local movie theater.
Davies Hotel (1902): Constructed from local sandstone, this three-story hotel was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. Entrepreneur Lewis Davies recognized the town’s need for lodging for travelers as well as accommodations for working people, like those employed at the nearby sugar beet factory. Davies apparently met the incoming train every evening so he could return to the hotel with new customers.

A large, light gray stone building with multiple windows stands on a green lawn under a partly cloudy sky. Tall green trees frame the building on the left and right. The building has a classical architectural style with decorative elements along the roofline and around the entrance. Prowers County Courthouse, Lamar, Colorado. — The Prowers County Courthouse in downtown Lamar

For the whole walking tour and additional historic gems, visit the tour website linked above.

Lamar’s WPA-Era Buildings

Lamar has three structures and a park constructed during the 1930s and early 1940s as part of New Deal programs, particularly the Civil Works Administration (CWA) and Works Progress Administration (WPA). The WPA was the creation of President Franklin D. Roosevelt during the Great Depression. Millions of unemployed people nationwide were hired to carry out public work projects for economic stimulus.

Willow Creek Park and Pike’s Tower

Willow Creek Park was Colorado’s first Civil Works Administration (CWA) project, earning a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 2007. Though a significant flood in 1965 washed away many original dams and water features, the remaining stonework and park structures exemplify the Rustic style popular with New Deal programs. This style favored locally sourced stone, traditional building techniques, and handcrafted, functional design.

At the park’s south end is the eye-catching Pike’s Tower, a 40-foot (12 m) stone monument honoring a nearby 1806 encampment by explorer Zebulon Pike. Constructed in 1933 and rededicated in 2006, the tower includes a spiraling exterior staircase that visitors can still climb to enjoy panoramic views from the top.

Pike's Tower, a historical landmark in Lamar, Colorado, is a sturdy, tan stone tower with a square observation deck at the top, set against a clear blue sky and surrounded by green trees. — Pike’s Tower in Lamar’s Willow Creek Park

Lamar’s Savage Stadium

Completed in 1941, Savage Stadium was one of Colorado’s last major WPA projects. This historic venue showcases the distinctive WPA Rustic style, featuring sturdy walls crafted from local stone. Although some believe a new stadium would better serve the community today, the Savage Stadium is a lasting tribute to New Deal-era craftsmanship.

A stadium with stone walls and metal bleachers sits under a clear, pale blue sky. The bleachers are elevated and enclosed with chain-link fencing. A brick wall runs along the base of the stadium, and a paved area is in the foreground. A small building with a white roof is visible atop the stone structure. Savage Stadium in Lamar, Colorado — Savage Stadium in Lamar, Colorado

The Prowers Housing Welfare Housing

North of downtown Lamar, five buildings built by the WPA between 1938 and 1941 and arranged in an “H” pattern make up the Prowers Welfare Housing Complex. This affordable housing project was a concept more commonly seen in urban areas. That makes this site unique: it’s the only known WPA public housing complex in eastern Colorado.

The buildings are constructed in the distinctive WPA Rustic style, featuring native stone and traditional craftsmanship. Although the complex likely served its original purpose for less than a decade, it has seen various uses over time. During a recent visit, the site was operating as an addiction treatment center, continuing its legacy of community support.

A tan brick building with a stepped facade. The building has several windows and a glimpse of a green metal roof on an adjacent structure. Trees with green leaves are visible in the background under a clear, light sky. One of 5 buildings originally forming the Prowers Welfare Housing Complex in Lamar, Colorado — One of the original five buildings of the Prowers Welfare Housing Complex

More Prowers County WPA projects

In addition to the sites in Lamar, Prowers County has three additional WPA buildings and one bridge highlighted on their self-guided tour of WPA projects.

Lamar’s Big Timbers Museum

If you’re curious about the history and heritage of southeast Colorado, visit Lamar’s Big Timbers Museum, just a short drive north of downtown.

A two-story red brick building with lighter brick accents and white-framed windows stands under a clear blue sky. The building has an arched entrance on the right side with a white door and steps leading up. A large boulder and some small plants are in the gravel area in front of the building. A tree branch with green leaves is visible in the upper right corner. Big Timbers Museum in Lamar, Colorado. — Lamar’s Big Timbers Museum

What Was Big Timbers?

“Big Timbers” referred to a lush, wooded stretch of the Arkansas River (up to 60 miles (96.5 km) long in 1806) where towering cottonwood trees once lined both banks. This unique riparian zone served as a seasonal camp for Native American tribes and later became a key stop along the Mountain Branch of the Santa Fe Trail.

By the 1850s, overuse and environmental stress had begun to shrink the area, and by 1900, most of the trees had vanished. The causes were many: rising Native American populations fueled by horse culture, heavy wagon traffic on the Santa Fe Trail, expanding agriculture and livestock use, and recurring droughts—all of which depleted the river’s natural resources.

Outside the Big Timbers Museum

The museum building is a former American Telephone and Telegraph Company site, built in 1929. It contained essential equipment for long-distance phone lines and operated until 1966. After new technology rendered the facilities obsolete, the company donated the building to the Prowers County Historical Society.

The Mountain Branch of the Santa Fe Trail (1822-1880) passed the museum location. An outdoor area contains a Santa Fe Trail Marker from the Daughters of the American Revolution. The area around this marker has interpretive signs with information about today’s Colorado Santa Fe Trail Scenic and Historic Byway. The Byway follows a portion of the original trail over 188 miles (303 km) through southeastern Colorado.

A life-sized bronze sculpture titled “Running Towards Danger,” memorializing 9/11 first responders, is mounted on a light brown stucco wall at the Tri-State 9/11 Memorial Site outside of the Big Timbers Museum. The sculpture depicts a kneeling firefighter in full gear, looking upwards and holding an axe. To the left, a separate stucco structure displays two metal plaques with names inscribed on them. Three flags, including an American flag and a black and white flag with stripes, fly atop poles behind the structure under a clear blue sky. The scene serves as a tribute to the events of 9/11 and the bravery of first responders. — Tri-State 9/11 Memorial Site with a life-sized bronze sculpture memorializing 9/11 first responders, “Running Towards Danger.”

On April 17, 2025, a new sign marking the original location of the Santa Fe Trail was placed in the west parking lot of the Big Timbers Museum.

If you’re interested in visiting some Santa Fe Trail historic sites in southeastern Colorado, I wrote a long post with details on this topic.

Also outside the museum, look for a picnic shelter and the Tri-State 9/11 Memorial Site. The life-sized bronze sculpture memorializing 9/11 first responders, “Running Towards Danger,” is especially moving.

Inside the Big Timbers Museum

Big Timbers Museum does not allow photography.

The museum is not large, but its two floors are chock-full of memorabilia from Lamar and Prowers County. For instance, displays recount the robbery of the First National Bank in Lamar by the Fleagle Gang on May 23, 1928. The gang members killed the bank president and his son during this robbery. While fleeing, they took two hostages, one of whom was also murdered. The cases against the Fleagle Gang are significant because they were the first in which the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) obtained a conviction using a single fingerprint as part of the evidence. The convicted criminals were executed by hanging in July 1930.

Other exhibits include a WWI poster collection, medical and dental equipment, kitchenware, and commercial and homemade clothing from different periods.

The Big Timbers Museum offers a well-rounded look into Lamar’s past. In addition to displays on historically significant events, artifacts of everyday life provide an insight into how people once lived, worked, and thrived on the high plains.

The Big Timbers Transportation Museum

Next to the Big Timbers Museum is a building that houses the Big Timbers Transportation Museum. Opened in 2011, this warehouse features antique wagons, cars, trucks, and firefighting equipment, all with explanations of the vehicles. Many of these specimens are in pristine condition.

The Petrified Wood Building

No article about Lamar, Colorado, is complete without a mention of Lamar’s Petrified Wood Building (1932) on Lamar’s Main Street. Lumber dealer William T. Brown built this gas station entirely from petrified wood sourced from Prowers County. Even the floors are made of petrified wood! It was once hailed as “the oldest working gas station in the world, at over 175,000,000 years old.”

A uniquely shaped building constructed from rough, jagged petrified wood stands under a hazy, yellow-tinged sky. A sign with red lettering is visible above the entrance. The building has windows and a white door. A yellow fire hydrant and a planter with pink flowers are in the foreground, along with parked cars and other commercial buildings in the background. Petrified Wood Building in Lamar, Colorado — Lamar’s Petrified Wood Building near sunset

This unique structure quickly became a roadside attraction in its day, even earning a mention in Ripley’s Believe It or Not. After Brown’s death, the building changed hands and purposes. Today, it’s part of the Stagner Inc. used car business. It doesn’t appear that Stanger is using the building, and you can walk up and inspect the ancient petrified wood closely from all angles.

Step Into Nature: Outdoor Attractions Near Lamar

Willow Creek Park and Trail

As explained above, Willow Creek Park began as a Works Progress Administration (WPA) project. It continues to serve the community with modern amenities, including playgrounds, a skatepark, a disc golf course, and open green space. Its mature shade trees are welcome when temperatures rise, as Lamar and the surrounding area have few native trees.

A view of the Willow Creek Trail entrance in Lamar, Colorado, showing wooden posts with orange markings leading into a grassy pathway surrounded by trees. — The Willow Creek Trail in Lamar, Colorado

The Willow Creek Trail begins in the park and heads south, crossing Memorial Drive and continuing along its namesake creek. This short, easy out-and-back trail is ideal for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and casual walking. The round-trip distance is 2.5 miles (4 km) with almost no elevation gain, making it accessible and enjoyable for all fitness levels.

The Colorado Birding Trail

The Colorado Birding Trail encourages travel to agricultural landscapes throughout the state. The Trail includes private lands in addition to public parks and open spaces. At Birding Trail stops, visitors can observe birds and other wildlife. Some places even include items of archaeological and paleontological interest.

Willow Creek in Lamar meanders through a landscape of tall grasses and lush trees under a partly cloudy blue sky. The calm water reflects the surrounding vegetation and the sky. The banks of the creek are lined with a mix of green and golden grasses, indicating the transition of seasons. The trees in the background show a variety of green and yellow leaves. The scene captures a tranquil natural environment. — A serene view of Willow Creek, surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for birdwatching and enjoying nature near Lamar, Colorado.

Lamar is one of many places in Prowers County that are recommended for birdwatching. In Lamar, the Colorado Birding Trail recommends the following spots for birdwatching:

Willow Creek Park
Fairmount Cemetery
Riverside Cemetery
Woods behind Lamar Community College
Woods behind Lamar High School

Other birding towns near Lamar include Granada and Holly. Nearby birding locations include Taylor Ranch (requires 48-hour advance notice), Queens State Wildlife Area, Thurston Reservoir State Wildlife Area, Two Buttes Reservoir State Wildlife Area, and Turk’s Pond State Wildlife Area. There are many more birding stops in southeastern Colorado that you can investigate on the Colorado Birding Trail website.

The Annual High Plains Snow Goose Festival

Lamar celebrates the snow goose migration on the Western Central Flyway route each February with the High Plains Snow Goose Festival. Snow geese stop over in open habitats in migration season. Large numbers of these white-and-black geese will descend on Prowers County lakes and fields during the migration.

The Snow Goose Festival offers guided tours, educational seminars, and family-friendly activities centered around regional wildlife, particularly the snow goose.

John Martin Reservoir State Park

Just a 30-minute drive from Lamar, John Martin Reservoir State Park offers a wealth of outdoor activities. Managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, this state park surrounds the “Sapphire of the Plains”—the largest reservoir in southeastern Colorado and the second largest entirely within the state.

The reservoir is a boating, fishing, and water sports hub, drawing outdoor enthusiasts year-round. It’s also a significant stop along the Colorado Birding Trail, with over 400 bird species spotted in the area. Shorebirds and waterbirds are attracted to the reservoir, while the riparian zone below the dam and nearby grasslands host a variety of other birds. Two rare birds that nest on the reservoir shores include the piping plover (considered threatened) and the least tern (endangered).

A serene view of Lake Hasty at John Martin Reservoir State Park on a sunny day with a clear blue sky and scattered white clouds. The calm, blue water reflects the sky. In the foreground, dry, golden grasses and some green vegetation line the shore. A dark wooden fishing pier or viewing platform with a roof extends out over the water. Trees are visible along the distant shoreline. The scene evokes a peaceful and natural environment. — Scenic view of Lake Hasty at John Martin Reservoir State Park, featuring calm waters and lush vegetation, perfect for birdwatching and outdoor activities.

For history buffs, the park features a Santa Fe Trail marker and a preserved half-mile (0.8 km) section of the original Trail. It’s at the end (or the start, depending on your direction of travel) of the park’s Red Shin hiking trail. And if you’re looking to stay awhile, the park offers over 200 campsites, more than half of which have electrical hookups.

If you’d like to know more, click here for my post about camping and hiking in John Martin Reservoir State Park.

Lamar’s Golf Course

I’m not a golfer, but I should mention that the Spreading Antlers Golf Course in Lamar is a 9-hole public course, established in 1965. The course is open for golf year-round, subject to weather. In addition to the course, there is a driving range, a putting green, and sand bunkers with a chipping practice area. Six of the nine holes have water hazards. And to accommodate all skill levels, each hole has four sets of tees.

National Historic Sites Near Lamar, Colorado

Lamar is close to two powerful National Historic Sites. One relates to an event from the Santa Fe Trail era, while the second dates from World War II.

The Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site

This National Historic Site (NHS) is approximately 60 miles (96.6 km) northwest of Lamar near Eads, Colorado. It commemorates an unprovoked assault on a peaceful encampment of about 700 Cheyenne and Arapaho people on November 29, 1864. The surprise attack by soldiers of the Colorado Volunteer Cavalry is one of the darkest chapters in American history. More than 230 Native American individuals, the majority of whom were women, children, and the elderly, were killed in the encounter. After this horrific attack, Cheyenne and Arapaho retaliated against white settlers and military forces in Colorado and Wyoming. The “Colorado War” lasted over 10 years, and U.S. – indigenous relations were damaged for decades.

A round, black sign with white lettering stands on a wooden post in a vast, dry, grassy landscape under a clear blue sky. The sign reads "Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site" around the border and "SILENCE & RESPECT" in the center. In the distance, across the undulating, brown and tan prairie, a few small structures and vehicles are visible on the horizon. A dirt path runs to the right of the sign. The scene conveys a sense of solemnity and the wide-open space of a historical site. — A sign at the Sand Creek Massacre NHS emphasizes the importance of silence and respect for this solemn location.

The Sand Creek Massacre NHS was established to protect and preserve the landscape, enhance public understanding of the massacre, and assist in preventing similar atrocities from ever happening again. The site is considered sacred by the Cheyenne and Arapaho, and includes a repatriation area for these Tribes.

I have written more details about visiting the Sand Creek Massacre NHS in a post on Santa Fe Trail-related sites in southeastern Colorado.

The Amache National Historic Site and Amache Museum

What was Camp Amache?

During World War II, the War Relocation Authority of the United States government established ten internment camps to incarcerate Japanese Americans. One of these, the Granada Relocation Center, or Camp Amache, was about 17 miles (27.4 km) from Lamar.

In the aftermath of the Japanese strike on Pearl Harbor, racial prejudice and fear of espionage or sabotage by Japanese Americans were so great that the government deemed the internment camps a “military necessity.”

The internees were forcibly removed from their homes and deprived of their livelihoods, property, and freedoms. Despite being subjected to harsh conditions, the internees built a community, attending school, working, and trying to create a sense of normalcy in the face of injustice.

Over 10,000 people, most of them American citizens, were unjustly incarcerated at Camp Amache from 1942 to 1945.

Camp Amache is named for a Cheyenne woman, Amache. Amache was the daughter of Cheyenne sub-chief Ochinee, one of the many killed in the Sand Creek Massacre. Amache was also the wife of John Wesley Prowers, the cattle rancher and businessman for whom Prowers County is named.

Visiting Amache National Historic Site

Amache NHS was formally established on February 15, 2024. Amache is still in its early development stages as a National Historic Site. It’s open to the public with free admission, but there is NO visitor center, restroom, or water source.

A reddish-brown, irregularly shaped stone monument stands in a field of dry, golden grass under a clear blue sky. Affixed to the stone is a dark plaque with gold lettering. The plaque reads "GRANADA RELOCATION CENTER (AMACHE) WAS DESIGNATED A NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK THIS SITE POSSESSES NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE IN COMMEMORATING THE HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA..." with additional text in Japanese and further details about the site's historical significance and designation in English and Japanese. Scattered trees are visible in the background. — The historical marker at Amache National Historic Site commemorates the Granada Relocation Center, honoring the Japanese Americans interned during World War II.

The site features a monument near the entrance. If you do nothing else here, spend some time reflecting at this spot.

Original roads are present throughout the site. The site includes the remains of building foundations, a reconstructed barracks building, a restored water tower, and a cemetery. Interpretive signs throughout the area provide context and narratives for those who lived there.

A weathered, wooden guard tower with a small enclosed observation deck at the top stands in a vast, dry, grassy field under a clear blue sky. A simple wooden fence runs across the midground, and a dirt path is visible to the right. The tower is supported by angled wooden beams and secured with thin cables. The observation deck has windows on multiple sides. At the Amache National Historic Site in Granada, Colorado — Guard Tower at the border of Camp Amache

The Amache NHS Driving Tour

For additional information on specific places within the monument, download the narrated self-guided driving tour of Amache NHS from the Amache Preservation Society.

While the tour is well worth the time, exploring some of the remnants of Camp Amache sometimes requires venturing off the main road. I hesitated to step into the tall grass as instructed. Still, the stories woven through the tour were powerful, taking me to the past and minute details of the Camp Amach internees.

A long, dark green building with a white door and trim stands in a field of dry, brown grass under a partly cloudy blue sky. In the foreground, a sign titled "The Recreation Hall" provides historical information about the building and includes a black and white photograph of a group of people. Trees are sparsely scattered in the background. At the Amache National Historic Site in Granada, Colorado. — One of the few restored buildings at Amache NHS along with an interpretive sign

For those planning a visit, the National Park Service recommends staying on designated roads and preparing for uneven terrain by wearing long pants, closed-toed shoes, and carrying a walking stick. Keep an eye out for snakes and sharp plants as you navigate this solemn and historic landscape.

For updated information on visiting Amache NHS, visit the official NPS website.

The Amache Museum

In downtown Granada, the Amache Museum offers deeper insights. The museum is about 1.7 miles (2.7 km) from the entrance to the Historic Site. The museum houses over 1,400 artifacts and photographs associated with Amache, along with personal stories of the internees.

An indoor museum exhibit recreates a living space with brick flooring, light beige walls, and exposed wooden framing. The space is sectioned off by black stanchions and chains. Furnishings include a wooden dresser, a desk with a lamp, a wooden chair with colorful items on it, a covered table with a small stool, and various other objects like buckets and boxes. Black and white photographs and informational signs are mounted on the walls. — Reproduction of living quarters in Camp Amache at the Amache Museum in Granada

Other Historic Sites in Southeastern Colorado

Southeastern Colorado includes other historic sites in Lamar’s vicinity, close enough for day trips.

Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site

Bent’s Old Fort NHS is a restored adobe fort located in Otero County, Colorado, near La Junta. It’s about 50 miles (80.5 km) east of Lamar.

This frontier stockade was built in 1833 by Charles Bent, William Bent, and Ceran St. Vrain as a substantial trading post on the Santa Fe Trail. They traded with Southern Cheyenne and Arapaho Plains Indians and trappers for buffalo robes. The buffalo robes were in turn traded for other goods valuable to Trail travelers.

I have more information on visiting Bent’s Old Fort NHS here.

The interior of a carpenter shop at Bent's Old Fort NHS features a rustic wooden workbench in the foreground with various hand tools laid out on it. To the left, stacks of wooden planks lean against the wall, and several wooden stools are scattered around. The walls are whitewashed, and exposed wooden beams support the ceiling. Shelves lining the back wall are filled with an assortment of vintage woodworking tools, buckets, and other equipment. A simple chandelier with lit candles hangs from the ceiling, providing illumination along with a light source on the right side. The overall impression is of a historic workshop frozen in time. — The Carpenter’s Shop at Bent’s Old Fort NHS

Boggsville Historic Site

Boggsville was southeastern Colorado’s first permanent settlement. It was known for pioneering irrigation, large-scale farming, and ranching in the Arkansas Valley. Boggsville’s residents had their own fascinating history, which can be better appreciated with an in-person visit. A stop on a branch of the Santa Fe Trail, the Boggsville Historic Site also contains architecturally significant buildings.

This historic site is about 37 miles (59.5 km) east of Lamar in Las Animas, Colorado.

I have more information on visiting Boggsville Historic Site here.

In a grassy field under a clear blue sky at the Boggstown Historic Site, the Prowers House, a two-story light yellow building with a brown roof and several windows, stands in the midground surrounded by green trees. In the foreground, the rusted and broken remains of a piece of old farm equipment, possibly a wagon or plow, lie scattered on the dry grass. A large, intact metal wheel from similar equipment rests on the grass to the right. The scene evokes a sense of historical preservation and the passage of time on the rural landscape. — Antique farming equipment at Boggsville Historic Site, with the Prowers House in the background

Where to Eat: Lamar’s Local Flavors

Fuel your day with breakfast in a charming old house on Lamar’s Main Street, the AM Breakfast House (410 S Main St.). The friendly staff here takes pride in their food, which includes classic egg dishes, waffles, French toasts, skillets, and burritos.

My omelet, topped with a zesty red salsa, was incredibly fresh. Instead of toast and potatoes, I substituted a fruit bowl, which was equally fresh and nicely presented.

\[Option 1] A folded omelet topped with chunky red salsa, served on a decorative ceramic plate with blue floral patterns. Part of a small black bowl filled with sliced fruit, including red grapefruit, is visible at the top of the image. The food is brightly lit by natural sunlight, enhancing the vibrant colors and textures.

A small black bowl filled with an artfully arranged variety of fresh fruit slices, including apples, green grapes, orange segments, strawberries, banana slices, and blueberries. The bowl rests on a decorative plate with a blue floral pattern, and the fruit is brightly lit by natural sunlight, highlighting its vibrant colors and textures.

A popular local spot for a casual breakfast or lunch, Becky’s Restaurant (105 Lee Ave.) serves Mexican and American classics. While it’s not a fancy dining room, the real charm lies in the homemade food. Case in point: the double cheeseburger I indulged in was pure bliss–juicy, rich, and full of flavor! In addition to a selection of burgers, Becky’s also serves standards, like sandwiches, nachos, burritos, and enchiladas.

Lamar has several excellent Mexican restaurants. The Casa Azteca (1301 S Main St.) menu features a huge number of Mexican food favorites and a full bar. My meal started with crispy tortilla chips and a generous portion of slightly spicy red salsa. The carne de asada tacos were nearly bursting with tender, flavorful shredded beef, topped with cilantro. With tomatillo sauce and lime wedges on the plate, this satisfying entree needed nothing else to be complete.

Three tacos filled with seasoned meat, and a generous topping of fresh cilantro, arranged on a gray metal serving tray. The tacos are in soft corn tortillas and are positioned closely together, showcasing their fillings. In the blurred background, a glass of beer and other indistinct items are visible. — Carne de asada tacos from Casa Azteca

Head to Tavern 1301 (in the Historic Cow Palace Hotel at 1301 N Main St.) for a slightly upscale dinner. The menu is a classic steakhouse with surprises like butternut squash enchiladas and coconut scallops. In addition to steaks, the menu includes a few other meat dishes, burgers, salad entrees, and pastas. The restaurant sources its ingredients from local Colorado providers, meaning everything served is fresh and wholesome.

A grilled steak with visible char marks sits on the right side of a white oval plate, glistening with juices. On the left, a white bowl contains crispy roasted potato cubes topped with shredded cheese and grated Parmesan. The plate rests on a wooden table, and the warm lighting highlights the rich, savory textures of the meal. — Sirloin and potatoes at Tavern 1301

Practical Information for Visiting Lamar, Colorado

Best times to visit:
- Summers will generally be hot and dry. Daytime highs often reach into the 90s°F (32°C) or higher, while winters are usually sunny but brisk, with occasional snow.
- Spring (March through May) offers milder temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and peak bird migration.
- Fall (September through November) can be as hot as the summer in the early season, but heat eventually gives way to crisp air, golden prairie grasses, and fewer tourists.
- Severe thunderstorms that could bring hail, strong winds, or even a tornado are possible. This weather typically occurs during the spring and early summer months.
Pack layers—weather on the plains changes quickly, especially with afternoon wind.
Other items—Depending on your activity, bring walking shoes, binoculars, and sun protection.
Hydrate!—The High Plains are an arid, windy, and sunny environment. Bring adequate amounts of water with you everywhere you go.

Discover Lamar, Colorado: Pin it for Later

I created these images of Lamar’s attractions for your Pinterest boards.

Where to Stay in Lamar, Colorado

Lamar, Colorado, offers a range of accommodations for travelers looking to explore the town, the surrounding natural areas, and nearby historic sites.

The Days Inn by Wyndham Lamar provides comfortable rooms with expected amenities, including free Wi-Fi, a coffee maker, a mini fridge, complimentary breakfast items, and an indoor pool. It’s a solid choice for travelers looking for affordability and accessibility.

If you’re looking for a stay with character, the recently remodeled Historic Cow Palace Inn offers cozy, well-appointed rooms. Amenities include a complimentary continental breakfast, a saltwater swimming pool, and a hot tub. An onsite restaurant, Tavern 1301, means convenience for drinks or a meal.

Use the map and links below to research and book your Lamar, Colorado hotel.

Book now at Booking.com ♦ Book now at Expedia ♦ Book now at Hotels.com

Final Thoughts on Visiting Lamar, Colorado

Lamar, Colorado, might not be top-of-mind when you think about Colorado. But I hope this post has convinced you that Lamar should be more than a stopover.

A stop in Lamar, Colorado, provides an opportunity to learn about the region’s Dust Bowl history, its role in early railroad expansion, and the ecosystems that support migratory birds. This small High Plains city offers historical significance, outdoor recreation, and down-to-earth hospitality. Curious travelers can trace the paths of pioneers and settlers, reflect at absorbing National Historic Sites, or even become expert birdwatchers.

Comments

Michael Taylor says

May 30, 2025 at 7:46 pm

l love the heavy stone architecture, especially that gorgeous theatre and the train “deport,” which looks surprisingly modern! As for the food, my mouth is watering!

- Darla G says
  
  May 31, 2025 at 2:54 pm
  
  I agree that the architecture has a timeless quality-a cool blend of old and new! Glad you enjoyed the post!
  
Sonia says

June 6, 2025 at 4:18 pm

John Martin reservoir & park have been on my list for a while to visit. I’d like to visit museums in Lamar to learn more about the history of Lamar as well as the dust bowl.

- Darla G says
  
  June 7, 2025 at 1:11 pm
  
  John Martin Reservoir State Park as well as Lamar proper will give you some outdoor time as well as insight into the history of the area. I hope you get to experience it soon!

Exploring Near and far, one step at a time