Floating Mesa
A surreal roadside art installation in Amarillo, Texas, designed to make a mesa appear to float.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for the optical illusion
Floating Mesa
Best Time
Best for the optical illusion
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A surreal roadside art installation in Amarillo, Texas, designed to make a mesa appear to float.
"It was beautiful! Would’ve stopped if we could have! Definitely worth a trip :)"
View from the Road
The illusion is best seen while driving west on Tascosa Road. Pull over safely if needed! :car:
Manage Illusion Expectations
The 'floating' effect can be subtle; some mirrors may be worn. It's an art piece, not a theme park. :art:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Optical Illusion
Sheets of plywood painted white create a striking optical illusion, making the mesa appear to float.
Stanley Marsh 3 Art Installation
A unique roadside art project commissioned by the eccentric Amarillo art patron.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Manage Expectations for the Illusion
Access and Viewing Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
View from the Road
The illusion is best seen while driving west on Tascosa Road. Pull over safely if needed! :car:
Manage Illusion Expectations
The 'floating' effect can be subtle; some mirrors may be worn. It's an art piece, not a theme park. :art:
Quick Photo Op
It's a quick stop, perfect for a unique photo if you're already in the area. :camerawithflash:
No Public Access
Direct access to the mesa is restricted. Enjoy the view from the designated roadside area. :no_entry:
Tips
from all over the internet
View from the Road
The illusion is best seen while driving west on Tascosa Road. Pull over safely if needed! :car:
Manage Illusion Expectations
The 'floating' effect can be subtle; some mirrors may be worn. It's an art piece, not a theme park. :art:
Quick Photo Op
It's a quick stop, perfect for a unique photo if you're already in the area. :camerawithflash:
No Public Access
Direct access to the mesa is restricted. Enjoy the view from the designated roadside area. :no_entry:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Floating Mesa is a unique roadside art installation that aims to create an optical illusion. While some visitors find it a beautiful and worthwhile stop, others feel the illusion is not as strong as expected or that access is too limited. It's best viewed as a quick, quirky art piece rather than a major destination.
"This shouldn’t even be listed on Google maps. I wouldn’t go out of my way to see it. Luckily I was in the area and went out to see it. No floating illusion. Basically a waste of time"
Jim Kruse
"Kinda a let down but was still cool to see forget to take pictures. The mirrors don’t really work anymore."
Steviejr
"No public access...could be money maker to allow public access with trail."
Allen Smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Floating Mesa is located west of Amarillo, Texas, along Tascosa Road. It's best viewed from the road itself, as there's no direct public access to the installation. Many visitors find it while driving through the area.
It's situated along Tascosa Road, west of Amarillo. Keep an eye out for the white painted panels on the mesa. The illusion is designed to catch the eye of motorists.
While there isn't a designated parking lot for the Floating Mesa, you can pull over safely on the side of Tascosa Road to view and take photos. Be mindful of traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, tickets are not required to see the Floating Mesa. It's a roadside art installation that can be viewed from Tascosa Road.
The Floating Mesa can be viewed at any time, as it's an outdoor art installation. However, the optical illusion is best appreciated during daylight hours.
There is no admission fee for the Floating Mesa. It's a free roadside attraction.
No, public access to walk on the mesa itself is restricted. The art is meant to be viewed from a distance.
📸 📸 Photography
Photograph the Floating Mesa from Tascosa Road, looking west. Experiment with different angles to capture the optical illusion of it floating.
Daylight hours are best for capturing the illusion. Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) might offer interesting lighting, but the illusion itself is most effective in clear daylight.
Any camera, including your smartphone, can capture the Floating Mesa. The key is to get the right angle to emphasize the illusion.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Road Trippers & Art Lovers
Art lovers will appreciate the concept and execution of this large-scale installation. It's a chance to see how art can be integrated into the natural environment, challenging perceptions and adding a touch of surrealism to the landscape. Remember to view it from the road for the intended effect.
Photographers
+1While the illusion is the main draw, consider the surrounding landscape of the Texas Panhandle as well. The vast skies and open spaces can complement the surreal nature of the art. Be prepared for a quick stop, as the viewing experience is typically brief.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art and Illusion
+1While the concept is intriguing, visitor experiences can vary. Some find the illusion captivating and a unique roadside attraction, while others note that the effect might be less pronounced than expected, especially if the painted surfaces or any reflective elements have aged. It's important to approach the Floating Mesa with an understanding that it's an artistic interpretation designed to play with perception, rather than a grand spectacle.
For those interested in the broader context, Stanley Marsh 3 was known for his eccentric and large-scale public art projects in the Amarillo area, including the famous Cadillac Ranch. The Floating Mesa is another testament to his vision of integrating art into the everyday landscape, offering a moment of wonder for travelers passing by.
Viewing and Accessibility
Many travelers report that the best way to appreciate the illusion is while driving west on Tascosa Road. The perspective from this direction is key to seeing the mesa appear to float. Some reviews suggest that while it's a unique sight, it might not warrant a special trip if you're not already in the vicinity, especially if you have high expectations for the illusion's impact.
Despite the limited direct access, the Floating Mesa remains a point of interest for art enthusiasts and road trippers exploring the Texas Panhandle. It serves as a reminder of the creative spirit that can transform ordinary landscapes into extraordinary experiences, even if just for a fleeting moment as you drive past.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit