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Helium Time Columns Monument

4.6
Β·148 reviewsΒ·Amarillo, United States

A unique monument celebrating Amarillo's 'Helium Capital' legacy and functioning as a historical sundial with a time capsule.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daylight hours

Best for viewing & sundial

CrowdLow
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helium monument

Helium Time Columns Monument

Best Time

Daylight hours

Best for viewing & sundial

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A unique monument celebrating Amarillo's 'Helium Capital' legacy and functioning as a historical sundial with a time capsule.

4.6
(148 reviews)

"Fascinating sculpture of a sundial commemorating the centennial anniversary of helium."

Vertical photo
TIP

Read the Plaques

Take time to read the informative signs about helium history and the time capsule. πŸ“

Appreciate the Sundial

Observe how the monument functions as a sundial during your visit. ⌚

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.6 Β· 148 reviews

Type

Monument

πŸ‘Ά Good for kidsβ™Ώ Wheelchair accessibleπŸ…ΏοΈ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Sundial Function

The Sundial Function

Center of the monument

Witness the monument's dual purpose as a functional sundial, a fascinating blend of art and science.

Helium History Plaques

Helium History Plaques

Base of the monument

Discover Amarillo's 'Helium Capital' legacy through informative inscriptions detailing helium production.

The 2068 Time Capsule

The 2068 Time Capsule

Center of the monument

Learn about the time capsule buried at the monument's core, set to be opened in 2068.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to the Helium Time Columns

While the Helium Time Columns Monument is an outdoor attraction, consider visiting during daylight hours for the best viewing experience. The monument also functions as a sundial, so understanding the time of day can enhance your visit. Check local event listings for any nearby festivals or activities that might coincide with your trip.

Understanding the Monument's Significance

This monument commemorates Amarillo's historical role as the 'Helium Capital of the World' and the centennial of helium's discovery. Take time to read the informative plaques to appreciate the history and the time capsule intended to be opened in 2068. It's a unique piece of local heritage.

Best Times

When
Daylight hours
Why
Best for viewing & sundial
Crowd
Low
When
Clear skies
Why
Enhances sundial accuracy
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Like how? What weird secrets does your city have? #amarillo #weird
@aw.naw.he.didnt
29.7K likes β€’ 1M views

Read the Plaques

Take time to read the informative signs about helium history and the time capsule. πŸ“ Reddit

Appreciate the Sundial

Observe how the monument functions as a sundial during your visit. ⌚ Reddit

Amarillo, TX #amarillo #texas #usa #fyp #canyon
@csargyno
11.6K likes β€’ 160.3K views
Amarillo is fun just actually go to the fun things #fyp #clean #funny #amarillo #texas
@love222noah
7K likes β€’ 44.6K views

Combine with Discovery Center

Visit the nearby Don Harrington Discovery Center for a fuller experience. :child: TikTok

Cleanliness Note

Be aware that the area can sometimes have litter. ✨ Reddit

Pumpkins, sunsets, and a candy cannon?! Only in Amarillo. πŸŒ½πŸŽƒ Fall just hits different at @maxwellspumpkinfarm #ExploreAmarillo #FallInTexas #AmarilloTexas #PumpkinPatch
@exploreamarillo
2.4K likes β€’ 29.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Read the Plaques

Take time to read the informative signs about helium history and the time capsule. πŸ“ Reddit

Appreciate the Sundial

Observe how the monument functions as a sundial during your visit. ⌚ Reddit

Combine with Discovery Center

Visit the nearby Don Harrington Discovery Center for a fuller experience. :child: TikTok

Cleanliness Note

Be aware that the area can sometimes have litter. ✨ Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(148 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Helium Time Columns Monument an interesting and informative stop, particularly for its historical context as the 'Helium Capital of the World' and its unique sundial design. While some note the need for better area maintenance, the monument's historical plaques and the concept of the time capsule are frequently highlighted as fascinating aspects.

"Amarillo is the "Helium Capital of the World" and this sculpture commemorates the 100th anniversary of the discovery of helium. A simple, yet interesting sculpture that also serves as a sundial. Lots of information to read. It's located in front of the Discovery Center."

Francisco Leung

"Nice place to stop and check out. We didn’t know that Amarillo was the Helium capital of the world!

They do need to clean the area a little, lots of broken glass & litter around"

Irene Estlund

"Interesting info on helium production history in the area. Time capsule in center of monument (to be opened in 2068) has interesting inscriptions)"

Steve Alberts

What People Like

Historical significance
Unique sundial design
Informative plaques

What People Dislike

Area cleanliness

Frequently Asked Questions

πŸš‡ πŸ—ΊοΈ Getting There

The Helium Time Columns Monument is located in Amarillo, Texas. It's often mentioned in conjunction with other Amarillo attractions like the Don Harrington Discovery Center and Palo Duro Canyon State Park. While specific public transport details are scarce, driving is the most common way to access it. TikTok+1

Parking is generally available near the monument, especially since it's often visited in conjunction with the Discovery Center. It's advisable to check for designated parking areas upon arrival. TikTok

As an outdoor monument with informational plaques, it is generally accessible. However, specific accessibility features should be confirmed on-site or with the Discovery Center. Reddit

Using GPS navigation to the Don Harrington Discovery Center in Amarillo will typically lead you to the monument's vicinity, as they are located together. TikTok

Yes, Amarillo is on historic Route 66, and while the monument's exact location has shifted, it's a worthwhile stop for those exploring the Mother Road. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Helium Time Columns Monument is an outdoor public art installation and historical marker, so there is no admission fee or ticket required to view it. Reddit

As an outdoor monument, it is accessible at any time. However, for the best experience and to read the plaques clearly, visiting during daylight hours is recommended. Reddit

There is no entrance fee for the Helium Time Columns Monument. It's a free-to-visit historical marker. Reddit

The Helium Time Columns Monument was built in 1968 to commemorate the centennial of the discovery of helium. Reddit

While generally permissible to view, it's best to avoid touching or climbing on the monument to preserve its condition. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

It's a unique sculpture that commemorates Amarillo's history as the 'Helium Capital of the World' and the centennial of helium's discovery. It also functions as a sundial. TikTokReddit

Its significance lies in celebrating Amarillo's industrial heritage related to helium and its clever design as a sundial. It also contains a time capsule to be opened in 2068. Reddit

Informative plaques at the base detail the history of helium production in Amarillo and the significance of the monument. Reddit

For those interested in local history, unique public art, or the science of sundials, it's a worthwhile and quick stop. TikTokReddit

It's located near the Don Harrington Discovery Center, Palo Duro Canyon State Park, and Cadillac Ranch, offering opportunities for a full day of exploration. TikTokReddit+1

πŸ“Έ πŸ“Έ Photography

Capture the monument's unique structure, especially its sundial function. The surrounding landscape and informational plaques also offer interesting photographic elements. TikTok

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can provide beautiful lighting. Midday sun can be harsh, but it's also when the sundial is most accurate. TikTok

Experiment with different angles to showcase the monument's height and its relationship to the sky. Photos from a slight distance can capture its context. TikTok

Drone regulations vary by location. It's essential to check local FAA guidelines and any restrictions around the Discovery Center before flying a drone. TikTok

Comfortable clothing suitable for the Texas weather is recommended. Consider attire that complements the monument's metallic structure or the surrounding landscape. TikTok

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