27 Fantastic & Fun Things to Do in Lubbock, Texas

Looking for the best things to do in Lubbock? You’re in luck! Lubbock, Texas is a great place to visit for a variety of reasons. Situated in the heart of the Texas plains, Lubbock is known for its strong agricultural heritage.

The city also boast a thriving arts and culture scene, with a number of museums, art galleries, and live music venues. In addition, Lubbock is home to several colleges and universities, making it a lively and vibrant place to visit.

Whether you’re interested in history, the arts, or just want to enjoy the Texan countryside, Lubbock has something to offer everyone.

So without further ado, here are 27 of the best things to do in Lubbock, Texas.

The Buddy Holly Center

Located in the heart of downtown Lubbock, Texas, the Buddy Holly Center is a must-see for any fan of music history. 

The center is dedicated to preserving the legacy of one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, and it features a wide range of exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of his life and work.

Visitors can see instruments that Holly used during his performances, as well as personal items that belonged to him. 

The center also houses a performance space where local and regional musicians often give concerts. 

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Buddy Holly or simply interested in learning more about his impact on popular music, a visit to the Buddy Holly Center is sure to be an enlightening and enjoyable experience.

Top Review: “The Buddy Holly Center is a must see if you visit Lubbock.  I was visiting Lubbock for the weekend and decided to visit the center, it was amazing.  The center provides a lot of history of Rock n Roll and Buddy Holly.  The center has numerous artifacts of Buddy Holly and interesting parallels he had with great artist like Elvis Presley and the Beatles.  I highly recommend visiting the Buddy Holly Center.”Derrick G.

1801 Crickets Ave Lubbock, TX 79401, (806) 775-3560

National Ranching Heritage Center

The National Ranching Heritage Center is a unique museum that tells the story of ranching in the American West, from its humble beginnings to its present-day incarnation. 

Visitors can explore more than 50 authentic ranch buildings, including a one-room schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, and a chuck wagon. 

They can also learn about the people who shaped the ranching industry, including cowboys, vaqueros, and Native Americans. 

Best of all, the National Ranching Heritage Center is free to visit. 

Top Review: “As a Midwesterner, I had no idea what to expect from this center.  We were blown a way and spent half a day there exploring everything.  They have done an exceptional job of creating a chronological history of the west. The buildings give a realistic feeling of what life was like for early ranchers.  Great family venue for all ages.”Greg K.

3121 4th St Lubbock, TX 79409, (806) 742-0498

Science Spectrum Museum

Photo: Eddie S.

Lubbock, Texas is home to the Science Spectrum Museum, a great place to learn about the world around you. 

The museum has something for everyone, with exhibits on everything from animals to outer space. 

The hands-on exhibits are especially popular with kids, who can touch, feel, and explore to their heart’s content. 

And the planetarium shows are not to be missed – they offer a chance to see the stars up close and personal. 

Top Review: “We love the science spectrum. We live out of state and every time we visit Lubbock we come here. We have been to many kids/science museums around the country and this is our favorite by far. They have so many educational exhibits and a fun kids play area. The price is reasonable, especially since you could stay for many hours exploring everything. There is so much to do. My kids never get bored here. They have added a lot of new exhibits recently that are really fun. Everything is super hands on. It never feels crowded because there are so many areas to explore. We have never had a bad experience here. We look forward to our next visit.”Kristin B.

2579 S Loop 289 Ste 250 Lubbock, TX 79423, (806) 745-2525

Prairie Dog Town

Photo: Brandon M.

One of the most unique things to do in Lubbock is a visit to the Prairie Dog Town.

This town is home to hundreds of prairie dogs, and it’s a great place to watch them play and interact with each other.

The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, when the prairie dogs are most active.

Top Review: “We travelled to Lubbock specifically for Prairie Dog Town and it didn’t disappoint. Whenever I need an immediate hit of dopamine, Prairie Dog Town provides exactly that. There are prairie dogs everywhere whose big personalities can be watched for hours. There’s additional fun in seeing all the prairie dogs that exist outside of Prairie Dog Town as you’re driving around Lubbock.” – Hayley S.

MacKenzie Park 4th St Lubbock, TX 79401

Silent Wings Museum

The Silent Wings Museum in Lubbock, Texas is dedicated to preserving the history of WWII gliders and the men who flew them.

The museum offers a variety of exhibits that tell the story of glider pilots and their role in the war.

Visitors can also see a replica of a glider cockpit and watch a short film about the training of glider pilots.

Whether you’re a fan of history or just looking for something to do in Lubbock, the Silent Wings Museum is definitely worth a visit.

Top Review: “I had no idea or knowledge about the gliders during WW II.  I love anything about that war and this is the most amazing, informative museum that is so well done.  You can even look inside a glider.  It helped to see how they are built and why they were so important during the war.  I am so happy to know that all those men who died in these planes will be grateful for giving their lives for us!”Janet K.

6202 N I 27 Lubbock, TX 79401

American Windmill Museum

The American Windmill Museum is dedicated to promoting the use of wind power and educating the public about its many benefits. 

The facility houses a wide range of exhibits, including a working windmill, a hands-on wind tunnel, and a variety of interactive displays. 

Visitors can also learn about the history of wind power development in the United States and see how this renewable energy source is being used today. 

One of the highlights of the center is the opportunity to take a tour of a working wind farm. 

This unique experience provides an up-close look at how these massive turbines work and how they are helping to create clean, renewable energy. 

Top Review: “This was my wife’s idea to come to the windmill museum and I had the best time. So much fun stuff to learn, windmills for water and windmills for electric, antiques and modern windmills. They have a great model train set up and a really great miniature town and toy house display. This is a really fun place visit.”Dennis E.

1701 Canyon Lake Dr Lubbock, TX 79403, (806) 747-8734

Buddy Holly Statue

Buddy Holly Statue, fun things to do in Lubbock Texas
Photo: Dustin H.

Lubbock, Texas is home to the Buddy Holly Statue, which was erected in his honor in 1990. 

The statue is located on the campus of Texas Tech University, where Holly studied before his untimely death in 1959. 

The statue is a life-sized bronze sculpture of Holly, and it stands on a granite pedestal that is inscribed with some of his most famous lyrics. 

Visitors to the Buddy Holly Statue can also take a self-guided tour of the Buddy Holly Center, which houses interactive exhibits about the singer’s life and work. 

The center also hosts live music performances and special events throughout the year.

West Texas Walk of Fame

The West Texas Walk of Fame pays tribute to the many great artists and musicians who have come from West Texas. 

There are currently over sixty inductees, including such luminaries as Buddy Holly, 

Roy Orbison, and Waylon Jennings. 

The Walk of Fame is a great way to learn about the rich musical history of the area. 

It’s also a beautiful place to take a stroll, as it winds its way through the picturesque central business district of Lubbock.

If you’re a fan of music or history, the West Texas Walk of Fame is a must-see destination.

Museum of Texas Tech University

The Museum of Texas Tech University is a great place to visit if you’re interested in the history and culture of the region. 

The museum has an extensive collection of artifacts that date back to the early days of settlement in the area. 

You can also learn about the Native American tribes that once lived in the area. 

The museum also has a section devoted to the history of ranching in the region. 

In addition, there are a number of interactive exhibits that will engage your senses and help you learn more about the area’s history. 

Top Review: “My favorite part about this place was the interactive boards by the enterance. They have a huge map and let you place a sticker by anywhere in the world you would like to travel. This sparked an awesome conversation within our group as we walked through out the museum. The employees were knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. It was a great way to spend an hour for free!”Tara W.

3301 4th St Lubbock, TX 79409

Llano Estacado Winery

Llano Estacado Winery is located in Lubock, Texas and produces a variety of wines.

The winery was established in 1976 by Dr. Bob Thompson, who was a professor at Texas Tech University.

The winery’s first vintage was released in 1979, and it has been producing wine ever since.

The wines produced by Llano Estacado Winery are available in both red and white varieties, and the winery also produces a sparkling wine.

The wines produced by Llano Estacado Winery have won several awards, and the winery is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.

Visitors to the winery can tour the facilities, taste the wines, and purchase bottles to take home with them.

Top Review: “Always a friendly staff here for tastings! Worth the investment of becoming a wine club member! They have fun release parties with food, live music, and of course drinks! Their new tasting room is much more spacious and appealing to the eye!”Mallory M.

3426 E Fm 1585 Lubbock, TX 79404, (806) 745-2258

Mackenzie Park

Photo: Diana E.

Mackenzie Park is a hidden gem is located on the outskirts of town and offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. 

One of the most popular features of Mackenzie Park is the scenic hiking trails. 

The trails wind through the woods and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. 

In addition to hiking, the park also has a fishing pond, playground, and picnic areas. 

At’l Do Farms Corn Maze

Photo: At’l Do Farms

Fall is the perfect time to visit Lubbock, Texas and while you’re there, be sure to check out the At’l Do Farms Corn Maze

The corn maze is open September through November and features over 12 acres of cornstalks towering 10 feet high. 

Getting lost in the maze is half the fun, but if you need help finding your way out, there are four lookout towers located throughout the maze. 

In addition to the corn maze, At’l Do Farms also offers a pumpkin patch, hayrides, and a petting zoo. 

There’s something for everyone at the At’l Do Farms Corn Maze, so be sure to add it to your list of things to do in Lubbock!

6323 FM 1294 Lubbock, TX 79415, (806) 787-4241

FiberMax Center for Discovery

The FiberMax Center for Discovery is a hands-on museum that teaches visitors about the history and science of cotton production. 

The museum features interactive exhibits, cotton gin demonstrations, and a working model of a cotton plant. 

The FiberMax Center for Discovery is also home to the National Cotton Council of America. 

The council is a trade association that promotes the interests of the cotton industry. 

Visitors to the FiberMax Center can learn about the process of growing and harvesting cotton, as well as the ways in which it is used to make clothing and other products. 

In addition, the museum offers a variety of educational programs for children and adults. 

Top Review: “We love this museum!  Both as a museum, and a special event venue.
About the mules….they were at the end of their lives.  They were not young healthy mules killed so they could be put in a museum display.  the other reviewer needs to get her facts straight.”
Lisa S.

1121 Canyon Lake Dr Lubbock, TX 79403, (806) 744-3786

Buffalo Springs Lake

Photo: Buffalo Springs Lake FB

Buffalo Springs Park has something for everyone, with hiking trails, a lake for fishing and swimming, and a playground for the kids. 

There are also picnic areas and pavilions, making it the perfect spot for a family outing. 

Buffalo Springs Park is also home to a variety of wildlife, so you might even get lucky and see some deer or other animals during your visit. 

Whether you’re looking to take a hike or just relax in the outdoors, Buffalo Springs Park is definitely worth a visit.

Top Review: “Love this place! If you want to be close to nature with the convenience of the city near by look no further! This is the place! They are very helpful and the security is “Great”! They go beyond for their customers needs! The people that work the gates are always helpful, knowledgeable, and friendly no matter day or night! I also “like” the community feel I get when I’m here!”Juliana R.

9999 High Meadow Rd Buffalo Springs, TX 79404

Joyland Amusement Park

Photo: Joyland Amusement Park FB

Joyland Amusement Park is a super fun attraction that has been open since 1949 and features rides such as the Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and carousel. 

There is also a water park with slides and a pool. The park is a great place to take children, as there are many activities to keep them entertained. 

In addition to the rides, there are also arcades, game rooms, and restaurants. 

Visitors can also purchase tickets for multiple days so that they can enjoy everything the park has to offer.

500 Canyon Lake Dr Lubbock, TX 79408, (806) 763-2719

Lubbock Municipal Garden & Arts Center

The Lubbock Municipal Garden & Arts Center is a hidden gem and one of the largest public gardens in Texas. 

It is home to a wide variety of plants and flowers. Visitors can stroll through the garden’s winding paths, stopping to smell the roses or admire the views. 

The garden also features a pond with koi fish, and there are often ducks and geese swimming near the shore. In addition to its natural beauty, the Lubbock Municipal Garden is also a great place to learn about horticulture. 

The garden staff offers educational programs on topics like planting and composting, and they are always happy to answer visitors’ questions. 

4215 University Ave, Lubbock, TX 79413, (806)7673724

Louise Hopkins Underwood Center

Located in the heart of Lubbock, Texas, the Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts is a must-visit for any art lover. 

The center houses 4 galleries, each with a different focus. The Main Gallery features rotating exhibitions of both local and national artists, while the Legacy Gallery showcases the work of Texas Tech University alumni. 

The Project Space Gallery provides a platform for emerging artists to showcase their work, and the education gallery features interactive exhibits that are perfect for families. 

In addition to the galleries, the center also offers a variety of classes and workshops for both adults and children. 

Top Review:

Lubbock Memorial Arboretum

The Lubbock Memorial Arboretum is a beautiful landscaped garden that features over 150 different kinds of trees and shrubs. 

There is also a butterfly garden, an aquatic garden, and a cactus garden. The arboretum is open year-round, and there are often events and classes held here. 

Even if you’re not interested in gardening, the arboretum is a great place to take a stroll, relax, and enjoy the scenery. 

And if you are interested in gardening, the staff at the arboretum are always happy to share their knowledge and help you get started. 

Top Review:

The Charles Adams Gallery is dedicated to promoting the work of contemporary artists, and it hosts a number of exhibitions throughout the year. 

Visitors can also enjoy a variety of workshops and events. The Gallery is located in the Historic Depot District, and it is within walking distance of several restaurants and cafes. 

With its central location and excellent selection of art, the Charles Adams Gallery is a must-visit for anyone interested in the arts.

Top Review:

Caviel Museum of African American History

The Caviel Museum of African American History is an important museum that tells the story of the African American experience in the West through exhibits on the Buffalo Soldiers, early pioneers, and the civil rights movement. 

The museum also has a research library and archives that contain a wealth of information on the history of African Americans in the region. 

In addition to its educational value, the Caviel Museum is also a beautiful and moving experience. 

The museum is located in an historic schoolhouse, and its grounds are lined with trees and flowers. 

Top Review:

Cactus Theater

The Cactus Theater has been around since 1926 and has been a staple of the community ever since. 

The theater offers a variety of shows and concerts throughout the year, ranging from country music to Broadway musicals. 

The Cactus Theater is also home to the Lubbock Symphony Orchestra, making it the perfect place to catch a classical performance. 

In addition to its musical offerings, the Cactus Theater also hosts a variety of other events, such as comedy shows, movie screenings, and dance recitals. 

Top Review:

Lake Alan Henry

One of the best things to do while you’re in town is to check out Lake Alan Henry.

The lake is a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. It’s also a great place to fish, swim, and boat. 

There are many different kinds of fish that you can catch in the lake, including bass, catfish, and trout.

If you’re looking for a challenge, you can try your hand at fishing for alligator gar. 

The lake is also home to many different kinds of birds, so it’s a great place for birdwatching. 

In addition to being a great place to visit, Lake Alan Henry is also a great place to live. 

There are many different neighborhoods that you can choose from, and each one has its own unique style. 

Top Review:

The Depot District

The Depot District is a historic district located in downtown Lubbock. 

It’s home to a variety of shops, restaurants, bars, and clubs, as well as the historic Texas Tech University campus. 

The Depot District is the perfect place to spend a day or night exploring everything that Lubbock has to offer. 

Whether you’re looking for a delicious meal, some live music, or just a good time, the Depot District is the place to be. 

Top Review:

Lubbock Lake Landmark

The Lubbock Lake Landmark, a national natural history and archaeology preserve is open to the public for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife watching. 

Visitors can also participate in educational programs and research projects. The Landmark is best known for its unique geology and fossils. 

The area is rich in deposits from the Permian Period, making it a magnet for paleontologists from around the world. 

In addition, the Landmark has one of the largest collections of prehistoric artifacts in the state of Texas. 

Top Review:

Lubbock Veterans Memorial

The Lubbock Veterans Memorial is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of Texas and the United States. 

The memorial honors the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces, and it provides a moving tribute to their sacrifice.

The memorial is located in the heart of downtown Lubbock, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. 

The memorial is open to the public every day, and there is no charge for admission. 

The memorial features a variety of exhibits, including a replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall and a collection of military artifacts. 

There is also a garden area with benches where you can sit and reflect on the sacrifices of our armed forces. 

Top Review:

Where to Eat in Lubbock

Cast Iron Grill

This local eatery is known for its mouth-watering burgers and BBQ, and it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in town. The Grill is located in the heart of Lubbock, and it has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The menu features all your favorite American classics, and the food is reasonably priced. Whether you’re in the mood for a burger or some ribs, you’re sure to find something to your taste at the Cast Iron Grill. And if you’re looking for a great place to watch the game, the Grill has multiple TVs so you won’t miss a minute of action.

Triple J Chophouse & Brew

Triple J Chophouse & Brew is known for its juicy steaks, fresh seafood, and homemade brews. The menu has something for everyone, and the chefs are always experimenting with new recipes. The service is impeccable, and the atmosphere is cozy and inviting. Its good for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends, try it out.

Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant

Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant is one of the best places to eat in Lubbock, Texas. The food is fantastic, and the service is wonderful. You’ll definitely want to try the enchiladas, which are some of the best I’ve ever had. The queso is also very good, and the chips and salsa are perfect for starters. The portions are large, so be sure to come hungry. And don’t forget to save room for dessert! The tres leches cake is my personal favorite, but you can’t go wrong with any of the options. So if you’re looking for a great place to eat in Lubbock, Texas, be sure to check out Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant.

One Guy Pizza

When it comes to pizza, there are countless places to choose from. However, if you’re in Lubbock, Texas, there’s only one place to go – One Guy Pizza. This local pizzeria has been serving up delicious pies for over 20 years, and they show no signs of slowing down. So what makes One Guy Pizza so special? For starters, they use only the freshest ingredients. The dough is made from scratch each day, and the sauce is prepared using a secret family recipe. The cheese is also freshly shredded, and the toppings are always crisp and flavorful. In addition to their traditional pizzas, One Guy Pizza also offers a variety of specialty pies, such as the “Taco Pizza” and the “Buffalo Chicken Pizza.” And if you’re looking for something different, they also offer calzones, strombolis, and salads.

Best Accommodations in Lubbock

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lubbock worth visiting?

Absolutely! Lubbock is a great city with a lot to offer. There are plenty of things to see and do, and there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in the arts, history, or simply want to enjoy some good food and drink, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Lubbock.

What do people do in Lubbock?

There are a number of things to do in Lubbock. The city is home to a number of museums and galleries, as well as a vibrant nightlife scene. There are also plenty of places to eat and drink, so you’ll never go hungry. And if you’re looking for something to do outside, there are a number of parks and trails to explore.

What is there to do on a date in Lubbock Texas?

Lubbock, Texas is a great place for everything but a date. There are a wide variety of activities to take part in, whether you’re looking for something outdoorsy or indoorsy, active or passive. However, Lubbock lacks a certain je ne sais quoi when it comes to setting the mood for romance. If you’re planning on asking someone out on a date in Lubbock, you might want to consider alternatives to the standard dinner-and-a-movie. A good place to start would be the Llano Estacado Winery, where you can tour the vineyards and taste some of the locally-produced wines. The Science Spectrum Museum is another great option, especially if you and your date are science nerds. And if you’re feeling really adventurous, you could always go skydiving at the Skydive Lubbock facility. No matter what you end up doing, Lubbock has something to offer for everyone…except maybe those looking for love.

Why is Lubbock famous?

Lubbock is famous for a number of reasons. The city is home to Texas Tech University, which is one of the largest universities in the state. It’s also home to a number of artists and musicians, including the late Buddy Holly. And finally, Lubbock is known for its food. There are a number of great restaurants in the city, and the Tex-Mex cuisine is particularly popular.

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