27 Best And Fun Things To Do In Lubbock TX (Texas)

What are the Best And most Fun Things To Do In Lubbock TX? Nearly 200,000 people live in Lubbock today, but this area used to be a sleepy farming town with a small population. Cotton production was a major factor in the growth of this town, and it continues to be so today.

Although it started out as a sleepy little town, Lubbock, Texas, is now home to the storied Texas Tech University. Additionally, some of Lubbock’s alums, including Buddy Holly, have made the city famous.

Lubbock, Texas, has long been a popular tourist destination thanks to its friendly small-town vibe and abundance of dining, shopping, and cultural offerings. 

When it comes to outdoor activities that reflect Lubbock’s agricultural roots, there are many to choose from. Let’s take a look at some of Lubbock’s best attractions:

20 Best Indoor Things To Do In Lubbock TX (Texas)

10 Best Museums In Lubbock TX (Texas)

List of 27 Things To Do In Lubbock TX Today

1. National Ranching Heritage Center

Some of the 48 buildings at the National Ranching Heritage Center (NRHC) date back to the 18th century and span an impressive 16 acres. 

This historic ranch has been carefully preserved and is open to the public year-round so that visitors can see how ranchers used to live and work in the area.

Candlelight at the Ranch in December is just one example of the many events that take place year-round, so be sure to see what’s on when you’re in town.

Address: 3121 4th St, Lubbock, TX 79409, United States

2. Buddy Holly Hall of Fame

Tourists should visit Lubbock Depot District to see the Buddy Holly Center in honor of one of its most famous residents, the musical genius Buddy Holly. 

Buddy Holly’s life and career are featured in a static exhibit at the center, which includes period artifacts, anecdotes, and other vintage memorabilia. 

This includes the Allison House, which was the childhood home of Buddy Holly’s drummer Jerry Ivan Allison, who collaborated with Holly over the years to write some of their greatest hits. 

The Allison family left the house in much the same condition as they found it, and there are a number of antiques that give visitors a unique insight into the house’s history.

Buddy Holly Center in the Depot District

Address: 1300 Mac Davis Ln, Lubbock, TX 79401, United States

3. Silent Wings Museum

At one time, Lubbock’s old airport terminal was home to the Silent Wings Museum. Those who are interested in World War II history will find it an excellent place to visit, and it is dedicated to the glider pilots who fought for the United States in those days.

Over eighty percent of those pilots received their training here as well. There are a wide range of items and information on display at the Silent Wings Museum that relate to the glider program.

Address: 6202 N I-27, Lubbock, TX 79403, United States

4. CapRock Winery

The CapRock Winery is a small winery located just outside of Lubbock, Texas, known for its beautiful architecture and stunning vineyards. 

The winery has been making wine in this location since the early 1990s, so they know what they’re doing when it comes to winemaking. If you’re in the area, stop by the tasting rooms to see what’s new and pick up a few bottles to remember your trip by.

Address: 408 E Woodrow Rd, Lubbock, TX 79423, United States

5. Caviel Museum of African American History

As one of Lubbock’s newest museums, the Caviel Museum of African American History is a must-see for anyone interested in learning more about the city’s rich African American heritage. 

An array of artwork and historical artifacts and antiques will be on display in the museum in an effort to tell this story. 

The museum’s permanent exhibits include tributes to prominent Lubbock residents who were instrumental in establishing the city’s rich African-American history.

Address: 1400 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560, United States

6. The ‘Cactus Theatre’

In addition to its appropriately Texan moniker, the Cactus Theater, which first opened its doors in the 1930s, is a historic landmark in its own right. 

It was Lubbock’s first of its kind movie theater when it reopened in the 1990s after being closed for several years. If you’re in the area, make sure to check out the theater’s performances, which include Broadway shows, musicals, live theater, and concerts.

Address: 1812 Buddy Holly Ave, Lubbock, TX 79401, United States

7. The American Wind Power Center

The American Wind Power Center is the world’s largest windmill museum, with more than 170 preserved windmills spread over 28 acres. Wind power has a long history in the United States, and you can learn all about it while admiring the lush landscapes and rolling hills. 

Museum visitors can explore more than 33,000 square feet of exhibition space, which includes a G-scale train that runs through the museum.

Address: 1701 Canyon Lake Dr, Lubbock, TX 79403, United States

8. The Texas Tech University Museum

Because Texas Tech University is located in Lubbock, the city has a museum honoring the school’s history and accomplishments. Over 5 million exhibits relating to Texas Tech are on display at the museum, and you can learn about all of the subjects taught at the university. 

Visitors to the Moody Planetarium, which features laser and stargazing shows every day, should not miss the opportunity to see the night sky from the comfort of their own home.

Address: 3301 4th St, Lubbock, TX 79415, United States

9. Ballet Lubbock

Ballet Lubbock was founded in 1969 and has since become one of Lubbock’s most sought-after cultural attractions. Ballet Lubbock performs ‘The Nutcracker’ every year during the holiday season, so if you’re in town, don’t miss out on the opportunity. 

The dance company puts on other shows and performances throughout the year, so keep an eye out for them if you’re in the area and want to see the local talent in action.

Address: 1300 Mac Davis Ln Suite 1, Lubbock, TX 79401, United States

10. The Bayer Agricultural Museum

Dedicated to preserving Lubbock’s rich agricultural heritage, the Bayer Museum of Agriculture (also known as the American Museum of Agriculture) is housed in the former Bayer Ranch. 

If you’re looking for a glimpse into the past, the museum’s exhibits will take you back to the early days of agriculture here. 

Old-fashioned pedal tractors and a replica of a blacksmith’s shop from the 1920s are among the exhibit’s highlights. Lubbock has a rich agricultural history, and many of the exhibits are designed to give visitors a hands-on experience as they explore the city’s agricultural past.

Address: 1121 Canyon Lake Dr, Lubbock, TX 79403, United States

11. Charles Adams Gallery

There is no better place to spend an evening in Lubbock than at the Charles Adams Gallery, which is located in the city’s Cultural District. 

Artworks from around the world are on display in the gallery’s rotating and static galleries, which feature a wide range of styles. It’s a good idea to check out what’s going on at the gallery while in town, especially if you’re interested in learning more about American art in this region of the country.

Address: 602 Avenue J, Lubbock, TX 79401, United States

12. Joyland Amusement Park

Joyland Amusement Park, located in Mackenzie Park, has over 30 rides for visitors of all ages to enjoy. Rides for thrill-seekers like roller coasters and log flumes, as well as more laid-back options like old-fashioned carousels and arcade games, are available in this adventure park. 

If you’re in the area, this is a great place to bring the whole family for a day of fun things, as there are plenty of rides for all ages to choose from.

Address: 500 Canyon Lake Dr, Lubbock, TX 79401, United States

13. Legacy Play Village

Those who are interested in learning about the South Plains’ history should visit Legacy Play Village because this facility is devoted to doing just that. 

Children will enjoy exploring the village and learning about the history of this part of Lubbock because it was built by residents of the city. The village features pavilions and a picnic area.

Address: 6401 Marsha Sharp Fwy W, Lubbock, TX 79407, United States

14. Lubbock Lake National Historic Landmark

The Lubbock Lake National Historic Landmark is a great place to learn more about the history of Lubbock. Here you’ll find a 12,000-year-old archaeological and historical treasure trove, as well as a fascinating preserve that shows evidence of human life from that time period.

Archaeological events are held throughout the year, such as Archeology in Action nights, where visitors can see excavation crews at work in front of them. 

There is a three-mile hiking trail that leads to the Yellow House Canyon. A visit to the site is a must if you’re interested in learning about early life in this part of the country.

Lubbock Lake Landmark go here.

Address: 2401 Landmark Dr, Lubbock, TX 79415, United States

15. Mackenzie Park

The city of Lubbock’s largest park, majestic Mackenzie Park, covers an impressive 248 acres in the heart of downtown. In addition to the well-known Joyland Amusement Park, the park features a newly installed and well-serviced golf course, as well as numerous other attractions.

Low-key activities such as disc golfing and a unique Prairie Dog Town are available for visitors to see these adorable indigenous animals up close and personal in their natural habitat. 

There are numerous hiking and equestrian trails throughout the park, as well as a number of lovely gardens that tell the story of Lubbock’s past.

Address: 301 I-27, Lubbock, TX, United States

16. American Wind Power Center

Billy Wolfe, a Texas home economics teacher, and resident, created the American Wind Power Center as a labor of love. In her adult life, she spent a lot of time finding, photographing, researching, and preserving windmills and the cultural significance they hold.

Nearly thirty years ago, Wolfe worked tirelessly to acquire hundreds of these structures, with the goal of opening a museum dedicated to them.

Address: 1701 Canyon Lake Dr, Lubbock, TX 79403, United States

17. FiberMax Center for Discovery

Although Texas isn’t widely known for its agriculture, it has had a significant impact on the industry. Some of that history can be found at the FiberMax Center for Discovery in Lubbock, Texas.

This is a great resource if you’re interested in agriculture and farming development.

Address: 1121 Canyon Lake Dr, Lubbock, TX 79403, United States

18. First Friday Art Trail

The free, self-guided First Friday Art Trail has propelled Lubbock to the forefront of the Texas art scene.

This event brings together collectors, artists, and community members for an evening of art, music, and fun in the Lubbock Cultural District.

First Friday Art Trail features a range of art centers, museums, galleries, and businesses that present an ever-changing selection of art exhibits in all mediums. First Friday Art Trail has something for everyone, whether one is an avid art collector or a lover of beautiful things.

19. Prairie Dog Town

Prairie Dog Town is a great place to visit if you’re looking for things to do in Lubbock and you like cute little animals.

The only thing to see here is a small field full of these adorable mammals, which is encircled by a low wall through which you can peer. It was built in Lubbock’s Mackenzie Park in the 1930s by Kennedy N. Clapp and his wife.

Address: MacKenzie Park Rd, Lubbock, TX 79401, United States

20. Science Spectrum Museum and Omni Theater

If you’re planning a trip to Lubbock with children, the Science Spectrum Museum and Omni Theater is a must-see.

More than two hundred and twenty-five interactive permanent exhibits, as well as numerous traveling and rotating ones, are available. The Omni Theater and Science Spectrum Museum offer a wide range of entertainment options.

You can interact with a wide variety of animals, many of which are exotic or not native to the United States, at live animal shows.

Address: 2579 S Loop 289 #250, Lubbock, TX 79423, United States

21. English Newsom Cellars at Caprock Winery

The English Newsom Cellars at Caprock Winery in Lubbock, Texas, is known as one of the best things to do in Lubbock for wine enthusiasts.

With its prestigious vineyard, it is also one of the best-known in the state. It has been in business since 1988 and has been hailed as one of the best restaurants in the world, even beating out establishments in France and Italy.

Caprock Winery’s English Newsom Cellars, with their picturesque grounds and striking architecture, make an excellent first impression.

Address: 408 E Woodrow Rd, Lubbock, TX 79423, United States

22. Lubbock Memorial Arboretum

The K. N. Clapp Park is home to the Lubbock Memorial Arboretum, one of the city’s most important historical sites.

One of the city’s most romantic activities is strolling through its 93 open-space acres, which is why it’s a popular tourist destination.

All kinds of plants, flowers, vines, and other flora can be found at the Memorial Arboretum. This habitat is also home to a variety of birds, butterflies, and other creatures, many of which are native to Texas.

Address: 4111 University Ave, Lubbock, TX 79413, United States

23. Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts

Opening in 1997, the Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts is a 501(c)(3) non-profit. With nine buildings spread across four blocks, it offers a wide variety of attractions and activities.

Connecting artists of all skill levels and promoting their work is at its very core of Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts (LHUCA).

Address: 511 Avenue K, Lubbock, TX 79401, United States

24. Lubbock Veterans War Memorial

In honoring the South Plains’ war heroes, the Lubbock Veterans War Memorial is a fitting choice for the city.

It is one of the largest memorials in the United States, second only to Washington, DC, and can be found in Huenke Park.

Address: 4001 82nd St Henry Huneke Park, Lubbock Texas 79423, United States

25. Holly Hop Ice Cream Shoppe

Despite the fact that Holly Hop Ice Cream Shoppe isn’t one of Lubbock’s more “typical” attractions, it should still be on your list of things to do in the city.

Ice cream is the name of the game at this retro ice cream parlor, and it’s just as delicious as you’d expect. The booths are bright and red and white striped, the air is vibrant, the jukebox awaits input, and the atmosphere is a fun thing for family-friendly.

It’s no wonder Holly Hop Ice Cream is so well-known in the city; it sells great products and gives off a great vibe.

Address: 3404 34th St, Lubbock TX 79410, United States

26. Antique Mall of Lubbock

This weekend, the Antique Mall of Lubbock will be a great place to go treasure hunting, great finds, and bargains.

Antique and trinket hunters have been flocking to this mall since it opened in 1985, and it continues to rank among the best of its kind in the country.

The Antique Mall, which covers 24,000 square feet, is home to more than 100 exhibits and 50 distinct booths selling a wide range of American collectibles and antiques.

Address: 7907 19th St, Lubbock Texas 79407, United States

27. Llano Estacado Winery

The Llano Estacado Winery in West Texas was only known for oil and cattle for many years. In 1976, we modified this. We acquired a spot on the viticultural map by a combination of good fortune and tenacity. Since then, we’ve been making waves with domestic and international honors.

Today, we are the largest and most successful premium winery in West Texas, introducing the globe to the state’s finest wines.

Final Thoughts

It doesn’t matter what you’re in the mood for, Lubbock has something to offer everyone. This list of some of Lubbock’s most popular attractions can help you find all the best places to visit!

FAQs Things To Do In Lubbock