Areas & Neighborhoods in Lubbock
Downtown forms the historic heart of Lubbock, and most of the city's major attractions spread out from its grid-like streets. Whether you're interested in catching some Red Raiders action or indulging your inner foodie, you'll likely spend most of your time exploring the neighborhoods around this central area.
Texas Tech University
Part of the Big 12 Conference, Texas Tech University dominates in the realm of athletics, but it's also known for its world-class public art collection and beautiful, Spanish Renaissance-themed campus. Attractions include the impressive Museum of Texas Tech University, as well as a giant aquatics center complete with a lazy river.
Depot District
Live music and nightlife reign supreme in the Depot District, named for its location in the city's original railroad depot area. With pubs, upscale restaurants, clubs, and the historic Cactus Theater to explore, this lively neighborhood is the place to go for a good time.
Mackenzie Park
Sprawling across 248 acres (100 ha), the picturesque Mackenzie Park is home to hiking and equestrian trails, a golf course, and the classic Joyland Amusement Park. Animal lovers can pay a visit to Prairie Dog Town for an up-close look at the entertaining burrowing rodents.
Things to See in Lubbock
Beyond its reputation for big-time college football, Lubbock has earned fame as the birthplace of rock and roll legend Buddy Holly. The Buddy Holly Center, found in the artsy Depot District, preserves his legacy, showcasing a large collection of Holly artifacts, the Texas Musician Hall of Fame, and rotating art exhibits. Lubbock also boasts strong ranching and agricultural roots, and a range of museums pay tribute to the city's rich past. At the National Ranching Heritage Center, get a glimpse into the lives of Lubbock's early settlers as you wander among an array of authentic ranch buildings and equipment, some of which dates to the late 18th century. Then, uncover the history of wind power in the United States at the American Wind Power Center, which houses the largest collection of preserved windmills in the world.
Sightseeing in Lubbock
Lubbock offers activities to please outdoor enthusiasts, appreciators of the arts, and everyone in between. For a taste of the city's vibrant cultural offerings, check out works from local artists on the First Friday Art Trail, or visit in summer to hum along to the latest open-air production from Lubbock Moonlight Musicals. Vino lovers will discover a thriving wine scene in Lubbock, with wineries like McPherson Cellars and Caprock Winery showcasing the best of viticulture in the Lone Star State. The city also boasts an average of 265 days of sunshine per year, so take advantage of the amazing weather with opportunities for camping, fishing, and relaxing on the beach at the nearby Buffalo Springs Lake. Or, for a more rugged side of West Texas, take a trip to Caprock Canyon for hiking and mountain biking amidst dramatic badlands scenery. And, of course, no visit to Lubbock would be complete without experiencing the Big 12 football mania, so claim a seat on gameday among thousands of screaming fans at the Jones AT&T Stadium. Just make sure to purchase tickets in advance, as home games can often sell out.
