Lubbock, Texas, is not just known for Texas Tech University; it’s also the birthplace of iconic musician Buddy Holly and boasts a vibrant blend of art, culture, and western heritage. This city, with its friendly small-town atmosphere, offers a variety of family-friendly attractions that you can enjoy year-round. Here’s a curated list of the top activities to experience in Lubbock with your children.
Family Attractions in Lubbock
One of the standout places to visit is Adventure Park, which features mini-golf, zip lines, indoor and outdoor rock climbing walls, mountain bike trails, go-karts, and more. The highlight is the impressive three-story Adventure Towers playground, promising endless fun for the kids.
For a hands-on learning experience, take your family to the Science Spectrum, where over 250 interactive exhibits are waiting to be explored. The Lubbock Children’s Museum, designed for kids aged 5 and under, offers engaging physical and sensory play areas. Don’t miss out on an educational film in the 58-foot domed OMNI Theater.
The Museum of Texas Tech University merges art, science, anthropology, and history into an enriching outing. Be sure to check out the stunning laser show at the Moody Planetarium.
Another fascinating location is the Lubbock Lake Landmark, an archaeological and natural history preserve that features 4.5 miles of walking trails and exhibits detailing how humans have thrived in the Southern High Plains for nearly 12,000 years.
On the Texas Tech campus, the National Ranching Heritage Center showcases the history of ranching in America. Families can enjoy a self-guided tour using a GPS-enabled app to explore various historic ranch structures. Downloadable activities are available to keep the kids engaged throughout the tour.
Joyland Amusement Park is another fantastic destination for families. With rides designed for younger children and thrilling attractions for older kids, it’s a seasonal venue, so check the hours before your visit.
Dining Options for Families
Lubbock’s Breakfast House & Grill provides a diverse menu that caters to even the pickiest eaters. With three locations, you can find everything from pancakes to grilled cheese and mac-n-cheese on the kids’ menu.
Another great stop is the Caboose, where the extensive menu offers plenty of options for both kids and adults. Children can enjoy midway games while you relax with one of the daily drink specials.
For a fun meal before heading to Adventure Park, Expedition Café is the place to be. It serves classic fare like hot dogs and fries, alongside healthier choices like hummus, salads, and smoothies. Don’t forget to try the campfire s’more—a delightful treat featuring a chocolate chip cookie with melted marshmallow and Nutella.
Family-Friendly Accommodations in Lubbock
Hyatt Place Lubbock offers a variety of room options, all featuring a sofa bed. There’s a 24/7 market for quick snacks, a coffee and cocktail bar, and complimentary breakfast for World of Hyatt members. This pet-friendly hotel also boasts an indoor pool and free Wi-Fi.
The Overton Hotel and Conference Center features a heated outdoor pool, Jacuzzi, outdoor fire pits, and free Wi-Fi. Its on-site restaurant, Pecan Grill, serves delicious meals throughout the day.
MCM Eleganté Hotel & Suites has an on-site restaurant along with a lounge that offers Starbucks coffee and alcoholic beverages. Families can enjoy a small indoor pool and various room configurations, some with pullout couches.
Outdoor Adventures for Kids
Lubbock is home to various parks where kids can expend their energy. Mackenzie Park features a playground, sculpture garden, disc golf course, and equestrian trails, and it’s also home to Joyland. Don’t miss Prairie Dog Town, where you can observe these charming creatures in their natural habitat.
For a cultural experience, embark on a self-guided tour of the First Friday Art Trail in Lubbock’s Cultural District. Alternatively, hop on a trolley to visit participating galleries, enjoying live music and food from local vendors along the way.
A unique attraction is the American Windmill Museum, which showcases over 70 historic windmills across 28 acres. Inside, there’s a 6,600-square-foot model train display featuring windmills.
If you’re in Lubbock during September or November, be sure to check out the massive corn maze at At’l Do Farms. Older kids will enjoy the challenging maze, while younger children can navigate the more manageable Fairy Tale Trail, with additional activities like hayrides and campfires.
Additional Activities for Families in Lubbock
Pay homage to legendary musician Buddy Holly at the Buddy Holly Center, which honors his legacy and showcases other notable musicians from Lubbock and West Texas. The center also features the West Texas Walk of Fame and educational programs.
If you’re in Lubbock for the 4th of July, don’t miss the large free festival, which includes a parade, live music, and fun contests, alongside areas filled with inflatables and arts and crafts for kids.
Every September, the National Cowboy Symposium celebrates cowboy culture through art, music, poetry, films, and a chuck wagon cook-off, with plenty of kid-friendly activities.
The Silent Wings Museum, dedicated to the pilots who trained in Lubbock during WWII, features exhibits and a multimedia theater showcasing one of the few restored gliders still in existence.
Lastly, Texas Tech University enriches Lubbock’s community. The campus, with its stunning Spanish Renaissance architecture, offers plenty of space for kids to explore. If you can, catch a sports event to experience the city’s vibrant energy.
For more insights on parenting and family activities, check out our post on home insemination kits, which provides helpful resources for those looking to expand their family.
In summary, Lubbock offers a plethora of engaging activities and experiences for families, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy. From interactive museums to outdoor adventures, this Texas city is a wonderful destination for families looking to create lasting memories together.