A College Senior’s Guide to Lubbock Freshman

By: Camille Hughes

My name is Camille Hughes, and I am a senior at Lubbock Christian University. The past four years in Lubbock have been full of memories that I will carry with me forever. Whether it was late night study sessions or a weekend spent in the Depot District with friends, I’m here to tell you all of the must-see places and events that will make your time here unforgettable.

You may not be into coffee now but by the end of your first semester you will most likely have a favorite coffee spot. I recommend Monomyth for amazing craft coffee and house-baked pastries with the perfect atmosphere for studying. For a great patio spot, I love Ninety-Two Bakery & Cafe. The brunch is to-die-for and they serve up great specialty drinks as well, including the signature Ninety-Two Latte. 

If you love to boot, scoot and boogie the night away, be on the lookout for The Blue Light Live’s Street Dances. This is a fun way to spend a night out with your friends downtown in the Depot District. The Blue Light is iconic for the artists that they bring, but they are a 21+ spot. Luckily, their street dances are welcoming to anyone over 18, so this allows those beginning their college experience in Lubbock the opportunity to still experience a taste of live music!

When you need a break from studying over the weekend and don’t know what to do with your friends, grab all the blankets and pillows you have and head straight to the Stars and Stripes Drive In Theater! This is such a fun night out.  Stock your car with all your favorite snacks and find a spot and enjoy your choice of back-to-back films. This is a cozy night with friends or a cute date night spot as well.

I have always had the biggest sweet tooth and the 806 has endless options for delicious desserts. I recommend trying out Happy’s Shaved Ice, Bubble Tea and Smoothies. Happy’s has an amazing menu packed with fruity or sweet flavors to try as a snow cone, smoothies, or    bubble tea. They also have bubbles and jellies to add into your desserts. This is the way to go when you want to cool off from this West Texas heat!

I love all things fall. The feeling of seasons changing is one of my favorite things and what better way to kick off Fall than going to a corn maze? At’l Do Farms Corn Maze is a local maze that I go to every year. At’l Do has a beautiful barn venue that doubles as the perfect backdrop for fall pictures by the windmill and haystacks as well as a concession with fun treats. Try not to get lost!

For the thrill-seekers Nightmare on 19^th is right where you want to be during the spooky season. This Lubbock attraction is full of jump scares with different themes each year. You will want your bravest friends with you for this one!

Ransom Canyon Christmas lights are one of my favorite things to see during the holidays. If you get the chance, take a drive out to Ransom Canyon and follow their roads that wind around the lake. Seeing the reflection of the lights on the water is such a gorgeous scene.

Sometimes you just want to get outside and have some fun with friends. LCU and Texas Tech both have great options for recreational sports. There are sand volleyball courts open to the public at Texas Tech that are great to get a group together and play with friends. At LCU, there is a huge disc-golf course that makes for an ideal Saturday afternoon! These are great stress relievers and a nice way to enjoy Lubbock’s cooling temps.

The First Friday Art Trail is one of my favorite activities to do in Lubbock. Enjoy the fresh air as you walk around the Arts District in Downtown Lubbock and experience beautiful art exhibits, food trucks, live music, and much more. 

Of course, I have to throw in one of my favorite places to eat while being here in the “Hub City.” Triple J’s Chophouse and Brew Co. is located downtown in the Depot District by the iconic Cactus Theater and Blue Light Live. This glorious Western chophouse is going to make you feel the Southern charm and leave you full from any of the amazing options on the menu. This is a great spot for a date, birthday dinner, or just when you’re craving the best nachos in town.

College is an exciting time full of growth and new experiences. I feel lucky to have spent my time here in The 806 with amazing eats, events, and people. As you make your way to each of these recommended spots be sure to tag us in your photos!