Budget-Friendly Fun in LBK

By: Avery Frazier

We know travel can get expensive, but in Lubbock there are a plethora of activities that won’t break the bank! From museums to art and great local eats, check out a few of our favorite things to do on a budget in the Hub City! 

First Friday Art Trail

On the first Friday of each month, LHUCA, a local art gallery located downtown, hosts the First Friday Art Trail. Over 5,000 people make their way to peruse art galleries, visit the local shops and thrift shops that set up booths, and order dinner from the lineup of the local food trucks in attendance. While you don’t have to spend anything, food trucks typically have something to snack on that is under $10!

The National Ranching Heritage Center

Lubbock’s rich ranching history comes to life at the National Ranching Heritage Center. With 19 acres of over 50 historically accurate structures that were once in use at their time, travel through the evolution of ranching in North America. This fall, the Cash Family Ranch Life Learning Center will welcome those curious to what life on Hank the Cowdog’s ranch was like. Admission is free, so be sure to stop by with the whole family for a walk around the park. 

Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theater

As spring blooms in Lubbock, it is the perfect time to plan a night at the drive-in! Stars and Stripes offers movies on Friday through Sunday starting at 7 p.m. Tickets are $9, making for an affordable and unique movie-watching experience for the whole family.

The Range

Whether you’re an experienced golfer or looking for a good time, The Range guarantees a great time for all. A driving range and bar, bring your pup, tee up in a box and order a pizza for a hole-in-one type of night. Options include a medium basket with 70 golf balls costs $8 or a large basket for $10 and 100 balls. The Range is open from 9 a.m. to midnight every day!

Buddy Holly Center

Check out the historical site dedicated to the legacy of Buddy Holly! General Admission costs $10 per adult and $5 per student with a student ID. The center preserves, collects, and promotes the legacy of Buddy Holly and the history of music in Lubbock. Learn more about one of the most famous artists who made a lasting impact on the music industry we know today.

Science Spectrum & Omni Theater

While the Science Spectrum is kid friendly, it’s fun for all ages! General admission costs $8.50 per person. Make sure to check out the spring and summer butterfly exhibit!

Museum at Texas Tech University

Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays, admission is free! Check out the centennial exhibit, highlighting 100 years of Texas Tech University history. 

Two Docs Brewing Co.

Two Docs is the perfect place to grab a beer and enjoy live music with friends and family. With a dog-friendly patio, kid-friendly atmosphere, there are brews for all ages – root beer of course! Located in downtown Lubbock, check out their craft beer and non-alcoholic options.

J’s Creamery

Calling all those with a sweet tooth! Check out J’s frozen custard and other specialty frozen desserts. Prices range from $4 to $8 on sundaes big enough to split! 

Prairie Dog town 

Located in Mackenzie Park off of 4th Street and Interstate 27, a visit to Prairie Dog Town is a quirky and free activity that will leave you charmed. Home of the Lubbock famous prairie dogs, these cute furry guys are scurrying around from hole to hole and are looking for a snack to munch on!

One Guy Pizza

After all those activities, let’s grab a bite to eat. At One Guy, order the lunch special which includes two slices of pizza or a traditional calzone with a drink for $8.75. A community favorite with two locations, this is a can’t-miss! 

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