5 Reasons Why Summer is the Perfect Time to Visit Lubbock

It’s no secret that you’ll find great live music, melt-in-your-mouth barbecue, and inspired microbrews in Lubbock, Texas. But did you know the Hub City turns up the heat on summertime fun, too? Water and adventure amusement parks, watersports, and lakeside fun in the sun are waiting for you! Pack up the kids and your pup, grab the sunscreen and swimsuits, and discover why summer is a perfect time to visit Lubbock.

It’s not officially summer unless you make a big splash! At Lubbock Water Rampage, plunge into the refreshing, themed pools in Pirates Cove, the Caribbean Adventure, and Lost World. There’s a water attraction for everyone in your family — from the Baby Pool to the Big Wave Pool. For the adrenaline junkies in your clan, the slides in Raider’s Revenge twist, turn, and plummet 27 feet!

If you need something to calm your nerves after a trip down Raider’s Revenge, order a frosty cocktail from Captain Morgan’s Rum Point. Rest assured, as you’re sipping a cold one and floating the lazy river, your little mateys will be having the time of their lives at Pirate’s Cove.

With water attractions for all ages, the Snack Shack, a full bar, and family-friendly shows on movie night, plan to stay the whole day. Or better yet, buy a season pass to make a splash all summer long.

Adventure Park is a perfect summertime destination for the young and young at heart. You’ll find 18-hole mini golf and go-karts, as well as one-of-kind indoor and outdoor attractions across the 20-acre park. Swing into action as you explore all three stories of Adventure Towers, scramble up the Rockwall, or navigate the Cypress Peak rope climbing course. To cool off, cruise around Adventure Park Lake in a pedal boat. Be sure to visit Bumper Bayou, too. You’ll be splashing, crashing, and avoiding gators on this reimagined bumper car course!

When it’s time to take a break from the midday sun, check out the indoor attractions. You can tackle the Ninja Zone obstacle course or dance your way through Laser Maze. You’ll also find an impressive game room with over 50 of the newest interactive video games, classic arcade games, and awesome prizes.

Once you work up an appetite, make your way to one of the park’s eateries. The Expedition Café has everything from finger-lickin’ good Expedition Wings and pizza to Camp Fire S’mores. The

Thirsty Garden serves tasty bites and specialty drinks. If you visit on Friday, live music is on tap on the patio throughout the summer. Be on the lookout for special events that make every trip to Adventure Park a new experience.

Escape the city heat and dive into Buffalo Springs Lake! This spring-fed oasis, with two unspoiled sandy beaches, is just five miles east of Lubbock. The 200-acre lake gives you plenty of room for boating, waterskiing, tubing, wakeboarding, and swimming. No watersport equipment? No problem. The marina rents Jet Skis, kayaks, standup paddleboards, and pontoon boats for your floating party. And don’t forget your fishing pole. The lake is stocked with Instagram-worthy bass, crappies, catfish, and sunfish.

Beyond the water, nature enthusiasts can hike the Audubon Society’s Buffalo Springs Lake trail, a 5.7-mile looped trail that has more wildlife than people. There are also nearly 13 miles of riding trails for off-road vehicles, horseshoe pits, volleyball courts, and a 9-hole golf course. After enjoying a sun-kissed day, treat yourself to a catfish basket or burger at Texas Twister at the Marina. Stay for a live music performance under a blanket of stars each weekend.

This summer, Buffalo Springs Lake has two upcoming events to put on your calendar. A thrilling wakeboarding and surfing competition for amateurs and pros comes to the lake on Memorial Day weekend. And the area’s largest and longest firework display lights up the sky on July 6th. If you’re staying for either holiday weekend, book your tent or RV camping site in advance. You won’t want to miss out on any of the action!

“Time on the water is time well spent,” according to the folks at SUPLBK. To help you get on the water and “paddle your cares away,” the locally owned and operated company rents stand up paddleboards (SUPs), 1- and 2-person kayaks, and 8-person armadas. They’re located on Dunbar Historic Lake in Lubbock and open from mid-April through October. The crew at SUPLBK will give first timers and those needing a quick refresher course a lesson before setting sail. This is a family-friendly outing on calm waters so bring the kids and dog along.

If you’re planning a date night, book a Sunset Paddle. You’ll witness the wide-open sky of West Texas become a brilliant, ever-changing canvas of color. The Full Moon Paddle with the moon’s reflection shimmering across the lake is just as stunning. And speaking of awe-inspiring views, rent your floating front row seat from SUPLBK for Lubbock’s annual the 4th of July fireworks extravaganza.

After a day of splishin’, splashin, and playing like a kid again, start your engines and motor over to Cook’s Garage. What began as a man cave with hot rods, muscle cars, and an impressive collection of old gasoline signs, has become a popular bar and restaurant with Hot Rod Wings that are out of this world! Cook’s Garage is also a go-to venue for concerts. Lubbock’s rich tradition of live music continues here every night under the magical glow of hundreds of vintage neon signs. If you’re traveling to Lubbock in late June, be sure to check out William Clark Green’s annual Fiesta del algodón.

Whether you’re a gearhead or love an evening with great food, tasty brews, and toe-tappin’ tunes, cap off your action-packed day at Cook’s Garage.

Truth be told, these are just five of the many reasons to visit Lubbock this summer. Reserve a hotel, vacation home, or RV spot and see for yourself how much fun under the sun you’ll have in Lubbock, Texas!