Kid-Friendly Lubbock

Kid-Friendly Lubbock
By: Arianna Freelen

Lubbock, Texas will always hold a dear place in my heart. I was born in Lubbock thirty years ago and returned the summer before my senior year at Coronado High School. After, I attended Texas Tech University, met my future husband at the Four Bar K and got married at Southcrest Baptist Church. Although I have lived across the state of Texas, in Colorado, and California, Lubbock will always be home.

Luckily, my family is still in the “Hub City”, allowing me to visit often. As a mother of three with a fourth on the way, I still make every effort to trek out west. My kids love coming to Lubbock so much that my five-year-old has already made plans to live in the “Hub City” when she gets older! My children look always forward to our outings in Lubbock

To kick off each visit, we make a date to eat lunch at O’Hana Japanese Steak House. My girls squeal with delight as the food is prepared in front of their eyes. In my opinion, O’Hana fried rice is second to none. 

After lunch, we like to grab dessert at our favorite cookie shop, The Ruffled Cup. They are known for their cupcakes but the iced cookies keep us coming back each trip! I also can’t forget to mention The Soda Shack. This refreshing break is a sweet mini date for my husband and me when the grandparents watch the kids for a bit. 

Coming to Lubbock also means incredible shopping for all things kiddos. As a soon-to-be mom of four, I am a self-proclaimed boutique pro. Of all the shops I have visited, Lubbock has the absolute best to offer. Green Dazzle Baby is my go-to for bows, Copper Pearl quilts, and sweet bamboo outfits. Rattle Dazzle in KK’s Craft Mall is a must-stop for frilly outfits and holiday sets for all ages. From unique finds to diaper bags, My Cup of Tea is a necessity for all things baby. 

Lubbock has plenty to offer from great shopping and good food to seasonal favorites and yearly traditions. Because I frequent Lubbock many times throughout the year, we have been able to experience each season and create family traditions throughout the year. While Lubbock is the ideal destination at any time of the year, Fall is my favorite. In the Fort Worth area, September is as hot and humid as July, while out west offers crisp air that ensures autumn is coming to cool us off. 

One of our favorite activities during September in West Texas is the South Plains Fair. The nostalgic feelings, refreshing strawberry lemonade, greasy corn dogs and adorable petting zoos are easily the highlight of the night. In October, we make a trip to the corn maze and our favorite local pumpkin patch. Christmas time calls for scenic drives admiring the holiday lights, worshipping with our family and enjoying our favorite warm cup of coffee. In the Spring, counting prairie dogs at Prairie Dog Town always ends in giggles. Summer is never complete without a trip to Joyland for the perfect kid-size rides and cotton candy! 

In every season, Lubbock is a special place for my family to visit and feel right at home. Coming from a large city, Lubbock affords my family places full of nostalgic family fun. For my children, Lubbock is place where life is lived to the fullest. For all of us, it is our home away from home.

Honorable Kid-friendly attractions you can’t miss:

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