The Raiderland Experience Guide to Lubbock

Written By McKenna Dowdle

May 21, 2021

Welcome to Lubbock, Texas! Home to the Texas Tech Red Raiders, the iconic rock ‘n roll legend Buddy Holly, and the first Cultural District in the Lone Star State, the “Hub City” is proudly known to be a top college town with a thriving social scene. Lubbock boasts plenty to do and see both on and off campus. While enjoying a Red Raider week, be sure to explore all your new city has to offer by visiting the attractions below! 

Where to Get Tech Gear
Now that you’ve been accepted, visited the campus and have become acquainted with the school, it’s time to look the part! Getting Tech gear is easy, as there are shops right by campus. For an extensive collection of Texas Tech gameday garb and other clothing items, memorabilia, accessories and more, visit Red Raider Outfitters located throughout the city at four different locations, The Matador located on Broadway Street near the campus’ main entrance, and any local boutique or grocery store across town! 

TTU Public Art Tour
The Texas Tech Public Art Tour is known to be the second largest art tour on a college campus in the country. With over 100 sculptures, a walk around Tech’s campus is anything but ordinary. We recommend contacting the Public Art Tour by visiting their website to schedule a tour with the new Art Cart. Be sure to download the ArtTrek mobile application with the new Art Cart! 

Cultural District
Each first friday of every month, the Cultural District comes to life during the First Friday Art Trail. This event attracts over 5,000 people from across the region who are interested in experiencing Lubbock’s local art community and culture on display. With live music, poetry performances, hands-on activities, food trucks and galleries exhibiting the finest collections, this event is an LBK staple you won’t want to miss. 

The Cultural District is known to be the cornerstone of Lubbock’s downtown. Here you will find The Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts and Sciences, Charles Adams Gallery, Charles Adams Studio Project live/work galleries, LHUCA, Grey Edges Studio, and many more. 

Live Music
Known to have the most live music venues per capita in Texas, Lubbock is no stranger to up-and-coming artists in the spotlight. In fact, legendary artists like Mac Davis, Josh Abbott and the iconic Buddy Holly have set the stage for what it means to be a musician in the 806. You can catch local performances any night of the week at hot spots downtown such as The DoubleTree by Hilton and in the Depot District at Blue Light Live! and Cactus Theater, and across the city at multiple bars and restaurants. 

Family-Friendly Attractions
We would be remiss if we didn’t highlight the family-friendly attractions to show off while visiting. If you have a need for speed, spend an afternoon with the family at Adventure Park! From go-karts to the ropes course and zip line, this attraction is not for the faint of heart. They also offer mini-golf and arcade games for those looking to do something a little more low-key. 

We also recommend taking your family to 4ore! Golf, MacKenzie Park and Raider’s Axe Gallery and Entertainment. 

Must-try Restaurants
We are confident you will find Lubbock’s culinary scene as inviting as it is delicious. It’s hard to go wrong with any option, but we have included a few of the must-tries while here. 

Spanky’s
Located across the street from the Jones AT&T stadium, Spanky’s is known for its rich and fried fare. No visit to Spanky’s is complete without an order of fried cheese. We also recommend any of the burgers. While you can’t go wrong with the classic, the green chile and swiss burger offers a perfect punch to keep you coming back for more. 

Dirk’s
Located on 13th Street east of Avenue Q, Dirk’s is Lubbock’s premier fried chicken eatery. With options including chicken tenders, rotisserie chicken and a multitude of side dishes, Chef Cameron West put a “Hub City” twist on a few favorite southern dishes. Trust us, this will be a family favorite. 

One Guy from Italy University
One Guy from Italy is conveniently located on University Avenue, placing it within walking distance to campus. Whether you enjoy fresh pizza slices or a hearty calzone, this local gem is worth becoming a regular for. 

As you familiarize yourself with your new city, we hope you find Lubbock easy to call home for the next four years. We encourage you to take advantage of all the city has to offer, participate in Lubbock’s traditions and immerse yourself in the rich history and evolving culture. If you ever have any questions, reach out to the local experts at Visit Lubbock on social media or through our website. We cannot wait to begin showing you around the LBK. Congratulations, Red Raiders! 

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