LUBBOCK and prairie dogs

Article published in the Wilson County News’ South Texas Living section on November 8, 2017

There’s more to Lubbock than prairie dogs

Mac Davis, a native of Lubbock released a hit song in 1980 with the line “I thought happiness was Lubbock Texas in my rearview mirror.”

Today, Lubbock is sing’n a new song: “Happy days are here again”. Once thought of as a high-plains cow town, Lubbock is reinventing itself into a “destination.”

Lubbock is located on the Llano Estacado, one of the largest mesas on the North American continent; Lubbock’s elevation is 3,575 feet above sea level as opposed to Wilson County at only 380 feet. It was named after Thomas S. Lubbock, a former Texas Ranger and Confederate officer. Incorporated on 1909,

Lubbock is home to the Buddy Holly Center dedicated to Lubbock’s most famous son, and also the Silent Wings Museum, honoring World War II-era gilder pilots who delivered men and supplies behind enemy lines. Lubbock is also the site of the American Wind Power Center, the largest windmill museum in the world with 170 rare and fully restored windmills spread out over 28 acres. You can also tour the Robert Bruno Steel House, one of the most unusual houses you will ever see.

Of course, we have to mention Texas Tech University, home to over 38,000 students. Opened in 1925, it has been one of the driving forces for Lubbock’s revitalization and also surprisingly, the Arts. The University has mandated that 1% of all construction or remodeling project costs on the campus be allocated to public art. The Museum of Texas Tech University is fabulous and it also encompasses the Lubbock Lake Landmark, an archaeological and natural history preserve showing evidence of almost 12,000 years of human occupation in the region, and the National Ranching Heritage Center, a 19-acre center featuring fifty authentic ranch buildings dating from the late 18th to the mid-20th centuries. The museum and the self-guided walking tour are free and open to the public.

Lose yourself in the Depot District, an area of the city located in the old railroad depot area, dedicated to music and nightlife. Theatres, upscale restaurants, cultural attractions, shops, pubs, nightclubs and a winery call this area home. Many of the buildings were remodeled from the original Fort Worth & Denver South Plains Railway Depot that originally stood on the site. One of the main anchors of this area is the Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts (LHUCA) known best as simply “Luca”, and presents visual, performing, and liberal arts for adults and children to enhance and enrich life experiences.

But wait, there’s more. You can visit an area known as Prairie Dog Town where you can watch hundreds of these cute little guys scurrying about their everyday lives in their native habitat. There is a pavilion and viewing area, interpretive signage, sidewalks, large parking area, perimeter fencing and is ADA accessible. It's free and open to the public from dawn to dusk year round!

Not a Golfer. No problem – you will still love 4ORE! – a brand new 52,000 square facility featuring 60 climate controlled tee boxes, golf simulated games for guests of all ages and skill levels, a kids area, an outdoor Patio & Bar, Sports Grille, and an upscale lounge.

Culinary Scene: I asked the resident of Lubbock what he does for fun. “Eat” was his reply. There is a never-ending selection of great and unusual eateries, blending food, culture, and entertainment, with unbelievable dishes served up from gourmet food trucks to some of the best barbeque you will ever sink your teeth in. And, there are five local wineries and a small-batch rum distillery to help quench your thirst.

To sum it up, Lubbock is a great destination no matter your interests.

Live, Love, Lubbock