Lubbock: A Taste of West Texas: 4 Day Itinerary

In the heart of the High Plains, Lubbock, Texas, surprises you. It’s where cowboy grit meets fine wine, and where music legends live on through murals and museum halls. Daniel and I flew into Lubbock’s Preston Smith International Airport, about 5 miles north of the city. Lubbock is located about 2 hours south of Amarillo. We thoroughly enjoyed the time we spent in this spirited Texas city and found Lubbock blooming with culture, flavor, and charm.

Lubbock, Texas

Lubbock, Texas—known as the “Hub City”—has evolved from a frontier settlement into a vibrant cultural and educational center. Established in 1890 through the merger of Old Lubbock and Monterey, the city was officially incorporated in 1909. Its central location in the South Plains, a region renowned as the world’s largest continuous cotton-growing area, positioned Lubbock as a key economic and agricultural hub. The founding of Texas Technological College (now Texas Tech University) in 1923 marked a significant shift, fostering intellectual and cultural growth that propelled the city’s development. Notable figures such as former Texas Governor Preston Smith and NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes have ties to the university, highlighting Lubbock’s legacy of achievement.

Check out our preview below and let’s get started!

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Day 1: Art, Winery Tour, and Spanish Tapas in Lubbock

Modern Comfort Meets West Texas Charm: Cotton Court Hotel

Our journey began at Cotton Court Hotel, a boutique hotel inspired by the region’s cotton roots. Its rustic-modern design features porches, Acapulco chairs, and vintage Texas touches. It sits downtown, walking distance from art, food, and nightlife.

Nestled in the heart of downtown Lubbock, this boutique hotel sits just a mile from Texas Tech University and steps from the city’s buzzing Depot District. Walking across the open-air courtyard, complete with fire pits and water features, we felt right at home in this urban oasis. Guests have access to a fitness center, complimentary bicycles, a year-round outdoor pool, and a cozy outdoor fireplace. The property also features a restaurant and bar, Midnight Shift with live music.

Our Room at the Cotton Court

Our room blended vintage industrial charm with subtle luxury. I loved the oversized bathroom—it has a sleek sliding barn door and a walk-in rainfall shower. There were antique-style wardrobes and pendant lights wrapped with colorful thread, just like bobbins from a loom. The bed, topped with a plush pillow-top mattress and soft cotton linens, promised deep rest after a full day exploring Lubbock. There was a custom desk made to resemble a sewing table, while Daniel kicked back on the wood-framed sofa, appreciating the quilted mattress detail. A quick peek inside the retro SMEG fridge revealed local craft beers—a fitting welcome to West Texas.

The little details like the SMEG fridge, Smart TV, and Cotton Court bathrobes really made the stay feel special. The Buddy Holly Needlepoint lyrics above the sofa let us know we were in Lubbock. Plus, having complimentary Wi-Fi and a coffee maker in the room was a huge bonus. Staying at the Cotton Court Hotel has been such a treat!

We didn’t have our pups with us this time, but the Cotton Court is a pet-friendly property and requires a non-refundable fee per pet, up to two pets per room.

McPherson Cellars: Award Winning Texas Grown Wine

By late afternoon, Daniel and I were stepping into McPherson Cellars. This winery is inside a restored 1930s Coca-Cola bottling plant. The tasting room glowed with industrial charm and rich reds. Winemaker Kim McPherson has led Texas winemaking for decades. We’re no wine experts, but we enjoy learning about the history of things. Kim gave us a wonderful tour and we learned so much about their Texas-grown wines that have won hundreds of awards. Kim and his wife, Sylvia, have two daughters. Kassandra, part of the third generation, launched her own label, Las Espinas. Katelyn helps at the winery occasionally but focuses on her art.

Kim McPherson’s father, Dr. Clinton A. “Doc” McPherson, helped shape the Texas wine industry. He co-founded Llano Estacado Winery in 1976, the first Texas winery after Prohibition. A chemistry professor at Texas Tech, he was also the first in Texas to plant Sangiovese grapes. His wife, Clara, was a professor who helped start Texas Tech’s Hotel Restaurant Management program.

Kim studied food science and winemaking, worked in Napa, then returned to Texas to make wine at Llano Estacado and CapRock Winery. In 2000, he founded McPherson Cellars to honor his father. He opened a modern winery in a renovated bottling plant in 2008. Kim focuses on Rhone, Italian, and Spanish varietals grown in the Texas High Plains. His award-winning wines include Sangiovese, Viognier, and blends. He launched a second label, Hook, Line & Sinker, in 2009. In 1999, Kim and Doc were inducted into the Who’s Who in Food and Wine in Texas Hall of Fame.

Tapas at La Diosa Cellars

Kim’s wife, Sylvia, owns a Tapas Restaurant across from McPherson Cellars, and it’s been there even longer than the winery. The restaurant, La Diosa, uses Kim’s wine-making facilities. Daniel and I had a wonderful dinner at La Diosa Cellars. The space was filled with colorful art, velvet chairs, and twinkling lights. Their Spanish-Mediterranean tapas, Albondigas de Madrid (the restaurant’s signature meatballs), and Dos Tacos Papasito, seared savory pork belly drizzled with a bold tequila-mango glaze, topped with fiery diced jalapeño and crisp napa cabbage slaw, all wrapped in warm white corn tortillas, are popular choices. There is a good mixture of options with tapas and salads for vegetarians. The vibe is relaxed and romantic, and the weekend live music just adds to the charm.

Day 2: Coffee, Public Art, and Food with a Mexican Flair

The next morning, we grabbed breakfast at Monomyth Coffee, a sleek, modern café founded on the idea of the hero’s journey. I had the cinnamon coffee cake paired with a maple bourbon latte (yes, it’s as good as it sounds!), and Daniel went for the same latte with a banana nut muffin. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and served with a smile. The vibe here is chill and inviting—perfect for slow mornings or catching up over coffee. Their lattes fuel Lubbock’s early risers and creatives alike.

Tucked away in a house in Lubbock, Texas, Monomyth Coffee has earned national acclaim as USA Today’s Best Independent Coffee Shop in the U.S. Founded in 2019 by brothers Trenton and Randall Jackson, this cozy spot has become a local gem, celebrated for its inviting vibe, expertly crafted coffee, and deep roots in the community. It’s a must-visit for travelers looking to experience Lubbock’s warm hospitality, one cup at a time.

Texas Tech University and Its Public Art Collection

Texas Tech University is the heart of Lubbock, Texas, with over 40,000 students. It’s a major public research institution combining a university, law school, and medical school. Founded in 1923, it’s known for spirited traditions like the Masked Rider and Tortilla Toss. The university plays a big role in Lubbock’s culture and economy. It’s a key stop for visitors wanting to experience West Texas college life.

Looking to see some great art, we joined a tour of the Texas Tech Public Art Collection. The art collection is ranked among the top ten in the U.S. These pieces are part of the Texas Tech University System Public Art Program. One percent of the budget for major new buildings goes toward art. It’s a smart way to support creativity. The installations across campus feature artists from around the world. Artists from around the world can send in proposals. The selected works highlight the culture, history, and energy of the region. The massive pieces stand proudly in courtyards and along walkways—each with a story to tell.

There’s also a Veterans Art Project through the Health Sciences Center. It gives veterans and military-connected artists a chance to share their work. The School of Art adds even more, with faculty and students showing their pieces. This isn’t just decoration—it’s a visual story across campus. If you’re in Lubbock, don’t miss it. Take a walk and see it for yourself.

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Local Flavor in Lubbock: Dirk’s Restaurant

Lunch was served at Dirk’s, known for its locally sourced fried chicken. The chicken fingers were next level! The steak fingers- not so much. But back to the chicken fingers. They were crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor, but the real stars were the dill sauce and signature sauce. I could honestly dip just about anything in them. If you’re into sauces like I am, this place needs to be on your list!

The place honors founder Cameron West’s grandfather, Dirk West, a beloved cartoonist and former mayor of Lubbock. The walls showcase his quirky drawings. Dirk’s is known for Lubbock’s signature Chilton cocktail, which consists of vodka, soda, lemon, and a salt-rimmed glass. According to local legend, it was first crafted at the Lubbock Country Club. A patron known as Dr. Chilton requested a custom drink to beat the West Texas heat.

Rock ’n’ Roll Roots: Visiting Buddy Holly Hall in Lubbock

The Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts and Sciences is a modern performance venue in downtown Lubbock, Texas, that opened in January 2021. Spanning 220,000 square feet, it features two theaters—a large 2,297-seat main hall and the smaller 415-seat Crickets Theater. It hosts local productions, concerts, and Broadway shows, and is home to the Lubbock Symphony Orchestra and Ballet Lubbock. The hall also features event spaces, a ballet academy, and the Rave On restaurant. Run by LEPAA, formed in 2013 to fund the hall, it’s managed by ASM Global…showing strong community support for the arts. We’ll share more about Buddy Holly at the Buddy Holly Center.

Creative Pulse: Exploring LHUCA and CASP in Lubbock

Nearby, at LHUCA (Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts) and CASP ( Charles Adams Studio Project), their mission is to cultivate and celebrate all the arts by inspiring creativity and engaging with the community. Many programs are free and open to the public, including First Friday Art Trail, Artful Family Hours, Tai Chi in the Galleries, and more! CASP began over ten years ago when Charles Adams had a vision to create a live/work space in downtown Lubbock. He returned to Lubbock after years running a gallery in Greenwich Village.

Daniel and I took part in a hands-on clay workshop. Daniel totally found his inner potter—he did so well, you’d think he’s been doing this for years! It was such a fun and relaxing way to tap into our creative side. We can’t wait to see how our pieces turn out after they’re fired. These organizations are the soul of Lubbock’s Cultural Arts District—the first of its kind in Texas. Galleries, studios, and creative energy fill every block.

Craft Sips: A Stop at The Brewery LBK

Later, Daniel and I visited The Brewery LBK. Housed in the historic Pioneer Hotel, this brewpub crafts beers with local ingredients. We enjoyed the upbeat atmosphere and took note of their dog-friendly wraparound patio.

Hidden Gem: Discovering La Sirena in Lubbock

Dinner at La Sirena was the perfect way to end the night. Tucked away in Lubbock, this cozy bistro focuses on slow food and mindful eating.
La Sirena works closely with local farms to serve fresh, organic produce and dairy year-round. They also source responsibly raised meats and sustainable seafood. Every dish shows love for the land, the ocean, and the people who grow and raise our food. It’s a place where great taste and good values come together beautifully. From start to finish, everything was delicious, but my absolute favorite? The coconut cream cake. I’m still dreaming about it! Check out more thoughts and pictures on La Sirena here.

Day 3: Pie for Breakfast and Lubbock Legends

Cast Iron Grill: A Lubbock Staple

Locals pack the Cast Iron Grill for hearty breakfasts and famous pies. What began in 2007 as a 55-seat diner by stay-at-home mom Teresa Stephens has grown into a community favorite, now located in the historic former Stubbs BBQ truck stop.

Known for its from-scratch menu, joyful atmosphere, and heartfelt mission, this family-run spot serves up everything from top-notch Chicken Fried Steak to handmade pies that locals rave about. Look up when you visit, guests have lined the rafters with cowboy boots, each telling a story or tribute.
The motto proudly declares: “It’s all about the boots, pie, and chicken fry.”

I had the Biscuits and gravy, and they were so good. I get hungry just thinking about them. Daniel had the Chicken Fried Steak, a true West Texas staple. We were able to try a selection of the pies. Neither of us had any regrets. I liked the mugs on the tables with Jeremiah 29:11. ” For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Whether you’re a local or just passing through, the super busy Cast Iron Grill offers more than just a meal—it serves up a great atmosphere with hospitality, heart, and a slice of home.

Echoes of a Legend: Exploring the Buddy Holly Center

At the Buddy Holly Center, Daniel and I explored Holly’s rise from Lubbock teen to global rock icon. Born in Lubbock, Texas, in 1936, Buddy Holly became one of rock and roll’s earliest and most influential pioneers. Known for his signature glasses, catchy melodies, and rockabilly style, Holly helped shape the future of popular music. His hits—like “That’ll Be the Day,” “Peggy Sue,” and “Everyday”—inspired legends like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan. In 1958, he married Maria Elena Santiago. She was a receptionist at Peermusic, an independent music publisher, when Buddy Holly and the Crickets signed there. Buddy proposed on their first date, and they were married within a couple of months.

The Day the Music Died

Tragically, his life was cut short in a 1959 plane crash at just 22 years old. On February 3, 1959, rock and roll legends Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson tragically lost their lives in a plane crash near Clear Lake, Iowa. They had just performed at the Surf Ballroom as part of the grueling Winter Dance Party tour, battling freezing conditions and long bus rides.

Seeking relief, Holly chartered a small plane to their next stop in Minnesota. A last-minute seat swap and a coin toss placed Valens and Richardson aboard. Ritchie Valens (Richard Valenzuela) signed with Del-Fi Records in May of 1958. His second record was a double A-side with“Donna” (about his girlfriend) and “La Bamba,” a Mexican folk song that he recorded with a rock and roll flair. Ritchie was only 17. J.P. Richardson was on the plane because he hadn’t been feeling well from the flu. Waylon Jennings, the bass player for Buddy Holly at that time, gave up his seat on the plane for Richardson. Richardson, 28, who had hits with “Chantilly Lace”, “The Purple People Eater Meets the Witch Doctor”, and “Little Red Riding Hood” and others, was married to Adrienne Fryou and had a daughter, 5. His son was born a couple of months after his death.

The event, now known as “The Day the Music Died,” came from a line in the 1971 song “American Pie” by Don McLean. Today, the Surf Ballroom in Iowa hosts annual tributes, and the crash site remains a somber reminder of a pivotal moment in music history.

Keeping the Beat: Buddy Holly’s Legacy Lives On

Today, his legacy lives on in his hometown of Lubbock through museums, statues, and the world-class Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts and Sciences. The museum displays his Fender guitar, glasses, and handwritten lyrics. Maria had been married to Buddy Holly for less than six months when he died in a plane crash in 1959. Since then, she has dedicated her life to protecting his legacy, often clashing with his family and officials. Though she briefly remarried and had three children, Maria remains fiercely protective of Buddy’s name and image. See additional photos from our other posts on social media.

Living History: National Ranching Heritage Center & Cash Family Ranch Life

Next, Daniel and I toured the National Ranching Heritage Center. This 27-acre site preserves more than 50 historic ranch buildings, some over 100 years old. The museum does a great job of honoring the history of ranching. It’s informative, engaging, and even a bit whimsical, which makes it all the more memorable. New in 2023, the Cash Family Ranch Life Learning Center offers a fun, hands-on look at modern ranching, guided by the beloved Hank the Cowdog. I grew up reading Hank’s adventures, so seeing him featured was such a fun surprise! This indoor-outdoor exhibit blends science, technology, and good old cowboy grit to show what life is really like on a working ranch. With interactive displays and a walk-through version of Hank’s M-Cross ranch, it’s an engaging experience for all ages—and a great way to see how ranching connects to everyday life.

Smoked to Perfection: Evie Mae’s BBQ

Lunch at Evie Mae’s BBQ (named after the owners’ daughter) offers smoky brisket, tender ribs, and jalapeño cheddar sausage. The restaurant began as a food truck in a parking lot and now serves hundreds daily. We were definitely in Barbeque Heaven! The brisket melts in your mouth, the sides are top-notch, but don’t sleep on the desserts! From pies to cobblers, everything is made from scratch and absolutely worth saving room for (or grabbing to-go… no judgment here).

Raising a Glass to Texas: Llano Estacado Winery

After a break, we headed out to Llano Estacado Winery, one of Texas’s oldest and largest wineries. Llano Estacado Winery, established in 1976, is Texas’s largest and second-oldest winery, located in Lubbock. It has played a pivotal role in developing the Texas High Plains wine industry, producing award-winning wines such as its popular Sweet Red and fine varietals like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and Verdelho. The High Plains soil gives these wines their bold character, with the region’s warm days, cool nights, and well-drained sandy soil making it ideal for growing grapes. Its high elevation also helps produce grapes with rich flavors and good acidity.

Under new ownership since early 2025, Llano Estacado Winery is expanding its presence across Texas. They have new tasting rooms in Lubbock’s Cactus Alley and Fredericksburg (opening this year), plus a state-of-the-art winery in Fredericksburg by 2026—all to boost hospitality and statewide wine distribution.

Adelphos Cellars: A Shared Vision and Friendship

Adelphos Cellars is a family-owned winery in the Texas High Plains, producing premium wines exclusively from 100% Texas-grown grapes. The grapes are mainly sourced from their Cerro Santo estate vineyard in northeast Lubbock County. Founded by the Irwin and Conklin families, the winery’s name, meaning “brother” in Greek, reflects their close bond and shared passion for community and winemaking.

We stopped by Adelphos Cellars in Lubbock and were blown away—not just by the food, but by the incredible event space! Adelphos offers a welcoming tasting room, wine education classes, vineyard tours, and a Mediterranean-style event center (complete with Man Cave) ideal for weddings and celebrations. Under award-winning winemaker Manuel Lechuga, their wines—especially Primitivo and Tempranillo—have earned notable acclaim.

Refined Flavors of West Texas: The Nicolett

Dinner at The Nicolett ended the evening on a high note. The Nicolett is a fine dining destination in downtown Lubbock, Texas, helmed by chef-owner Finn Walter, a 2022 James Beard Semifinalist for Best Chef: Texas. The restaurant offers a modern take on High Plains cuisine, featuring inventive dishes like elk tartare and yucca topped with caviar, all crafted from locally sourced ingredients.

Housed in a thoughtfully restored 1920s building, The Nicolett blends West Texas heritage with contemporary design elements, such as a central stone fireplace, custom iron roses, and a private greenhouse dining room.

Day 4: An Aussie Farewell and Prairie Dog Visit

Cozy Bites and Aussie Charm: Nashwell Café

On Friday, we said goodbye over breakfast at Nashwell Café. This Australian-inspired spot serves savory pies, house-made granola, and flat whites. Owners Jonathan and Angela Blackwell create wholesome meals with local, organic ingredients. I had the Avocado Toast with Bacon, and it was delicious. The Latte Art on the top of my drink was so pretty that I hated to mess it up. As we headed out, it was a great place for our last meal in Lubbock.

Prairie Dog Town at Mackenzie Park

For History Enthusiasts, Lubbock Offers a Wealth of Attractions:

• American Windmill Museum: Home to over 170 rare and restored windmills, this museum features the impressive 6,000-square-foot “Legacy of the Wind” mural.
• Caviel Museum of African-American History: This museum celebrates African-American culture and identity through art and community-donated antiques.
• FiberMax Center for Discovery: Explore the evolution of agriculture from horse-drawn implements to modern technology, highlighting the region’s farming heritage.
• Lubbock Area Veterans War Memorial: A solemn tribute honoring South Plains heroes killed in action, featuring a brick-and-marble monument.
• Lubbock Lake National Historic Landmark: An archaeological and natural history preserve with evidence of nearly 12,000 years of human occupation on the Southern High Plains.
• Museum of Texas Tech University: A multifaceted cultural resource housing over 8.8 million objects across six divisions, including anthropology, art, and clothing.
• These places give you a good look at Lubbock’s past and how it’s grown over the years, making it a great stop for folks who enjoy the stories that built a place.

Why You Should Visit Lubbock

Lubbock isn’t just a college town or a wine stop. It’s a city of stories—told through murals, music, meals, and makers. Our itinerary showed off Lubbock’s best: from its pioneering spirit to the buzzing cultural core.

Whether you trace Buddy Holly’s legacy, sip your way down the Texas High Plains Wine Trail, or hunt down the city’s best pie, Lubbock will welcome you like a friend. And you’ll leave craving one more day spent there.