Lubbock, Texas is a hidden gem with many activities perfect for the kiddos. From museums to amusement parks to the best eating places in Texas, the town is a fantastic vacation destination.
In this guide, I’ll take you through a list of must-see places and activities in Lubbock.
Whether there is rain or sunshine during your trip, you can be sure your young ones will have something to enjoy here!
1. Amusement Parks
Amusement parks are plentiful in Lubbock. You and the kid will enjoy thrills, chills, and spills, not to mention family togetherness!
Joyland Amusement Park
Located in Mackenzie Park, Joyland Amusement Park is sure to entertain the whole family!
This family-owned park boasts a family-friendly, clean, and safe environment. The park also has over 30 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, a colorful carousel, and lots of fun and exciting games.
Carnival food is also available in droves here, so go ahead and treat yourself and the kids.
Thunder Zone Family Fun Park
Mention Thunder Zone Family Fun Park and everyone in Lubbock will tell you about how much of a blast it is.
With go-karts, arcade games, cosmic golf, laser tag, and birthday parties, the better question is, what doesn’t Thunder Zone Family Fun Park have?
Lubbock Water Rampage
Lubbock Water Rampage Park has been serving the people of Lubbock for over 35 years.
This wet and wild park has water slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and a baby pool, making it an ideal summer destination for the whole family.
2. CATS Playhouse
Children & Adults Theatrical Studio or CATS Playhouse for short is a local arts hub in Lubbock.
If you’re looking for something to keep your little ones entertained that’s more unique than an amusement park, then you’ve found it.
The kiddos will be treated to an expressive and captivating show perfect for their age. You never know, their love for the arts may develop here!
3. Cinemax Movies 16
How do you keep the kids entertained in Lubbock on a rainy day? Bring them to the Cinemax Movies 16 theater, of course!
The air-conditioned theater boasts 3D screens so kids can see their favorite cartoon characters in eye-popping lifelike detail. Be sure to stock up on popcorn!
4. Children’s Museums
Lubbock is home to some of the best children’s museums around. Kids can cultivate their sense of adventure and curiosity and gain a learning experience to boot.
Here are three children’s museums in Lubbock I recommend the most.
The Buddy Holly Center
This music history center chronicles the life and career of Buddy Holly, a singer who met an untimely end.
The center is also an art museum and features a shaded courtyard where you can enjoy a picnic lunch and some fresh air.
The Buddy Holly Museum will take you and the kids about an hour to get through, so plan something else for before or after your visit.
Science Spectrum Museum
The Science Spectrum Museum is a top-rated Lubbock attraction.
The building has three floors. The basement features a public aquarium of fish, snakes, coral, and other displays that your kid will love. There is also a toddler play area and a butterfly exhibit.
Play Street Museum
Play Street Museum is an interactive museum where kids are inspired to learn through dramatic play. They can also take part in educational activities during their visit.
5. Prairie Dog Town
Your trip to Lubbock isn’t complete without visiting Prairie Dog Town.
As the name implies, Prairie Dog Town is home to lots and lots of prairie dogs! You can buy veggies and let your kids feed the dogs. The prairie dogs here are very friendly, so the kids will be sure to have a fantastic time.
6. At’l Do Farm Corn Maze
Kick off the fall just right at At’l Do Farm. Your little ones will love the hayrides and the cow train trip.
I most recommend the corn maze. The kids will have to think and strategize to find their way out.
The farm is even pet-friendly!
7. Buffalo Springs Lake
Buffalo Springs Lake is a true oasis for a lazy day.
Among the activities here are swimming, boating, and picnicking.
The lake also boasts incredible trails where you and the kids can enjoy nature walks and experience beautiful sunsets that reflect off the lake.
Buffalo Springs Lake is undoubtedly one of the best summer vacation destinations for families in Lubbock.
8. Tega Kids
Tega Kids is a children’s activity center and one of the best in Lubbock.
Choose from several activities for young children, including gymnastics, swimming, and tumbling. You can even host parties here.
9. Ready Set Go
Ready Set Go is a children’s gym in Lubbock with developmental, recreational, and competitive programs.
Your kids can play in the climate-controlled gym area with a parent viewing room.
With trampolines, inflatables, a rainbow climbing wall, and swinging rings, your kids will be exhausted in the best way possible at the end of a day here!
10. Enjoy Lubbocks Delicacies
You haven’t explored Lubbock fully if you haven’t tasted the town’s delicacies.
You’ll find so many kid-friendly restaurants throughout Lubbock that you might not be sure which to visit.
I recommend starting your day at the Cast Iron Grill, which offers the best American cuisine. Your kids will love their onion rings and fries.
The Italian Garden is another lovely restaurant you should visit and enjoy your lunch after exploring Lubbock’s various attractions.
11. Holly Hop Ice Cream Shoppe
After a long day of fun, cap it off with ice cream from the Holly Hop Ice Cream Shoppe. This ice cream shop is known for its delicious ice cream flavors and its family-friendly atmosphere.
12. Lubbock Memorial Arboretum
Head to Lubbock Memorial Arboretum if you want quality time with your family. The Arboretum sits on 93 acres of land, and its home to flowers, plants, shrubs, animals, birds, and butterflies.
Don’t miss the bird and butterfly viewing areas. The kids can also feed the birds or play on the playgrounds of the arboretum.
I also recommend the Sensory Gardens with beautiful roses aplenty.
Be sure to pack some snacks because the arboretum has a picnic area where you can refresh as you bond with your loved ones.
Do you have plans to travel to Texas with your family? Lubbock is a town you must explore during your visit. With the many attractions and destinations listed in this guide, you and your kids will have a fantastic time in this town.