Top 10 Reasons To Visit Lubbock

Southern Living, Jul 2004 by Frazier, Jennifer Mckenzie

You'll be surprised by the many treasures that await in this West Texas town.

Many folks haven't been to Lubbock. In fact, I'd never thought about going, but I sure am glad I did.

This northwest Texas town, 372 miles from Austin and 318 from Dallas, didn't seem worth the hassle of getting here. When the Southern Living editors suggested a visit, however, I was in no position to refuse. After my adventure, I decided to compile a David Letterman-style list (in no particular order) for those of you who, like I was, aren't privy to the many charms of Lubbock. Drumroll, please.

1. Buddy Holly. People come from all over the world (yes, world) to visit his hometown. This rock 'n' roll legend, who made the songs "Peggy Sue" and "That'll be the Day" famous, left his musical mark all over Lubbock. Where he didn't leave one, it's been added in his honor. Start with a visit to the Buddy Holly Center. If you're a fan and want to see more, the center distributes a list of Buddy Holly historic sites. It outlines 14 spots, including Buddy's grave in the city's cemetery; the Buddy Holly Walk of Fame near the civic center; and his alma mater, Lubbock High School. 1801 Avenue G; (806) 767-2686 or www.buddyhollycenter.org.

2. Pedro's Tamales. You'll never bother with another tamale once you've tasted Pedro's Sirloin in a Shuck. Employees hand shred the beef filling and stone grind the corn, then the tamales are formed with the help of a space-age-type machine that slices them into sections. They are then wrapped in cornhusks and placed in steamers. Take a tour of the factory to see this process. There's no place to sit and eat, so get ready to picnic in the car. 8207 U.S. 87; (806) 745-9531 or 1-800-522-9531.

3. Prairie Dog Town. Stop in and see one of the few remaining colonies of prairie dogs in the nation. Closely related to the squirrel, these fearless little critters live in masses in the park and entertain onlookers for as long as they want to watch. Located in MacKenzie Park at Fourth Street and 1-27; (806) 775-2687.

4. National Ranching Heritage Center. John Wayne would have fit in perfectly here. This 14-acre site illustrates Old West ranching from the 1780s to 1920s. Wander through the more than 30 houses and other historic structures at the center. During special events, see ranch hands train colts, women sew quilts and spin yarn, and children re-enact school life from these times. 3121 Fourth Street; (806) 742-0498.

5. Wineries. It's hard to believe that good wine can come from these parts, but it does. In fact, the second largest winery in Texas, Llano Estacado, and one of the state's oldest, Pheasant Ridge, both call Lubbock home. A third, Cap*Rock, features a lavish tasting room amid a gorgeous settine. Tours and tastings are offered at each place. Llano Estacado, Farm Road 1585; (806) 745-2258. Pheasant Ridge, Route 3, Box 191; (806) 746-6033. Cap*Rock, 408 East Woodrow Road; (806) 863-2 704.

6. Texas Tech University. One of the state's largest universities, Tech keeps Lubbock youthful and full of life during the spring and fall. In the summer, when most students aren't taking classes, the town mellows, so visitors can comfortably stroll this lovely redbrick campus. While you're here, stop in the Museum of Texas Tech University, which houses 17 permanent exhibits, including the Diamond M Collection of Western Art. Fourth and Indiana; (806) 742-2442.

7. Huila B'Lu. I simply fell in love with this shop. The colorful collection of beaded pillows, frilly pillowcases, and plush comforters, as well as gorgeous antiques was what drew me first. Then I saw the sock monkeys, nostalgic stuffed toys originally made from athletic tube socks, and I knew this place was a gem. 1702 Buddy Holly Avenue; (806) 749-4258.

8. Apple Country Hi-Plains Orchards. Apples simply taste sweeter when you pick 'em yourself. This 6,000-tree orchard sells the fruit in every fashion: cakes, pies, cookies, cider, and dried. Try the fresh apple pancakes or sweet pastries in the cafe; then pick your own bucketful and take them home (from 59 to 69 cents per pound). U.S. Highways 62/82, 10 miles east of Lubbock; (806) 892-2961.

9. Cactus Theater. This quaint building is the place to hear live music. Originally constructed in 1938 as a movie theater, it had a 20-year run showing films. General manager Don Caldwell restored the structure to host music as well as theater. 1812 Buddy Holly Avenue; (806) 762-3233.

10. Texas Music Kitchen. Owner of this unique tour service, Sandy Parker serves as the unofficial ambassador for Lubbock. Her brainchild, Texas Music Kitchen, helps visitors see the best parts of town. Participate in one of her many specialty tours, focusing on everything from wineries to music. (806) 783-8880 or www.texasmusickitchen.com. JENNIFER MCKENZIE FRAZIER

Lubbock Convention and Visitors Bureau: 1301 Broadway, Suite 200, Lubbock, TX 79401; (806) 747-5232, 1-800-692-4035, or www.lubbocklegends.com.