Fancy swapping city life for something a little less ordinary? Within a few hours' drive of Lubbock, you'll find everything from sprawling vineyards and bison-packed trails to a lake teeming with trophy-sized bass. Whether you're after a glass of expertly crafted wine, a brush with West Texas wildlife, or a descent into the depths of an ancient cave system, these day trips offer something refreshingly different.

A Vineyard with a Story: Reddy Vineyards

Less than an hour outside Lubbock, Reddy Vineyards is a testament to bold ideas and unexpected careers. Founded by a former peanut and cotton farmer from South India, the 300-acre estate has quietly become one of Texas's most diverse wine producers, boasting 38 different grape varietals. Visitors can book a tasting to sample everything from a robust Italian Red Blend to the family's award-winning Signature Dry Rosé. Fun fact: Texas wine production dates back to the 1600s—long before California got in on the act.

Hiking with Horned Toads: Palo Duro Canyon & Caprock Canyons

Texas is known for wide-open spaces, but few places capture its untamed spirit quite like Palo Duro Canyon—often called the "Grand Canyon of Texas" (though locals will tell you it's better). Just under two hours from Lubbock, its Lighthouse Trail offers a 5.8-mile round-trip through towering red rock formations and desert wildlife, including the elusive Texas Horned Toad.

A short drive away, Caprock Canyons State Park is home to the official Texas State Bison Herd, a direct genetic link to the millions of bison that once roamed the plains. If you're lucky, you might find yourself stuck in a "bison traffic jam"—just don't honk.

A Lake That's More Than Just Water: Lake Alan Henry

Forty-five miles south of Lubbock, Lake Alan Henry is a go-to for fishing, boating, and general floating about. The reservoir is home to some impressively sized largemouth bass, as well as white crappie, spotted bass, and the occasional catfish that looks like it belongs in a prehistoric exhibit. Wakeboarding, tubing, and water skiing are all on the cards, with rentals available nearby. Before heading out, grab supplies from Mountain Hideaway, Lubbock's long-standing outdoor outfitter, and stock up on picnic fuel at Stella's, where the Brie LT (featuring candied jalapeño bacon) might just outshine the fish you catch.

A Cave System That's Older Than the Dinosaurs: Carlsbad Caverns

Carlsbad Caverns, about three hours from Lubbock, is a journey both above and below ground. The park's limestone caves—formed over 250 million years ago—feature more than 119 known caverns, some vast enough to fit entire skyscrapers inside. Visitors can take a self-guided descent or join a ranger-led tour to explore the eerie, cathedral-like chambers. Stick around for dusk, when thousands of bats spiral into the evening sky, or join the Night Sky Programme for a guided tour of one of the clearest starry views in the region.

Set Off from Lubbock

With world-class wine, dramatic landscapes, and caves that pre-date the dinosaurs, there's no shortage of unexpected finds just outside Lubbock. Whether you're hiking with bison, fishing for a trophy bass, or discovering the science behind ancient limestone formations, these day trips prove there's always more to West Texas than meets the eye.

For more travel ideas check out Visit Lubbock.

For media inquiries please contact: Melina Collie, melina@mdsg.eu  

About Lubbock Convention & Visitors Bureau: 

The Lubbock Convention & Visitors Bureau is dedicated to promoting Lubbock as a premier destination for travellers seeking rich cultural experiences, diverse culinary delights, and unforgettable adventures amidst the beauty of West Texas. Visit us online at www.visitlubbock.org.