If you’re craving a change of scenery but don’t have time for an overnight stay, a day trip from Lubbock can take you from high plains sunsets to historic downtowns—all in a single afternoon. With scenic drives, quirky roadside stops, canyon hikes, and artsy small towns just a short cruise away, Lubbock is perfectly positioned for some of West Texas’ best short road adventures.
Whether you’re after nature, photography, culture, or BBQ, these quick getaways let you make the most of your day without driving too far from home base.
Why Day Trips from Lubbock Are Worth It
Lubbock’s flat landscape opens up to unexpected wonders just outside city limits. Within one to two hours, you can walk red canyon trails, snap pics of giant prairie murals, or sip wine at a Texas High Plains vineyard. These routes offer the freedom of the open road without the hassle of hotel bookings—ideal for spontaneous explorers, families, couples, or even solo travelers with a free Saturday.
These are the best day trips from Lubbock for a quick adventure that delivers big experiences.
Top Day Trip Destinations Near Lubbock
1. Caprock Canyons State Park (1.75 hours)
Known for its dramatic red cliffs, this state park is the perfect escape for hikers, wildlife lovers, and photographers. The canyon trails offer panoramic views, and the resident bison herd adds to the wild West Texas experience.
Address: 850 Caprock Canyon Park Rd, Quitaque, TX
Hours: Daily: 8am–8pm
Approx Cost: $5 per adult
Famous For: Towering canyon walls, rugged trails, and free-roaming bison
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Start with the Eagle Point Trail to reach the park’s famous natural bridge before crowds arrive.
2. Post, Texas (1 hour)
This charming small town offers colorful murals, antique shops, a historical museum, and even a ghost story or two. Founded by cereal magnate C.W. Post, it’s great for an art walk and lunch stop.
Address: Post, TX (US Hwy 84 South of Lubbock)
Hours: Most shops open Tue–Sat
Approx Cost: Free to explore
Famous For: Artistic flair, historic downtown, and scenic Main Street
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Check out the Heritage House Museum for a deeper dive into the town’s early 1900s history.
3. Tahoka Lake Pasture (1 hour)
A hidden gem for bird watchers and wildlife photographers, this preserve is home to seasonal wetlands, migratory birds, and native prairie flora. It’s remote, quiet, and ideal for sunrise or sunset.
Address: CR G and CR 20, near Tahoka, TX
Hours: Open access
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Wetlands, birdwatching, and seasonal wildflowers
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring binoculars and a long lens—hawks, egrets, and wild turkeys are frequently seen here.
4. Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge (1.5 hours)
One of the oldest wildlife refuges in the U.S., Muleshoe is a peaceful place to explore grasslands, salt lakes, and prairie ecosystems. In winter, you may spot thousands of sandhill cranes.
Address: 15402 Caprock Hwy, Muleshoe, TX
Hours: Daily: Sunrise to sunset
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Sandhill cranes, prairie dogs, and remote solitude
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit in early morning or golden hour for the best light and wildlife activity.
5. Brownfield, Texas (1 hour)
A wine-country town on the rise, Brownfield is part of the Texas High Plains AVA. Stop for wine tasting, visit a vineyard, or enjoy a picnic at Coleman Park.
Address: Brownfield, TX (US Hwy 62/82 southwest of Lubbock)
Hours: Vineyards open Thu–Sun
Approx Cost: Free to explore; tastings ~$10
Famous For: Wine, local dining, and peaceful small-town vibes
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Head to Trilogy Cellars or Farmhouse Vineyards for tastings with a view.
6. Floydada (1 hour)
Known as the “Pumpkin Capital of Texas,” Floydada is a rural town with wide skies, quirky roadside art, and peaceful drives. Come in the fall for the annual pumpkin festival.
Address: Floydada, TX (US Hwy 62 northeast of Lubbock)
Hours: Year-round
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Agriculture, pumpkin patches, and fall festivals
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Try the homemade pies and pumpkin products from local farm stands during fall season.
7. Crosbyton (45 minutes)
Crosbyton is a quiet spot for history buffs. The Crosby County Pioneer Memorial Museum covers local ranching life and pioneer stories, and the scenic drive there is perfect for landscape photography.
Address: 101 W Main St, Crosbyton, TX
Hours: Wed–Sat: 10am–4pm
Approx Cost: $3
Famous For: Pioneer museum and old-school Texas charm
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Make time for a coffee and photo stop at Main Street’s vintage storefronts.
Packing Tips for Lubbock Day Trips
Snacks, picnic blanket, and cooler
Refillable water bottle
Comfortable walking shoes and hat
Binoculars for birding or scenic overlooks
Power bank and paper map in case of cell signal drop
Camera or phone with extra storage
Layers for changing weather
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Local Tips and Seasonal Advice
Spring and fall offer the best temperatures for outdoor exploring
Weekends can be quiet in small towns—double-check hours in advance
Watch for roadside photo ops: old barns, silos, and cotton fields
Local festivals and farmers markets add charm—check city calendars before you go
Gas up in Lubbock; some towns have limited services
Bring cash for small-town shops and eateries
Conclusion: One Tank, Big Adventure
Whether you’re chasing canyon views, snapping silo photos, or tasting Texas wine, these day trips from Lubbock offer everything you need for a fun, fast, and unforgettable escape. With each mile, you’ll find more reasons to love the quiet beauty, quirky charm, and big skies of West Texas.
So grab your keys, fill up the tank, and let the road lead you just far enough to feel free—without ever being far from home.
