TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Road Trip
A Little Lubbock Love By Marika Flatt
From wherever you are in Texas, Lubbock might seem like a daunting road trip, but it’s very doable (approximately six hours from Austin). And for many Texans headed to New Mexico or Colorado for either skiing or summertime cooler weather, Lubbock is a worthy midway stopover for the night. Whatever the reason that takes you to Texas Tech University’s Red Raider land, we have a few suggestions for your visit.
STAY The Arbor Hotel
Pioneer Pocket Hotel
Part of Choice Hotels’ Ascend Hotel Collection, The Arbor Hotel Conference Center is conveniently located off the Loop, near plenty of restaurants and not far from the university. You’ll find this hotel just what you need for a quick stay. The rooms are spacious, the beds are inviting with luxury linens and, most importantly, a hot breakfast is included with your stay. (For a family, this is a real saving!)
Located on one floor of the historic former Pioneer Flour headquarters building, this hotel’s rooms are all suite-style and each has their own upscale decor, sure to wow any weary traveler. The rest of the building is used for mixed-use commercial, retail (on the bottom floor, you’ll find a coffee shop and a brewery) and residential condos.
Also appreciated are the amenities of free WiFi, an outdoor pool and fitness room. You’ll find this hotel to be a great value (rooms start at only $126/night), clean and quiet. (Unless it’s a game weekend!)
Floor three is where you’ll find those upscale suites. The hotel’s known as Lubbock’s most high-end accommodation and it’s fully automated. There’s no front desk and
everything from booking to check-in and check-out is done digitally. You’ll enjoy the spaciousness of the suites and the layout. You’ll likely also enjoy having a mini kitchen, comfortable beds and a modern vibe. The hotel is located in Lubbock’s old downtown district, which the city is aiming to revitalize.
Photos: (above, left to right) The Arbor Hotel and Conference Center is perfect for a quick stay, conveniently located off the Loop near plenty of restaurants. // The upscale Pioneer Pocket Hotel is located on one floor of Lubbock’s historic Pioneer Flour building. // Cocina de La Sirena is known for authentic Latin-inspired cuisine featuring farm-to-table ingredients. // Located near the Pioneer Pocket Hotel, the Cast Iron Grill is a favorite Lubbock hangout and serves up down-home hearty Texas dishes. // Catch some great live music at the Blue Light Live. // Visit Lubbock’s art district, home to the popular LHUCA, Charles Adams, Tornado and Casp galleries. // Learn about the history of ranching at the National Ranching Heritage Center. // The Buddy Holly Center is home to the iconic glasses sculpture and honors Lubbock's most famous native, Buddy Holly. // Eat delicious local barbecue at Evie Mae’s. // All courtesy photos.
80 Texas Lifestyle Magazine | Special Travel Issue 2019-20
