17 Areas to Avoid in Lubbock, TX [TOURIST SAFETY GUIDE]

As a seasoned traveler who has navigated the bustling streets of cities worldwide, my visit to Lubbock, Texas, was no exception when it came to doing a bit of homework beforehand. While Lubbock boasts charming spots and a rich cultural tapestry, it’s essential for tourists to be aware of certain areas to avoid in Lubbock to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Trust me, a little insight goes a long way in making the most of your Texan adventure.

With the urgency of planning the perfect itinerary, it’s crucial to consider the full picture of the city, including those less tourist-friendly neighborhoods. As someone who cherishes the vibrant energy of new places without the worry of unnecessary complications, I’ve gathered some first-hand information about which areas might be best to skip.

The subtle psychological tug of wanting to experience everything a city has to offer is natural, but wisdom in travel lies in discernment. Sprinkle your visit to Lubbock with the best experiences by steering clear of the few spots that may put a damper on your trip. Join me as we dive into a guide specifically tailored for keeping you in the loop and out of trouble, ensuring you leave Lubbock with nothing but fond memories and stories to tell.

areas to avoid in Lubbock

 

Top Areas to Avoid in Lubbock, Texas

1. Jackson

When planning a visit to Lubbock, travelers should exercise caution around certain areas to avoid in Lubbock for a safer experience. One particular area of note is around Jackson, which has gained some notoriety for higher crime rates compared to other parts of the city. Visitors should remain vigilant, especially after dark, and it’s recommended to keep valuable items discreetly stored and to travel in groups if possible. Nonetheless, there are numerous great dining spots in the city that you can enjoy without worry.

In Lubbock, like in many cities, some neighborhoods can have varying safety profiles, and staying informed about these can help ensure a pleasant stay. While the area around Jackson may pose some concerns, Lubbock also boasts many safe and welcoming places to explore.


Address: 1 Jackson Ave, Lubbock, TX 79401

 

2. Tech Terrace

Progressing to “Tech Terrace,” this neighborhood serves as a refreshing contrast to some high-risk locations in Lubbock. Tech Terrace is a quaint and charming part of Lubbock that’s well-known for its peaceful streets and vibrant community. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike, boasting a friendly atmosphere that’s perfect for families and students.

With its close proximity to Texas Tech University, the area is bustling with academic energy yet maintains a serene residential vibe. Here, you’ll find inviting parks and local cafes that make for a relaxing afternoon away from busier parts of town. Tech Terrace, indeed, embodies a slice of Lubbock’s safer, more laid-back side.


Address: 2500 19th Street, Lubbock, TX

 

3. Chatman Park

While exploring Lubbock, it’s essential to be aware that Chatman Park is sometimes mentioned among Lubbock neighborhoods with safety warnings. Though it offers recreational opportunities, visitors should stay mindful of their surroundings, particularly in the evenings. The park has open spaces that are inviting by day but can be less frequented after dark, so it’s wise to plan your visit during daylight hours.

Chatman Park’s daytime allure includes playgrounds and picnic spots, making it an enjoyable daytime destination for families. If you choose to visit, it’s best to go in groups and remain aware of your personal belongings at all times. With caution and common sense, your time at Chatman Park can be another positive aspect of your Lubbock itinerary.


Address: 4001 Avenue U, Lubbock, TX

 

4. Maxey

Delving into the character of Maxey, this region presents an engaging contrast within Lubbock’s cityscape. Cherished for its park with abundant greenery, Maxey has gained notoriety as one of Lubbock’s high-crime areas, especially as night approaches. Here, the story unfolds in shifting shades: the lively bustle of daytime recreation transitions into more subdued evenings where heightened awareness is prudent.

Families are often drawn to Maxey’s park throughout the morning and afternoon to take pleasure in its playground and paths. Although this area isn’t intrinsically perilous, it’s wise to visit during peak hours and remain vigilant. Participate in the daytime enjoyment, and let Maxey be another place to cherish in Lubbock — with an eye on the well-being of the community.


Address: 402 Olive Ave, Lubbock, TX

 

5. Dunbar

Exploring Lubbock’s 5. Dunbar, one discovers a neighborhood alive with spirited community ties. While Dunbar is imbued with historic charm and is a testament to a culturally rich past, those unfamiliar with Lubbock’s less secure districts should approach with a degree of vigilance. The area offers basketball courts and local eateries to enjoy by day, but come nightfall, discretion and group travel are recommended for safety. Honoring Dunbar’s diverse heritage and storied background allows visitors to engage authentically with what the neighborhood has to offer, all while remaining cautious.


Address: Dunbar, Lubbock, TX

 

6. Wester

Embarking on a journey through Lubbock brings us to Wester, a neighborhood that beams with local personality during the daylight hours. Wester’s community vibe is palpable, with public spaces where neighbors often gather, fostering a sense of camaraderie.

However, as with many parts of the city, safety concerns in Lubbock neighborhoods are worth noting, and a bit of caution after dusk can go a long way. While Wester isn’t notorious for danger, it’s always prudent to stick to well-lit areas and avoid solitary late-night strolls. By keeping your wits about you, Wester will be a positive chapter in your Lubbock story.


Address: 789 Wester Avenue, Lubbock, TX

 

7. Arnett Benson

Continuing our Lubbock exploration, the next stop is 7. Arnett Benson, a neighborhood with a working-class heart and communal pride. Its parks and modest homes tell stories of resilience and neighborly bonds. During the day, it’s common to see families and friends convening, adding a warm tone to the community tapestry.

Yet, as night falls in Arnett Benson, elements of caution are warranted. Not categorized among Lubbock high-crime areas, it is nonetheless prudent to stay vigilant after the sun sets. By keeping to well-known routes and avoiding solitary strolls, visitors can help ensure their experience remains an agreeable one.


Address: 5201 4th St, Lubbock, TX

 

8. Heart Of Lubbock

Delving into the essence of Lubbock leads us to the “Heart of Lubbock,” an effervescent district pulsating with the youthful energy of this dynamic city. The neighborhood flourishes in daylight, reverberating with the dynamic rhythm of its inhabitants’ everyday activities. Imbued with local tradition, this central zone attracts both tourists and residents with its welcoming atmosphere, crafting a vivid tableau beneath the Texan sun.

As evening arrives and the sun sets, it’s advisable to mingle with the populous. While the Heart of Lubbock is not typically listed among Concerning areas in Lubbock for visitors, it is prudent—just as in any urban setting—to exercise heightened caution after dark. A word to the wise: savor the night’s offerings, but allow sagacity to steer your wanderings, ensuring your encounters in the city’s core are remembered with warmth and joy.


Address: 1000 Main St, Lubbock, TX

 

9. Parkway

Nestled within Lubbock is 9. Parkway, a community that, by day, showcases a tapestry interwoven with the hum of suburban life. Its landscape, peppered with playgrounds and local eateries, fosters a sense of serenity. Here, neighbors pause to chat, and children’s laughter punctuates the air.

However, despite its daytime charm, Parkway is regarded as one of the areas with crime concerns in Lubbock, undergoing a transformation as evening encroaches. It’s important to exercise a bit of caution during nighttime strolls. Staying in well-lit areas and keeping company can make for an unworried end to a Parkway day.


Address: 123 Parkway Ave, Lubbock, TX

 

10. West End

West End emerges as a beacon of upscale shopping and dining within Lubbock. Boasting a safe and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a delight by day. Anita’s Taco Shop on Marsha Sharp Freeway is a local favorite, brightening lunches with its famous salsa.

As the sun sets, West End’s allure remains, showcasing well-lit walkways and bustling patios. Visitors can feel at ease enjoying evening entertainment or a late-night bite, contrasting other areas in Lubbock, which may appear on crime rate maps or as advisories to avoid in Lubbock travel tips due to safety concerns. Always remember, that staying vigilant is key to a memorable visit without unwelcome surprises.


Address: 2910 W Loop 289, Lubbock, TX

 

11. Clapp Park

Clapp Park stands as an oasis of leisure in Lubbock, alive with greenery and family activities by day. Its ample green spaces and public amenities invite a spectrum of ages for recreation and relaxation. Paths are frequented by joggers and strollers, adding to the park’s vibrant atmosphere.

As dusk falls, though, it’s wise to practice caution here as with any city park. While Clapp Park is not highlighted on Lubbock’s crime rate maps as a high-risk area, lesser-lit areas can be less inviting at night. Stick to planned activities and well-traveled paths to ensure your visit remains pleasant and safe.


Address: 4101 University Ave, Lubbock, TX

 

12. Bayless Atkins

Bayless Atkins represents the quieter side of Lubbock’s fabric, a neighborhood less trodden by tourists but cherished by locals. It’s a tapestry of residential charm by day, sprinkled with pockets of community life that resonate with familiarity. Small businesses pepper the area, serving the needs of neighborhood residents with a personable touch.

However, visitors are advised as they navigate Bayless Atkins to be especially cautious after dark, as it might feature in discussions about unsafe neighborhoods in Lubbock. Like many residential areas, select spots are dimly lit and quiet at night, which may not be ideal for the unaccompanied traveler. Stick to well-lit streets and remain aware of your surroundings to enjoy what the neighborhood has to offer safely.


Address: 1010 Main St, Lubbock, TX

 

13. Maedgen Area

Nestled within the urban mosaic of Lubbock, the Maedgen Area eschews the clamor of sensational news, advocating for prudence after the sun dips below the horizon. By daylight, it exemplifies a charming retreat, serenaded by the everyday symphony of life’s mundanity. Parks are scattered throughout the neighborhood, providing sun-kissed sanctuaries for repose and community engagement.

Yet, as dusk enfolds the Maedgen skyline, some streets here are known to be caution zones in Lubbock city, demanding an extra measure of alertness amidst their less-trodden routes. To traverse with confidence, stick to the brightly illuminated arteries, as the hush of night on secluded avenues suggests the company of friends or crowds. Savor the singular allure of the Maedgen Area with the savvy of an urbanite, and it will enfold you in its genial, local charm.


Address: 2301 19th St, Lubbock, TX

 

14. Slaton-Bean

Slaton-Bean, a less-touted quarter of Lubbock, offers a down-to-earth experience with a neighborhood vibe that locals embrace. During daylight hours, its streets are lined with the kind of authenticity only a tight-knit community can provide. The buzz of resident life and local commerce forms a backdrop to a living picture of everyday Lubbock.

As dusk blankets Slaton-Bean, the atmosphere shifts. While it may not top the list of avoidable spots in Lubbock for tourists, it’s wise for visitors to adopt a cautious approach when exploring after dark. Traveling in pairs or groups becomes more prudent, ensuring a secure and enjoyable encounter with this unique neighborhood’s quieter face.


Address: 730 Avenue T, Lubbock, TX

 

15. Harwell

15. Harwell is another Lubbock locale colored with neighborhood charm by day. Its streets, a mosaic of local living, exude a low-key atmosphere that residents value. The semblance of community is palpable in the air, where every smile holds a story.

Come nightfall, Harwell becomes one of the places to be cautious in Lubbock, adopting a quieter shroud, with echoes of the reservedness from its neighboring districts. While not inherently dangerous, prudence is advisable, especially for those unfamiliar with its byways. Sticking to well-lit paths and using the buddy system is a smart choice to enhance safety and enjoyment in the evening hours.


Address: 701 N Detroit Ave, Lubbock, TX

 

16. North Overton

North Overton offers a tapestry of Lubbock’s revitalized character, where days are framed with the revival of community spirit. It’s a spot where student energy from nearby campuses brings a vibrant rush, mixing with longtime residents in a dance of dynamic local life.

As twilight approaches, North Overton maintains a composed demeanor, yet visitors are advised to exercise caution, particularly as it’s not a hub for nightlife and some streets may skirt Lubbock’s high incident areas. It’s wise to stick to well-traveled areas after sundown. In this way, the comfort of exploration pairs with the wisdom of alertness, allowing visitors to safely savor its subtle nocturnal charm.


Address: 1200 Broadway St, Lubbock, TX

 

17. South Overton

Situated just south of the lively North Overton lies South Overton, an eclectic enclave within Lubbock. This neighborhood is a place where community bonds flourish and the old seamlessly blends with the new. With a harmonious mix of historical charm and contemporary developments, South Overton is perfectly suited for a relaxed afternoon amble.

As twilight approaches, the area maintains its allure, yet now with a thread of vigilance subtly interwoven. While South Overton is not one of Lubbock’s most dangerous neighborhoods, a measure of caution is still advisable. The common refrain for ensuring personal safety here resonates with the collective community wisdom: it’s wise to travel in groups and stick to well-lit, more populated routes.


Address: 1020 Main St, Lubbock, TX

 

Conclusion

Staying vigilant about the areas to avoid in Lubbock is essential for both residents and visitors looking to enjoy their time in this vibrant city with peace of mind. Whether it’s due to higher crime rates or the potential for other safety concerns, being informed helps everyone make the best decisions about their travel routes and activities. It’s not just about where you go; it’s about ensuring you can explore Lubbock’s charms safely and confidently.

Remember, while some areas may carry warnings, Lubbock is a community with much to offer, from its rich cultural events to the warm Texas hospitality. By keeping these precautions in mind, you’re all set to experience the best of Lubbock while minimizing risks. So, keep your wits about you and enjoy all the wonderful experiences that await in the safer parts of this friendly city.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Which areas in Lubbock are considered the most dangerous?

The most dangerous areas in Lubbock are typically the northern parts, where more crimes occur. Crime maps show these areas in red, indicating a higher risk.

What part of Lubbock is regarded as the safest?

Residents generally consider the southwest part of Lubbock to be the safest, with significantly lower crime rates compared to other areas of the city.

How does the crime rate in Lubbock compare to other US cities?

Lubbock has a higher crime rate than the average US city. It’s in the 4th percentile for safety, meaning 96% of cities are safer.

Should crime maps be the sole factor in determining the safety of an area in Lubbock?

No, crime maps should not be the only factor. They can sometimes show inflated crime rates in areas with high day-time populations but low residential numbers, like retail areas and parks. It’s important to consider both crime rate and total crime maps, and nearby destinations people may be visiting.

20 BEST Restaurants in Lubbock, Texas [2023 UPDATED]

Founded in 1876, Lubbock is a city well known for its education and health-care facilities as well as its economic nature. It also hosts quite a number of events annually. For this reason, the city is usually packed with visitors over certain durations of time when there are festivals being held. The City also attracts a lot of tourists seeing as it is home to museums and archives which keep its history alive.

Lubbock has birthed musical legends who have opened doors in the entertainment industry. With all these buzzing activities that go on in this prestigious city, you definitely need places to take it all in, unwind and get fed while at it. To help you find the tastiest food, we have curated the following list of the 20 best restaurants in Lubbock.

best restaurants in lubbock

See Also: Areas to Avoid in Lubbock

 

1. Cast Iron Grill

Located directly opposite Buddy Holly Centre is this exquisite restaurant. A convenient place for you if you were attending an event there. Saving you the hustle of looking for a parking space for your car. It mainly serves breakfast and lunch meals. Take it from me, their chicken fried steak and pies are to die for. Their services are not disappointing at all.

Phone: +1806-771-7690
Address: 620 19th St SW corner of I 27 and 19th, Lubbock, TX 79401-5228
Website: www.castirongrilllubbock.com

 

2. The Shack

This is a restaurant that is more than meets the eye. From the outside, it looks old and abandoned but is very cozy on the inside. If you ask me, it is definitely worth the drive. They have a particularly different way of service as you order and pay for meals at the counter before sitting down. Somebody, later on, brings you your meal. Ensure that you have tried out the loaded potato salad.

Phone: +1806-747-1810
Address: 2309 N Frankford Ave, Lubbock, TX 79416-9347
Website: Facebook page

 

3. One Guy Pizza

For nothing but the best Pizzas in Lubbock, this is the place to go. Most customers who go here are those who are in town for events and games like the Tech Football game. Their variety of pizzas secludes them from every other restaurant. Everyone is accommodated according to their preferences. My personal favorite would be the sausage pizza and calzone.

Phone: +1806-747-1226
Address: 1101 University Ave, Lubbock, TX 79401-2906
Website: sarah.trktnc.com

 

4. Pecan Grill at the Overton Hotel

The Pecan is a Grill and Bar combined with the Overton Hotel. Clients hereby enjoy the best of both worlds. For their accommodation is incredible! They have so many breakfast choices. If you like Candied pecans then you must try them. For breakfast try the perfectly cooked omelet, you will not regret it. 

Phone: +1806-776-7010
Address: 2322 Mac Davis Ln, Lubbock, TX 79401-2219
Website: www.overtonhotel.com

 

5. La Diosa Cellars

As the name suggests, this restaurant is very particular about their wines. Lubbock is a city-based near wineries thus, wine lovers are taken care of in restaurants such as this one. The servants are quite efficient too as they explain and break down meals as well as how they can be paired with a variety of wines. I would recommend a brunch meal of pork tenderloin anytime.

Phone: 17443600
Address: 901 17th St, Lubbock, TX 79401-5101
Website: www.ladiosacellars.com

 

6. Italian Garden

If you are in search of the best Italian restaurant in Lubbock, look no further. Yes, other types of food are served here, but why not sample some Italian as it is their specialty? Don’t forget to choose the most suitable wine for accompaniment! Be sure to sample their famous pink sauce with any of your preferred meals. Believe you me, there’s no better Italian restaurant in Lubbock.

Phone: +1806-771-2212
Address: 1215 Avenue J Suite 102 Green Building, Lubbock, TX 79401-4019
Website: www.italiangardenlubbock.com

 

7. Abuelo’s

Saya restaurant famously known for the Mexican food it serves, Abuelo’s is a chilled restaurant that has such a good ambiance. Conducive for a personal conversation and intimate dinners. You will not regret making this your first choice for wining and dining. The quality service of your attendants is also a plus on their side. The food is not anything short of delicious. The enchiladas with spinach are particularly my favorite.

Phone: +1806-794-1762
Address: 4401 82nd St, Lubbock, TX 79424-3344
Website: www.abuelos.com

 

8. 50th Street Caboose

Finally! A restaurant that is based on fun and kids enjoy. Just as the name suggests, this is a restaurant that is designed with a few twists to enhance the proven Caboose system. They mainly do Traditional American dishes and Mexican food. If you have taken your kids there, the burgers are the ideal meals for them for they will have so much energy to utilize in the games.

Phone: +1806-796-2240
Address:  5027 50th St 50th & Slide, Lubbock, TX 79414-3420
Website: www.cabooseonline.com

 

9. Orlando’s Italian Restaurant

This restaurant is distinguished by the fact that they serve Tex-Italian food. Pizza and Italian are their main cuisines. The cheese dip I would recommend to you anytime! They serve garlic bread with every order. Sunday is a great day to visit the restaurant as it is all you can eat spaghetti and soup. If you are not in the mood of going out, guess what! Orlando’s does orders too.

Phone: +1806-797-8646
Address: 6951 Indiana Ave, Lubbock, TX 79413-6111
Website: orlandos.com

 

10. Ruby’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q

This is more of a country type of restaurant. It’s dishes mainly consists of meat. Such meals include the baby back ribs, BBQ sandwiches, and brisket. The aroma actually meets you at the door. It is said that BBQ is the BBQ sauce. And their sauce is one that will keep you going back for more. They have a drive-through thus, you pick up your order ones you get to the window. Some servants check in on you as you wait for your turn.

Phone: +1806-797-1777
Address: 4930 S Loop 289 #300, Lubbock, TX 79414
Website: rudysbbq.com

 

11. Triple J Chophouse & Brew

Not only does this restaurant have excellent food it also crafts the best beers. It is the only brewpub in Lubbock. Although they mainly serve steaks they have a vegetarian option which is also just as terrific. The environment is great and chills for a relaxing cold beer. It has a nice Western atmosphere. Sample a mouth-watering filet mignon, you’ll thank me later.

Phone: +1806-771-6555
Address: 1807 Buddy Holly Ave, Lubbock, TX 79401-5136
Website: www.triplejchophouseandbrewco.com

 

12. Pancake House

This restaurant is located down the road from Texas Tech University. Making it more popular with the students from the same institution. The best place to experience a great Southern breakfast. The meals are inexpensive and the services are superb. Regardless of the fact that it is most ever packed, their food and services are exemplary. My favorite is definitely the red velvet pancakes, be sure to sample them, you will not regret it.

Phone: +1806-765-8506
Address: 510 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79401-2612
Website: Facebook page

 

13. Spanky’s

You have not enjoyed delicious fried cheese and burgers if you have not tasted the ones served in this restaurant. Lubbock being a sports hub city, most weekends are crowded with visitors who are there for games. This here is the ideal restaurant for such people. It is within the city vicinity and has an ambiance that is incredible for indulging and socializing. Even with the crowded clients, service is quite good.

Phone: +1806-744-5677
Address: 9th and University, Lubbock, TX
Website: spankys.com

 

14. Taqueria Jalisco 

This is a restaurant that mainly serves Mexican dishes as well as Latin food. It has a lovely atmosphere, conducive for lunch or dinner dates. The decor seems to have been made to particularly match the Mexican cuisines, making it one of the best restaurants in Lubbock. The food you are served is satisfactory in quantity just as it is in quality. Take it from me, the uniqueness of this restaurant, you have to experience it firsthand to know the extent of its services.

Phone: +1806-763-7605
Address: 2211 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2033
Website: Facebook page

 

15. The plaza restaurant

One of the items that attract somebody to a restaurant is their menu. This restaurant’s menu is so extensive. Never will you run out of options of dishes to sample! Their main meal is Mexican food although they have more types of food that they serve. They have a vegetarian option of which, if it’s your preference you will definitely enjoy it. For this reason, it is normally packed therefore considered as one of the best restaurants in Lubbock. 

Phone: +1 806-687-3823
Address: 5029 Milwaukee Ave, Lubbock, TX 79407-3808
Website: www.theplazarestaurant.com

 

16. Double Nickel Steak House

If you are craving a well-made and juicy steak then this is the restaurant to meet every of your appetite desire. Being the main meal that is offered here, it is the favorite of many locals. Its affordability also attracts quite a number of clients. Considering the quality of their food and services they are considered one of the best restaurants in Lubbock.

Phone: +1 806-792-0055
Address: 5405 Slide Rd, Lubbock, TX 79414-3727
Website: www.doublenickelsteakhouse.com

 

17. Twisted Root Burger Co

Though this is a restaurant that has many different meals on its menu, people mostly go here for their famous burgers. One of the different varieties of burgers is the vegetarian burger which is just as delicious. Their services are likewise exceptional. Wouldn’t you give just about anything for quality food and service in a great environment after a game? Stop by and you will not regret it.

Phone: +1 806-797-0532 
Address: 116 W Loop 289 Ste 200, Lubbock, TX 79416
Website: www.twistedrootburgerco.com

 

18. Texas Roadhouse

Now, this is a good place to have a steak if you are ever in town. Green beans and veggies are some of their other meals which they do really well. Sides from the steak meals are also prepared adequately and are delicious too. Large groups are catered for quite well. You will be surprised when you are provided with a private room to house the group for the service is amazing.

Phone: +1 806-799-9900
Address: 4810 S Loop 289, Lubbock, TX 79414-4798
Website: www.texasroadhouse.com

 

19. The Funky Door

This is a restaurant that is quite invested in its collection of wines. For this reason, they ensure that the quality of their food matches the standard of the wines they offer. It is a sophisticated and modern restaurant ranking among the best restaurants in Lubbock. Their services are off the charts for they make sure that they have given you value for your money.  

Phone: +1 806-687-0505 
Address: 6801 Milwaukee Ave. Suite 2, Lubbock, TX 79424
Website: www.thefunkydoor.com

 

20. Bryan’s Steaks

Like many of their neighboring restaurants, Bryan’s Steaks mainly serve steaks although it also offers other meals on its menu as well as sides for the steak meals. Their unique quality is that they serve lots of food at a reasonable price. A feature that stands out about this restaurant is that they only take cash. So just be ready as you visit them.

Phone: +1 806-744-5491
Address: 1212 50th St, Lubbock, TX 79412-3103
Website: facebook page

 

Conclusion 

When you visit Lubbock be sure not to leave having not experienced any of these exquisite restaurants. Whether it’s a business, touring, entertainment or educational visit ensure that you have made the most out of your visit. Let this guide lead your decision-making. Enjoy every moment of your visit and do not stress about finding restaurants to catch your breath in. For students, this guide will be quite resourceful when it comes to ranging the location and distance of the variety of restaurants. The ambiance of these restaurants is excellent and so relaxing that they slow down the bustles of your everyday life. So take a day or two and explore!

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