By Maggie Heyn Richardson 

Deep in the heart of Texas’ South Plains, Lubbock is known for its rugged landscape, rich culture and as the birthplace of Buddy Holly. But it’s also got a serious cowboy side with local and regional attractions celebrating the state’s pioneering spirit. Explore a breathtaking state park where a herd of wild bison roam. Tour an iconic working ranch and visit a heritage museum that brings nearly 200 years of ranching history to life. The fascinating tradition of the Wild West is alive and well in Lubbock!  

6666 Ranch 

Step into a ranch bigger than the city of San Antonio at the 6666 Ranch in nearby Guthrie—one of the most famous working ranches in the country and a terrific Lubbock-area day trip. Spanning 266,000 acres across rolling plains and wide-open pastures, this legendary ranch is home to world-class American Quarter Horses and is a premier cattle operation. Now owned by Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan, the 6666 Ranch blends history, tradition and modern ranching in a unique way. Its cowboy magic, natural beauty and current Hollywood connection make it a must-see experience. 

Embark on a 6666 Ranch Tour, offered six days a week. Guides escort small groups around for a behind-the-scenes look at the daily operations of this historic ranch, first founded by the Burnett family in 1870. Visit the 6666 Supply House, the legendary Big House, and stand before the L Barn where elite horses are bred and trained. Journey past breathtaking scenery and see how a modern sustainable cattle operation is run. You’ll probably spot a few age-old cowboy traditions still at work. 

For Yellowstone fans, the tour offers an extra thrill. 6666 has become a location for the hit show and its spin-offs. So who knows? You might just spot some filming! 

Caprock Canyons State Park 

Spend the day amid the rugged beauty of the Texas Panhandle at Caprock Canyons State Park, where towering red rock formations frame the horizon and bison roam free. Located about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Lubbock, the state park is steeped in picturesque views and home to the Official Bison Herd of Texas. Watch a colony of bats take flight from Clarity Tunnel, explore a 90-mile trail system, and enjoy what feels like a journey through time into untamed wilderness. 

Adventurers can hike, bike or ride horseback across landscapes that range from gentle rolling plains to steep canyon climbs. Cool off in Lake Theo with a day of swimming, fishing and no-wake boating. Or take a leisurely scenic drive for some amazing views. With camping for every style—from primitive tent sites to equestrian-friendly spots with corrals—you can play cowboy and fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Caprock Canyons. 

Learn about the history of the area at the Visitor’s Center. Families will love the Junior Ranger program and the chance to shop for unique souvenirs at the Park Store. Caprock Canyons is an unforgettable destination defined by Texas adventure and timeless wild beauty. Don’t forget your water bottle!  

National Ranching Heritage Center 

Behind every celebratory ribeye or juicy backyard burger, there’s a hardworking rancher, and you can learn about this fascinating way of life at the National Ranching Heritage Center at Texas Tech University. Spanning 27 acres, the immersive museum and outdoor heritage site takes you deep into the world of ranching, featuring 55 historic structures, life-sized bronze sculptures—including a trail of steers—and a 44,000-square-foot museum chock-full of cowboy and pioneer artifacts. From rustic settler cabins to grand ranch homes, every exhibit and building tells the story of resilience, grit, and the untamed spirit of the American West. 

Step back in time as you explore frontier-era artifacts like saddles, branding irons, and cattle-driving gear used by hard-working ranch hands. Historic exhibits trace the evolution of ranching from the late 1700s to the mid-1900s, offering a fascinating glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of these early settlers. Outside, 42 life-sized bronze sculptures place you in the heart of the action. Don’t miss the J.J. Gibson Memorial Park where 19 majestic Longhorns—sculpted and cast in bronze—stand frozen in time, capturing the raw energy of the historic cattle drives that thundered across the Texas South Plains. 

Beyond its history, the National Ranching Heritage Center is a celebration of the Western way of life, blending art, photography and storytelling. Seven galleries showcase both permanent and rotating exhibits, enabling visitors to witness the evolution of ranching culture through household artifacts and the works of artists and photographers. This free, family friendly attraction offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of ranching.  

Lubbock is the perfect place to celebrate the traditions of the Wild West. Choose from a wide range of accommodations to suit every taste and price point, including RV parks, weekend rentals, national chain hotels and boutique inns and cabins. Plan your Wild West visit to Lubbock today! 

About the Author: A lover of all things Lone Star, Maggie is an award-winning features writer covering the Gulf South and is the author of Hungry for Louisiana, An Omnivore’s Journey.