Stories from Downtown Lubbock

Discover the latest stories, updates, and events shaping the heart of Downtown Lubbock.

Clear Rock Realty & The People-First Investment into Lubbock's Future

Featured

Featured

July 31, 2025

Clear Rock Realty & The People-First Investment into Lubbock's Future

611 Broadway holds some of Downtown Lubbock's most treasured gifts. And we're not talking about knickknacks and retail. We're talking about the people of Clear Rock Realty.Clearly Crafted for ConnectionIf you had to describe the Clear Rock experience in one word, it would be intentional. Everything from their office design to how they coach agents, greet clients, or choose to invest in downtown is marked by thoughtfulness, purpose, and care. That intentionality shows up even before you hear their friendly "hello." Glass walls and doors allow the sunshine to pour in, giving an unmistakable sense of openness. Upstairs, the old wooden floors hint at its long-standing history. Old Acme brick walls mix with sleek finishes. It’s a blend of old and new, history and purpose. And it’s no accident.The design of Clear Rock’s space is a direct reflection of founders Tanner Dean and Ruben Trujillo’s deep faith and guiding mission. It wasn’t just the space that took shape with intenti...

Raising the Bar: Dan Williams, Downtown Lubbock Visionary

Raising the Bar: Dan Williams, Downtown Lubbock Visionary

In the heart of Downtown Lubbock, a renaissance is underway, and at the forefront of this revitalization effort is Dan Williams, founder of Williams and Company Real Estate and chairman of the Downtown Lubbock’s Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District Board.Meet Dan WilliamsWith a passion for community development and an eye for opportunity, Williams has become a driving force in the city’s urban core.Williams' journey into real estate began in 2006, but early years in Muleshoe, TX, shaped his entrepreneurial spirit. There, his family immersed him in the world of small businesses: Williams General Store and Williams Brothers Office Supply. "I started working in the family business when I was twelve," Williams said. “I learned to be a buyer at market, and grew up going to market…So I always knew I wanted to be in sales,” said Williams. After high school, Williams attended Lubbock Christian University, and he says that’s what helped him integrate his business acumen with his faith—a ...

Lubbock's Live Music Destination: Downtown

Lubbock's Live Music Destination: Downtown

Live music is the essence of summer, and luckily, it is offered on what seems like every corner of Downtown Lubbock. From snagging a ticket at the box office to catching an incredible show on a casual night out, these DLBK businesses host outstanding live music you'll add to your "favorite" playlist. Buddy Holly HallSince January 2021, Lubbock and its surrounding West Texas communities have been able to enjoy and experience Broadway shows, concerts, ballets, and more in a world-class venue. The shows Buddy Holly Hall brings to Downtown Lubbock are unforgettable!View Upcoming Shows at Buddy Holly HallMoonlight Musicals AmphitheatreMoonlight Musicals provides a live outdoor musical theatre experience in Downtown Lubbock's Historic Cultural District. Most shows are cast with local artists, so they are a true testament to our West Texas community!View Upcoming Moonlight Musicals ShowsCactus TheaterFor a night of quintessential West Texas entertainment, look no further than the "C...

First Friday Art Trail Pro-Tips!

First Friday Art Trail Pro-Tips!

The first Friday of every month, in Downtown Lubbock, it’s go-time! Packed with local art, music, flavors, and free convenient transportation, First Friday Art Trail (FFAT) promises a night of self-guided fun and inspiration. For first-time trailers or repeat goers, this is your guide to make your experience one to remember! Ditch the Car & Catch the TrolleyThe good news is that parking and transportation are FREE! The best place to park is Lubbock Memorial Civic Center's north lot, which is right across the street from Buddy Holly Hall. It is a large lot but can fill up quickly, so arrive early to snag a spot. Once you park, you can dive right into the vibrant arts scene at the LHUCA—also conveniently the first trolley stop on your route! 5 Free Trolleys/BusesFirst stop is the LHUCA on 7th and Avenue JTrolleys/buses begin running at 6:15 p.m. - 9:15 p.m. Wardrobe TipsWhile you can truly wear whatever you want, dressing it up is always appropriate, too. Don't forget...

A Weekend in Downtown Lubbock

A Weekend in Downtown Lubbock

Lubbock, lovingly known as the Hub City, offers an abundance of culture, history, and entertainment in its downtown area—providing the ideal weekend escape from the daily routine.We’ve created the ultimate itinerary to ensure your weekend in Downtown Lubbock is unforgettable! From the perfect overnight stay to the coolest hangout spots, dining, and local entertainment for every age, we’ve got you covered. Friday Night Check-InKick off your Downtown Lubbock adventure at the Pioneer Pocket Hotel. Arriving late? No worries. Their contactless check-in process ensures your getaway starts on a stress-free note. Nestled in the heart of downtown, this boutique hotel isn't just a place to stay; it's your perfect place to touchdown before exploring the one-of-a-kind experiences Downtown Lubbock has to offer.If the Pioneer is booked, The Cotton Court Hotel offers a similarly charming experience with its unique blend of local heritage and modern comfort.Dinner & CocktailsDo...

Championing Downtown Lubbock’s Women-Owned Businesses

Championing Downtown Lubbock’s Women-Owned Businesses

Being a woman-owned business isn’t easy, but it kicks stereotypes to the curb and shows the world that women mean business! Jenn Beene, owner of Studio J Photography Downtown, says it’s simply empowering. “Breaking glass ceilings affirms that women can indeed have it all, but it demands balance, a supportive tribe, and unwavering grit,” says Jenn.And she’s not alone! Browse these women-owned success stories and see how they have dramatically changed the business landscape in Downtown LBK.Thriving Women-Owned Business of Downtown LubbockAmanda Adams, CPAAmanda AdamsAmanda Adams is your go-to fractional CFO and self-proclaimed “bad ‘axe’” accountant. She is ready to help you transform your relationship with accounting. LinkedIn(806) 473-7245Bentley ArrowKay KennelNine years in Downtown has made this shop a staple. Selling furniture, revelry, art—and that’s not all that you’ll find at Bentley Arrow. Here, funky meets chic, and you can shop for unique pieces of furniture, a...

Shotgun Sue's: Lubbock's Latest Toast to the Exclusive Cocktail Scene

Shotgun Sue's: Lubbock's Latest Toast to the Exclusive Cocktail Scene

New to the Depot District, Shotgun Sue’s is revolutionary in the cocktail scene, making its grand entrance in the heart of Downtown Lubbock. Offering far more than just drinks and a post-work wind-down vibe, it's a narrative woven with the threads of creativity, community, and a touch of West Texas charm.Meet One of the Brains Behind the Saloon: Tim TreymaniTim Treymani (tray-mah-nee) is one of the partners behind this unique concept. Knowing Tim is knowing Shotgun Sue’s; he's a guy who believes in simplicity and authenticity over titles. "Just say my name, honestly," he insists, keeping it real and relatable. But meeting Tim and experiencing his natural talent for creative cocktail mastery isn’t quite the whole story. Born and raised in Lubbock and eventually finding his way back home, his story speaks volumes about his resilience and passion. The journey serves to bolster his capabilities–to craft a legacy that blends his experiences and dreams into a place that r...

Made Possible By You. Built For You: Downtown LBK’s New Look

Made Possible By You. Built For You: Downtown LBK’s New Look

The revitalization of Downtown Lubbock has been years in the making and we aren’t done yet. Over the past decade, investments to the area have been a culmination of small steps, big leaps, and taken risks. For most of 2023, we worked on one of those leaps. Introducing: Downtown LBK’s new look. There are two phases of this project–a rebrand and a new website. Our mission and goal in Downtown LBK is to help drive the heart of our city into a new, modern era. Like the Downtown community, the new website and branding are vibrant, innovative, and lively. And because the community is who made this possible, we’re thrilled to share it with you. Downtown LBK RebrandOur goal was to align our brand with the greater Lubbock community brand, while bringing a modern, progressive feel to a look that allows downtown to stand out. Downtown is an epicenter of culture, creativity, energy, and booming economic growth–and we wanted to create a look that reflects that.Downtown LBK WebsiteWe’ve sa...

Best Places to Grab a Drink in Downtown Lubbock

Best Places to Grab a Drink in Downtown Lubbock

Whether it’s happy hour, a first date, or catching up with an old friend, there are plenty of places to grab a drink in Downtown LBK. At these local downtown gems, you’re sure to find your new favorite brew, wine, or cocktail/mocktail of choice!The West Table1204 Broadway St. #103The West Table is a true Downtown LBK staple, offering a sophisticated, yet comfortable environment for your post-work or weekend plans. Here you can find an “eclectic variety of cocktails crafted with care using fresh seasonal ingredients.” Are mocktails more your speed? The West Table offers a phenomenal selection of zero-proof drinks as well.The Brewery 1204 Broadway St. #104Craft beer isn't hard to come by in Downtown Lubbock, especially at The Brewery. Their creative brews use local, seasonal ingredients to give you a beer unlike anything else. Relax in the lobby of the historic Pioneer Building or on their covered patio while enjoying beer that's sure to keep you coming back week after wee...

Chez Sami: Experience the Tastes of France in Downtown Lubbock

Chez Sami: Experience the Tastes of France in Downtown Lubbock

The newest business to make a move to downtown isn’t new to West Texas, just Downtown LBK. Previously only found in Wolfforth, both the beloved Tamale Lady and Chez Sami are now sharing their culture and delicious cuisine with us!Meet Chef Jon Walter The story of Chef-Owner Jon Walter and Chez Sami (pronounced shay sam-ee) begins on the high seas. Chef Jon traveled the world, perfecting his craft as a private chef catering to yachts sailing across Europe. It was during this time that he learned the art of French cuisine. However, French cuisine was not the first he brought to our area. After moving back to his hometown of Lubbock, Chef Jon opened a restaurant, also in Wolfforth, called The Tamale Lady. Following the success of The Tamale Lady, he decided to open a French pop-up restaurant–Chez Sami–taking him back to his sailing days. “After much contemplation of whether or not [Chez Sami] was going to work, I decided to go back to my roots and do fine dining. You have to try...

SIMFLO’s “People First” Decision to Make A Move Downtown

SIMFLO’s “People First” Decision to Make A Move Downtown

A Local Company’s Unique “Why” for Downtown Relocation Although this story of a company doesn’t begin in downtown Lubbock… that’s where it’s going to take us. In 1951, in the small West Texas town of Sundown, a man named Clarence Simmons opened a modest machine shop to repair vertical turbine pumps. In 1955, Mr. Simmons hired an entrepreneur named Raymond Pickering who knew Mr. Simmons’ company had opportunities to become more than just a machine shop. Mr. Pickering took that machine shop and turned it into a successful manufacturing company offering its own branded line of pumps. . What started as one brand bowl assembly that was sold in 1956 has turned into a major manufacturing operation producing over 75 different vertical and submersible turbine pumps, as well as countless replacement parts and accessories. Since the business was founded 72 years ago, the company now known as SIMFLO is a global manufacturing company focusing on the overall movement of various f...

Downtown Lubbock: One Square Mile of Opportunity

Downtown Lubbock: One Square Mile of Opportunity

One square mile. It doesn’t seem like much right? Well, when you’re talking about the size of a city’s downtown area, it’s pretty sizable. To put it into perspective, Lubbock’s downtown area is the same size as Atlanta’s–larger than both Austin and Dallas. It’s no secret that it’s been one of the city’s main goals in the past decade to rejuvenate and revitalize the downtown area. If you haven’t noticed, we’ve made some serious progress. But the exciting part is–there’s so much more to come. Recently, we sat down with two major players in the downtown scene–Brianna Brown, Business Development Director for the City of Lubbock, and Jorge Quirino, Director of Downtown and Special Projects for the Lubbock Economic Development Alliance. In two separate interviews, both Brianna and Jorge described downtown Lubbock in one word: opportunity – specifically for businesses. We’re trying to make sure the opportunity they’re talking about isn’t unintentionally one of the best-kept sec...

The Cactus Theater: Landmark of History and Stage for the Future

The Cactus Theater: Landmark of History and Stage for the Future

For a night of quintessential West Texas entertainment, drive no further than 1812 Buddy Holly Avenue. There, the neon sign “Cactus Theater” lights the downtown Lubbock Depot Entertainment District as it has done for decades.Locals will tell you this is where music is born. This is where all regional talent graces the stage. World-class entertainment is performed here in the heart of the city. Yet, like a good steak, the Cactus Theater is seasoned with history—and it has the plaque to prove it. Placed on the National Register of Historic Places, this venue is truly on the map.Where Stars ShineLike a true West Texan, this Lubbock landmark opened its doors in the midst of one of the hardest times in history—The Great Depression. Funds and resources were tight, but in April of 1938, the Cactus Theater began as a neighborhood movie theater. It premiered movies for twenty years, bringing entertainment to Lubbock’s downtown scene. Sometime during this era, the theater featured the band that ...