Buddy Holly Center | Lubbock

The Buddy Holly Center in Lubbock, Texas, is a cultural and historical landmark dedicated to the life and legacy of Buddy Holly, one of rock and roll’s most influential pioneers. The center is housed in the historic 1928 Fort Worth and Denver South Plains Railway Depot, which adds to its charm, blending historical architecture with exhibits that celebrate Holly’s contributions to music.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of what you can expect from a visit to the Buddy Holly Center:

Location and Contact Information

Address: 1801 Crickets Avenue, Lubbock, TX 79401

Phone: (806) 775-3560

Hours of Operation

Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Closed: Monday, City Holidays, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday

Admission Fees

General Admission: $10

Seniors (60+): $8

Children (7-17): $5

Students (with valid ID): $5

Children (6 and under): Free

Members & Military: Free

Fine Arts Gallery: Free

Exhibits and Attractions

The Buddy Holly Center offers a range of exhibits that delve into Holly’s personal life, musical career, and lasting impact on rock music. Some key attractions include:

Buddy Holly Collection: This collection features personal artifacts belonging to Holly, including his famous Fender Stratocaster guitar, his signature horn-rimmed glasses, and handwritten letters that provide insight into his life and music.

J.I. Allison House: This exhibit is a restored home of J.I. Allison, the drummer of the Crickets. The house showcases the collaboration between Holly and Allison, where they composed hits like “That’ll Be the Day.”

Fine Arts Gallery: This gallery hosts rotating visual arts exhibitions, giving visitors the chance to experience both Holly’s legacy and the work of contemporary artists.

Foyer Gallery: Exhibits in this space focus on items from the Buddy Holly Educational Foundation, including memorabilia signed by musical legends.

West Texas Walk of Fame: An outdoor plaza that honors notable musicians from West Texas, including a statue of Buddy Holly. This walk highlights the region's rich musical heritage.

Events and Programs

The Buddy Holly Center offers a variety of special events and programs throughout the year, including:

Summer Showcase Concert Series: This is a free outdoor concert series held in the Meadows Courtyard from May to August, featuring performances from different musical genres.

Trolley Tours: On February 3rd, known as “The Day the Music Died,” the center offers free trolley tours that visit important sites in Lubbock associated with Buddy Holly's life and legacy.

Performing Arts Theater: The center also hosts concerts and other events throughout the year, making it an active venue for live performances and community engagement.

Historical Significance

The building itself has its own historical importance. The Fort Worth and Denver South Plains Railway Depot, constructed in 1928, was originally a railway station and later operated as a restaurant before being repurposed as the Buddy Holly Center in 1999. The building’s Spanish Renaissance Revival architecture has been preserved, offering a unique blend of historical charm with modern exhibitions. The center serves as a tribute not only to Buddy Holly’s musical influence but also to the history of Lubbock and the broader West Texas region.

The Buddy Holly Center is not just a museum—it’s a living space that keeps the spirit of Buddy Holly alive through its exhibits, events, and educational programs, making it a must-visit for music enthusiasts and those interested in the rich history of rock 'n' roll.