Lubbock offers plenty of big city amenities, but still maintains an atmosphere of small town hospitality and West Texas charm. Even though the climate is dry, there is a flood of talent that flows from Lubbock to the corners of the globe. Hometown of Buddy Holly and Mac Davis, Lubbock is also home to fantastic music productions, award-winning wineries, ranching heritage, fine theater, stunning visual arts, and the friendliest people. A buffalo hunters' outpost, Tee Pee City, prompted the first settlement and the Scottish-owned Matador Ranch provided supplies. Farming and ranching communities formed in Whiteflat, Northfield, Flomot, and Roaring Springs.
Motley County is still home to rodeos, ropings, and festivals.
There is a great gathering of sandhill cranes from October through March, with peaks of birds in December to mid-February. This refuge preserves habitat for wildlife, including waterfowl and sandhill cranes which are attracted to its saline lakes. Each bird has a wingspan of about 7 feet and the sky is literally filled. It is an amazing opportunity for travelers in the Llano Estacado to see these birds and an excellent photography experience. This outdoor herd of bovine become a city-wide art exhibit receiving national publicity.