Where to Meet Your College Bestie
The best places to turn strangers into your forever friends
Moving to a new city for college is exciting, but can also feel a little…well, lonely at first. Whether you’re a Texas Tech freshman, a transfer student, or just new to the Hub City, finding your “college bestie” can turn Lubbock from a place you live into a place you love. Luckily, this city is full of opportunities to meet new people and create those late-night sweet treat runs, all-day study buddy friendships that college is all about.
Start on Campus, It’s Your Built-In Community
Your campus is a friendship goldmine, you just have to show up. Join student organizations, intramural sports teams, or cultural clubs that match your interests. Not sure where to start? Check out Texas Tech’s Student Org Fair each semester. Even if you only join one club, you’ll instantly have a group of people with shared passions.
Explore Coffee Shops Near Campus
Some of the best friendships are born over lattes and study sessions. Lubbock’s coffee scene is packed with cozy spots near Texas Tech where students hang out.
Monomyth Coffee – Perfect for studying for casual chats
J&B Coffee – A TTU favorite for its warm vibe and great sandwiches.
He-Brews Coffee – Chill atmosphere and often has live music.
Nashwell Cafe – A casual coffeehouse and coworking space with organic food and art gallery.
Hit Local Events You Can’t Miss
Off-campus, Lubbock’s social calendar is stacked with fun ways to meet people:
First Friday Art Trail – A free, monthly art walk in the Depot District with food trucks, music, and local artists. Perfect for casual hangs.
Wollfforth Farmers Market – Chat with local vendors and fellow shoppers while you browse fresh produce and unique finds.
A Concert At Cook’s Garage – Experience live music under the neon lights at Cook’s Garage, Lubbock’s one-of-a-kind concert destination.
Join Rec & Intramural Activities
If you’re active (or just want an excuse to get moving), check out Texas Tech Rec Center’s group classes or sign up for intramural sports. Whether volleyball, soccer, or even pickleball, you’ll meet people who are down to sweat, laugh, and grab food afterward. For something outside of campus, you could join a local running community like RUN LBK, a casual group that brings runners together for weekly routes and post-run hangs. Or, if you’d rather flex your creativity, try a pottery class at LHUCA, where you’ll bond over clay and conversation while making something unique.
Late-Night Eats = Instant Bonding
There’s something about late-night food that seals a friendship. After a night out, a study marathon, or just because, check out:
Spanky’s – Famous fried cheese sticks and a campus tradition
Dirk’s – Comfort food classics with a local twist, perfect for winding down with friends.
Capital Pizza – Creative pizza combinations and a laid-back vibe ideal for lingering with friends.
Now We Taco ’N Taqueria – A local taco trailer near campus that stays open until about 2 a.m., a beloved go-to for spontaneous, flavor-packed late-night tacos.
Orlando’s Italian Restaurant – A beloved local staple since 1965, serving house-made pastas, pizzas, and that iconic “Down-N-Dirty” tortellini, perfect for a cozy group dinner.
Final Tip – Be Brave & Say Yes
Your college bestie might be in your biology lab, at a concert in the Depot District, or in line with you at J&B Coffee. The trick? Be open, say yes to invites, and don’t be afraid to start the conversation. In a city as welcoming as Lubbock, you’ll be surprised how quickly strangers become family. So grab your Red Raider spirit, put yourself out there, and start making those “remember when” memories. Your Lubbock bestie is out there, you just have to go find them.
