Lubbock’s American Windmill Museum Wins Two Top ‘Best of Texas’ Awards

One of Lubbock’s most iconic attractions just brought home some serious bragging rights. The American Windmill Museum has been named the Best Attraction in Texas by the Texas Travel Alliance, and that’s not all—they also scooped up a second major honor at the 2024 Texas Travel Counselors Study Tour!

The Award was Presented in Waco

The awards were presented during the Texas Travel Expo, held April 30–May 1 in Waco, Texas. This annual event brings together travel experts, tourism professionals, and state agencies from all across Texas. Among all the destinations and attractions in the Lone Star State, Lubbock’s own American Windmill Museum came out on top!

And Here’s the Double Win!

Shelley Harris, Board President of the American Windmill Museum, was named Best Museum or Attraction Guide—a well-deserved nod to his passion and leadership in telling the story of Texas' wind-powered legacy.

Sandra Harris, Executive Director of the museum, said via press release:

“This is a huge honor. To be recognized by our peers in the Texas travel industry is not only humbling but also energizing. It speaks volumes about the work our team has put in to make the Windmill Museum a place of learning, pride, and inspiration for all Texans.”

The Texas Study Tour and Travel Expo is hosted each year by the Texas Department of Transportation’s Travel Information Division. It draws folks from all over the state—visitor center managers, park rangers, travel writers, and tourism pros—making these awards among the most respected in the industry.

About the American Windmill Museum

The American Windmill Museum, located right here in Lubbock, is home to more than 170 rare and restored windmills, a massive model train layout, and countless exhibits that tell the story of life on the Texas plains. It’s more than just a museum—it’s a love letter to ingenuity, grit, and the history of harnessing the wind!

Whether you’re a longtime Lubbock resident or just passing through, this recognition is a reminder that one of Texas’ best-kept secrets is right in our backyard. And now, the rest of the state knows it too.

So next time you’re looking for something uniquely West Texas to show off to out-of-town guests—or even just to remind yourself why you love this town—swing by the American Windmill Museum and see why it’s officially the Best of Texas.