Lubbock has a very rich history with infamously notable figures over the years, but when it comes to city landmarks, do we have too many? According to artificial intelligence, or AI, it’s not about the quantity but the quality. 

I asked Google’s AI engine Gemini what the most overrated landmarks in Lubbock are, and boy, did it deliver. I’ll share a couple, but the #1 spot I’ll save for last, so here we go.

Buddy Holly Statue, Too Lame for Lubbock?

Gemini threw the bold accusation that Buddy Holly’s glasses statue may be iconic, but it’s a little weird that one city relies so heavily on one person from the 1950s.

Read More: The Worst Things About Lubbock, TX, According to ChatGPT

It went on to say that Lubbock’s Buddy Holly identity feels a bit forced on the younger generations. Look, I get that the city praises him a lot, but give us a break! He literally lived here, it’s not like we just found a random celebrity and thought, “yep, that’s who we’ll be for the next 75 years.”

The “Death Loop” Circling Lubbock

The next overrated landmark that Google’s Gemini targeted was Loop 289. First off, is this really a landmark? Regardless, it says it’s reputation is ruined because you spend half your life on it. Really?

Read More: Lubbock vs. America: Dream Vacation Destinations

Just wait, my absolute favorite thing that Gemini said about Loop 289 was in the form of a question: “If Loop 289 was a person, what kind of apology would it owe you today?”

OUCH. AI with the low blow.

Steel House or Massive Eyesore?

Before we get to the number one spot, Gemini took a shot at Robert Bruno’s steel house in Ransom Canyon. Now, I’ve never been, but it sure looks cool and is quite the icebreaker.

AI had other thoughts on the structure, calling it an eyesore that has been “in progress” for decades. Boom, roasted.

What’s the Most Overrated Landmark in Lubbock?

Finally, we get to AI’s opinion as the most overrated landmark in the Hub City. Drum roll please… it’s Prairie Dog Town!

In Gemini’s words, Prairie Dog Town is “essentially a fenced-in dirt lot where you watch rodents eat.”

I mean, yeah that’s true but it’s still cool to watch their little hands grab the food you give them as they run back to their adorable homes. I have to disagree with AI on this one. It may seem weak as far as Lubbock landmarks are concerned, but I’ve never had a bad time feeding prairie dogs with friends or family.

So, what do you think? Was AI spot on or is it time to pull the plug on allowing it to voice its opinions on our great city?

23 Things That We Need in Lubbock, TXWe asked our Facebook audience what Lubbock is missing, and their responses left nothing to the imagination.

Gallery Credit: Nick

Where to Find Lubbock’s Coziest & Most Comforting Cold-Weather Eats

Gallery Credit: Renee Raven

Top 10 Things To Expect In Lubbock, Texas

Gallery Credit: Nessmania