Things To Do
in Lincoln

Lincoln, Nebraska, is the vibrant capital city known for its rich history, thriving arts scene, and strong community spirit. Home to the University of Nebraska, the city boasts a youthful energy combined with historical landmarks and sprawling parks. The downtown area features an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions that reflect the city's Midwestern charm.

Lincoln is also known for its commitment to sustainability and outdoor activities, making it a great destination for nature lovers and urban explorers alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Downtown Lincoln
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at The Breakfast Club, known for its hearty portions and cozy atmosphere. Afterward, visit the Nebraska State Capitol for a guided tour to appreciate its stunning architecture and historical significance.

afternoon
:

Explore the Haymarket District, where you can shop for local goods and enjoy lunch at one of the many eateries. Be sure to check out the local farmers' market if you're visiting on a Saturday.

evening
:

Dine at The Oven, a popular Indian restaurant, followed by a visit to the Lied Center for Performing Arts for a show or concert.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day at Sunken Gardens, a beautiful and serene place perfect for a morning stroll. Grab coffee at a nearby café before heading to the Nebraska History Museum to learn about the state’s past.

afternoon
:

Visit the Lincoln Children's Zoo, which features interactive exhibits and a variety of animals. Enjoy lunch at a local food truck in the area.

evening
:

Head to the Historic Haymarket for dinner at the famous Lazlo's Brewery & Grill, then enjoy a nightcap at a local bar like The Single Barrel, known for its live music scene.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$8
Coffee$4
🍕Pizza Slice$3
🍽️Dinner for Two$50
🚌Public Transport Ticket$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical attractions.
  • Friendly and welcoming community.
  • Abundance of outdoor activities and parks.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Harsh winters can be a deterrent for some.
  • Fewer high-end dining options compared to larger cities.

Places to Visit in Lincoln

Visit one of these nice places.

Sunken Gardens

A beautiful botanical garden featuring vibrant flowers, tranquil ponds, and scenic pathways.

Nebraska State Capitol

The iconic capitol building offers stunning architectural details and panoramic views from its observation deck.

Antelope Park

A large park with picturesque landscapes, perfect for capturing sunsets and outdoor activities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Lincoln

Lincoln offers a diverse culinary scene that reflects its Midwestern roots and innovative spirit, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Lincoln Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Runza

A local Nebraska specialty, this is a baked sandwich filled with seasoned ground beef, cabbage, and onions.

Must-Try!

Cornhusker Chili

A hearty chili made with local ingredients, often served at community events.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Lincoln Farmers' Market

Held on Saturdays, this market features local produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts.

Food Truck Row

A collection of food trucks offering a variety of cuisines, perfect for casual dining.

Climate Guide

Weather

Lincoln experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold and snowy, with temperatures averaging around 20°F (-6°C). Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching into the 90s°F (32-37°C). Spring and fall are generally mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a smile is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Punctuality

Being on time is valued in both social and business settings.

Respect for Nature

Residents take pride in their parks and natural spaces, so it's important to practice Leave No Trace principles.

Safety Guide

Safety

Lincoln is considered a safe city, with low crime rates compared to national averages. However, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in less populated areas at night. Emergency services are readily available, and local police are approachable and helpful.

Tipping in Lincoln

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip service staff 15-20% in restaurants and bars.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and many places also accept mobile payment options.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Hot and humid, summer is perfect for enjoying outdoor events, but be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.

Fall

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage make this season a favorite for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold and snowy, winter offers a chance for winter sports and festive holiday activities, but dress warmly.

Nightlife Guide

Lincoln at Night

Lincoln boasts a vibrant nightlife with a mix of bars, live music venues, and late-night eateries. Popular areas include the Historic Haymarket and downtown, offering everything from craft breweries to dance clubs. Events like First Friday art walks and live music shows enhance the city’s lively atmosphere, attracting both locals and visitors alike.

Hiking in Lincoln

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Salt Creek Levee Trail

A scenic trail that runs along the Salt Creek, ideal for walking, biking, and observing local wildlife.

Pioneers Park Trails

Offers multiple hiking trails through wooded areas and prairie landscapes, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Lincoln by plane.

Lincoln Airport (LNK)

Located just 10 minutes from downtown, it offers domestic flights and is convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Lincoln is quite walkable, especially in the downtown and Haymarket areas, where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are designated crosswalks and pedestrian-friendly streets. The city also encourages biking and has several bike lanes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

University Students

With the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, a significant population of students contribute to the city's youthful energy.

Families

Many families live in Lincoln, drawn by the city's schools, parks, and community activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

University of Nebraska Football

A major passion for locals, with the Cornhuskers' games drawing large crowds and a vibrant game day atmosphere.

Baseball

The Lincoln Saltdogs, a minor league baseball team, provides a fun family-friendly sports experience during the summer.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Lincoln is generally manageable, with peak hours occurring during the morning and evening commutes. Public transportation is provided by StarTran, offering bus services throughout the city. However, many residents prefer to drive, and parking is typically available in most areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lincoln.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, especially in the Haymarket area.

Gluten-Free Options

Several eateries cater to gluten-free diets, with clear labeling on menus.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Lincoln is robust, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Major hospitals include Bryan Health and CHI Health St. Elizabeth, both offering comprehensive medical services. Urgent care centers are also widely available for non-emergency situations.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide