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There is more than meets the eye when it comes to Lincoln, Nebraska. Home to Nebraska’s capitol, and Husker football, Lincoln is a small, vibrant city with a myriad of exciting places to explore. There is no shortage of culture either. The city is host to hip coffee shops, independent bookstores, unique boutiques and so much more. Trying to keep up with all of the new things happening can be a lot, that is why I’ve put together this complete guide of things to do in Lincoln, Nebraska!
This guide is constantly updated, so make sure that you bookmark this page for future reference.
Things to do in Lincoln, Nebraska
Visit Archie the Mammoth at the Morrill Hall Museum
Discover Nebraska’s natural history at Morrill Hall, home to Archie the world’s largest articulated fossil Columbian mammoth. With 70,000 square feet of exhibit space, there is a lot to learn during your visit. Don’t forget to stop by the Mueller Planetarium, located inside Morrill Hall, for an immersive full dome show.
Get Lost in the Art at the Sheldon Museum Of Art
Discover nearly 13,000 works of art by some of America’s best artists. The Sheldon Museum of Art features ever-changing exhibits as well as a comprehensive permanent collection. Exploring this museum is a great way to spend the afternoon.
More museums to explore in Lincoln
- International Quilt Museum
- National Museum Of Roller Skating
- Germans From Russia Museum
- Museum Of American Speed
- Tom And Nancy Osborne Athletic Complex at Memorial Stadium
- Lester F. Larsen Tractor Test and Power Museum
- Great Plains Art Museum
- Nebraska History Museum
Spend an afternoon in Lincoln’s Haymarket
Lincoln’s Haymarket district has long been a place for gathering and good times. Offering top-notch restaurants, hip coffee shops, fun local bars and unique shopping experiences. If you’re visiting during the summer, you have to check out the farmer’s market on Saturday mornings.
Grab a drink in Lincoln’s Railyard
Connected to the Haymarket district, The Railyard is a newer take on everything the Haymarket has to offer. The Railyard hosts events all year long, including an ice skating rink in the winter. You can even watch major sporting events, like Husker Football, on their larger than life big screen.
Go to a Husker Football Game at Memorial Stadium
You have not experienced all Nebraska has to offer if you have not attended a Husker football game. Get lost in the sea of red and take in all of the energy that emanates from Memorial Stadium on game day.
Watch a Lincoln Saltdogs Baseball Game
Summer isn’t complete if you haven’t watched at least one baseball game. The Lincoln Saltdogs are an independent professional baseball team and are definitely worth seeing. Kick back with your ballback snacks and watch America’s favorite sport in action.
Catch a concert or game at Pinnacle Bank Arena
Pinnacle Bank Arena is host to a variety of fun events all year long. Catch a concert, a husker sporting event or anything else that you can imagine in the new Lincoln arena.
Tour the State Capitol
Nebraska’s State Capitol building is a testament to design, quality products and art. It is definitely worth taking a stroll through if you have the time.
Take a stroll through the Sunken Gardens
Enjoy the beauty of over 30,000 annuals while taking a stroll through Lincoln’s Sunken Gardens. Named one of National Geographic’s “300 Best Gardens to Visit in the United States and Canada,” it is a must see for everyone visiting Lincoln.
Explore nature at Pioneers Park Nature Center
Get some fresh air while hiking the many trails and discovering the beauty of Pioneers Park Nature Center. With over 660 acres, there is so much to see and explore!
For more great things to do in Nebraska, check out this Ultimate List of Things To Do in Nebraska!
Things to do in Lincoln, Nebraska with Kids
Lincoln Children’s Zoo
The Lincoln Children’s Zoo was created as a place for families to spend a day getting to be closer to nature and animals. Home to over 350 animals, your children will have plenty to explore and enjoy at this family friendly zoo.
Lincoln Children’s Museum
Let your children play to the hearts content in the Lincoln Children’s Museum. Offering three floors of hands-on exhibits and imaginative programs, the museum hopes to spark joy and creativity in your child.
The Best Places to Eat in Lincoln, Nebraska
Dish
This Modern American restaurant offers a seasonal menu created with products that are locally and sustainably sourced. Color, flavor and texture are evident on every plate that is served. The knowledgeable staff has been trained to recommend craft cocktails, wines or local beers that will pair nicely with your meal.
The Green Gateau
The Green Gateau has been a local favorite for over 25 years, offering farm to table food and seasonal menus inspired by the chef’s time living in Nebraska and Oregon. This upper scale restaurant has been inspired by European country inns and emits a cozy atmosphere for a great evening filled with spectacular food and service.
Honest Abe’s
Offering four locations in Lincoln, Honest Abe’s provides great food, a great atmosphere and great memories. This casual burger joint is meant for the foodies that don’t take themselves too seriously and for everyone to enjoy and experience the best of a Nebraska burger joint. Honest Abe’s prides themselves on being the “home of tasty beef, soft buns, and a whole lot of gloriously honest food.”
Goldenrod Pastries
If you’re in the market for a delightful treat, then you have to stop at Goldenrod Pastries. This bakery will have your mouth watering for more after your first bite into any of the many products that they serve. Not to mention, there is something for everyone here. I mean it. They are dedicated to serving products for regular diet needs, as well as diets with more restrictions such as gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan.
Toast
A testament to good food and a good atmosphere, Toast is where you will sit down to enjoy a meal and forget you’re not at home.
Engine House Cafe
Housed in a renovated fire station, the Engine House Cafe has been serving up breakfast and lunch in the Havelock area for over 25 years. Sit back with a spectacular meal while enjoying decades of fire station memorabilia.
Leadbelly’s
A contemporary american pub, Leadbelly’s takes every day menu items and elevates them to delight your taste buds.
Are you visiting more Nebraska cities? Check out this list of the Best Places to Eat in Nebraska.
The Best Places to Stay in Lincoln, Nebraska
The Kindler Hotel
The Kindler is Lincoln’s only boutique hotel. Located downtown, it’s a great place to stay to have easy access to most of your needs while in Lincoln. Don’t forget to check out Boitano’s Lounge, their in-house bar!
The Graduate
This retro-inspired hotel is a fun place to stay for all ages. The Graduate offers amenities such as a TopGolf Swing Suite, John J’s Tiki Bar and an indoor pool.
A few of my favorite AirBnB’s
AirBnB gives you the flexibility and privacy that you need. Plus, it’s always a great option in my opinion. I have located a few of my favorite places to stay in Lincoln:
- Mediterranean Getaway
- Glamorous Private Apt near Downtown
- Haymarket Hideaway 1
- Haymarket Hideaway 2
- Little Grey Getaway
- Beautiful Loft in 🖤of Haymarket
- Centrally Located Home
- Centrally Located Home
The Best Shopping in Lincoln, Nebraska
No trip is complete without a little shopping, in my opinion. Lincoln offers a lot of great shopping areas, as well as some unique venues for one of a kind finds. SouthPointe Pavilions and the Gateway Mall are both great places to shop if you are looking for a good mall. Below are a few more great shops, broken down by location.
