Lincoln Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Lincoln with this comprehensive tour guide featuring top attractions, cultural experiences, food and drink scene, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Lincoln

Lincoln, the capital city of Nebraska, is full of cultural and natural attractions that offer visitors a unique and enriching experience. From historic landmarks to scenic views and outdoor adventures, Lincoln has something for everyone. This comprehensive tour guide will help you plan your visit to Lincoln, from finding the top attractions to the best places to eat, stay, and shop and explore the surrounding areas.

List of Places to Visit in Lincoln

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Lincoln has a rich history and culture that is reflected in its numerous museums and historical sites. Here are some of the top cultural attractions to explore in Lincoln:

  • Nebraska State Capitol: The Nebraska State Capitol, located in downtown Lincoln, is an architectural masterpiece that boasts stunning artwork and a beautiful observation deck offering panoramic views of the city.

  • Nebraska History Museum: The Nebraska History Museum showcases the state’s rich history, from its prehistoric past to the modern era. Visitors can explore exhibits on Native American history, early pioneers, the Civil War, and more.

  • Sheldon Art Museum: The Sheldon Art Museum features a collection of over 12,000 works of art, including contemporary art, American art, and works from Africa and Asia.

  • Lincoln Children’s Museum: The Lincoln Children’s Museum provides a fun and educational experience for kids of all ages with interactive exhibits on science, art, and history.

Natural Attractions of Lincoln: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re looking for outdoor adventure and beautiful natural scenery, Lincoln won’t disappoint. Here are the top natural attractions to explore in Lincoln:

  • Pioneers Park Nature Center: Pioneers Park Nature Center offers hiking and biking trails, wildlife viewing, and interactive exhibits on Nebraska’s natural history.

  • Sunken Gardens: Sunken Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden with over 30,000 plants and flowers, water features, and a gazebo perfect for picnics.

  • Homestead National Monument of America: Homestead National Monument of America is a historic site that offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of early pioneers. The monument features hiking trails, historic buildings, and a museum.

  • Platte River State Park: Platte River State Park is located just 20 miles west of Lincoln and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and more.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lincoln

Lincoln has numerous hiking and biking trails that provide an opportunity for visitors to explore the city and its surrounding natural areas. Here are the top routes to try:

  • Jamaica North Trail: The Jamaica North Trail is a paved trail that stretches 18 miles from Lincoln to Waverly. The trail offers scenic views of wildlife and nature.

  • Antelope Valley Trail: The Antelope Valley Trail is a paved trail that runs through the heart of Lincoln and connects the University of Nebraska campus to downtown.

  • Billy Wolff Trail: The Billy Wolff Trail is a 9-mile paved trail that runs through Lincoln and connects to the Jamaica North Trail.

Best Things to Do in Lincoln: Activities and Tours

In addition to the cultural and natural attractions, Lincoln offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are the top things to do:

  • Haymarket District: The Haymarket District is a historic district in downtown Lincoln that offers unique shopping, dining, and nightlife opportunities.

  • Lincoln Saltdogs baseball game: Catch a game at Haymarket Park and cheer on the Lincoln Saltdogs, a minor league baseball team.

  • Lincoln Escape Rooms: Lincoln Escape Rooms offers interactive experiences that challenge players to solve puzzles and clues in order to escape from a themed room.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lincoln

Here’s a recommended itinerary for spending a week in Lincoln:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Nebraska State Capitol and the Nebraska History Museum
Day 2 Explore the Sunken Gardens and Pioneers Park Nature Center
Day 3 Take a day trip to Homestead National Monument of America
Day 4 Rent a bike and explore the Billy Wolff Trail
Day 5 Visit the Sheldon Art Museum and Lincoln Children’s Museum
Day 6 Take a Haymarket District walking tour and enjoy local shopping and dining
Day 7 Attend a Lincoln Saltdogs game and try the city’s famous runza at the ballpark

Food and Drink Scene of Lincoln

Lincoln has a vibrant food and drink scene that features local and regional specialties. Here are the top dishes and beverages to try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Runza: A runza is a Nebraska original, consisting of beef, cabbage, onions, and spices baked inside a homemade roll.

  • Cornhusker Chili: Cornhusker Chili is a hearty beef and bean chili that is a staple of Nebraska cuisine.

  • Kool-Aid: Kool-Aid was invented in Hastings, Nebraska, and is still a popular drink in the state.

Local Beverages

  • Nebraska Craft Beers: Lincoln is home to a variety of craft breweries, including Zipline Brewing Company and White Elm Brewing Company.

  • Wine from James Arthur Vineyards: James Arthur Vineyards, located just outside of Lincoln, offers a variety of wines made from Nebraska-grown grapes.

Where to Stay in Lincoln: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lincoln has a variety of accommodations to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are the top places to stay in Lincoln:

  • The Graduate: The Graduate is a boutique hotel located just steps from the University of Nebraska campus and the Haymarket District.

  • The Cornhusker Marriott: The Cornhusker Marriott is a historic hotel located in downtown Lincoln that offers luxurious accommodations and amenities.

  • The HI - Lincoln Hostel: The HI - Lincoln Hostel offers budget-friendly lodging in a central location near downtown and the University of Nebraska campus.

What to Buy in Lincoln: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Lincoln has a variety of local products and souvenirs that make great gifts and mementos of your trip. Here are the top things to buy in Lincoln:

  • Nebraska Cornhuskers Gear: Show your support for the local sports teams with Nebraska Cornhuskers gear.

  • Handmade Crafts: Lincoln offers a variety of handmade crafts, including pottery, glassware, and jewelry.

  • Kool-Aid: Bring home a packet or two of Kool-Aid as a tasty and unique souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Lincoln

Lincoln is known for its friendly, welcoming culture and sense of community. Visitors are encouraged to embrace the local customs and traditions, such as supporting the local sports teams and trying the local cuisine.

Best Time to Visit Lincoln

The best time to visit Lincoln is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and the flowers are in bloom. The fall is also a great time to visit, with colorful foliage and cooler temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lincoln

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine, including runzas and Cornhusker Chili.
  • Do attend a Lincoln Saltdogs baseball game and cheer on the home team.
  • Do explore the city’s parks and natural areas.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural areas.
  • Don’t underestimate the importance of sunscreen, even on overcast days.
  • Don’t forget to tip your servers and bartenders - tipping is customary in the United States.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lincoln

Lincoln is a relatively safe city that has a low crime rate. Visitors should take normal precautions, such as locking their cars and valuables, especially in crowded areas.

Health in Lincoln

Lincoln has quality medical facilities, including Bryan Health and CHI Health St. Elizabeth. Visitors should carry their insurance information and be prepared to pay for any medical services needed.

Getting to Lincoln: Transportation Options and Logistics

Lincoln is easily accessible by air, bus, and car. Here are the top transportation options and logistics to consider when planning your trip to Lincoln:

Airports Near Lincoln

  • Lincoln Airport: The Lincoln Airport offers direct flights to and from major cities across the United States.

  • Eppley Airfield Omaha: Eppley Airfield Omaha is located 60 miles from Lincoln and offers connections to several major airlines.

Bus Stations Near Lincoln

  • Lincoln Bus Station: The Lincoln Bus Station is located in downtown Lincoln and offers connections to several major bus lines.

  • Omaha Bus Station: The Omaha Bus Station is located 60 miles from Lincoln and offers connections to several major bus lines.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Car rentals are available at the Lincoln Airport and in downtown Lincoln.

  • Taxi and Rideshare Services: Taxi and rideshare services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Lincoln.

How to Get Around in Lincoln

Lincoln is a relatively small city that is easy to navigate. Visitors can get around by car, bike, or public transportation. The city also offers a bike-share program called BikeLNK.

Where to Go Next from Lincoln: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Lincoln is located in the heart of the Great Plains and is surrounded by several nearby destinations worth exploring. Here are some top options:

  • Omaha: Omaha, located about an hour from Lincoln, is a vibrant city that offers cultural attractions, dining, and nightlife opportunities.

  • Mahoney State Park: Mahoney State Park is located about halfway between Lincoln and Omaha and offers hiking, biking, and camping opportunities.

  • Plattsmouth: Plattsmouth is a historic town located about 30 minutes from Lincoln that offers a variety of cultural attractions and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor adventure, or simply exploring a new city, Lincoln has something for everyone. With this comprehensive tour guide, you’ll have all the information you need to plan an unforgettable visit to this vibrant and welcoming city in the heart of the Great Plains.