Location: Lincoln
Top Things to do in Lincoln
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10 Free Things to do in Lincoln That You Shouldn't Miss
Named after Abraham Lincoln, this state capital is a great place for children, history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts. Soak in the panoramic view of the city from the observation tower of the 400-foot high capitol building, whose white stone Art Deco spire can be seen from miles around. Then take a tour of the building and its grounds, where you'll find a Lincoln monument created by the same artist who sculpted the famous Lincoln statue in Washington, D.C. While you're on a history roll, visit the Governor's Mansion, whose Georgian Colonial exterior belies the varied architectural styles inside, and be sure to see the collection of dolls representing the state's first ladies dressed in their inaugural gowns. Kids will love the Folsom Children's Zoo & Botanical Gardens, where they can circle the zoo in a miniature train and see over 300 animals living among spectacular gardens. For some outdoor fun, head to one of the city's beautiful parks, the largest of which is Wilderness Park, whose hiking, biking and equestrian trails will keep you on the move for hours.
Restaurants in Lincoln
1. Hamann Rose Garden
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 14 reviews
Reviewed By gredave - Vacaville, United States
This is an extraordinarily beautiful place: I strolled through in about an hour, enjoying the color and fragrance of the roses. There are many types of greenery, which contrasts nicely with the roses. It was a bit early in the spring, so many of them had not achieved their full blossom. But what I will remember most about this park is the fragrance: "a rose by any other name would smell as sweet," and that sweetness will stay with me.
2. Antelope Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 46 reviews
Beautiful park offering gardens, a golf course, swimming pool and playground areas.
Reviewed By kmmnb - Roy, United States
After having traveled for a little bit we were excited to find this park. It has a huge playground for older kids and a smaller play area including swings for 0-4. Lots of grass and picnic tables to sit at to eat lunch
3. Hazel Abel Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 18 reviews
Quaint Renaissance-style park.
Reviewed By 32blankal - Havlickuv Brod, Czech Republic
I visited the park twice during my stay in Lincoln and I was very surprised how quiet place it is. You can enjoy the sun and reading on the benches, listening to the fountain...
4. Holmes Park & Lake
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 90 reviews
The center of outdoor activity in the heart of Lincoln including a lake for boating and fishing, plus picnic grounds and hiking trails.
Reviewed By kdschielke - Austin, United States
Nice park, large grassy areas and paved, shady walkway around lake. Lots of people fishing. Dogs on leash welcome. Free parking and entry.
5. Toast
6. Haymarket District
7. Pioneer Park Nature Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 151 reviews
A 900-acre wildlife area that features hiking trails and other outdoor pleasures.
Reviewed By jmdz5459 - Papillion, United States
We stumbled unto Pioneer Park as we were trying to Travel Nebraska. We wanted to learn about the areas history and walk trails. Pioneer Park was a pleasant surprise as we walked thru wooded & grassy, yet safes, trails. Nature Center had just closed as we arrived so will have to return for that.
8. Wilderness Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 27 reviews
Hike, bike or horseback ride on the 13 1/2-mile Wilderness Park Trail through dense forest, meadows and creek beds in the city's largest park, which also offers fishing and picnicking.
Reviewed By kelsiH88 - Kennewick, United States
Whether you're a kid or an adult, friends, couple, or family, this place is great. So much to do and see. Theres a huge mansion, grounds to walk on and identify trees, general store with frozen cider, wine tasting, BBQ, and most importantly, the tree house adventure. Its a massive activity nature park with so much to do. Bridges, treehouses, animal tracks, animal education, slides, and so much more. We had a great time and were thoroughly exhausted by the end of the trip. The great part? They give you a tree at the end to plant on your own. Cant wait to go back.
9. Sheldon Museum of Art
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 94 reviews
An art collection of international distinction housed in a landmark Philip Johnson building at the University of Nebraska. Admission to Sheldon Museum of Art is free, and its public programs and events are free unless otherwise specified.
Reviewed By BfromMD - Bethesda, United States
I have to review Sheldon again (I had a glowing review March 2018). The current exhibit on Portraits and Portraiture is not to be missed. Showing u til July 2020 For a FREE entrance, you will see gems showcased in the National Gallery of Art. Diane Arbus, Kehinde Wiley (who did President Obama’s portrait), Cindy Sherman, the list goes on and on. Plus, ask for a map of the out door sculptures and take your own tour of the 30+ sculptures.
10. Nebraska State Capitol
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 834 reviews
Beautiful mosaic ceilings and floors, paintings and sculptures inside the 400-foot high capitol building are as impressive as its marble, bronze and gold leaf exterior and white tower topped by a bronze statue. Free guided tours are available.
Reviewed By matthewmX8701PV - Kearney, United States
This building is without equal. I strongly recommend getting there and spending a few hours, including taking a tour with the Docent. Nebraska history is rich and much of it is on display in this building and its grounds. From the rotunda to the legislative chambers, from the Supreme Court room to simply roaming the halls, you will feel that it is a hallowed place. Understanding the murals, floors and even the doors will make this place even more special for you. This is a don't miss attraction in Lincoln, NE!
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