Lincoln

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Lincoln's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Lincoln's History
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Nebraska State Capitol, marveling at its stunning architecture. Take a stroll through the historic Haymarket District, filled with shops and murals.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café before heading to the Nebraska History Museum to learn about the state's rich past. Spend the afternoon wandering through the historic landmarks around the city.

evening
:

Dine at a unique local restaurant known for its Nebraska cuisine. Wind down your day with a leisurely walk in Antelope Park as the sun sets.

day 2
Nature and Parks Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with a peaceful walk in Pioneers Park, enjoying its beautiful trails and wildlife. Don't forget to check out the Pioneers Park Nature Center for educational exhibits.

afternoon
:

Picnic in the park for lunch, then head to the beautiful Sunken Gardens to appreciate the vibrant flowers and landscapes. Take time to relax and soak up the atmosphere.

evening
:

Have dinner at a lakeside restaurant before heading to the Lincoln Community Playhouse for a local theater performance. Enjoy the vibe of the city as you take a night stroll downtown.

day 3
Art and Culture Day
morning
:

Visit the Sheldon Museum of Art to view an impressive collection of American art. Spend some time exploring the unique architecture of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a trendy eatery nearby, then head to the Lincoln Children's Museum for some interactive fun. Engage with hands-on exhibits that appeal to kids and adults alike.

evening
:

Dine at a local farm-to-table restaurant offering seasonal dishes. Cap off the night with a visit to the Lincoln Haymarket for live music and vibrant nightlife.

day 4
Foodie Tour
morning
:

Kick off your foodie adventure with breakfast at a beloved local diner famous for its pancakes. Explore nearby food markets for some creative local flavors.

afternoon
:

Find a food truck to try for lunch, sampling the best of Lincoln's street food scene. Continue to the Haymarket Farmer's Market if visiting on a Saturday.

evening
:

End the culinary journey with a dinner reservation at a high-end restaurant known for its innovative dishes. Sample local wines or craft beers to complement your meal.

day 5
Lincoln's Architecture and Heritage
morning
:

Start your day by admiring the beautiful architecture of the Lincoln Cathedral. Learn about the architectural history and significance on a guided walking tour.

afternoon
:

Savor lunch at a nearby café with outdoor seating, soaking in the city’s atmosphere. Afterward, visit the Historic Old City Hall, a stunning architectural landmark.

evening
:

Enjoy a cozy dinner at a restaurant offering traditional heartland favorites. Join a ghost tour in the evening for a fun and spooky twist on Lincoln's history.

day 6
Country Experience
morning
:

Experience the beauty of the countryside with a visit to a local farm for a morning tour. Learn about farming practices and meet some friendly animals.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a hearty lunch at a country café, then head to the Lincoln Children's Zoo for a fun-filled afternoon with family-friendly activities. Take part in interactive exhibits featuring exotic animals.

evening
:

After a day of country fun, enjoy a casual supper at a barbecue joint with hearty portions. Finish with a campfire gathering for s'mores and storytelling.

day 7
Theater and Entertainment
morning
:

Start with breakfast at an artsy café, a perfect prelude to a day of culture. Head to the Lincoln Community Playhouse for a backstage tour to learn about upcoming shows.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a nearby bistro and then visit the Museum of American Speed to appreciate automotive history. Let the cars and engines capture your imagination.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a downtown restaurant followed by a live performance at the Lied Center for Performing Arts. Engage in the local arts scene while enjoying a variety of shows.

day 8
Shopping and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a charming café and then head to the Gateway Mall for some early shopping. Explore various stores and find unique souvenirs.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at the mall and then explore local boutiques in the Haymarket District for one-of-a-kind items. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and local artisans.

evening
:

Unwind with dinner at a cozy restaurant offering comfort food. Wrap up your day with a relaxing visit to a local spa for a rejuvenating treatment.

day 9
Stargazing and Astronomy
morning
:

Start your morning with a visit to the Mueller Planetarium for an immersive space experience. Learn about the universe while enjoying a fascinating show.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a space-themed café, then head to the Lincoln Science Center to explore interactive exhibits. Experience hands-on learning about science and technology.

evening
:

Grab dinner at a nearby restaurant before heading to a local observatory for a night under the stars. Enjoy guided stargazing and learn about constellations from experts.

day 10
Active Outdoors Exploration
morning
:

Kick off your day with a bike ride along the trails at the beautiful Salt Creek. Enjoy the fresh air and stunning views of nature.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at a scenic spot in the park. Afterward, test your skills at the local rock climbing gym for some adrenaline-filled fun.

evening
:

Relax with a casual dinner at a nearby pizzeria, refueling after an active day. Consider attending an outdoor concert or event to enjoy the local community vibe.

Discover Lincoln

Read more in our Lincoln 2024 Travel Guide.

Lincoln Travel Guide