4 Days of Budget-Friendly Fun in Lincoln

Explore historic Lincoln without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Lincoln, United States is a charming city with plenty of affordable activities for budget-conscious travelers. It boasts numerous free attractions such as the Nebraska State Capitol, the Sunken Gardens, and the Sheldon Museum of Art. For food, travelers can try out local favorites like the famous Lincoln Runza sandwich or visit one of the many food trucks for a budget-friendly meal.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Sips and Sights in Lincoln

  • Check into the cozy and budget-friendly Red Roof Inn Lincoln, situated in the heart of the city
  • Start your day with a strong cup of coffee from The Mill Coffee & Tea, a local favorite
  • Take a walk through the tranquil Sunken Gardens, a stunning urban oasis
  • Visit the Nebraska State Capitol, a beautiful building with a viewing tower offering stunning panoramic views of the city
  • Enjoy a beer flight at Zipline Brewing, an award-winning craft brewery
  • Head to Lazlo's Brewery & Grill for dinner, and try the famous homemade beer-battered onion rings
Day 2

Hiking and History

  • Get an early start and drive to nearby Pioneers Park, a sprawling nature reserve with miles of hiking trails
  • Hike to the top of the park's highest hill, "Star City Summit," for breathtaking views of the park and city skyline
  • Take a guided tour of the Nebraska History Museum, and learn about the state's rich cultural heritage
  • Head to Honest Abe's Burgers & Freedom for a delicious burger and some of the best fries in town
  • Catch a film at the historic Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center, a cultural gem housed in a beautiful old building
  • End your day with a nightcap at Jake's Cigars & Spirits, an old-timey bar with a cozy atmosphere and live music
Day 3

Art and Architecture

  • Visit the Sheldon Museum of Art, a stunning building housing an impressive collection of contemporary art
  • Walk around the stately University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus and admire the beautiful architecture
  • See a show or concert at the Lied Center for Performing Arts, a state-of-the-art venue featuring world-class performers
  • Grab lunch at Leadbelly, a gastropub known for their mouthwatering burgers and innovative cocktails
  • Take a tour of the historic Haymarket District, a vibrant area with unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries
  • For dinner, head to Phat Jack's BBQ, a local joint serving up delicious, messy, finger-lickin' good barbecue
Day 4

Fun and Family

  • Spend a fun-filled day at Lincoln Children's Zoo, a charming and interactive zoo perfect for kids and adults alike
  • Have lunch at The Oven, a family-owned restaurant serving up authentic Indian cuisine
  • Visit the quirky International Quilt Study Center & Museum, a world-renowned museum showcasing the art of quiltmaking
  • Get some exercise and fresh air at Holmes Lake Park, a scenic park with a lake, walking trails, and playgrounds
  • For dinner, head to Blue Orchid Thai Restaurant, a local favorite with a diverse menu of authentic Thai dishes
  • End your trip with a nightcap at The Happy Raven, a cozy neighborhood bar with a great selection of craft beers on tap.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Lincoln, United States by plane is to fly to Lincoln Airport which is located about 6 miles northwest of the city. There are several airlines that fly to Lincoln including United, Delta, and American Airlines. Direct flights are available from major cities such as Denver, Chicago, and Dallas.

Car

The best way to get to Lincoln, United States by car is by driving on the major highways that pass through the city. These include I-80, US-34, and US-77. If you are driving from nearby cities, take the main roads that lead to Lincoln.

Train

Unfortunately there are no direct train services to Lincoln, United States. The nearest train station is in Omaha which is about 50 miles away from Lincoln. From there, you can take a bus or rent a car to get to Lincoln.

Boat

There are no direct boat services to Lincoln, United States as the city is landlocked. However, if you are traveling by boat, you can dock at nearby cities such as Omaha or Kansas City and take a bus or rent a car to get to Lincoln.

Bus

The best way to get to Lincoln, United States by bus is by taking a Greyhound bus. There are several bus stations in Lincoln including the Lincoln Bus Station, the South Lincoln Bus Station, and the North Lincoln Bus Station. Greyhound buses travel to Lincoln from many cities across the United States.

Destination

Lincoln

Welcome to the land of the original Lincoln, where you can see the birthplace of the famous president who once said, Be excellent to each other. (Note: This is not a reference to the movie Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure, even though it totally could be.)

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Fun and Fabulous: The Ultimate 4-Day Lincoln Adventure!

A family-friendly trip to Lincoln, United States offers a perfect blend of education and entertainment. Visit the award-winning Lincoln Children's Zoo, where kids can interact with animals, enjoy carousels, and go on train rides. Explore the fascinating history of the area at the Nebraska History Museum, featuring exhibits focusing on pioneers, Native Americans, and the evolution of the state.

Romantic Itinerary for a Day in Lincoln

Experience a romantic getaway in Lincoln, United States by visiting the beautiful Haymarket district and strolling hand-in-hand through historic neighborhoods. Take a romantic hot air balloon ride over the countryside or indulge in a wine tasting at one of the local wineries. Enjoy intimate dinners at a cozy restaurant followed by a leisurely stroll through the city's scenic parks and gardens.

Lincoln: Where History, Quirkiness, and Family Fun Collide

Embark on a memorable family-friendly trip to Lincoln, United States, offering a perfect blend of educational and recreational activities for all ages. Explore the fascinating exhibits at the Lincoln Children's Museum, engaging kids in hands-on learning experiences. Enjoy a scenic stroll through the Sunken Gardens or take a leisurely bike ride along the tranquil trails of the Wilderness Park, ensuring a delightful and enjoyable time for the whole family.

Lincoln: Two Days of Budget-Friendly Fun!

Looking to explore Lincoln on a budget? You're in luck! With plenty of free attractions such as the Nebraska State Capitol and the Sunken Gardens, you can enjoy a full day of activities without spending a single penny. For a low-cost experience, grab a bite at local favorites like Honest Abe's Burgers and Freedom Dogs.