Lincoln, Nebraska may not top many travel hot spot lists, but the capital city offers visitors plenty of great activities to enjoy without spending a dime.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Stroll Through the State Capitol Complex | Guided tours of the historic building and grounds. |
| Tour the University of Nebraska State Museum | Explore Nebraska’s natural history, including mammoth skeletons. |
| Look for the Lincoln Big 10 | Scavenger hunt for iconic public art sculptures in the city. |
| Tour the State Historical Society of Nebraska | View exhibits on Native American culture and pioneer settlers. |
| Visit the Sunken Gardens | Enjoy vibrant flower beds and tranquil fountains. |
| Tour the University of Nebraska Campus | Visit the arboretum, quilt study center, and sculpture garden. |
| Look for Wildflowers at Nine Mile Prairie | Explore a tallgrass prairie reserve with native wildflowers. |
| Catch a Concert at Pinewood Bowl Theater | Attend free outdoor concerts and events. |
| Experience Cultural Festivals | Enjoy diverse cultural celebrations with food, music, and dance. |
| Tour the Governor’s Mansion | Guided tours of the historic mansion and its decor. |
| Explore Lincoln by Bike | Ride through scenic trails and view public art. |
| Try Samples at the Farmers Market | Visit the market for fresh produce and free samples. |
From exploring its heritage and culture to taking in natural scenery, Lincoln has an array of attractions accessible free of charge. If you’re looking to save money during your trip, make sure to add these top 12 free things to do in Lincoln to your Nebraska itinerary.
Stroll Through the State Capitol Complex
Name and Location: Nebraska State Capitol, 1445 K St, Lincoln, NE
History and Significance: The capitol’s 400ft tower is a landmark. The complex includes government buildings.
What to Expect: Guided tours of the capitol, legislative chambers, murals and mosaics. Stroll the grounds.
Visitor Information: Free tours daily. Open weekdays 8am-5pm, weekends 10am-5pm.
One of Lincoln’s most famous landmarks, the State Capitol building, offers free guided tours daily. Visitors can admire the intricate architectural details and artwork throughout the government office building. The 400-foot tower provides panoramic views of the city from its 14th floor observation desks.
The Capitols sprawling grounds also contain expansive gardens, statues, monuments, and fountains perfect for walking. Stop by the Visitor’s Center to learn more about the capitol’s history and operations.
Tour the University of Nebraska State Museum
Name and Location: University of Nebraska State Museum, 645 N 14th St, Lincoln, NE
History and Significance: Founded in 1871, it features natural history, anthropology, and paleontology exhibits.
What to Expect: See the museum’s elephant and mammoth fossil mounts, Native American artifacts, and special exhibitions.
Visitor Information: Free general admission. Open Tues-Sat 10am-4pm, Thurs until 8pm.
Experience Nebraska’s natural history up close at the University of Nebraska State Museum. Admission to the museum is free and open to the public. Visitors can check out the Elephant Hall containing mammoth and mastodon skeletons, the Hall of Nebraska Wildlife full of mounted specimens, mineral displays, and exhibits featuring fossils of extinct species that once roamed the region.
One standout is “Archie” one of the most intact Columbian mammoth skeletons ever found. With intriguing artifacts and hands-on elements, it makes for an informative free activity.
Look for the Lincoln Big 10
Name and Location: 10 large art sculptures located throughout Lincoln
History and Significance: Public art project featuring large iconic Lincoln-themed sculptures.
What to Expect: Find all 10 sculptures by walking or driving around Lincoln. Good way to explore the city.
Visitor Information: Free outdoor sculptures. Use online map to locate.
Lincoln has an abundance of public art scattered across the city, accessible to all for free viewing. Pick up the Public Art Lincoln map and scavenger hunt for the “Big 10” most iconic sculptures. Notable works include Rendering the Unthinkable memorial, the towering Grain Elevator #2 mural, and the expansive Twelve Aggie Mural depicting stories of the city’s agriculture history.
Other creative sculptures are found at libraries, parks, and along the 39 public art trails. Exploring Lincoln’s public art makes you feel like you’re on an outdoor gallery tour.
Tour the State Historical Society of Nebraska
Name and Location: Nebraska History Museum, 1500 R St, Lincoln, NE
History and Significance: History museum operated by the historical society since 1878.
What to Expect: Exhibits on Native American culture, pioneer settlements, the Nebraska legislature and more.
Visitor Information: Free admission. Open Mon-Fri 9am-4:30pm, Sat & Sun 1:30pm-4:30pm.
The Nebraska History Museum housed within the State Historical Society offers free admission. Visitors can view exhibits focusing on Native American culture, pioneer settlers, the formation of local government, and the state’s political history.
Historic artifacts on display include furniture from the original capitol building, Native American weaponry, vintage farming equipment, political campaign souvenirs and more. Temporary galleries feature rotating topics like local fashion trends or Nebraska’s aviation advancements. With hours of exhibits to explore, it’s one of Lincoln’s best free indoor activities.
Visit the Sunken Gardens
Name and Location: Sunken Gardens, 27th & Capitol Parkway, Lincoln, NE
History and Significance: Beautiful public sunken garden dating back to 1930.
What to Expect: Paths winding through floral displays, World War I memorial, lily pond fountain. Peaceful spot.
Visitor Information: Free admission. Open daily, dawn to dusk.
One of Lincoln’s most beautiful green spaces is the Sunken Gardens located right near the heart of downtown. This public garden features winding paths past vibrant flower beds and tranquil fountains and ponds. Visitors can admire waterlilies, vibrant roses, coneflowers, and unique tropical plants from around the world.
At The Sunken Gardens you can find a gazebo, stone footbridges, and plenty of benches perfect for resting and taking in the peaceful setting right in the city center. It’s a gorgeous space to enjoy a relaxing stroll surrounded by natural beauty at no cost.
Tour the University of Nebraska Campus
Name and Location: University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus, Lincoln, NE
History and Significance: The flagship public university campus features notable architecture.
What to Expect: Tour the Neo-Gothic buildings, visit museums, galleries and the stadium. Energetic vibe.
Visitor Information: Free tours available. Campus open daily. Metered parking.
Take a walk around the sprawling University of Nebraska – Lincoln campus which offers beautiful architecture, art, and green spaces open for anyone to enjoy. Notable free stops include the Maxwell Arboretum with diverse exotic trees, the International Quilt Study Center to admire textile arts, and the outdoor Sheldon Museum Sculpture Garden exhibiting bronzes.
Campus is especially vibrant on Huskers game days when you can feel the contagious school spirit and excitement around Memorial Stadium.
Look for Wildflowers at Nine Mile Prairie
Name and Location: Nine Mile Prairie, 7075 S Engel Rd., Lincoln, NE
History and Significance: One of few remaining tallgrass prairies, with diverse wildflowers and grasses.
What to Expect: Hiking trails winding through native prairie plants and scenic landscape. Interpretive signs.
Visitor Information: Free access daily, sunrise to sunset. Parking lot on site.
Just minutes west of Lincoln you’ll find the gorgeous restored grasslands of Nine Mile Prairie owned by the University of Nebraska. This 230-acre tallgrass prairie reserve explodes with colorful native wildflowers in the summer like blanketflower, prairie clover, and sunflowers along the trails.
Keep your eyes peeled for birds, butterflies, and local wildlife as you wander through the landscapes that once dominated Nebraska. Guided nature hikes and events are often hosted as well to learn more about the ecosystem.
Catch a Concert at Pinewood Bowl Theater
Name and Location: Pinewood Bowl Theater, Pioneers Park, 3201 S Coddington Ave, Lincoln, NE
History and Significance: Outdoor amphitheater hosting performances since 1939. Seats over 7,000.
What to Expect: Concerts, plays, musicals performed June-August. Bring chairs/blankets.
Visitor Information: Ticket prices vary. Some free events.
If you’re visiting Lincoln in the warmer months, you’re likely to find a free concert, performance, or event happening at Pinewood Bowl Theater in Pioneers Park. This outdoor amphitheater seats over 7,000 people with a covered stage and lighting built as a Works Progress Administration project in the 1930s.
Concerts showcase big headliners like Goo Goo Dolls along with local Lincoln musicians covering a wide genre range. Other events you may catch include movie nights, exercise classes, and circus shows under the stars.
Experience Cultural Festivals
Name and Location: Various locations, Lincoln, NE
History and Significance: Diverse local cultural festivals held throughout the year.
What to Expect: Food, music, dance, arts that celebrate German, Native American, Asian and other heritages.
Visitor Information: Most festivals are free. Check online event listings.
Lincoln has a diverse population which it celebrates annually through various cultural street festivals. Some of the can’t miss events include the Lincoln Indian Center Powwow with Native American music, food, and dance, Greek Food Festival in the Haymarket, Asian Community and Cultural Center Festival, and the Lincoln Juneteenth Celebration.
Most festivals feature live performances, local vendors, ethnic cuisine for purchase, artisan goods and fun family activities. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in Lincoln’s cultures.
Tour the Governor’s Mansion
Name and Location: Governor’s Mansion, 1425 H St, Lincoln, NE
History and Significance: Official state residence for Nebraska’s governors since 1958.
What to Expect: Guided tours showcasing the stately Georgian-style mansion’s architecture, decor and history.
Visitor Information: Free tours available by appointment. Closed state holidays.
For a look into Nebraska’s political history, join a free guided tour of the Governor’s Mansion located in downtown Lincoln. Tours take visitors through the stately home while learning about previous governors, architecture, and period décor.
See the stunning entryway, ballroom, formal living and dining spaces, and historic furnishings up close. Tour schedules do book up in advance, so reserve your spot early. Don’t miss the chance for this insider look into the lives of Nebraska governors past and present.
Explore Lincoln by Bike
Name and Location: Bike trails throughout Lincoln, NE
History and Significance: Over 130 miles of bike trails in and around the city.
What to Expect: Rent or bring a bike and cruise scenic trails along Salt Creek, Antelope Valley and other greenways.
Visitor Information: Many trails free to use. Rentals available. Maps online.
One of the best ways to experience Lincoln is by bike along its extensive trail system. TripAdvisor named it one of America’s most bike-friendly cities for good reason.
You can cruise along the Jamaica North Trail through the scenic Arboretum, view public art downtown along the Billy Wolff Trail, and ride along Salt Creek on the Rock Island Trail. Bike rentals are available from vendors like Cycle Works if you don’t have your own. Pedal your way past key attractions and parks at a comfortable pace.
Try Samples at the Farmers Market
Name and Location: Haymarket Farmers Market, 7th and P Streets, Lincoln, NE
History and Significance: Largest farmers market in the state, operating since 1979.
What to Expect: Browse and sample fresh produce, baked goods, jams, crafts Saturday mornings. Festive atmosphere.
Visitor Information: Saturdays 7am-12pm, May-October. Free admission. Paid parking nearby.
For fresh produce, artisan goods, and tasty bites, check out the Downtown Lincoln Farmers Market. The popular open-air market is open Saturdays from May through October. Vendor booths overflow with seasonal fruits and vegetables, baked items, honey, flowers, and more.
Many sellers offer free samples so you can taste cheese curds, salsas, vinegars, and other specialty food products during your stroll through the market. There are also kid’s activities like face painting plus local musicians performing. It provides free community fun for all.
Conclusion
Exploring Lincoln’s culture, nature, and heritage doesn’t have to break the bank with so many great free options. From iconic attractions like the Capitol complex to university art exhibits, gardens, festivals, and outdoor activities, visitors have a wide selection.
Experience the city’s sights and sounds through free tours, concerts, and events. There are plenty of opportunities to soak up Lincoln’s local vibe without spending a dime. Use this list of top free things to do get the most out of your visit to Nebraska’s capital city.