Lincoln
🏙️19 attractions

Lincoln

Lincoln, Nebraska

The Star City

About this city

Also known as: The Star City

As the capital and second-most populous city of Nebraska, Lincoln is centrally positioned within Lancaster County amid the scenic rolling hills of the southeastern region. Founded in 1856 originally as Lancaster, a historic salt-harvesting settlement, the city was renamed in honor of President Abraham Lincoln and designated the capital in 1867 following Nebraska's admission to the Union. Lincoln is home to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, whose massive flagship campus profoundly shapes the city's intellectual lifestyle, high-tech startup economy, and roaring sports spirit. The contemporary cityscape is dominated by the majestic, 400-foot 'Tower on the Plains' state capitol building designed by Bertram Goodhue, standing proudly as a premier global hub for governance, tech, and cultural diversity.

Location & Administrative

County
Lancaster County
Time Zone
CST
State Code
NE

Transportation & Accessibility

Nearest Airports
LNKOMA
Rail Systems
Amtrak (Intercity Rail)
Train Stations
Lincoln Amtrak Station
Getting Around
Car RequiredBusWalkableBike-FriendlyRideshare-Friendly

Weather & Timing

Best Months
AprMayJunJulAugSepOct
Average Temperature
Peak Season
College Football SeasonSpring–Summer Sports Season
Off Season
Deep WinterQuiet Season

Economics & Local Vibe

Population
City proper 291.1K · Metro area 361.0K
Sales Tax
7.25%
Key Industries
Government and Public AdministrationInformation Technology and Software StartupsHigher Education, Insurance Headquarters and Healthcare

Practical Tourism Metadata

Suggested stay: 2–3 days

Admire the stunning mosaics and ascend to the 14th-floor observation deck inside the majestic Nebraska State Capitol. Explore historic brick warehouses turned trendy dining spots and music venues in the vibrant Historic Haymarket District. See the world's largest collection of mammoth skeletons at the University of Nebraska State Museum.

Must-See