November 30, 2023
Having fun off campus and exploring the city does not need to break the bank. Check out these great things to do around Lincoln that are cheap, easy and (obviously) super fun.
1. Free Skate Night
UNL students can ice skate for free on select Friday evenings at the Breslow Ice Hockey Center! It’s an easy way to have a little low-cost fun, no matter the season. There’s a (tiny) $3 rental fee for skates, a small price to pay for tons of fun on the ice!
2. Have a Picnic, Bonfire or Go Camping!
Lincoln is home to 172 miles of bike trails, 137 parks and dozens of lakes — that means tons of cheap, easy ways to get around and plenty of open spaces to get together. Lakes like Holmes Lake and Blue Stem have bonfire pits available for use, gazebos to gather under or beautiful greenspaces to lay out in, while many lakes near Lincoln allow camping!
Grab some snacks, friends or a book on a beautiful day and enjoy the sunshine!
3. Indulge in the Arts
The Sheldon Museum of Art — located right on City Campus — is one of the most illustrious art museums in the Midwest, housing beautiful works from the likes of Edward Hopper and Georgia O’Keeffe. Even better? Entry is free.
Once you’re done at the Sheldon, travel just a block down to The Ross Media Arts Center where they show contemporary movies from around the world at only $5 a ticket for students.
Speaking of things that are 1) close to the Sheldon, 2) free and 3) awesome, the Jazz in June music festival takes place right in the Sheldon’s courtyard and is completely free for Lincolnites to attend and enjoy each Tuesday in June!
4. Cook a New Recipe
It’s tough to pass up all the delicious restaurants that are just a short trip from campus, but eating out can also be tough on your wallet. Cooking (by yourself or in a group) is a great way to save some cash and hone a new skill. UNL has dozens of wide-ranging, affordable recipes (and even cooking classes) that are great for students of all cooking abilities.
5. Visit the State Capitol Building
The best view in all of Lincoln is free! From the top of Nebraska’s iconic state capitol building you can see for miles around, while the intricate and ornate designs of the halls, chambers and rotunda are every bit as gorgeous. For those in Lincoln, this is a must-visit.