March 6, 2023
Lincoln has a lot to offer outside of campus. Hop on the bus or carpool with some friends to check out different areas of the city! We even planned out some things for you to eat, do and see throughout the capital city based on frequent student recommendations.
The Haymarket
Something to eat: Lazlo’s Brewery & Grill opened in the Haymarket in 1991. And since then, they’ve been serving up comfort food with contemporary flair, like French dip sandwiches, lavosh, chili (a game day must) and more. We recommend a scoop or two from 402 Creamery for dessert.
Something to do: Gather a few friends and head to Mana Games for games and a coffee. Bonus: This gaming café is right across the street from Lazlo’s!
Something to see: Keep your eye on the Pinnacle Bank Arena schedule. It houses a variety of events, from Husker Men’s and Women’s Basketball to concerts from popular artists.
College View
Something to eat: Owned by a Husker-alum, Goldenrod is the go-to for a sweet treat in College View. They offer delicious pastries — including gluten- and dairy-free options—and recently opened an adjoining grocery store if you want to up your cooking game at home.
Something to do: Craft your own signature scent at Wax Buffalo’s Candle Lab. You even get to pick your container to make a fully customized candle.
Something to see: Licorice International offers 60 types of licorice from 12 different countries. It’s a great place to explore international candies without having to leave the country!
Near South
Something to eat: Nestled inside an unassuming exterior, El Chaparro serves up delicious Mexican food, from tamales to tortas.
Something to do: Don’t let the name fool you. The Lincoln Children’s Zoo is just a short trip from City Campus and is fun for all ages. Home to more than 400 animals, you can feed a giraffe, get up close with animals at the Critter Corner and see more than 40 endangered species.
Something to see: The Sunken Gardens are a colorful oasis just outside of Downtown Lincoln. When they’re in bloom, they’re the perfect spot for reading, a midday picnic or just exploring the grounds.
Clinton-Hawley
Something to eat: A family-owned restaurant that’s been open for more than two decades, Pho Nguyenn offers delicious traditional Vietnamese food. Looking for dessert after? It’s gotta be from Misky Bakery, a Latino bakery that whips up custom cakes, sweet bread and everything in between.
Something to do: This part of Lincoln has tons of international grocery stores whether you’re looking for a taste of home, need ingredients for a new recipe or want to find your new favorite snack. Not a foodie? Head to Moose’s Tooth for outdoor gear.
Something to see: Drive down 27th Street and you’ll be able to take in a handful of murals adorning the walls of the businesses. But this area is also home to art created by Nebraska alum Michael Morgan. Stop by the Elaine Hammer Bridge on the Mopac Trail to check out 27th Street Hearth which uses bricks to create a large archway.
Havelock
Something to eat: Housed in the original fire station for the Havelock district, Engine House Cafe specializes in classics like biscuits and gravy, burgers and more.
Something to do: Dive into thrifting at A Street Antiques — maybe you’ll find a new favorite piece of decor or even a project to work on.
Something to see: Finish your day with a screening of Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Joyo Theatre. They show Rocky Horror regularly but you can call their movie line for an updated schedule!
South Lincoln
Something to eat: Get your soul food fix at Mary Ellen’s. If you don’t make it out to their brick-and-mortar, you can also find their food truck at many community events!
Something to do: On your way out south from campus, stop by Holmes Lake Park for some time at the lake. Located off S 70th and Pioneers, the park is home to a lake for non-motorized boating, baseball fields, sand volleyball courts, an observatory and more.
Something to see: Get a taste of England at Chippy’s British Store. Explore over 475 British imported foods and gifts, from supplies for a traditional English breakfast to British candy and drinks.