July 1, 2026
Staying local this summer? The good news is the Star City has a bit of everything for you to explore. Make this summer count by stepping out and trying new things.
Tune in to live music
Summer and outdoor concerts go hand in hand, and Lincoln has many musical opportunities. The Garden Performance series features an outdoor music experience showcasing a variety of artists every Wednesday through September. Hub and Soul is spicing up the summer with live tunes, as well as other venues across the city.
Dive into a good book
One of the many joys of the summer months is being able to go outside and do your favorite activities, like reading. Lincoln is filled with one-of-a-kind bookstores and public libraries for your next great read. Whether you are tapping into a well-loved genre or trying something new, give one of these bookstores a visit.
Explore a new park
Some may argue that summer is the best time to get outside in Nebraska. Beat the summer heat at local parks like the Sunken Gardens, Pioneers Park or Holmes Lake. Perhaps you grab a friend, pack some games and snag a few snacks on the way. Don’t forget to enjoy the summer sun before it is too late!
Shop local
Nothing says summer quite like the Haymarket Farmers’ Market. Stop by each Saturday this summer to stroll through a collection of local vendors. There is everything from beautiful bouquets and gourmet candles to delectable desserts and fashion-forward finds. Looking for a midweek pick-me-up? Check out this list of local shops to stop by.
Try something new
Whether your summer bucket list suggests an undiscovered restaurant, trying a new flavor at an ice cream shop or seeing new parts of Lincoln, step outside of your comfort zone this season. Consider stopping by the Lincoln Children’s Zoo (fun for all ages), exploring a new neighborhood or taking up a new hobby. Challenge yourself to grow this summer; you’d be surprised how much you may learn about yourself!