The best cheap and free things to do in Lincoln, Nebraska: Walkable routes and local culture
Whether you’re coming for a University of Nebraska–Lincoln visit or a family getaway, Lincoln offers budget-friendly options for every traveler.
Edited by Sarah Kuta | November 21, 2025
Lincoln, Nebraska, is a city where vibrant college energy meets Midwest hospitality, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking culture, affordability, and walkability. Downtown Lincoln, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln campus, and the Historic Haymarket district are packed with free and low-cost experiences, from public art and guided capitol tours to bustling markets and scenic trails. Whether you’re in town for a campus tour, a family getaway, or a Huskers game day, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Lincoln, Nebraska, that won’t break the bank.
Culture crawl: Capitol to campus art
Start your day with a free guided tour of the Nebraska State Capitol, where mosaics and murals tell the story of the state’s history. Tours begin at the north entrance on the second floor and showcase the building’s iconic artwork and impressive architecture. From there, stroll north to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Sheldon Museum of Art, where museum admission is always free. Want to see even more free art? More than 30 sculptures from the museum’s collection are displayed year-round across the university’s campuses. End your morning browsing the historic Haymarket district’s shops and galleries, a lively area just west of campus. Park at the Haymarket Garage, where the first hour is free and rates are budget friendly. The area is accessible, with plenty of benches and photo spots along the way. For a walkable base near these and other Lincoln attractions, settle in at Embassy Suites by Hilton Lincoln, which features spacious suites, complimentary breakfast, on-site dining, and an indoor pool to help you recharge between outings.
Garden mornings and brewery nights
Begin your morning at Lincoln’s Sunken Gardens, a beloved public garden featuring over 30,000 annuals and a new floral design each year. Accessible walkways and parking make it easy for families to enjoy the vibrant blooms, especially in spring and summer when the colors are at their peak. After a leisurely stroll, head back to the Historic Haymarket district for lunch and explore local breweries like Kinkaider or Lazlo's. Stay at Hampton Inn Lincoln - South/Heritage Park, a pet-friendly hotel with free breakfast, an indoor pool, and comfortable rooms for winding down after a day outside.
Trail-to-table in the Haymarket
Lincoln has 184 miles (296 kilometers) of trails, connecting parks, neighborhoods, and downtown attractions. Choose a flat, family-friendly segment — such as the Antelope Valley Trail — and spend the day walking or biking in the sunshine. Along the way, check out Union Plaza, an urban park with water features, artwork, and an outdoor amphitheater, as well as Trago Park, which has a family-friendly playground and sprayground. For active travelers and families, Hilton Garden Inn Lincoln Downtown/Haymarket is a reliable home base, offering comfortable guest rooms, on-site dining, and proximity to both the trails and downtown attractions.
Campus visits made easy
If you’re touring the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, plan your day around official campus tour slots. The campus is compact and easy to navigate, with shaded walkways and plenty of spots to rest for parents and prospective students. Grab lunch in a campus dining center, then pose for a selfie with "Archie," the life-sized bronze Columbian mammoth sculpture that stands outside the University of Nebraska State Museum-Morrill Hall. For a convenient and comfortable stay with budget-friendly rates, Tru by Hilton Lincoln East is an ideal choice. The hotel offers modern rooms, complimentary breakfast, an indoor pool, and vibrant common spaces perfect for relaxing after a busy day.
Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.
Save up to 25% during The Hilton Sale
Whether you’re craving a cozy city break or the thrill of somewhere new, find the perfect holiday stay in top destinations across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and more. Book November 5 through December 15, 2025.
Explore more getaways
Best place to stay in Lincoln, Nebraska for game day
Plan the perfect game day stay in Lincoln, Nebraska, for fun, food, and football.
Family-friendly trip ideas: Turning college drop-off into a vacation
The lazy days of summer are coming to an end. Make the most of these last few weeks by turning your child’s back-to-school trip into a one-of-a-kind getaway they’ll never forget.
Top pet-friendly getaways
Discover stress-free pet-friendly getaways that are as relaxing as a walk in the (dog) park.
Travel hacks for every stage of your stay
Explore new destinations and earn rewards whenever you stay, drive, or dine with Hilton.
Read more:
Find travel inspiration