The Perfect Getaway: A long weekend in Lincoln, Nebraska with kids

Feed giraffes at the zoo, dig for fossils at Morrill Hall, and play at the Lincoln Children’s Museum — all with this convenient, nap-friendly family itinerary.

Edited by Taylor Cahan | December 11, 2025

Plan a family vacation to Lincoln, Nebraska

Lincoln, Nebraska is a kid-friendly city where attractions are just minutes apart. Families can explore the Lincoln Children’s Zoo, Morrill Hall, the Lincoln Children’s Museum, and the lively Historic Haymarket District without long drives or complicated logistics. Embassy Suites by Hilton Lincoln anchors your stay steps from downtown’s best family attractions with spacious suites, free made-to-order breakfast, and complimentary evening receptions. This itinerary is designed to help you plan a low-stress weekend, with practical tips on timing, parking, sensory-friendly options, and easy pivots for weather or energy changes. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or tweens, Lincoln’s top sights and sweet treats are always close by.

Friday

Morning

Start your Lincoln adventure at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo, a hands-on destination where kids can feed giraffes and watch red pandas in action. The Zoo’s stroller-friendly paths and accessible restrooms make it easy for families to move at their own pace. Arrive early to find convenient parking and enjoy cooler morning temperatures. The Zoo opens daily at 10 am, with the exception of some holidays. Grab a snack at the several spots throughout the zoo, or pack your own for a shaded picnic. If rain interrupts your plans, the hotel’s indoor pool is a worthy back-up option.

Afternoon

After a morning with animals, head to the UNL Dairy Store on the University of Nebraska–Lincoln East Campus for handmade ice cream created on-site by students. The Dairy Store is open daily, making it easy to fit a sweet treat between nap and activity windows. The shop’s location on campus means you can enjoy a quick scoop, then stroll nearby gardens or let little ones stretch their legs in open green spaces.

Evening

Wrap up the day in the Historic Haymarket District, a walkable neighborhood filled with brick warehouses, local shops, and casual restaurants. Shop for toys and souvenirs, then settle in for a relaxed dinner at a family-friendly eatery. The district’s lively energy — especially on event nights — makes for fun people-watching and easy transitions back to home base, just a short walk away. If little ones tire early, your suite offers a cozy retreat for winding down with black-out curtains and streaming entertainment.

Feed the giraffes at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo

Saturday

Morning

Begin Saturday at Morrill Hall, home to the University of Nebraska State Museum and its famous Elephant Hall. Kids can marvel at towering mammoth skeletons, dig into hands-on science exhibits, and explore interactive displays. The museum is stroller-friendly and open daily from Tuesday through Sunday. Grab a beverage at the museum’s café or pack a light breakfast to enjoy at picnic tables outside. Restrooms are readily accessible, and the museum’s layout makes it easy to navigate with young children.

Afternoon

Next, venture to Pioneers Park Nature Center to explore over 600 acres of prairie, woodlands, and wetlands. The Center features 10 miles (16 kilometers) of hiking trails and the chance to spot bison. Pause for lunch or a snack at the picnic tables. If the weather turns rainy, head back to Morrill Hall or investigate other indoor activities, like a guided underground tour through the hand-dug Robber’s Cave.

Evening

Return to the Historic Haymarket for dinner at Screamers Family Restaurant, known for their singing servers and live entertainment. After, catch a movie at Marcus Lincoln Grand Cinema or stop at The Rabbit Hole Bakery for a sweet treat before joining a family-friendly event at The Railyard on Canopy Street.

Explore the Elephant Hall at the University of Nebraska State Museum

Sunday

Morning

Sunday is all about play at the Lincoln Children’s Museum, a three-floor wonderland of interactive exhibits and creative learning zones. Sensory kits and the social story tool create a welcoming space for kids who benefit from less-stimulating environments. Easy parking, stroller-friendly entrances, and a café with kid-approved snacks ensure everyone is comfortable. Plan for a few hours of hands-on fun, with plenty of seating for parents to recharge.

Afternoon

Kids have two options at The Bay community space on Sunday afternoons: all-ages open skate at the city’s only indoor skatepark or gaming at Nintendo switch stations. Parents can grab an array of coffee options and snacks while they wait (proceeds support youth programs). When fatigue sets in, make your way back to the hotel to rest, recharge, and pack up at your own pace.

Until next time!

Lincoln’s family-friendly highlights and walkable downtown make every moment easy to enjoy. With Embassy Suites by Hilton Lincoln as your home base, you’ll leave rested, recharged, and ready for your next adventure together.

Spend hours playing at the Lincoln Children’s Museum

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.

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