Lincoln is the capital of Nebraska and the second-most populous city in the state. Lincoln is also a college town, with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln hailing as a prominent figure in the community. The affordable cost of living is a draw for many looking to make a move, with plenty of amenities to keep professionals, families, and single transplants comfortable.
The Best Coffee in Lincoln
Looking to get your caffeine fix? Check out these local cafes and coffee shops and don’t be surprised if you find yourself becoming a regular!
Bloom Coffee
Where? 505 North 27th Street Suite 6
Bloom Coffee traces its origins back to a coffee trailer that worked events and pop-ups across Lincoln. The shop is now a full-fledged brick-and-mortar location and its own roastery! Bloom is dedicated to community and creative collaboration and patrons enjoy the fact that they’re sipping on locally roasted beans from fairly trade sources, resulting in a quality cup of coffee and an expertly pulled shot of espresso! The menu features drip coffee, cold brew, matcha, chai, and a range of espresso-based beverages such as brown sugar lattes, cortados, americanos, and cappuccinos! Make your drink personalized for your preferences such as alternative milk options and syrups such as maple, raspberry, blackberry, lavender, caramel, and more.
The Coffee House
Where? 1324 P Street
The Coffee House lays claim to being Lincoln’s very first coffee shop, dating back to 1987! Many people come for the food and drinks but end up staying for the friendly people and the welcoming atmosphere. The Coffee House is a locally owned and operated business, with coffee, teas, and food made from scratch each day. Whether you’re in the mood for something seasonal such as the pumpkin spiced latte in the fall or a staple from the everyday menu like the caramel macchiato latte — The Coffee House is eager to serve you! The menu also features local favorites like the white raspberry mocha and the vanilla bean ginger latte.
Reactor
Where? 2124 Y Street #102
Reactor invites you to order your coffee hot or iced, so whether you enjoy sipping on your iced latte in the dead of winter or you can’t start your day without a steaming hot cup of Joe — you’re covered! Additional menu items at Reactor include cappuccinos, mochas, and the exciting “experiment” option, which changes weekly! Tea drinkers can delight in iced black tea, chai, and the Foggy London with Earl Grey, steamed milk, and vanilla. Specialty beverages at the shop include the cinnamon roll latte, the midnight mocha, and the warm and inviting banana bread latte with all of the deliciousness of the beloved baked goodie! Alternative milk options such as almond, oat, coconut, and soy are available on the menu as well.
Where to Eat & Drink in Lincoln
Feeling peckish? Lincoln has no shortage of delicious eats across town — from unique takes on some of the classics to the American staples of bourbon, BBQ, and beer!
L’s Kitchen
Where? 2785 South 17th Street
L’s Kitchen advertises as being unpretentious, cozy, and sophisticated. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a casual dinner out or you want to celebrate with someone special, L’s Kitchen is proud to serve a variety of diners who share the common interest of delicious, sometimes addictive, food! From prosciutto-wrapped asparagus, baguette BLTs, carbonara pasta, and smoked salmon salads — you may find yourself tempted to order several menu items! You also won’t want to skip out on the light French dark chocolate mousse or the delightful Bavarian creme concoction made with Madagascar vanilla and finished with Cognac. Yum!
Single Barrel
Where? 141 North 9th Street
Single Barrel is a Nebraska butchery, bourbon bar, and BBQ restaurant all in a one-stop shop! Open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner service and with a bar that stays open late on the weekend, Single Barrel is a popular Lincoln hangout for those who enjoy good food and strong drinks. The menu features all of the staples, such as cornbread, burgers, sirloin steaks, and mac ‘n cheese, as well as signature dishes like the honey brine chop and the brisket grilled cheese served on toasted sourdough! Sides aren’t forgotten additions at Single Barrel, either, with options ranging from the bleu cheese fingerling potatoes, the brisket dirty rice, and the sour cream mashed potatoes!
LeadBelly
Where? 301 North 8th Street
LeadBelly is proud to serve up innovative flavors, quirky takes on the classics, and a “make yourself at home” atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. The restaurant is housed in Lincoln’s Haymarket district in a 130-year-old building! The menu begins with appetizers like the Stadium Nachos, Philly egg rolls, and boneless wings before diving straight into the good stuff, such as the prime rib cheesesteak, the Smokehouse Mac or the Raspberry Beret (a PB&J burger)! LeadBelly’s menu selection contains a variety of unique and bold flavor combinations to satisfy a range of customer palates.
Muchachos
Where? 416 South 11th Street
Muchachos isn’t just serving up your traditional Mexican eats, instead, the restaurant has crafted a unique fusion of Mexican and BBQ! Indulge in breakfast tacos served all day or sink your teeth into nachos, hatch mac burritos, quesadillas, or the meat plate with your choice of proteins, two sides, and corn or flour tortillas. Once you’ve had Muchachos once, you’ll be craving hatch queso on everything! Pair your tacos with some chips and salsa or add an order of the charro beans on the side of your quesadilla for additional savory goodness. Muchachos also has plenty of local and beyond beer on tap, so wash it all down with something cold and refreshing!
Can’t-Miss Shops in Lincoln
Lincoln has plenty of shopping to go around, including the Gateway Mall, the SouthPointe Pavilions, and specialty stores such as Tamayta and Bodhi Imports. Upgrade your spice game or shop all things one-of-a-kind, such as crystals, cards, and handmade clothing.
Tamayta
Where? 4025 South 48th Street
Tamayta is a local spice shop, selling all things flavorful and delicious! The shop also sells kitchen accessories, olive oils, teas, gifts and more. Whether you’re in search of a housewarming present or you simply want to upgrade your pantry, a trip to Tamayta is sure to impress! The shop features over 250 spices to choose from, allowing patrons to shop as little or as much as they need. Blends are made by hand in small batches, ensuring they stay fresh. Professional and home chefs alike can find all of the tools of the trade that they need to be successful in the kitchen at Tamayta! The spice shop is situated in Lincoln’s historic College View neighborhood.
Bodhi Imports
Where? 1645 South 17th Street
Bodhi Imports features all things wonderful and metaphysical. The gift shop is conveniently located just 5 minutes from downtown Lincoln and is open Tuesday through Sunday each week. From incense, crystals, jewelry, clothing, homemade soap, tarot, and oracle cards — you never quite know what you may come across. Shop with an open mind or arrive with something specific in mind and the helpful team would be happy to help you. Bodhi Imports also has a selection of clothing, as well as herbal products, sun catchers and so much more! Mention this article and receive 10% off your purchase.
Where to Enjoy a Sweet Treat in Lincoln
Sometimes you just need to indulge in something sweet, especially when the week has been off to a rocky start! Lincoln has it all when it comes to dessert, from ice cream, freshly baked sweets and even handmade artisan chocolate concoctions!
Ivanna Cone
Where? 701 P Street #101
This one-of-a-kind family-owned and operated ice cream shop has been around since 1997! Situated in the heart of Lincoln’s Haymarket, there’s no better spot to swing by for that classic “old-timey” soda shop vibe and delicious ice cream. Ice cream season hours at Ivanna Cone run through the first of May through the end of September. During the colder months, the shop closes a half hour early on most days — still allowing you plenty of time to get your ice cream fix. Ivanna Cone serves up four staple flavors: Dutch chocolate, sweet cream vanilla, fresh strawberry, and cinnamon. For the most up-to-date list of flavors at Ivanna Cone, follow the ice cream shop on socials to stay tuned in!
The Rabbit Hole Bakery
Where? 800 Q Street
The Rabbit Hole Bakery offers a wide array of treats, from tarts to coffee cakes, cream puffs, French macarons, and much more. The skilled team of bakers takes a great deal of pride in crafting freshly baked goods daily. Core items on the menu include brownies, cake pops, cheesecake by the slice, blondies, cinnamon rolls, cookies, muffins, and bread pudding with a bourbon caramel sauce. If you’re looking for the perfect bite-sized decadence for an upcoming gathering, check out the dessert packs! Customers can make custom orders of their favorite treats, with the bakery offering gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free variations of some items.
The Chocolate Season
Where? 3855 Village Lane Suite 100
Chocolate can turn an ordinary moment into an extraordinary one. That’s what it’s all about at The Chocolate Season, a chocolaterie and an espresso bar all in one! The space combines classic Midwest hospitality with artisan creations that meld the subtle nuances of chocolate with the delightful flavors of natural herbs, fruits, and even liquors. All chocolate is made by hand with intentionality. Whether you’re looking to surprise your special someone with something sweet or you want to show your friend across the country that you’re thinking of them, you can build the perfect gift. Shop selections from chocolate turtles, sea salt caramels, brown butter peanut brittle, milk chocolate potato chip bars, to chocolate strawberry bark, and much, much more. Enjoy made from scratch waffles every weekend and sip on hot chocolate made with melted European chocolate!
Parks & Outdoor Spaces in Lincoln
Looking to connect with nature? Lincoln has a variety of neighborhood parks and green spaces, as well as a popular nature center with a small herd of bison onsite and the ever-beautiful Sunken Gardens.
Pioneers Park Nature Center
Where? 3201 South Coddington
Pioneers Park is one of the city’s oldest and most beloved green spaces. The park is home to the Pinewood Bowl Theatre, as well as multiple miles of trails. Children can enjoy the playground areas and visitors of all ages can appreciate the public art and the Nature Center. Since 1963, the center has served as an educational facility and a wildlife sanctuary for non-releasable raptor exhibits and a small herd of bison. Explore the trails, observe the animals, and listen to the sounds of bird songs! The center offers classes, day camps, and guided hikes throughout the year if you’re looking to get more involved.
Sunken Gardens
Where? 2600 D Street
Lincoln’s Sunken Gardens features an all-new floral scheme that’s designed by the Garden Artists each year. Past themes have included Over the Rainbow, 50 Shades of Pink, Ruby Slippers, Magical Mystery Tour, and most recently, Golden Hours. These displays feature 30,000+ different annuals, which ensure a truly one-of-a-kind sight. The gardens are the only ones in Nebraska to be listed in the 300 Best Gardens to Visit in the United States and Canada by National Geographic. Visitors can see the blooming tulips in the springtime or explore the art installations, trees, shrubs, and peaceful nooks throughout the winter. Admission is free and everyone is welcome to visit!
Additional Points of Interest in Lincoln
Lincoln provides easy access to the state capitol, Omaha, and the border of Iowa. The city has an abundance of amenities to offer, including the University of Nebraska State Museum and a children’s zoo!
Lincoln Children’s Zoo
Where? 1222 South 27th Street
The Lincoln Children’s Zoo is one of the best family-friendly offerings in the area, with thousands of children and adults interacting with nature and wildlife each year. The zoo is home to 400+ animals, including giraffes, cheetahs, tigers, red pandas, penguins, and even Galapagos tortoises! Kids and adults of all ages will be delighted to learn more about their favorite animal and spend the day visiting new furry, scale-y, and slippery friends. Admission is priced at $16.95 for adults ages 13 to 61 and $14.95 for children ages 2 to 12 and adults ages 62 and over. If you’re a frequent visitor, consider becoming a Lincoln Children’s Zoo Member to enjoy unlimited access and exclusive benefits!
University of Nebraska State Museum
Where? 645 North 14th Street
The University of Nebraska State Museum, also known as Morrill Hall, was founded back in 1871! Museum members receive free admission everyday or you can pay $12.50 for adults and $6.75 for children. Check out the Mueller Planetarium for exciting shows, such as Supermassive Black Holes: Uncover the Invisible! Permanent exhibits at the museum include Hall of Nebraska Wildlife, Explore Evolution, the Mesozoic Gallery, and Paleontology of Nebraska.
Want to Learn More About Living in Lincoln? Let Us Help!
Looking to make a move to Lincoln? The friendly, professional team at NP Dodge Real Estate would love to help you on your journey! The city has a lot to offer, from specialty coffee shops, delicious eats, serene green spaces, and even a children’s zoo and access to the state capitol.