Head to the lively city of Lincoln
The area's live music and art galleries are just a few of the reasons to vacation in Lincoln. Renowned for its sporting events, university setting and shopping, this city welcomes all visitors. Many rental homes come with outdoor spaces, separate dining areas and full kitchens, perfect if you want to enjoy some home-cooked meals.
Animal adventures in Lincoln
If you're staying at your Lincoln vacation rental with kids, don't miss a visit to the Lincoln Children's Zoo. With more than 350 animals in beautiful landscaped grounds, it provides a day out that will delight children and adults. See otters, wallabies, turtles and penguins and enjoy seasonal events. Nearby, the tranquil planting and lily ponds at Lincoln's Sunken Gardens are another family-friendly destination. Stroll along flower-perfumed paths or enjoy a picnic in the sunshine. Or, if you prefer to take life at a faster pace, make a visit to the Museum of American Speed – a huge collection of racing cars and all things auto.
Fine views in Lincoln
For a great view of the city, head to the State Capitol, admire the mosaics and the art collection housed inside, then head up to the 14th floor for a panoramic view across the city from the top of the domed tower. The University of Nebraska campus is also well worth exploring. As well as putting on popular theater productions and musicals at the Lied Center, and Nebraska Cornhuskers games at the Memorial Stadium, it's home to fascinating museums. The Nebraska State Museum is a treasure trove of cultural artifacts and a planetarium, while the Sheldon Museum of Art has a large collection of American paintings from across the centuries.
Lincoln through the year
Winters in Lincoln can be cold but not excessively snowy, while summer temperatures rise into the 80s. This means the weather offers plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the local parks and trails whatever the season. However, it's the football season that's most important in Lincoln. If you're traveling from outside the USA and you're staying at your Lincoln vacation rental September through December, don't miss getting tickets to a Cornhuskers game for an unforgettable sporting experience and unique slice of American life. Late spring through summer, during baseball season, head to Haymarket Park to cheer on the Lincoln Saltdogs.
Explore Lincoln's green spaces
The Sunken Gardens might be Lincoln's best-known public park, but this city has plenty of public green spaces to explore. One of the best is Pioneer Park Nature Center. It has miles of trails to explore through woodlands, wetlands and a tallgrass prairie. The park's small wildlife sanctuary is home to bison, elk, and white-tailed deer. Around 30 minutes from Lincoln vacation rentals, the Branched Oak State Recreation Area has a large lake surrounded by leafy trails. It's a great spot to head for lake swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking, as well as equestrian treks.
Transportation options to and around Lincoln
Fly into Lincoln Municipal Airport (LNK), the closest airport, located 3.7 mi (5.9 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you can also fly into Omaha, NE (MIQ-Millard), which is 40.5 mi (65.1 km) away.
If you'd rather travel by train, the main station is Lincoln Station.