Whether you’re looking for a fancy getaway, some exhilarating entertainment, or just a place to relax and eat, Downtown Lincoln has it all.
The downtown area has been a hotspot for market activity since 1864, when it was simply a hub for buying and selling wagons and hay. Now, Lincoln’s Historic Haymarket district is bustling with plenty of shops and markets, leaving no room for boredom.
With over 200 fantastic businesses, choosing what to do or where to go can feel overwhelming. To narrow down the best destinations, here are some must-visit spots for the best food and fun in Downtown Lincoln.
For those with a big appetite, Rodizio’s Grill is the perfect place to relax and eat. This Brazilian steakhouse offers a unique all-you-can-eat dining experience.
For starters, their salad bar is home to several types of salad, sweet and savory soups, decadent pastries, and more. They also provide complimentary appetizers, such as fried bananas and pão de queijo, a decadent Brazilian baked cheese roll.
The star of the show, naturally, is their steak. It is slowly and delicately roasted over a flame and smothered in flavorful seasonings.
Waiters go around from table to table with the meat on large skewers, cutting off slices for those who want it. The steak is soft and buttery and has an amazing crust that will leave you wanting more, no matter how full you are.
Finally, a cart of desserts comes around and you get to choose your pick of the litter. Whether you desire classic cheesecake, flan drenched in homemade caramel sauce, or delicious crème brûlée, each dessert is soft, rich, and the best way to finish the meal.
The lively atmosphere at Rodizio Grill makes it an unbeatable spot to enjoy a nice meal, whether you’re visiting for a celebration, reunion, or just passing by.
If you’re seeking live entertainment and the fine arts, the Lied Center is a top choice. Hosting everything from Broadway musicals to dance performances to concerts to comedians, this performing arts center brings arts from around the world to Lincoln.
Whimsically built, the Lied Center’s remarkable structure can’t help but draw your eyes to the stage. Comfortable scarlet seats are arranged in endless rows, all illuminated by the gold lights streaming from above. The wide stage leaves just enough room for the music to resonate across the audience.
The enormous auditorium can seat over 2,000 people, whether it be close-up in the pit or overhead in the balconies.
The establishment offers valet parking, which requires a seasonal pass, and they have multiple parking garages nearby for easily accessible parking. While there is no definite dress code, people tend to dress rather formally for the shows.
Recently, the Lied Center hosted the national tour of Moulin Rouge, a Broadway jukebox musical originating from the 2001 film. Additionally, the Broadway musical Beetlejuice hit the road and arrived at the Lied for a bone-chilling experience (pun intended).
The musical Annie, a timeless classic since 1977, will find itself at the Lied from March 20th-23rd as their national tour comes to an end.
The Lied doesn’t just host Broadway musicals, however. On February 26th, the renowned Czech National Symphony Orchestra, lauded across all of Europe, played at the Lied for the first time. On top of that, they often host comedy shows, acting performances, and quartets.
The Lied Center has been serving Lincoln with the finest performances since 1990, making it a destination you definitely wouldn’t want to miss.
For those seeking something a little more educational, the Nebraska History Museum is an excellent stop.
The museum is home to thousands of ancient artifacts and covers 12,000 years worth of history, including Native American tribes and lifestyles, early settlements, archeological discoveries, and more.
The museum has several different historical exhibits covering various parts of Nebraska’s past. One such exhibit is “Frozen in Time,” which recounts old winters in Nebraska and community perseverance through the season.
They also offer guided tours to delve into each exhibit, requiring at least ten adults with $5 admissions per adult.
In these tours, knowledgeable guides lead your group through all three floors of the museum while individually exploring each artifact and exhibit. With these tours, it’s nearly impossible to miss out on any part of the grand museum.
Whether you’re seeking a delicious meal, a thrilling show, or an educational journey, Downtown Lincoln has something for everyone. The variety of businesses and shops makes the Historic Haymarket district an iconic part of Lincoln’s vibrant culture, making it a must-visit spot for anyone.
No matter your interests or plans, you’re sure to find your perfect destination in this dynamic part of Lincoln, Nebraska.