Lincoln City Guide

You can find local dishes like Nebraska steak and Runza. The city offers Mexican, Asian, and Italian food. Vegetarian and vegan options are growing, mostly downtown. Late-night food options are limited outside fast food.

Nightlife is active mainly in the Haymarket and downtown, with bars, breweries, and live music venues.

A developing coffee scene with quality independent shops offering third-wave coffee.

Tipping is customary. Restaurants: 15-20%, taxis/rideshares: 10-15%, bartenders: $1-2 per drink.

SIM cards can be bought at carrier stores like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. Coverage is good. Registration with ID is usually needed for post-paid plans; pre-paid plans have simpler signup.

Lincoln is generally clean with effective waste and recycling services.

Limited 24/7 businesses. Some convenience stores and fast food are open all night; 24/7 pharmacies are rare.

International products are available in larger supermarkets and specialty stores. Stores like Hy-Vee, Super Saver, and Walmart are common, with typical hours from early morning to late evening. Most stay open on Sundays but may have reduced hours.

Most places accept major credit and debit cards, so cash isn't needed for everyday purchases.

ATMs are common at banks, grocery stores, and convenience stores. Out-of-network fees usually range between $2.50 and $5.00.

Lincoln Public Schools provides comprehensive public education in English. International schools are rare. The academic year starts around August, and enrollment wait times vary.

The nomad community is small but growing, with some coworking spaces and cafes for remote work. No major meetups yet.

Extensive parks system with many shaded areas for walking and running.

Good running routes such as Billy Wolff Trail and Holmes Lake trails. The city is safe for runners with decent air quality.

Several gym chains and local fitness centers serve different workout styles.

Tennis courts are available at public parks and private clubs.

Padel courts are not common in Lincoln.

Many yoga studios offer drop-in classes with English-speaking instructors.

Various martial arts schools offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Taekwondo, Karate, and Boxing with English-speaking instructors.

No skiing available locally.

Kayaking and paddleboarding possible on local lakes like Holmes Lake and Branched Oak Lake, depending on season.

No surfing due to being landlocked.

No natural diving or snorkeling sites nearby.

Lincoln offers good quality healthcare with several hospitals featuring English-speaking staff. Pharmacies are common and often have consulting pharmacists. Emergency services are available via 911.

Tap water meets all federal and state safety standards.

Lots of parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly spots. Attractions like the Children's Zoo and Museum offer family activities.

The city is welcoming to LGBTQ+, with legal protections and annual Pride events.

Lincoln is pet-friendly with dog parks, vets, and many pet-accepting spots.