Lincoln is one of the safest and fastest-growing Midwest cities—combining the perks of a big city with the comfort of a small town. Living on campus, you'll never be more than a few blocks from the action.
Learn More about Lincoln, NE
Lincoln Fast Facts
- Population: 300,000
- Capital of Nebraska
- One of the largest cities in Big Ten Conference
- Lincoln First in Quality of Life: A State University of New York study rated Lincoln first in quality of life among the 100 largest U.S. cities
- 125 parks (6,000 acres—most in U.S. per capita)
- 5 minutes from Lincoln Airport and 55 minutes from Omaha Airport
- Easy access to Interstate 80
- Over 130 miles of hiking and biking trails
Lincoln Rankings
- Top 10 city for college graduates
- LIVABILITY.COM
- #2 Best Run State in the Nation
- 24/7 WALL STREET
- #8 Happiest States
- GALLUP
- #18 Best City to Find a Job in 2016
- WALLETHUB.COM
- #9 Friendliest State in the Nation
- THUMBTACK.COM AND KAUFFMAN FOUNDATION
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is located next to downtown Lincoln within walking distance of hundreds of restaurants and entertainment venues in the Haymarket and Railyard districts.
The newly-built Pinnacle Bank arena close to campus hosts a variety of world-class performers and sporting events year-round. Past acts included P!nk, Jay Z, Sir Paul McCartney and Cirque du Soleil. The Railyard area around the arena boasts a number of restaurants, coffee houses and boutiques. Due to its diverse employment opportunities and a low cost of living, Lincoln is one of the fastest growing metro areas in the Midwest. It's also within easy traveling distance to larger cities such as Omaha, Kansas City, Chicago, Minneapolis and Denver.
Lincoln is a buzzing college town with something for everyone. Lincoln is home to more than 300,000 people and was ranked the "5th Safest American City" by Forbes. Add to that Lincoln's exciting arts and entertainment scene, new business and technology firms, internship opportunities and hardworking people within a community of scenic parks and bike trails, you'll discover why Lincoln inspires and supports success.
There's lots to do in Lincoln
- Pinnacle Bank Arena
Not just for basketball games, but for world-class acts such as Katy Perry, Jay Z, Florida Georgia Line and Paul McCartney.
- Nebraska BASKETBALL
Led by Tim Miles, Husker Basketball is on its way up in the Pinnacle Bank Arena.
- Nebraska Innovation Campus
The Nebraska Innovation Campus combines the research capabilities of the university and private companies, opening exciting new doors.
- Renovated Rec Centers
Thanks to the Yes 2 Better Recs campaign, the University rec centers have undergone an overhaul and are now better than ever.
- Outdoor Adventures Center
All the rock-climbing you want, a bike rental and repair shop, adventure trips, and classes in anything outdoorsy.
- Sheldon Museum of Art
A prominent collection of over 12,000 works of American art, including a sculpture garden, right on campus.
- The Lied Center for Performing Arts
A historic concert hall on city campus that's hosted big names such as the Blue Man Group, Yo Yo Ma, OK Go, and many others.
- The University of Nebraska State Museum
The Nebraska State Museum is a Smithsonian Affiliate that hosts a vast collection of artifacts. Just look for the giant woolly mammoth on campus.
- UPC Events
The University Program Council puts on exciting events for students year-round.
- Lincoln Marathon
Every year, thousands of runners gather to run a full or half marathon finishing in Memorial Stadium.
- Historic Haymarket
Check out the historic Haymarket district and enjoy the local shops and restaurants.
- Local Art
With galleries, sculptures, and statues all over town, the arts scene in Lincoln is thriving.
- Local Music
The local music scene is booming in Lincoln thanks to 90.3 KRNU student radio and local venues such as Duffy's, The Bourbon, and Vega.
- First Fridays Artwalks
The first Friday of every month is host to many events put on by local groups and businesses all around downtown.
- Lincoln Calling
A local music festival that celebrates Nebraska music and brings big names to Lincoln.
- Jazz in June
A jazz festival put on every year by the Sheldon Art Association.
- Local Restaurants
There are tons of great restaurants just a short walk from campus.
- Dairy Store
The Dairy Store on East Campus has been making the best ice cream around since 1917.
- Football Gameday
There's no place like Nebraska. Gameday in Lincoln is something everyone should experience once in their life.
- Volleyball Games
One of the most storied women's programs in the country, Husker Volleyball is a force to be reckoned with.
- Sunken Gardens
Voted one of the "300 Best Gardens in the United States", the Sunken Gardens are real treat in the spring or summer.
- State Capitol Building
Towering over downtown Lincoln, the beautiful capitol building is a must-see.
- Pioneers Park and Nature Center
Home to 668 acres of tallgrass prairie, woodlands and wetlands.
- Pinewood Bowl Theater
Lincoln's outdoor concert venue that has hosted acts like Mumford & Sons, Boston and Sara Bareilles.
- Farmer's Market
Located in the Haymarket, the farmer's market has fresh produce, music, art, and homemade crafts.
- The Railyard
A new shopping and eating district popping up around the Arena. In the winter months it's home to an outdoor ice rink.
- 77 Miles of Trails
Perfect for running, biking or maybe just a leisurely stroll.
- State Games of America
Originally the Cornhusker State Games, this sporting festival hosts the best amateur competitions in Nebraska.
- Frisbee Golf at Roper Park
If you're into Frisbee golf, there is a great course at Roper Park.
- Student Organizations
There are more than 500 student organizations for you to get involved with. Getting involved is the best way to make the most of your time as a student.
- ASUN
The Association of Students of the University of Nebraska is the student body government and a great way to get involved.
- The Big Event
A huge day of service and volunteering put on by student, faculty and staff designed to give back to the Lincoln community.
- Intramural Sports
Sign up for some friendly competition among fellow students. There are tons of different sports to participate in.
- Dance Marathon
A student organization that raises money each year for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals through one long dance-a-thon.
- Adventure Trips
Sign up for guided adventure trips all over the country led by Nebraska students and staff at the Outdoor Adventures Center.