Ah, Lincoln, Nebraska!

The land of sunkissed fields and sprawling meadows. A place where welcoming people thrive alongside progressive cultural institutions. As a travel writer with an insatiable hunger for the authentic and unusual, Im excited to take you on a journey through some of the secret places in this lovely city that embody its true essence.

First up is the Haymarket District downtown (701 P St), which boasts vibrant street art murals and quaint cafes unique to Lincoln. But its not just the charming aesthetic that attracts visitors here; its also home to some hidden gems like Barrymores Live Music Venue (124 N 13th St). This historic building features local musicians and performances from around the country in genres ranging from indie to jazz.

Next stop is Antelope Park (1650 Memorial Dr.), where locals gather for everything from outdoor plays at The Swan Theatre Company (@swanlincoln) to quiet walks around its peaceful ponds. Here, nature meets history as visitors can explore its historical fragments like The Sunken Gardens within walking distance along North E Street past iconic spots like Farmers Market (@LNKFarmersMarket).

And no trip would be complete without visiting Pioneer Park Nature Center (3201 S Coddington Ave), nestled amongst towering trees swaying gently in crisp autumnal breezes or summer heat shimmering across wildflowers blooming everywhere they could find purchase underfoot or above your head on tall stalks reaching high into blue skies overhead beneath clouds floating lazily by... but I digress! This center offers a glimpse of what life might have been on this land hundreds of years ago before settlers arrived all while providing fun familyfriendly activities such as birdwatching trips & animal encounters!

Lastly, we must discuss Zoo Bar(136 N 14th St), hailed as one of Americas top blues music venues by numerous publications including Rolling Stone Magazine itself. One foot inside this iconic building and you can feel the citys history vibrating through its walls. With live music every night, its simply a mustvisit for any true Lincoln resident or visitor.

So there you have it! Some of the secret places in Lincoln that embody its unique essence. Its easy to see why locals are so proud of their vibrantyetauthentic city friendly people, progressive ideas, and endless opportunities for outdoor exploration make it a truly special place.

Websites & Twitter handles:

Barrymores Live Music Venue: @barrymoreslve

The Swan Theatre Company: swanlincoln.org

Farmers Market: lincoln.org/play/farmersmarket/

Pioneer Park Nature Center: parks.lincoln.ne.gov/pages/parknaturecenters.aspx

Zoo Bar: zoobar.com