If you're interested in the arts, Lincoln won't disappoint. The Sheldon Museum of Art offers an extensive collection of 20th century works. including pieces from Edward Hopper and Jackson Pollock, while the Ross Media Arts Center features documentary and independent films. Looking for something quainter? Check out the International Quilt Center. This destination offers hotels as diverse as its highlights so you can find the perfect room no matter who's in your party.
When to Visit Lincoln, Nebraska
Lincoln, Nebraska, offers four distinct seasons, so you can enjoy a dramatically different experience depending on the time of year. The busiest season for Nebraska tourism is from late May to early September, when traditional schools are on vacation. Summer events include Jazz in June, the International Thespian Festival, Uncle Sam Jam, Lancaster County Fair, and Lincoln ZombieFest.
Between mid-September and October, you'll enjoy a shoulder season with comfortable weather and a slight drop in crowds. Local events highlight the autumn weather with options like Boo at the Zoo and the Pumpkin Run.
The winter months between November and February represent Lincoln's lowest tourist season. Hotels are at their most affordable for visitors who are willing to brave the cold. Visit in winter and you can enjoy Shop the Blocks, when stores stay open late and offer special discounts just for holiday shoppers. If you're in town over the second Sunday in December, you can see the Nebraska State Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.
March to mid-May is another shoulder season. You can enjoy activities that begin to pull you outside again during these spring months, such as Lincoln Earth Day and horse racing at the Lincoln Race Course.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Lincoln, NE:
Lincoln, NE: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. nightly cost trends by star rating class in Lincoln, NE. Browse these illustrations to calculate the most cost effective time to stay in Lincoln for upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotels in Lincoln, Nebraska
4 Star Average Prices: $133.43
Are you looking for a luxurious hotel where you'll feel pampered while you're in Lincoln? There are several choices available that offer added amenities so you can enjoy some extra elegance during your stay.
Embassy Suites Lincoln enjoys a prime location in the heart of the city. The hotel's suite accommodations feature separate living and sleeping areas. The kitchenette is equipped with a microwave, mini-refrigerator, and coffeemaker. Executive rooms include a dining table and larger work area. Each morning, a complimentary breakfast is cooked to order so you can start the day with your favorite flavors. Additional dining options are available at the Embassy Bar & Grille. Relax on-site with the indoor swimming pool, whirlpool, and sauna.
At the Courtyard by Marriott Lincoln Downtown, all your most important needs are taken care of on-site. You can grab breakfast and dinner at The Bistro and pick up any items that you forget at the hotel's convenience store. Thanks to its central location, this hotel also enjoys restaurant delivery from many nearby places. Rooms feature complimentary high-speed Internet access so you can stay connected. A mini-fridge in every room is an added convenience that ensures you can always have cold drinks on hand. For recreation, you can visit the indoor pool, whirlpool, or fitness center.
If you're looking for comfortable accommodations in the charming Historic Haymarket District, head to the Holiday Inn Downtown Lincoln. Ideal for special events, this hotel offers meeting rooms, a boardroom, and three ballrooms. Dine at the Red Onion Bistro and Bar, where you can enjoy locally grown produce, homemade pizza dough, and freshly baked breads. Don't miss the hotel's complimentary cocktail hour each day for an added touch of luxury.
Affordable Hotels in Lincoln, Nebraska
3 Star Average Prices: $111.00
Lincoln, Nebraska. offers several low-cost hotel options that are ideal for travelers on a budget. Stay at America's Best Value Inn Lincoln Airport and enjoy a free continental breakfast, complimentary Wi-Fi, and cable television with HBO and over 50 channels. Special weekly and monthly rates are available for long-term stays.
Knights Inn Lincoln Airport is another affordable option with a continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi to add value to your stay. A refrigerator and microwave in each room make it easy to prepare snacks or meals so you can save even more money during your visit by avoiding an abundance of pricey restaurant meals.
Days Inn Lincoln has accommodations for every type of visitor. Standard rooms include complimentary Wi-Fi, a microwave, and a mini-fridge. Select rooms offer added relaxation with jetted hot tubs. Are you traveling with a furry friend? Pet-friendly accommodations are available as well.
If you're looking for an affordable hotel with added recreation on-site, the Travelodge Lincoln has a heated indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center. This hotel also serves up a complimentary Bear Bites breakfast. You can enjoy lunch and dinner on-site at the Lazlos Brewery and Grill.
2 Star Average Prices: $98.72
The Best Hotel Discounts in Lincoln, Nebraska
If you're looking for great hotel deals and discounts, your best option is typically to choose a preferred chain and stick with it as you travel. Fortunately, Lincoln has many of the most popular hotel chains in the country, so you have an excellent chance of finding a place to cash in or add to your loyalty points.
Stay at the Hyatt Place Lincoln/Downtown-Haymarket and build up your points twice as fast with double the rewards. Members of the IHG Rewards Club can get 1,000 bonus points for every night of their stay at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lincoln-Roseville Area. This hotel also offers special packages for added value while you're in Lincoln, like the Gold Getaway Package with 18 holes of golf and lunch included in your stay, or the Spa Getaway Package featuring a certificate for a full body massage or facial.
The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker offers special discounts for AAA members, CAA members, seniors, government employees, and military personnel and their families. Special packages available at this hotel include the Movie Night Package with tickets to the Marcus Lincoln Grand Cinema, and the Experience Romance Package with chocolate-covered strawberries, champagne, and breakfast for two.
The Best Value Hotels in Lincoln, Nebraska
Value hotels abound in Lincoln, Nebraska. These popular destinations offer the perfect combination of affordability combined with standout amenities. If you want to make sure every dollar you spend in the city goes as far as possible, book a room at one of these destinations.
At the Hampton Inn & Suites Lincoln Northeast I 80, your stay includes a free hot breakfast, so you can immediately start padding your travel budget with the money you'll save on the most important meal of the day. Guest rooms are equipped for efficiency and convenience with both a work desk and a lap desk so you can take care of everything on your agenda. A microwave and refrigerator are available in every room, so you never have to let great leftovers go to waste while you're staying here. On-site amenities include a heated outdoor pool and fitness center.
There's plenty for guests to enjoy at the Hampton Inn South Heritage Park, thanks to its indoor pool, fitness center, and nearby walking and running trails. Your day here starts with a free hot breakfast and ends with a comfortable Hampton bed. Internet access is complimentary, so you never have to spend extra to check your email, share your vacation photos, or plan the details of your next exciting day.
If you need spacious accommodations with the comforts of home, choose Staybridge Suites Lincoln Northeast. Suites include a full-size refrigerator, microwave, toaster, and dishwasher. You don't have to dine on paper here, with plates, glassware, silverware, and serving ware available in your room. In-room entertainment is easy with cable television and a DVD player on hand. Additional amenities include a heated indoor pool, whirlpool, fitness room, and laundry facilities.
Getting Around Lincoln, Nebraska
Most of Lincoln's most popular highlights are available right downtown. If your hotel is conveniently located near the center of the city, you may find that you can get around on foot just fine. Consider the location of your accommodations carefully if you're visiting without a car to make things as easy as possible.
Bike rentals are another convenient option in Lincoln. Monkeywrench Cycles offers rental bikes. When cycling, you can cross the city in an hour or less, thanks to Lincoln's extensive trail system. If you prefer to take public transportation, the StarTran bus system runs until 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and until 6:55 p.m. Saturday (some routes go until 9 p.m. when the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is in session). Buses do not run on Sundays. If you're renting a car, be prepared for some significant traffic in Lincoln, particularly on football Sundays or during rush hour.
With so many hotel options on hand, you'll have no trouble booking the ideal stay for your trip to Lincoln, Nebraska. Whether you're in town for business or a family vacation, this city has something to make your visit worthwhile.
FAQs about hotels in Lincoln
How much does a cheap hotel in Lincoln cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Lincoln can be as cheap as $98.72 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Lincoln cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Lincoln has been $111.00 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a higher-end hotel in Lincoln cost?
In the last year, the average 4 star hotel in Lincoln has been $133.43 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
What did travelers think of the city of Lincoln?
Below are reviews of the city of Lincoln, NE from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Love the Haymarket Area"
Score
5.0 / 5
We love the Haymarket area and was in town for a wedding!
Rachelle N., from 26-Mar-2024
"Shopping Options Unlimited!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Shopping options unlimited!
Stephanie W., from 17-Mar-2024
"A college town with a vibe!"
Score
5.0 / 5
A college town with a vibe!
Michael M., from 04-Mar-2024
"Good Location."
Score
5.0 / 5
Doctor appointments; good location of the hotel.
Rosemarie J., from 03-Mar-2024
"Fun Downtown"
Score
4.0 / 5
Lincoln is fun to walk downtown just to people watch.
Mel N., from 24-Feb-2024
"Excited that Lazlo's is right there within walking distance!"
Score
5.0 / 5
We were so excited that Lazlo's was right there within walking distance!
Rob M., from 31-Jan-2024
"Great college sporting events, concerts, dining & libations!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Lincoln offers great college sporting events, concerts, dining and libations. It's a beautiful city with a small town attitude.
Cyndi M., from 25-Jan-2024
"Good Location"
Score
4.0 / 5
Doctor appointments; good location of the hotel.
Rosemarie J., from 21-Jan-2024
"Cute"
Score
4.0 / 5
Cute
George Z., from 15-Jan-2024
"FRIENDLY COLLEGE TOWN"
Score
5.0 / 5
FRIENDLY TOWN. OUR GRANDDAUGHTER IS GOING TO COLLEGE THERE.
Steve G., from 11-Jan-2024
"PBA was a wonderful experience!"
Score
4.0 / 5
PBA was a wonderful experience!
Robert M., from 10-Jan-2024
"Nice Town!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Nice town!
William B., from 29-Oct-2023
"Halloween Party in Market Square!"
Score
4.0 / 5
The Halloween party in Market Square!
Bob S., from 25-Oct-2023
"Softball at University Campus"
Score
4.0 / 5
We were in Lincoln attending our granddaughter's softball tournament on the university's campus! Great stadium!
Karen U., from 18-Oct-2023
"Convenient to Town & Dining"
Score
5.0 / 5
Close to town and dining.
Troy C., from 04-Oct-2023
"Near Football Stadium"
Score
4.0 / 5
Attended a football game. Place was very clean and easy to walk around; we walked to the stadium! Great place to bring family!
Ladonna H., from 03-Oct-2023
"Holy Family Shrine, Zoo, Air & Space Museum, Cornhuskers! "
Score
5.0 / 5
Visiting the Holy Family Shrine, the Omaha Zoo, the Air & Space Museum, the Cornhusker game and most importantly, visiting my son!!! The people are nice and very welcoming!!!
Pete G., from 02-Oct-2023
"Husker Game Day & Campus!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Wonderful city especially on Husker game day. Beautiful campus and wonderful people.
David H., from 01-Oct-2023
"La Paz is a great place to eat!"
Score
4.0 / 5
La Paz is a great place to eat! I'm retired and use to eat there when I started teaching at Lincoln General Hospital.
Kathy H., from 27-Sep-2023
"Shopping!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The shopping
Sharonann L., from 19-Sep-2023
"Convenient to Restaurants"
Score
4.0 / 5
Restaurants are easily accessible from hotel.
Nora C., from 13-Sep-2023
"Fabulous Movie Theater!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Movie theater was fabulous!
Brenda W., from 13-Sep-2023
"Great Sushi in the Middle of Nebraska!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Lincoln is a great small city. I had stayed there on my way east in July and was glad to return on my way back west. Friendly, great food and vibe. I only stayed overnight and had a very nice dinner at Hiro88. Great sushi in the middle of Nebraska… go figure! 👍🏻
Vittoria B., from 11-Sep-2023
"Amazing Stay!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Hotel stay was amazing!
Corrine G., from 19-Jul-2023
"Clean & Historical"
Score
4.0 / 5
Lots of activities! Clean and historical.
Jo P., from 10-Jul-2023
"Easy Access to Hospital"
Score
5.0 / 5
Ease of getting to the hospital from hotel.
Janet C., from 28-Jun-2023
"Safe Downtown Area"
Score
5.0 / 5
Felt safe downtown while walking around.
Karen B., from 13-Jun-2023
"The Gardens"
Score
4.0 / 5
The Gardens over by the zoo.
Carol F., from 06-Jun-2023
"Children's Museum "
Score
5.0 / 5
Children's Museum and a good little Mexican fast food place close by!
Carolyn M., from 01-Jun-2023
"Haymarket for Dining & Entertainment"
Score
4.0 / 5
The Haymarket is a vibrant part of the city, with many choices for entertainment and eating out.
Alex M., from 06-May-2023
"Clean Modern Hotel"
Score
5.0 / 5
Good restaurants, plenty to see, traffic not that bad during Basketball Tournament. Clean and modern hotel.
David S., from 05-Mar-2023
"Clean, comfortable and friendly staff."
Score
5.0 / 5
Clean, comfortable and friendly staff. We were just passing through, appreciated closeness to the interstate.
Micheal H., from 03-Mar-2023
"Lots of Entertainment!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Lots of entertainment.
Floyd J., from 21-Dec-2022
"Perfect Location"
Score
4.0 / 5
Hotel is close to a lot of the places. It was the perfect location.
Lorie R., from 20-Dec-2022
"Excellent soul food at Mary Ellen's!"
Score
5.0 / 5
I was visiting my brother and his family. The food at the Mary Ellen's soul food restaurant was excellent.
Deborah H., from 08-Dec-2022
"May Ellen's Soul Food"
Score
5.0 / 5
The food at the Mary Ellen's soul food restaurant was excellent.
Deborah H., from 28-Nov-2022
"Wilderness Ridge Country Club"
Score
4.0 / 5
Lincoln has become a beautiful city since I was here many years ago. The Wilderness Ridge Country Club is very cool!
Sharon S., from 14-Nov-2022
"Hospital"
Score
4.0 / 5
Stayed for hospital visit but that was all
Connie B., from 04-Nov-2022
"Clean and safe!!!!!!!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Clean and safe!!!!!!!
Robert D., from 09-Sep-2022
"Good food and entertainment venues."
Score
4.0 / 5
Friendly people, good food and many entertaining venues.
Robert D., from 25-Jul-2022
"The city was beautiful!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The city was beautiful!
Mike B., from 14-Jul-2022
"Lincoln has many wonderful places to visit. "
Score
5.0 / 5
Lincoln has many wonderful places to visit. The children's zoo. The sunken gardens and Rose garden. Antelope Park is great for their inclusive playground as well as places to picnic. Some covered shelters for hot or rainy days. Pioneers Park is fun and has a nature center. Downtown, the Haymarket has much to offer from great food, shops, bars and live entertainment. Shop The Southe Pointe Mall or The Mall on 66th and O street. Stop by Hobby Lobby on 66th and O for all your crafting and decorating needs. Lots of fun things to explore for the crafter, hobbiest, artist or check out there gorgeous floral department. Fabrics or needle crafts. rUNZA IS A FAVORITE for wonderful food.
Greg H., from 26-Jun-2022
"Hay Market restaurants and bars!"
Score
4.0 / 5
I like Lincoln because it has a young feel to it. I know that is because of the University. But all parts of town are like that. And it is more of a "town" than a "city", i.e. friendly, lots of trees, good pace, kind of a big farm town. I always go down to the Hay Market because of the restaurants and bars.
Arthur B., from 23-Jun-2022
"Great shopping!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Great shopping!
Joanne P., from 05-Jun-2022
"Very nice "
Score
4.0 / 5
We toured the fabulous International Quilt Museum. Our visit included several quilt shops. The day we were here it poured rain. We still enjoyed Lincoln a lot. We dined at Mitzi's for a fantastic dinner.
Kendra M., from 28-May-2022
"Nice Atmosphere & People!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The atmosphere and people are nice.
Gregory C., from 07-Dec-2021
"Clean"
Score
5.0 / 5
City seems to be relatively clean and on a game day, police regulate traffic well.
Greg H., from 28-Nov-2021
"Just Wonderful!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Everything was wonderful, thank you!
Codi L., from 31-Oct-2021
"Great town!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Lincoln is a great big town with small town atmosphere.
Charles N., from 17-Sep-2019
"Downtown is very walkable."
Score
4.0 / 5
Haymarket has great dining. Fun and friendly atmosphere.
Joyce S., from 13-Apr-2019
"Your Capitol is gorgeous! "
Score
5.0 / 5
The inside is beautiful--the detail on your ceiling and walls is just wonderful. I even made it to the 14th floor to view the city! Great! I did get to listen to the chamber in action. I learned a lot and totally enjoyed it! I also visited your Quilt Museum, the Nebraska History Museum, and the Historic Haymarket district! All worth visiting! And there is so much more to see. I will return!
Leslie B., from 29-Mar-2019
"Awesome "
Score
5.0 / 5
The Haymarket and Railyard.
Stacey B., from 25-Nov-2018
"Awesome Stay!"
Score
4.0 / 5
There is a lot of stores and restaurants close to the hotel for convenience.
Vanessa H., from 22-Oct-2017
"Nice City"
Score
4.0 / 5
Lincoln is a nice little city.
Andy B., from 05-May-2017
"Great Food!"
Score
5.0 / 5
If you are in Lincoln, try out Phat Jack's BBQ!
Marc S., from 16-Jan-2017
"Lincoln Highlights"
Score
5.0 / 5
I love the capital building, the Ferguson House, and the shopping.
Debra D., from 21-Apr-2014
The average traveler rating of the city of Lincoln, NE shown above is
4.5 out of 5 based on 56 reviews