Last updated: 2025-04-22
Lincoln’s indoor attractions offer a vibrant escape from Nebraska’s unpredictable weather. From world-class museums to intimate performance venues, the city provides cultural experiences that captivate visitors and locals alike, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of the Great Plains.
Whether exploring historic state capitol exhibits, enjoying live music at intimate theaters, or discovering interactive museum displays, Lincoln’s indoor destinations promise engaging experiences for every interest and age group throughout the year.
Discover Lincoln’s best indoor adventures right here!
Featured Indoor Activities in Lincoln
- Lincoln Children's Museum
- Nebraska State Capitol Building Tours
- Paint Yourself Silly
- Sheldon Museum of Art
- Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center
- Nebraska History Museum
- International Quilt Museum
- The Bourbon Theatre
International Quilt Museum
What to Expect
World's largest publicly held quilt collection
Description
The International Quilt Museum houses the world's largest publicly held quilt collection, showcasing diverse textile artworks from global traditions. Visitors explore extensive galleries featuring contemporary and historical quilts, with rotating exhibitions that highlight artistic techniques, cultural significance, and innovative design approaches.
Where: Lincoln | More Info: International Quilt Museum
Lincoln Children's Museum
What to Expect
Three-story Luckey Climber interactive climbing structure
Description
Interactive children's museum spanning 23,000 sq. ft. with immersive exhibits designed for children ages 0-12. Features multi-story climbing structures, themed play zones like Cuckoo Construction and Runza restaurant, and hands-on learning experiences that encourage imaginative exploration through play.
Where: Lincoln | More Info: Lincoln Children's Museum
Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center
What to Expect
Metropolitan Opera and National Theatre live broadcast venue
Description
Comprehensive media arts center showcasing diverse film experiences, including live broadcasts from the Metropolitan Opera and National Theatre. Offers curated film screenings, cultural events, and special series like Native American Film Series and Made in Nebraska exhibitions.
Where: Lincoln | More Info: Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center
Nebraska History Museum
What to Expect
Comprehensive state history preservation and exhibition
Description
The Nebraska History Museum showcases the state's rich cultural heritage through engaging exhibits highlighting local history, Native American artifacts, pioneer experiences, and significant state milestones. Interactive displays and curated collections provide visitors with an immersive journey through Nebraska's historical narrative and social development.
Where: Lincoln | More Info: Nebraska History Museum
Nebraska State Capitol Building Tours
What to Expect
Iconic art deco tower with panoramic state government architectural design
Description
Nebraska State Capitol offers free guided tours showcasing historic legislative chambers, architectural marvel, and state government facilities. Visitors explore stunning art deco design, legislative spaces, and learn about Nebraska's political heritage through immersive architectural experiences.
Where: Lincoln | More Info: Nebraska State Capitol Building Tours
Paint Yourself Silly
What to Expect
Custom ceramic painting studio with multiple Lincoln locations
Description
Paint Yourself Silly is a pottery studio in Lincoln, Nebraska, offering hands-on ceramic painting experiences for all ages. Visitors can select from a wide range of pottery pieces, paint them creatively, and create personalized ceramic art in a welcoming studio environment.
Where: Lincoln | More Info: Paint Yourself Silly
Sheldon Museum of Art
What to Expect
Algorithmic art exhibitions and contemporary Indigenous art collections
Description
University art museum showcasing contemporary and historical art collections, featuring rotating exhibitions of Indigenous art, generative technology displays, and curated gallery installations that explore themes of human creativity, cultural perspectives, and interconnectedness.
Where: Lincoln | More Info: Sheldon Museum of Art
The Bourbon Theatre
What to Expect
Vintage music venue with intimate concert atmosphere
Description
The Bourbon Theatre is a live music venue in downtown Lincoln featuring intimate performances across multiple genres. The historic space offers a dynamic concert experience with excellent sound quality and close-proximity stage access for music enthusiasts seeking authentic live performances.
Where: Lincoln | More Info: The Bourbon Theatre
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