Fuel Up Your Morning
Start gameday strong with a breakfast that keeps you cheering all day. Engine House Café in Havelock is a Lincoln classic with big portions, bottomless coffee, and that friendly small-town diner vibe. For something cozy, Penelope’s Lil’ Café serves up homestyle favorites that feel like Sunday mornings at grandma’s. Or, go trendy at Early Bird, where creative plates and brunch cocktails are as delicious as they are Instagram-worthy.
Afternoon Pick-Me-Up
Need a second wind? Lincoln’s coffee shops have you covered. Try the Lincoln Latte at 1893 Coffee & Cream, recharge at The Charging Station, or sip something floral at Bloom Coffee. Grab your coffee with a side of rock music at Rock ‘n’ Joe or enjoy the relaxed vibes and locally roasted brews in North Lincoln at Mo Java. No matter where you stop, one thing is for sure: you won’t be short on caffeine in Lincoln.
Celebrate Your Hometown Pride at the Nebraska High School Sports Hall of Fame Museum
Swing by the Nebraska High School Sports Hall of Fame Museum, where Nebraska’s high school athletic history comes alive. Search for your hometown team, browse memorabilia, and tie in your local pride into your gameday experience.
Visit the Go Big Red exhibit at the Sheldon Museum of Art
The chant. The team. The energy. The art. The Sheldon Museum of Art’s newest exhibit, Go Big Red, brings Husker spirit to the gallery walls with artwork co-curated by icons like Matt Rhule and John Cook, and numerous community voices. Each curator selected a piece featuring the power of red, the school color chosen back in 1892.
Family Adventures
Not everyone wants to sit still until kickoff, so burn some energy with family-friendly fun. Head to Prehistoric Putt for dino-themed mini golf, bounce to South Lincoln and climb at Lost in Fun, or go all-out at Urban Air with trampolines, ropes courses, and high-flying fun for the whole crew.
Grab Your Gameday Gear
You just can't leave Lincoln without adding a little red to your closet. Score trendy gameday looks at Ash & Ash Co., pick up unique styles you won’t find anywhere else at 555 Boutique, or go all-in at Alumni Hall, packed wall-to-wall with Husker tees, hoodies and everything you need to rep your team in style.
Where to Watch the Game
Not heading to Memorial Stadium? Lincoln has plenty of spots throughout the city to catch every play. The Press Box Sports Bar & Grill offers a lively atmosphere and hearty pub favorites, while The Garage Sports Bar & Grill draws fans with big screens, bold flavors, and nonstop energy. The Watering Hole East brings classic sports bar vibes with plenty of TVs, The Grata Bar & Lounge offers a sleek setting for drinks and small bites, and Sportscasters is a casual, fun spot perfect for cheering loudly with friends.
BBQ Craving Satisfied
What’s gameday without barbecue? For smoky, tender meats and homemade sides, head to Mulberry BBQ, a Lincoln staple that never disappoints. Or try Canyon Joe’s BBQ, where bold flavors and saucy ribs make for the perfect comfort meal after a day of cheering on the Huskers.
Rooftop Drinks at Barred Owl in the Scarlet Hotel
If you’re looking for something a little more elevated (literally), make your way to Barred Owl at the Scarlet Hotel. Their rooftop bar pairs signature cocktails with panoramic views of Lincoln’s skyline. It’s the ideal place to toast the Huskers and see some fun Husker-themed memorabilia throughout the hotel.
Dinner Stops
When the game wraps up, keep the celebration going with dinner at some Lincoln classics. The original Misty’s is a steakhouse institution with decades of Husker history woven into every meal. H.F. Crave delivers juicy, Nebraska-raised beef burgers that will hit the spot after a long day. For a casual pub-style dinner with hearty portions and cold drinks, Leighton’s Pub makes a perfect postgame stop.
Cheers to a Husker Win with Local Brews
No Lincoln gameday is complete without raising a glass to a Husker win (hopefully) at one of the city’s many local breweries. Head to the Zipline Taproom and try the iconic Dear Ol’ Nebraska Brew, a fan favorite that tastes even better after a win. For even more local flavor, sip small-batch creativity at Corn Coast Brewing Co., explore rotating taps at Pour Craft Beer & Spirits or enjoy community vibes at Code Beer Co. Wherever you land, you’ll find great beer, friendly faces, and the perfect toast to gameday.
Whether you’re in town for football, family time, or just the food and fun, Lincoln’s gameday options extend far beyond the stadium. Add a few of these stops to your lineup and you’ll score a winning experience no matter what the scoreboard says. For additional inspiration for city-wide adventures, be sure to check out our Neighborhood Guide!
