There's an entire cultural side of Lincoln that can be easily missed when you're caught up in the daily grind. Visit any (or all) of these local museums to see fantastic art, learn about state history or improve your knowledge on a niche subject matter.
ART
Sheldon Art Museum
You likely recognize this campus landmark, but may have never gotten the chance to step inside. Take a visit to the Sheldon and you'll be pleasantly surprised by the multiple large galleries and notable artworks that can be found right on your own campus.
Great Plains Art Museum
Located right on 11th and Q streets, this museum is full of galleries depicting Nebraska's state history through gorgeous artworks. Whenever you're looking to get away from your daily grind, travel the short distance for a visit to the Great Plains Art Museum.
LUX Center for the Arts
A unique art experience that departs from the typical gallery setup, the Lux Center also offers artworks for sale, a variety of art classes exploring all mediums and numerous events focused on bringing art to all people in Lincoln. Visit their website to see upcoming events and exhibitions.
HISTORY/ NATURAL SCIENCE
Nebraska History Museum
The Nebraska History Museum is part of the larger Nebraskan History Society, and documents over 12,000 years of the state's past. Here you can learn about what it was like to live in Nebraska before it was a state and early into its settlement, as well as major events that have affected all Nebraskans. This vast collection has over 125,000 items, so there's sure to be something of interest to everyone.
Germans from Russia Museum
This museum is dedicated to documenting the history of Germanic settlers within the Russian empires, and their descendants– many of whom are living in the Nebraska community today. The historical society has the largest repository of information on Germans from Russia in the Western Hemisphere, so it's worth a visit even if you aren't descended from this specific heritage.
Morrill Hall
Almost every student has probably visited Archie the Elephant, but have you ever ventured inside Morrill Hall? This campus museum features an amazing hall of elephants, hundreds of fossils and exhibits on Nebraska's prehistoric past. There is also a planetarium offering free shows about outer space and astronomy.
State Capitol Building
While not technically a museum, the Nebraska State Capitol has much to offer anyone seeking historical insight. Simply going for a walk through this gorgeous building can help you discover tidbits of information on Nebraska's unique legislature and art deco architecture. Take a free tour with one of the Capitol's guides to learn more about Nebraskan government history.
SPECIAL INTEREST
International Quilt Museum
This campus-affiliated museum is found on 27th and Holdrege streets, and features many artistic and intricate quilts from a wide range of time periods. The entire museum doesn't take too long to work through, so plan a trip whenever you have some free time in your day.
National Museum of Roller Skating
You may have never considered the history of roller skating, but that will change with a visit to this specialty museum. Peruse the many artifacts and exhibits detailing one of America's favorite historical pastimes. Roller skating has had another recent surge in popularity, so plan your visit to stay current.
Larsen Tractor Test & Power Museum
Conveniently located on East Campus, anyone can benefit from a visit to this novelty museum. Whether you're a born-and-raised Midwesterner or need to brush up on your farming knowledge, the Tractor Museum is a great place to start. Complete with a tractor testing track outside, this museum got its start through UNL tractor tests that standardized performance in agriculture worldwide.
Speedway Motors Museum of American Speed
Car lovers and racing fans are guaranteed to have a blast at this specialty stop. Browse through this building full of auto memorabilia and exhibits to dive deep into the vast history of American vehicles, engines, racing and more.
More details at: https://www.travelawaits.com/2488508/lincoln-nebraska-museums/