Places to admire the best holiday light displays around Lincoln

Outdoor holiday light displays are a mainstay of the winter season. The twinkling lights and lawn decorations can entertain from the comfort of a vehicle or in the brisk outside air. Read through our compiled list of the best sites around Lincoln for a variety of displays and themes.

1. Check out interactive Google map called Phillip's Lincoln Lights to discover and explore more than 105 light displays in and around Lincoln. This tool is a perfect way to find spots close to your home or in your favorite area of town. View Phillip's page on Facebook for even more photos and locations submitted by other followers.
   
   
2. Along R Street and N 16th Street on City Campus
   You don't have to go far to start your viewing of lights. Stroll these two campus streets to see the festive light displays installed on the numerous sorority and fraternity chapter houses. We suggest you begin at the Nebraska Union, where you can grab a hot beverage at Starbucks to enjoy while you and your friends check out the lights. See a preview from @UNLStudentLife on Instagram.
   
   
3. Tower Square
   This downtown plaza is one block south of City Campus, at the corner of 13th and P Streets. The namesake tall colored-glass tower that illuminates the spot year-round is joined by holiday light displays on the adjacent buildings and trees. This spot is just a quick 5-minute walk from campus, so don't miss out.
   
   
4. Sheridan Boulevard
   One house on the gorgeous Sheridan Boulevard is registered on the holiday lights map, but the whole of this meandering street is worth a visit. The Sheridan area is known for being one of the most picturesque drives in Lincoln, and always looks warm and festive during the holiday season. Check out the registered light display home on your way through admiring the entire area.
   
   
5. Zoo Lights at the Lincoln Children's Zoo
   Whether you drive by on S 27th Street and Capitol Parkway or stop in and purchase a ticket, you'll get to admire the new additions to the zoo's festive holiday decor. Attractions this year include a 40 ft. tree, over 30 lit animal silhouettes, a tree canopy light walk, and a 60-foot light tunnel.
   
   
6. Magical Lights of Seward
   A 30-minute car drive northwest from downtown Lincoln is Nebraska's largest holiday light show: the Magical Lights of Seward. You can purchase tickets by vehicle for this drive-through event at the Seward Fairgrounds. The massive displays can't be found anywhere else.
   
   Want more festive without leaving the indoors?
   There are completely virtual options to experience holiday lights. Take advantage of YouTube to watch this spectacular light show, or this recent light show made entirely of drones.