Things to Do at Haymarket District

The Haymarket District occupies eight blocks of restored warehouses in downtown Lincoln, where 19th-century brick buildings now house restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues that create the city's most active nightlife area. Originally built to serve the Burlington Railroad, these industrial buildings feature exposed brick walls, wooden floors, and large windows that flood converted spaces with natural light. Walking the district's brick streets, you can smell barbecue smoke from restaurants and hear live music spilling from clubs while the whistle of passing trains provides a soundtrack to this historic commercial area. Exploring the Haymarket is free, though meals cost $15-30 per person and craft cocktails run $8-12 at the various bars and restaurants. Visit Saturday evening when live music venues come alive and you can experience how Lincoln's historic railroad district has evolved into the city's cultural and entertainment center.

The Haymarket District sits just northwest of downtown Lincoln. You can walk there from the city center in 10-15 minutes, though the cobblestone streets will punish anyone in heels or using mobility devices. Street parking fills the district along with small lots tucked between buildings. Weekends get busy. Lincoln's bus system serves the area with several routes stopping nearby-useful when the lots fill up. The cobblestones add character but they're brutal on wheels and ankles.