A reflection of the early settling of the Midwest, and the early growth changes in the country, were experienced in Lincoln, NE, the state capital. The city was incorporated in 1869, and was named after Abraham Lincoln. On its grounds is the Lincoln monument, which was created by the same artist who sculpted the famous Lincoln statue in Washington, D.C.

Also, a panoramic view of the city can be seen from the observation tower of the 400-foot high capitol building. The building’s white stone Art Deco spire can be seen from miles around. Lincoln prides itself on fine culinary and artistic treasures, beautiful parks, golf courses and a welcoming Midwestern welcome. The state capital is a excellent spot for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts.

Lincoln is the seat of Lancaster; and business activities include: railroad, trades, and an industrial center for a large grain and livestock area where cattle are slaughtered and processed.

Numerous insurance companies have their home offices in Lincoln. Located in Lincoln is the University of Nebraska, Union College, and Nebraska Wesleyan University. A planetarium, an art gallery, a sculpture garden, the state historical society and its museum, and a performing arts center are a part of the community.

Accommodations
The Cornhusker, a Marriott Hotel, is downtown and two blocks from the State Capitol Pershing Center. Country Inn & Suites by Carlson is a hotel and conference center. The Embassy Suites Lincoln has modern facilities, a garden atrium with cascading waterfalls, and is located in the downtown area.

Restaurants
Variety abounds for restaurant styles and choices; some of those include: Romano's Macaroni Grill, Egg Roll King, Mr. Goodcents Subs & Pasta, and the Landmark Steak House which has served the area for over 50 years, offering naturally aged mid-western beef, grilled to perfection.

Crawdaddy's is an eclectic mix of Tex/Mex and Cajun Barbecue and serves whole crawfish, whole slabs of smoked pork ribs and catfish.

Shopping
An array of unique specialty shops and over 100 restaurants, clubs and nightspots, await visitors to downtown at the Historic Haymarket area. Lincoln has many historic neighborhoods abounding with quaint little shops.

South Pointe Pavilions is the largest open-air shopping center offering over 50 stores, restaurants and more. Westfield Gateway, Lincoln's largest enclosed center offers five department stores.

Major Attractions
The Heritage Center has history and interesting options to enjoy. This includes: a summer kitchen, all-faiths chapel, store and blacksmith shop.

The Nebraska State Capitol has stunning mosaic ceilings and floors; paintings and sculptures inside the 400-foot high capitol building are captivating with impressive marble, bronze and gold leaf exterior, and the white tower topped by a bronze statue.

The two-story brick Georgian Colonial-style home is the Governor’s Mansion. The Mansion was built in 1957 and tours include a unique doll collection of the state's first ladies in their inaugural gowns. Descriptions and information about the mansion furnishings are also part of the tour.

Kids will enjoy the Folsom Children's Zoo & Botanical Gardens. They can circle the zoo in a miniature train and see over 300 animals living among spectacular gardens. One of the city's most beautiful parks is Wilderness Park, where hiking, biking and equestrian trails are extensive.

Written by: Karen J. Lee