Obviously Omaha goes on the road this month to explore Lincoln’s historic Haymarket district. Heading down for a basketball game or concert at Pinnacle Bank Arena? Here’s a guide to our favorite galleries, coffee shops, restaurants, bars, and boutiques.
LOOK
If art and design is your thing, check out the Burkholder Project’s three levels of galleries and the newly installed Gallery Alley, a pedestrian gateway featuring the work of various artists. Redeveloped in 1987, The Burkholder Project is best described as “an art colony in one building.” If photography is more your cup of tea, check out the Michael Forsberg gallery just around the corner.
EAT
Lincoln’s Haymarket is practically overflowing with delicious bites. For some contemporary American fare, try a burger at Leadbelly or check out Lazlo’s Brewery & Grill, which claims to be the first brewpub in Nebraska. For something more exotic, try a taste of India at The Oven or some yellow curry at Blue Orchid Thai Restaurant, located right behind the Grand Manse. Need something to really surprise your taste buds? Head over to Buzzard Billy’s for some alligator tail and other Cajun cuisine.
DRINK
Between the rooftop deck and lively atmosphere, no game day is complete without a stop at Barry’s. Formerly the Arlington House hotel, you’ll be setting foot in the same place where a waggish Oscar Wilde stayed when he visited Lincoln in 1882. If it’s your first time in town, grab a Moscow mule at Tavern on the Square, also a local favorite. Now trending and located just across from Pinnacle Bank Arena are Longwell’s and Gate 25.
INDULGE
It’s a sin to leave Lincoln without savoring a couple scoops of ice cream at Ivanna Cone. Fittingly located in the Creamery Building, look for the line that often extends out the door—or just follow the mouthwatering scent of fresh-baked waffle cones. If it’s too chilly to enjoy a cone, satisfy your sweet tooth at Rocket Fizz Soda Pop and Candy Shop in The Railyard.
SHOP
It’s hard to leave the Haymarket without a shopping bag or two. Drop by Forever Faithful Boutique and cozy up in an infinity scarf or head over to KD Designs for unique, handcrafted jewelry pieces created by a local mother-daughter duo. Don’t forget to stop by Letter Bee Paperie and check out the beautiful stationery on your way out.
UNWIND
The Haymarket may seem to be all go-go-go, but there are also nooks of calm and quietude. Relax at Indigo Bridge Books on P Street by snagging something from the book exchange or enjoy some grub from the in-house café. Some of the best people-watching may be found over at The Mill. Order a café au lait and park it on a rustic bench. Even if you’re lost in thought, the creaky wood floors announce the arrival of quirky characters who contribute to the quintessential coffeeshop ambience of The Mill.
Visit lincolnhaymarket.org to learn more.