The Ultimate Scavenger Hunt Guide to Lincoln, Nebraska

The Ultimate Scavenger Hunt in Lincoln, Nebraska

As the capital of one of the most underrated states in America, Lincoln has so much to offer visitors. From its rich history and culture to a vibrant food scene and university atmosphere, this Midwest city definitely deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.

Exploring Lincoln's Top Attractions

One of the best ways to experience Lincoln is by embarking on an epic scavenger hunt across town. You'll get to check out many of the top attractions while having a blast searching for clues with your friends or family.

Be sure to stop by popular destinations like the Nebraska State Capitol building, home to the second tallest U.S. state capitol. Marvel at its 400-foot tower offering 360-degree views. The building's interior dazzles as well with polished marble floors and vaulted ceilings showcasing artwork. Political history buffs could spend hours exploring it.

Uncovering Lincoln's Unique Culture

Venture to the vibrant Haymarket District to soak up street performances, local boutiques, hip bars, and award-winning farm-to-table restaurants that reflect Lincoln’s artsy culture.

Make sure to also visit tourist favorites such as the Sunken Gardens, a beautiful public garden space featuring thousands of plants, the Lincoln Children's Zoo to spot exotic animals, and the Lincoln Children’s Museum full of hands-on educational exhibits for kids.

Exploring the University of Nebraska

Plan to spend some time at the sprawling University of Nebraska campus as well. Catch a show at one of its many theaters or visit attractions like the Mueller Planetarium and the Robert Hillestad Textiles Gallery showcasing international textiles arts.

Be sure to also visit Memorial Stadium, home to the beloved Cornhuskers football team. With a capacity of more than 85,000 screaming fans, it's an icon of Nebraska pride.

Planning an Epic Scavenger Hunt Around Lincoln

Now for the fun part: planning the ultimate scavenger hunt across Lincoln to hit up all of these attractions and more while solving clues!

Form Teams and Get Moving

Decide if you want smaller teams competing against each other or one big group working together. Then let the hunt begin! Hand out clues leading teams across town to places like:

• The Lincoln Community Foundation Garden with its beautiful flowers and labyrinth
• The historic Interstate 80 footbridge over Salt Creek
• Innovation Campus business accelerator with modern architecture

At each destination, they’ll find details on the next stop. Prizes like gift cards to cute cafes or tickets to shows await at the end!

Take in More Sights Along the Way

Don’t forget to incorporate additional attractions into clues, like stops at:

• The expansive Pioneers Park Nature Center overlooking a giant pond
• Buzzard Billy’s tiki bar serving crazy cocktails with mugs to keep
• Standing Bear Lake for paddle boating with views of a replica Native American earth lodge village

Mix Up Clue Difficulty and Type

Vary clue complexity to keep everyone entertained. Use easy riddles for quick finds then complicated puzzles requiring visiting multiple locations before figuring out the final spot.

You can hide clues in geocaches, sealed envelopes, or locks requiring answering trivia questions. Text participants pictures or verbal brain teasers. Options are endless!

Tips for an Epic Scavenger Hunt Around Lincoln

Looking to make your scavenger hunt even more awesome? Keep these tips in mind:

Incorporate Themes

Go with exciting themes around Nebraska pride, university life, local urban legends, or city history! Participants dress up to match for extra fun.

Make Photo Stops

At certain destinations, provide disposable or instant print cameras for teams to take group shots while doing activities like wearing Cornhuskers gear or interacting with art statues around town.

Throw After Parties

Cap off all the merriment by hosting parties afterwards at spots like Buzzard Billy’s, Lincoln mainstay watering holes such as Copal or Barry’s Bar & Grill, or even grab a group campsite to keep hanging out under the stars while sharing laughs about the big day.

A scavenger hunt across Lincoln makes for an epic way to explore Nebraska's vibrant capital. With so many cool attractions, a happening downtown area, and that friendly Midwest charm, you really can't go wrong planning an adventure here. Just be prepared for your crew to never want to leave at the end!

FAQs

Where are the best places to host a scavenger hunt in Lincoln?

Some top spots include Pioneers Park Nature Center, Haymarket District, University of Nebraska campus, the State Capitol building area, Sunken Gardens, and Buzzard Billy's bar. These allow for both indoor and outdoor hunts across various settings.

What's a good scavenger hunt team size?

Teams of 4-6 people work well. This allows for crowd control while still fostering teamwork. Consider skill levels too - mix competitive participants with those who simply want fun.

How long should my scavenger hunt last?

The hunt itself should take 2-4 hours depending on how complicated your clues are and how spread out destinations are. Factor in after parties too or plan for a full day adventure.

What are some good scavenger hunt themes in Lincoln?

Nebraska football pride, university campus life, city history, and urban legends are great themes! You can even do general topics like pop culture or Lincoln's arts scene if you want broader material to draw clues from.