Best Bars In Lincoln, NE: Your Ultimate Guide

Lincoln, Nebraska, offers a vibrant nightlife with a diverse range of bars to suit any taste. Whether you're looking for a lively sports bar, a cozy dive bar, or an upscale cocktail lounge, Lincoln has something for everyone. This guide will walk you through the best bars in Lincoln, NE, ensuring you find the perfect spot for your next night out.

1. Discovering Lincoln's Bar Scene

Lincoln's bar scene is as diverse as the city itself, with establishments ranging from historic pubs to modern cocktail bars. The city's vibrant downtown area is a hub for nightlife, offering a high concentration of bars and restaurants. However, the surrounding neighborhoods also boast hidden gems worth exploring.

2. Top Bars in Downtown Lincoln

Downtown Lincoln is the epicenter of the city's nightlife. Here are some must-visit bars in the area: — Luke Skywalker In Marvel Comics A Deep Dive Into His Star Wars Journey

2.1. The Bourbon Theatre

• Atmosphere: Live music venue and bar
• Specialties: Craft beer, cocktails, live performances
• Why Visit: The Bourbon Theatre is a staple in Lincoln's music scene, offering a wide selection of drinks and a vibrant atmosphere. It's a great place to catch a show or simply enjoy a night out with friends.

2.2. Barrymore's

• Atmosphere: Upscale cocktail bar
• Specialties: Classic and innovative cocktails, extensive wine list
• Why Visit: Barrymore's is known for its sophisticated ambiance and expertly crafted cocktails. It's the perfect spot for a special occasion or a refined night out.

2.3. The Single Barrel

• Atmosphere: Whiskey bar
• Specialties: Wide selection of whiskeys, craft cocktails
• Why Visit: Whiskey enthusiasts will appreciate The Single Barrel's impressive collection and knowledgeable staff. It's a great place to sample new whiskeys and learn more about the spirit.

2.4. Vega

• Atmosphere: Modern bar and event space
• Specialties: Cocktails, craft beer, lively atmosphere
• Why Visit: Vega offers a stylish setting with a lively atmosphere. It's a popular spot for groups and those looking to dance and socialize.

3. Best Dive Bars in Lincoln

For those seeking a more laid-back and casual experience, Lincoln's dive bars offer a cozy and unpretentious atmosphere. Here are some top dive bar options:

3.1. The Zoo Bar

• Atmosphere: Classic dive bar with a focus on live blues music
• Specialties: Affordable drinks, live music
• Why Visit: The Zoo Bar is a Lincoln institution, known for its live blues performances and no-frills atmosphere. It's a great place to enjoy a cold beer and good music.

3.2. Jake's Cigars and Spirits

• Atmosphere: Cigar bar with a relaxed vibe
• Specialties: Wide selection of cigars, spirits, comfortable seating
• Why Visit: Jake's is a haven for cigar enthusiasts, offering a comfortable environment to enjoy a smoke and a drink. They also have a great selection of spirits.

3.3. Duffy's Tavern

• Atmosphere: Casual neighborhood bar
• Specialties: Draft beer, simple cocktails, friendly atmosphere
• Why Visit: Duffy's Tavern is a local favorite, offering a friendly atmosphere and affordable drinks. It's a great place to unwind and catch up with friends.

4. Sports Bars in Lincoln

Lincoln is a sports-loving city, and there are plenty of sports bars where you can catch the game. Here are some top options:

4.1. DJ's Dugout

• Atmosphere: Lively sports bar with multiple locations
• Specialties: Wide selection of beers, sports on TV, pub food
• Why Visit: DJ's Dugout is a popular sports bar chain in Lincoln, offering a lively atmosphere and plenty of TVs to watch the game. They also have a great menu of pub fare.

4.2. The Press Box Sports Bar

• Atmosphere: Sports-focused bar with a wide selection of beers
• Specialties: Craft beer, sports memorabilia, game-day specials
• Why Visit: The Press Box is a dedicated sports bar with a wide selection of beers and plenty of TVs. It's a great place to watch the game with friends.

4.3. Tanners Bar & Grill

• Atmosphere: Casual sports bar and grill
• Specialties: Wide menu, sports on TV, daily specials
• Why Visit: Tanners offers a comfortable setting to watch sports while enjoying a meal and drinks. They have a wide menu and daily specials.

5. Unique and Themed Bars in Lincoln

For those looking for a unique experience, Lincoln offers several themed bars that stand out from the crowd: — Rent-to-Own Homes In Chicago: Your Guide

5.1. The Side Door Lounge

• Atmosphere: Speakeasy-style cocktail bar
• Specialties: Craft cocktails, vintage ambiance
• Why Visit: The Side Door Lounge offers a unique speakeasy experience with expertly crafted cocktails and a vintage atmosphere. It's a great place for a special night out.

5.2. HopCat

• Atmosphere: Craft beer bar with a wide selection of beers
• Specialties: Extensive beer list, unique food pairings
• Why Visit: HopCat is a haven for beer lovers, offering an extensive selection of craft beers from around the world. They also have a unique menu of food pairings.

5.3. Buzzard Billy's

• Atmosphere: Cajun-themed bar and restaurant
• Specialties: Cajun cuisine, cocktails, lively atmosphere
• Why Visit: Buzzard Billy's offers a fun and lively atmosphere with a Cajun twist. It's a great place to enjoy spicy food and creative cocktails.

6. Bars with Outdoor Seating

When the weather is nice, outdoor seating can enhance your bar experience. Here are some Lincoln bars with great outdoor spaces: — How Long Does An American Football Game Actually Last?

6.1. Green Gateau

• Atmosphere: French-inspired restaurant and bar with a charming patio
• Specialties: Wine, cocktails, French cuisine
• Why Visit: Green Gateau offers a charming patio setting to enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail. It's a great place for a relaxing evening.

6.2. Misty's Steakhouse & Lounge

• Atmosphere: Classic steakhouse with a comfortable outdoor patio
• Specialties: Steaks, cocktails, outdoor dining
• Why Visit: Misty's offers a comfortable outdoor patio where you can enjoy a delicious steak and a cocktail. It's a great place for a special occasion.

6.3. LeadBelly

• Atmosphere: Live music venue with an outdoor patio
• Specialties: Craft beer, live music, outdoor seating
• Why Visit: LeadBelly offers an outdoor patio where you can enjoy live music and a wide selection of craft beers. It's a great place for a fun night out.

7. Live Music Venues

Lincoln's live music scene is thriving, with several bars and venues hosting local and national acts. Here are some top spots for live music:

7.1. The Bourbon Theatre

• Atmosphere: Live music venue
• Genres: Variety of genres, including rock, country, and blues
• Why Visit: The Bourbon Theatre is a premier live music venue in Lincoln, hosting a variety of acts throughout the year.

7.2. The Zoo Bar

• Atmosphere: Intimate blues bar
• Genres: Blues
• Why Visit: The Zoo Bar is a Lincoln institution for blues music, offering live performances in an intimate setting.

7.3. 1867 Bar

• Atmosphere: Small live music venue
• Genres: Indie, rock, and alternative
• Why Visit: 1867 Bar is a smaller venue that hosts a variety of local and touring indie, rock, and alternative bands.

8. Best Happy Hour Spots

Happy hour is a great way to enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers. Here are some of the best happy hour spots in Lincoln:

8.1. Lazlo's Brewery & Grill

• Happy Hour: Monday-Friday, 3 PM - 6 PM
• Specials: Discounted drinks and appetizers
• Why Visit: Lazlo's offers a popular happy hour with a variety of discounted drinks and appetizers. It's a great place to unwind after work.

8.2. Hiro 88

• Happy Hour: Monday-Friday, 3 PM - 6 PM
• Specials: Discounted drinks and sushi
• Why Visit: Hiro 88 offers a unique happy hour with discounted drinks and sushi. It's a great place to enjoy Asian cuisine and cocktails.

8.3. Red 9

• Happy Hour: Daily, 4 PM - 6 PM
• Specials: Discounted drinks and appetizers
• Why Visit: Red 9 offers a daily happy hour with a variety of discounted drinks and appetizers. It's a great place to socialize and enjoy a lively atmosphere.

9. FAQ About Bars in Lincoln, NE

9.1. What are the best bars in Lincoln, NE for live music?

The Bourbon Theatre, The Zoo Bar, and 1867 Bar are some of the best venues for live music in Lincoln.

9.2. Where can I find a good dive bar in Lincoln?

The Zoo Bar, Jake's Cigars and Spirits, and Duffy's Tavern are popular dive bar options.

9.3. Which bars in Lincoln have outdoor seating?

Green Gateau, Misty's Steakhouse & Lounge, and LeadBelly offer outdoor seating.

9.4. What are the top sports bars in Lincoln?

DJ's Dugout, The Press Box Sports Bar, and Tanners Bar & Grill are great choices for sports fans.

9.5. What are some unique and themed bars in Lincoln?

The Side Door Lounge, HopCat, and Buzzard Billy's offer unique and themed experiences.

10. Conclusion

Lincoln, NE, offers a diverse and exciting bar scene, with options to suit any preference. From lively sports bars to cozy dive bars and upscale cocktail lounges, there's something for everyone. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring Lincoln's bars is a great way to experience the city's vibrant nightlife. Cheers to discovering your new favorite spot in Lincoln!