University of Nebraska State Museum - Morrill Hall

The University of Nebraska State Museum at Morrill Hall brings natural history to life with towering dinosaur skeletons, authentic Egyptian mummies, and impressive wildlife exhibits that captivate curious minds. This hands-on museum offers an educational adventure where kids can explore everything from ancient fossils to native Nebraska wildlife, making it a perfect rainy-day destination or learning-focused outing in Lincoln.

• ✓Archie the Mammoth,a massive Columbian mammoth skeleton that's a Nebraska icon
• ✓Elephant Hall featuring enormous prehistoric mammals and impressive fossil displays
• ✓Egyptian mummy exhibits with authentic artifacts and detailed cultural information
• ✓Mueller Planetarium shows (check schedule for family-friendly programming)
• ✓Hands-on Discovery Zone with fossil replicas kids can touch and explore

1. 1.Arrive right when doors open at 9:00 AM on weekdays to beat school field trip groups that typically arrive mid-morning.
2. 2.Start on the fourth floor with the dinosaurs,it's the biggest draw for kids and you'll want them fresh and engaged for the museum's star attraction.
3. 3.The museum is located on the UNL campus, so use the metered parking on 14th Street or the visitors lot just south of the building,parking can be tricky during university events.
4. 4.Download the museum's mobile guide or ask about scavenger hunt sheets at the front desk to keep younger kids engaged throughout the visit.
5. 5.Plan your visit on a Wednesday or Thursday for the quietest experience, avoiding weekend crowds and Monday closures.

Tuesday through Thursday mornings from 9:00-11:00 AM offer the calmest experience before field trips arrive. Sundays (12:00-5:00 PM) work well for families who need weekend options, though expect more visitors. Avoid the first hour on Saturdays when it's busiest.

Admission is very affordable (free for UNL students, nominal fees for others,check current rates). No café on-site, but you're welcome to visit the nearby UNL campus dining options. The museum is fully accessible with elevators to all floors.

Open year-round with consistent hours except Mondays (closed). The museum is an ideal indoor activity during Nebraska's cold winters or hot summers. Check their website for special holiday programming and themed events throughout the year.

The Oven (Indian cuisine in the Haymarket District, about 1 mile away) offers a lunch buffet with mild options kids enjoy. Runza, a Nebraska staple with kid-friendly sandwiches and burgers, has a location nearby on campus and throughout Lincoln.