The Nebraska State Capitol. Yes, this one is obvious, but the building is a marvel. Start by taking a lap around the outside and check out the reliefs and sculptures. Then go inside and look at the ornate stonework, beautiful murals and striking design. Cap your visit with a trip to the observation deck. http://www.capitol.org/index.html

Sheldon Memorial Art Gallery and Sculpture Garden. Designed by internationally renowned architect Philip Johnson, this beautiful white marble building is a treasure in itself. Inside is a fine collection of 20th Century American art. http://www.sheldonartgallery.org/

The University of Nebraska State Museum. Located in Morrill Hall, this natural history museum features Elephant Hall and its collection of mastodon and early elephant skeletons. But there is also a new evolution exhibit and a planetarium that puts on entertaining, educational shows. Nearby, the Nebraska State Historical Museum offers a panorama of exhibits on Nebraska and the Great Plains. http://www-museum.unl.edu/

The Haymarket District, located west of Ninth Street, from R Street south to O Street, offers a wide collection of restaurants -- from Indian, Italian and Mexican to, yes, seafood. There is also a wide range of coffee houses, antique and small specialty shops. For beer lovers, Lazlo's is a popular brewpub. And elsewhere in Lincoln great restaurants abound as well. Try the terrific Nebraska prime rib at Misty's, the eclectic Green Gateau and Billy's, or choose from Thai, Vietnamese, barbecue or many other cuisines. http://www.lincoln.org/visiting/dining/index.htm

For those looking for nightlife, there's one place that can't be missed. The Zoo Bar, 136 N. 14th St., is Lincoln's internationally known nightclub. The oldest continuously operating blues bar in one location in the country, the Zoo offers live roots music every night. http://www.zoobar.com