Culler - Lincoln, NE Area Guide

Lincoln, the state capital of Nebraska, was founded in 1856. Originally a rural area with a focus on cattle ranching, the city experienced rapid growth as it became the brand new state's capital. With an onslaught of construction and infrastructure, the city experienced steady development throughout the 19th centuries. With such consistent development and population growth, The Gateway Mall was built in the 1960s. This caused the Culler neighborhood to transform from a residential neighborhood to a mix of homes and businesses. The neighborhood does not have any museums or annual events.

The mixed residential and commercial area has plenty of fast food and chain restaurants scattered throughout the neighborhood. With the Gateway Mall, Doane College-Lincoln Campus and Culler Middle School all setting up camp in the neighborhood, restaurants are dispersed throughout the area.

If you need a quick and satisfying burger that uses local beef, look no further than Runza. The Nebraska chain serves up classic combos, such as bacon cheese burgers with a side of crinkle fries. If you don't want a burger but still have a craving for a hearty meal, try one of the Runza sandwiches. A Runza sandwich may remind you of a deconstructed burger on a hoagie bun. This reinvented classic tastes best with onion rings.

Combine hip food carts and American classic hot dogs, you get The Dawgfather Grill. Due to Lincoln's extreme winter conditions, the small shop does have a few small tables inside, resembling a '50s diner. With a small menu of just four items, you can rest assured that every single item hits the spot. Choose between a Philly Cheesesteak, Reuben or brats.

Patty's Pub, the favorite spot for drinks and late night snacks, has a relaxed atmosphere for conversing over a beer or watching the Huskers play on one of the many TVs. On St. Patrick's Day, the Irish bar can't be missed. With green beer and a year-round countdown clock to the big day, you know this pub takes the Luck of the Irish very seriously.

The modes of transportation around the neighborhood can be quite varied due the mix of residential and commercial spaces. During warm months, or for those willing to brave the winter chill, walking around the housing developments and to Culler Middle School can easily be done. Biking down the streets and on the sidewalks provides a healthy option, though the neighborhood lacks bike lanes. For those looking to take the bus, the mall and busy O Street both have bus stop options. Free street parking can easily be found. Many businesses also have parking lots. The neighborhood cannot access any freeways or the Interstate directly. High-Traffic O Street does border the Southern edge of the neighborhood, which leads to the major highways and expressways. If you need a cab, it would be advisable to call ahead and order one, as hailing a taxi can be challenging. For the tech-savvy folks, Uber, the app-driven car service, serves the neighborhood and greater Lincoln area.

Located in the North Eastern corner of the Culler neighborhood, Mopac Trail cuts through a residential portion of the area. With 22 miles of trail throughout Northern Lincoln, the Culler section proves short in relation to the rest of the trail. The trail has ideal conditions for walkers, cyclists and hikers. It showcases the Nebraska scenery and wildlife.

Within walking distance of the Mopac Trail, Bethany Park serves as a family friendly, health-oriented park, ideal for day-to-day life and outdoor celebrations. The park has volleyball courts, a large play field and expansive jungle gym area. The jungle gym area has a fall-absorbing flooring, perfect for safe play and adventure. The park also has open-air pavilions that can be rented as well as picnic tables. From dogs to seniors, Bethany Park has something for everyone.

Despite having a highly sought-after public middle school, the Culler neighborhood comes with a very reasonable price tag. With older construction and non-descript architectural details, housing and restaurants do not experience a mark-up for trendy spaces or a hip vibe. On average, a one-bedroom apartment rents for $623 a month. For a post-work drink at no-frills Randy's Grill and Chill, a domestic draft costs you $2. Even filling up on gas costs less than the national average. A gallon of gas costs 7 percent less than the national average.

The Culler neighborhood houses Lincoln's premiere shopping center, The Gateway Mall. Featuring locally owned and operated businesses, including 123 Systems Solutions, Lincoln's computer specialists, and Savvi Formalwear, the mall still has plenty of Nebraska personality. Major retailers, such as Forever 21, Younkers and Hallmark, also live in the mall.

Away from Gateway, Capital Cigar carries the largest selection of cigars in the state of Nebraska. The boutique tobacco shop brings premiere labels, including Padron and Avo Uvezian to the midwest. With multiple humidors and a knowledgeable staff, Avo Uvezian directs cigar enthusiasts and newbies alike to the highest-quality cigar.

The neighborhood has three grocery store options. Premiere Whole Foods Market, Midwest Hy-Vee and health-conscious Natural Grocers provide residents with a variety of products in a broad price range. Whole Foods Market, a national brand known for high price tags, expansive employee benefits and excellent quality brings in people from all corners of the city for the chic and sought-after groceries. In addition to produce and canned goods, the seafood and butcher counters have knowledgeable team members that teach you about cuts of beef or how to shuck an oyster. The chain also has hot and cold salad bars, a pizza station and large bakery.

Similar to Whole Foods, Hy-Vee focuses on quality products and corporate culture. The employee-owned chain promises the best products without a hefty price tag. The store also sells pre-made and custom-ordered platters for all of your entertaining needs.

Natural Grocers, a neighborhood staple, has been in business for more than 60 years. With a Nutritional Health Coach on staff to contribute to products carried and provide insight, the store helps customers easily adjust their diets to achieve health goals. The location also offers seminars on a regular basis to teach customers about nutrition, supplements and herbal medicine.