Western Lincoln - Lincoln, NE

Lincoln was founded in 1856 and battled for some time with the citizens of Omaha over which city should serve as the state capital. Many thought that Omaha sat too close to the Kansas border and wanted to make a move. Meanwhile, many constituents did not like the fact that Lincoln had been named after the assassinated president. Locals were still very split with their allegiances and who should have won the Civil War. Lincoln eventually won out and now houses many major landmarks, including the state capitol building and legislature.

The Sheldon Museum of Art sits on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's campus and houses an impressive collection of 20th century works. The International Quilt Study Center & Museum and the Museum of American Speed also attract visitors from around the country to learn more about these two staples of American life. The annual Lincoln Arts Festival helps highlight a commitment to culture.

Residents hop on Highway 6 for a short trip east into town to enjoy a variety of dining options. The Oven satisfies the local love for Indian food and ranks among the favorite area restaurants. This establishment features modern decor and a dining room filled with plenty of natural sunlight for a light and airy feel. Diners can grab a seat on the spacious outdoor patio on nice days to enjoy the weather and some people-watching.The chicken tikka Madras represents both a house special and local favorite. It comes in a creamy coconut milk sauce with rice and a choice of soup or salad. Visitors also enjoy sampling from the extensive wine menu.

For more international flavor, locals visit the El Chaparro Mexican restaurants. Diners choose from a long list of traditional Mexican dishes served with a modern flair and fresh ingredients. Indulge in one of the massive burritos that comes stuffed with rice, meat, beans and cheese, or go for the lighter and equally popular shrimp taco plate. Add a frosty pint of cold beer for the perfect meal any time of year.

In the evenings, locals head to Merle's Food & Drink to unwind after work, enjoy a drink and catch up with their neighbors. This family-owned restaurant has been around since the time beer cost 65 cents a bottle and has always specialized in pub-style comfort food. Locals come for the company and to order the tender prime rib. Bartenders know most customers by name and by their favorite drink.

Sports fans head a few more miles into town to watch big games at the Big Red Restaurant & Sports Bar. Patrons arrive decked out in Nebraska red and always cheer on the home team. Big-screen televisions cover the walls so that everyone has a good view of the action, and keno machines keep visitors entertained during half-time.

For even more nightlife and entertainment options, locals can catch a college game live, watch a movie at the Marcus Edgewood Theater, visit the state capitol building or get tickets to the latest play at the Rococo Theatre.

Residents of the Western Lincoln neighborhood have the easiest time traveling by car, and they enjoy convenient access to I-80 and I-180. Most people live a few miles outside the border of more populous and commercial downtown areas, so having a car can be essential. Parking in the heart of the downtown area may require a fee, but plenty of parking garages make it easy to find a spot.

The InterLinc public bus system can help passengers navigate parts of the city, but routes do not reach the farthest corners of the Western Lincoln neighborhood. Locals also have the option of calling a cab or using Uber to locate a driver nearby.

For pedestrians and cyclists, downtown Lincoln provides plenty of paths and bike lanes so that everyone can safely co-exist with drivers. However, residents of the Western Lincoln neighborhood tend to live in a more rural area, so while walking and biking can still be done safely, there isn't as much of an infrastructure in place.

The Pawnee State Recreation Area sits on the western edge of the Western Lincoln neighborhood and houses the second largest lake in the Salt Valley. Locals can visit this 740-acre park and spend the day hiking, fishing, boating and mountain biking with the entire family, including the dog. The park also has campsites throughout for longer visits.

The cost of living in the Western Lincoln neighborhood runs slightly above that of the rest of the city. Renters pay an average of $686 per month for a one-bedroom apartment, although drivers pay gas prices that trend a couple percentage points below national averages. Passengers looking to catch a bus pay $1.75 each way, but the city offers plenty of discounts, and a lot of residents qualify for free bus service. Those heading out for a night on the town can expect to pay $4 for a bottle of domestic beer.

Gateway Mall serves as the central area for shoppers to visit their favorite national stores. This expansive center hosts Dillard's, Kohl's, T.J.Maxx and many other popular brands. Locally owned stores also line the streets of the city and provide residents and visitors with a unique shopping experience that reflects the personality of Lincoln and its residents.

Lincoln enjoys a reputation as a bike-friendly city full of enthusiasts, and locals visit Cycle Works for all their needs. This shop carries a variety of brands and accessories that help customers stay safe and look good. Its stock of fat bikes tend to be especially popular and allow locals to bike throughout the winter and navigate rough terrain. The fat tires provide extra traction in the snow and stand up to punishing rides through woods and mountains that would easily pop most standard tires.

Licorice International contains exactly what the name implies. The owners dedicate every inch of the store to licorice, and generously provide free samples and stories about the origins and ingredients that go into all types of flavors from around the world. Visitors keep coming back for the fun atmosphere and tasty candy.

Western Lincoln residents stock up on food items at the nearby Kroger or head to the Fallbrook Farmers Market, open from May to September.