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Top 24 Hotels Near The ICE Box
1800 State Fair Park Dr Lincoln, NE 6850
Super 8 by Wyndham Lincoln North
At Super 8 by Wyndham Lincoln North, being a quick trip from The ICE Box is a central element that connects the hotel to the area's highlights.
Reception areas at Super 8 are brightly lit and consistently staffed, giving travelers confidence and clarity during the arrival process. Each guest room features flat-screen HDTVs, sofa seating, and USB charging, creating spaces that balance entertainment and utility. Business corners offering computers, printers, and Wi-Fi access allow professionals to complete tasks quickly and efficiently.
Complimentary breakfast, vending setups, and Wi-Fi combine with parking and laundry, supporting convenience and clarity every day.
The Scarlet Lincoln, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
The brief ride from The Scarlet Lincoln, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel to The ICE Box in Lincoln makes travel between the two easy and efficient.
In Tribute Portfolio lobbies, curated art, bold décor, and polished reception desks create boutique impressions tied to cultural context. Every suite incorporates marble finishes, stocked toiletries, and soaking tubs, refreshing travelers with spa-quality details daily. In the rooftop bar, cocktails, lighting, and lounge seating combine to create premium hubs that balance social connection and style.
Amenities include free Wi-Fi, breakfast buffets, business hubs, and cocktail lounges, giving guests dependable balance every day.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lincoln
The ICE Box is an easy drive from Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lincoln, a detail that allows for a smooth and integrated daily plan.
At select locations, Microtel offers express checkout and streamlined key returns, turning morning departures into quick, simple steps. Every guest room offers Wi-Fi and a compact work surface, allowing quick map checks and messages before evening plans resume. Indoor pools at select locations pair heated water with loungers and towel racks, providing a calm cooldown between nearby outings each day.
With Wi-Fi, breakfast, guest laundry, and free parking at many hotels, movement stays smooth while schedules keep momentum.
Baymont Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lincoln NE
Reaching The ICE Box from Baymont Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lincoln NE is an easy drive, a trait that weaves simplicity into the guest's daily routine.
Many Baymont lobbies keep a coffee station in the common area, letting arrivals pause for a cup while room assignments complete. All guest rooms provide a work desk, task lamp, and desk-height power with reliable Wi-Fi so emails, maps, and confirmations wrap without detours. Guest laundries place washers, dryers, and a folding shelf beside detergent vending, keeping wardrobes in rotation on longer stays.
With breakfast seating, tray returns, and utensils plus Wi-Fi and a market, morning flow remains orderly during busier windows.
Quality Inn Lincoln Cornhusker
In Lincoln, Quality Inn Lincoln Cornhusker is situated a quick drive from The ICE Box, which lends value to the guest experience.
Quality Inn frames arrival with staffed front desks and visible reception seating so arriving guests orient quickly and move toward rooms. Every guest room keeps a luggage bench, dresser surface, and closet space so unpacking and staging remain orderly during short stays. Breakfast counters place grab-and-go items beside coffee taps so early travelers fuel up quickly and keep to tight itineraries.
Pool decks, shaded loungers, and family swim sections give uncomplicated downtime options so guests recover between travel or event blocks.
Comfort Suites Lincoln North
For those traveling by car, Comfort Suites Lincoln North is a straightforward drive from The ICE Box, ensuring a simple and predictable commute.
Comfort Suites orients signage, shuttle pickup points, and parking directions from the lobby so onward travel connections stay legible. Every guest room supplies a compact coffee maker, microwave, and mini-fridge so quick breakfasts and late-night snacks are handled in-room. Co-working tables in public areas pair task lighting with outlets and modest privacy so short work sprints happen without reserving rooms.
With meeting rooms, AV hookups, and simple catering, on-site sessions wrap efficiently, freeing time to reconvene or travel onward.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Lincoln
For guests in Lincoln, Fairfield Inn & Suites Lincoln is a quick drive from The ICE Box, a spot that supports a variety of travel plans.
With clustered seating near windows, Fairfield Inn supplies a bright pause zone where families and solo travelers can reset after travel. All guest rooms contain mini-fridges, microwaves, and coffee makers, letting families maintain routines with ease during extended hotel stays. Lobby lounges showcase group tables, couches, and modern décor, creating welcoming points for guests to orient themselves or meet comfortably.
Amenities include business centers, breakfast service, complimentary Wi-Fi, and indoor pools, supporting productivity and balance across trips.
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Lincoln Nebraska
This useful drive to The ICE Box from La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Lincoln Nebraska is a key element, as it ensures the stay is built on simplicity.
Seating clusters in La Quinta lobbies provide regrouping points for families or colleagues while companions complete check-in. Each guest room supplies flat-screen HDTVs, bedside charging hubs, and Wi-Fi, combining entertainment ease with daily connectivity. Business lounges offering seating, Wi-Fi, and printers give professionals reliable tools for productivity while traveling.
Pet-friendly stays, breakfast buffets, and Wi-Fi align with laundry and parking, delivering clarity for longer visits with families.
Town House Extended Stay Hotel Downtown
This practical drive to The ICE Box from Town House Extended Stay Hotel Downtown is a key feature, since it makes the stay both simple and enjoyable.
For a simple morning start, the grab-and-go breakfast at Extended Stay America offers coffee and a breakfast bar for ultimate convenience. A comfortable chair and desk area create a functional home office, allowing business travelers to work efficiently from their hotel room. Having a fitness center on-site eliminates a key barrier to exercise, making it easy for guests to prioritize their health while traveling.
The hotel's thoughtful amenities, including a grab-and-go breakfast, a swimming pool, a fitness center, and free Wi-Fi, cater to all needs.
Wingate by Wyndham Lincoln Airport East I-80
The hotel's location is a key link to The ICE Box, which is an easy drive away, contributing to a well-planned visit.
Wingate by Wyndham greets guests with complimentary coffee in its lobbies, offering a small courtesy that helps travelers settle quickly. All guest rooms highlight comfortable bedding, blackout shades, and quiet climate systems, reinforcing reliable rest across properties. Lobby areas decorated with bright lighting, natural finishes, and simple furniture provide refreshed identity and orientation clarity.
Pet-friendly rooms, breakfast dining, and Wi-Fi connect with vending and parking, making routines dependable and stress-free daily.
The Kindler Hotel
The hotel's location is defined by its predictable commute to The ICE Box, which is an easy drive away, making travel a non-issue.
Arrivals at The Kindler Hotel may include an elegant lobby, attentive concierge presence, and complimentary coffee or tea during check-in. Rooms may highlight refined interiors, premium bedding, and minibars with selections that emphasize a comfortable luxury experience. Facilities may feature stylish cocktail bars, full-service dining, and wellness centers that provide a polished and upscale impression.
A visit often provides premium bedding, spa facilities, cocktail bars, and Wi-Fi, reflecting a rhythm of comfort and digital access.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Lincoln North Hotel and Conference Center, NE
Because Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Lincoln North Hotel and Conference Center, NE is a straightforward drive from The ICE Box, guests can opt to get there quickly and without hassle.
Radisson sometimes provides grab-and-go stations or a lobby café, giving a quick refresh point that helps guests settle after travel. Guest rooms include plush bedding, blackout drapes, a movable work desk, and bedside outlets to support focused work and restful sleep. Conference suites combine projector setups, breakout alcoves, and staffed support, simplifying event logistics for planners and small teams.
From business center and modular meetings to a fitness room, laundry, market counters, and parking, travelers stay productive.
Embassy Suites Lincoln
At Embassy Suites Lincoln, being a simple drive from The ICE Box is a key element that allows for a more dynamic daily schedule.
Complimentary breakfasts in Embassy Suites lobbies reinforce hospitality with routine nourishment, ensuring mornings begin balanced and dependable. Each suite features microwaves, mini-fridges, and storage cabinets, letting guests enjoy in-room dining with practical convenience. Reception-side markets paired with hydration stations give guests accessible refreshment, reducing travel stress on arrival.
Pet-friendly services, complimentary breakfast, indoor pools, Wi-Fi connectivity, and valet parking ensure comfort for varied guests.
Courtyard by Marriott Lincoln Downtown
Within Lincoln, Courtyard by Marriott Lincoln Downtown is a simple drive from The ICE Box, a detail that delivers a sense of connection to the place.
Courtyard greets travelers with turndown-level details like lobby coffee and infused water, reinforcing small courtesies daily. Guest rooms contain blackout curtains, adjustable thermostats, and coffee makers, supporting refreshed mornings with convenience. At the Bistro, breakfast sandwiches, Starbucks® drinks, and seating clusters create routines that start mornings consistently.
Amenities such as Starbucks® coffee, outdoor pools, valet parking, and meeting hubs balance routines with consistent convenience.
MainStay Suites Lincoln University Area
From MainStay Suites Lincoln University Area, The ICE Box is a quick drive, a convenience that simplifies the logistics of the entire visit.
Near reception, MainStay Suites often places a coffee or grab-and-go counter, helping late arrivals secure quick fuel before room access. Guest rooms include work-friendly desks, ergonomic chairs, and reliable high-speed Wi-Fi, enabling remote work or multitasking on the road without friction. Business centers supply computers, printers, and quiet desks so work and ticketing tasks can continue without leaving the property.
With meeting spaces, free Wi-Fi, breakfast counters, parking, and on-site vending, groups coordinate logistics while keeping routines steady.
Sleep Inn & Suites Lincoln University Area
This quick drive to The ICE Box from Sleep Inn & Suites Lincoln University Area allows guests to feel more in control of their schedule in Lincoln.
At many Sleep Inn locations, the lobby's bright finishes and signage help first-time visitors recognize the entrance and reception points. Guest rooms supply a sizeable workspace, premium bedding, an in-room coffee station and free Wi-Fi to keep routines steady. Guest laundries include energy-efficient machines, clear instructions and a change machine so guests can maintain clothing routines easily.
From free Wi-Fi and hot breakfast to pool access, meeting rooms, a fitness area, guest laundry and parking, mornings and meetings align.
Hilton Garden Inn Lincoln Downtown / Haymarket
In Lincoln, Hilton Garden Inn Lincoln Downtown / Haymarket's location an easy drive from The ICE Box serves as a key asset for visitors who value efficiency.
Lobby coffee and tea service at Hilton Garden Inn provides simple courtesy, offering guests warmth and familiarity during their transition. All guest rooms provide ergonomic workstations, strong Wi-Fi, and multiple outlets, ensuring reliable productivity during every stay. Breakfast spaces with fresh fruit, omelets, and community tables provide dependable hospitality that anchors guest routines each morning.
Complimentary breakfast, outdoor pools, business centers, Pavilion Pantry offerings, and Wi-Fi connectivity support seamless routines.
Hampton Inn by Hilton Lincoln Downtown
In Lincoln, Hampton Inn by Hilton Lincoln Downtown has a accessible location relative to The ICE Box, letting guests easily transition from their room to the event.
Weekday On the Run breakfast bags at Hampton Inn add grab-and-go convenience, simplifying mornings for travelers with early departures. Guest rooms provide sofa beds, televisions, and comfortable chairs, giving families shared spaces for evening relaxation and downtime. Business centers with computer stations, Wi-Fi, and printers allow travelers to manage tasks effectively without leaving the property.
EV charging, complimentary Wi-Fi, fitness facilities, breakfast buffets, and outdoor pools provide flexible convenience for diverse travelers.
Graduate by Hilton Lincoln
The hotel's spot a short drive from The ICE Box gives Graduate by Hilton Lincoln guests a direct option for their daily commute.
At Hilton, community seating and casual lounges encourage conversation, making lobbies natural hubs for comfort and social connection. Suites supply sofa seating, large TVs, and dining counters, supporting flexible routines for leisure, meals, or informal meetings. At the café, light bites, coffee drinks, and community seating provide casual areas where guests balance convenience and connection.
Guests access business services, free breakfast, EV parking, and fitness equipment, ensuring both productivity and wellness daily.
The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel
This easy drive to The ICE Box from The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel allows guests to feel oriented and comfortable in the Lincoln area.
Visible lounge bars in Marriott lobbies provide a natural social anchor where travelers can gather casually after check-in is complete. Suites feature expanded layouts, lounge seating, and sofa beds, making them adaptable for extended stays or larger traveling parties. The lobby features soft seating and wide tables, encouraging relaxed conversation and informal meetings in a comfortable environment.
Concierge desks, EV charging, and on-site dining work with business centers and Wi-Fi, reducing friction for both leisure and work guests.
Hyatt Place Lincoln / Downtown - Haymarket
The hotel's spot a simple drive from The ICE Box gives Hyatt Place Lincoln / Downtown - Haymarket guests a easy way to manage their daily schedule.
The Bar at Hyatt Place is placed visibly in the lobby, offering cocktails and small plates that double as social anchors for guests. Each guest room provides ergonomic work surfaces, comfortable chairs, and ample outlets, helping travelers keep up with tasks easily. Lobby seating areas with long communal tables and lounge chairs foster social interaction and relaxed orientation before heading out.
Business centers, fitness rooms, and free breakfast connect with Wi-Fi and parking, giving guests a dependable foundation for each stay.
Tru by Hilton Lincoln East
From Tru by Hilton Lincoln East, The ICE Box is a simple drive, a perk that simplifies the logistics of the entire visit.
The hotel provides a stress-free start to any trip with the Hilton Honors app, which allows for a quick digital check-in. Guest rooms provide blackout curtains, plush bedding, and climate control, ensuring restful conditions tailored to every traveler. In the game lounge, board games, foosball, and shuffleboard create playful settings that invite casual fun and lively interaction.
With game areas, Wi-Fi, breakfast service, and pet-friendly spaces, travelers find flexible amenities that support family routines.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lincoln Downtown by IHG
For a trip to Lincoln, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lincoln Downtown by IHG's location an easy drive from The ICE Box is a foundational element of its practical charm.
Soft seating areas with nearby outlets in Holiday Inn Express lobbies allow travelers to recharge devices while regrouping comfortably. Guest rooms are designed with ergonomic chairs, large desks, and strong Wi-Fi, providing work setups that support productivity away. Business centers with shared terminals, printers, and Wi-Fi give guests convenient access to productivity tools when needed.
Connectivity with Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, and business centers pairs with laundry and parking, giving guests simple and reliable stays.
Travelodge by Wyndham Lincoln Northeast
The hotel is a quick drive from The ICE Box, making the trip speedy for guests.
Reception desks at Travelodge sit directly in view of entry, creating orientation clarity and reducing stress for first-time arrivals. Each guest room provides microwaves, fridges, and coffee stations, ensuring guests maintain everyday convenience without stress. Breakfast setups featuring cereals, pastries, and coffee machines help families and professionals begin mornings stress-free.
Connectivity with Wi-Fi, breakfast counters, and vending setups joins with pools and parking, covering predictable travel routines.
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The ICE Box Local Area Guide
Welcome to The ICE Box, Lincoln's premier indoor ice arena designed for hockey, figure skating, and public ice activities. This guide is tailored for players, coaches, families, and visiting teams looking to navigate the facilities and the surrounding area, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. You'll find essential information on getting to the venue, nearby amenities, and tips for making the most of your time in Lincoln.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – The ICE Box (Lincoln, NE)
The ICE Box is strategically located within the sprawling Nebraska State Fair Park, offering a central point for sports enthusiasts. Its address at 1800 State Fair Park Dr places it amidst a hub of activity, though the park itself is quite expansive. Access is primarily via State Fair Park Drive, which connects to major thoroughfares like U.S. Route 34 (East Court Street) and U.S. Route 81 (North 27th Street). These routes provide direct access to Interstate 80, the main artery for travel into and out of Lincoln. Lincoln Airport (LNK), also known as the Lincoln Municipal Airport, is situated to the northeast of the city, typically a 15-20 minute drive from The ICE Box depending on traffic. Parking within the State Fair Park is generally ample, with designated areas for The ICE Box, especially during scheduled events. Rideshare services are readily available in Lincoln, with drop-off points conveniently located near the arena entrances. For those arriving by car, planning to enter the park at least 30-45 minutes before game or practice times is advisable to account for navigation within the park and potential congestion.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near The ICE Box
Accommodation options for visitors to The ICE Box are clustered in various parts of Lincoln, with the closest hotels situated a short drive east of the State Fair Park, closer to downtown and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus. While The ICE Box itself is located within a large park, the immediate vicinity does not feature hotels within easy walking distance. Most visitors opt for accommodations in the downtown area or along the primary business corridors, which are between a 5- to 15-minute drive away. These areas offer a range of hotels, from budget-friendly motels to full-service establishments. Team groups and families often find that booking in these central locations provides the best balance of proximity to the arena and access to dining, shopping, and other entertainment. Demand for hotels can spike significantly during major tournaments or when the University of Nebraska is hosting significant events, so booking well in advance is highly recommended. Utilizing hotel map filters for proximity to the State Fair Park or checking rates for the Lincoln area, particularly during event weekends, will help secure suitable lodging.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Lincoln Airport (LNK) is a 20-minute drive from The ICE Box, offering convenient air travel options.
- Arrive 30 minutes early to navigate park roads and find your team's designated parking area.
- The nearby Haymarket District offers unique shops and eateries for pre- or post-event relaxation.
- Consider a visit to the Lincoln Children's Zoo or Lincoln's museums for indoor fun if weather is poor.
- The arena lobby and designated team benches serve as primary regrouping spots between games.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Your arrival rhythm should begin with navigating into the Nebraska State Fair Park, aiming for the designated parking for The ICE Box. Allow yourselves ample time to find parking and carry equipment to the arena entrance, usually 45 minutes before your scheduled ice time. Once inside, head straight to the team check-in area or the locker room assigned to your team. Utilize the warm-up area or designated dry-land space for stretching and conditioning before your skate. Familiarize yourselves with the arena layout, including restroom locations and seating areas for your supporters.
Mid-Day Regroup
Between games or practice sessions, the arena lobby and concourse areas serve as central points for your group to gather. This is an opportune time for coaches to review game performance and for players to rehydrate and refuel. Families and supporters can find seating in the stands or use common areas to relax. If your schedule allows for a longer break, consider a brief outing to a nearby park area within the fairgrounds or a quick trip to a nearby eatery if time permits and travel logistics are manageable.
Wrap-Up & Departure
After your final game or practice, ensure all team equipment is securely stowed and the locker room is left tidy. Allow extra time for departure, as traffic exiting the State Fair Park can become concentrated, especially after major events conclude. Coordinate meeting points for families and teammates outside the arena if necessary, making sure everyone has a clear plan for regrouping. A post-event team meal or casual get-together at a local restaurant can be a great way to conclude your visit and celebrate your team's efforts.
Things to Do Near The ICE Box
Walkable
Nebraska State Fair Park
While primarily a venue for events, the Nebraska State Fair Park itself offers open green spaces that can be utilized for light activity or relaxation when not in use for specific functions. The park grounds are extensive, providing a pleasant environment for a brief stroll or for families to let younger children stretch their legs between games. Familiarize yourself with the park map upon arrival to identify accessible pathways and any open areas suitable for downtime, remembering that access to certain areas may be restricted during specific events. The park's main attractions are seasonal, but its infrastructure supports various community gatherings and smaller sporting events throughout the year.
State Fair Park Dr · On sitePioneer Park Nature Center
Just a short drive from The ICE Box, Pioneer Park Nature Center offers a tranquil escape into nature with its walking trails and diverse wildlife habitats. The center features accessible paths winding through woodlands and along the lake, providing opportunities to observe local flora and fauna. It's an ideal spot for families looking for a relaxed outdoor activity, offering a break from the intensity of sports events. Pack some light snacks and water to enjoy a peaceful interlude before or after your scheduled ice time, soaking in the natural beauty of Lincoln.
2701 South Lake Shore Dr · 1.2 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Haymarket District
The historic Haymarket District is Lincoln's vibrant entertainment and shopping hub, located a short drive from The ICE Box. This area boasts a collection of restored warehouses filled with unique boutiques, art galleries, breweries, and diverse dining options. It’s a perfect destination for teams and families to explore after games, offering a lively atmosphere for souvenir shopping, casual meals, or simply enjoying the brick-lined streets and lively ambiance. The district is particularly popular in the evenings and on weekends, often hosting live music and community events.
Downtown Lincoln · 3.5 miUniversity of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL)
Explore the beautiful City Campus of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, a short drive from the arena. You can stroll through the picturesque campus grounds, admire the architectural diversity of its historic buildings, or visit sites like the Sheldon Museum of Art. The campus offers a sense of collegiate energy and provides a pleasant environment for a walk or for locating amenities near the university, such as bookstores or cafes. Depending on the academic calendar, there may be public events or performances hosted on campus that visitors can explore.
City Campus · 3.0 miBeyond the Event: Venture slightly further afield to discover more of Lincoln's attractions. The Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum is a worthwhile destination for aviation enthusiasts, located about a 30-minute drive east of the city. For those interested in local history and culture, the Nebraska History Museum offers engaging exhibits. These options provide excellent choices for expanding your visit beyond the immediate vicinity of The ICE Box.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near The ICE Box
Inside & Adjacent
Fair Park Concessions
Available during scheduled events and tournaments, the concessions inside The ICE Box offer convenient, quick options for snacks and beverages. Typically, you can find classic arena fare such as hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, and assorted soft drinks. These stands are ideal for grabbing a bite between periods or during a brief intermission without having to leave the immediate venue. Check event schedules for operating hours, as concessions may not be open during all public skate sessions.
State Fair Park Dr · On siteVarious State Fair Park Food Vendors
During larger events or the annual State Fair, various food vendors set up throughout the Nebraska State Fair Park, offering a wider array of culinary choices. These can range from traditional fair foods to more diverse options, providing flexibility for different tastes. If your visit coincides with a larger park event, exploring these vendors can be a good way to find a meal. However, during smaller ice events, their availability may be limited to the arena's internal concessions.
State Fair Park Dr · On siteNearby Gathering Spots
Fireworks – A Taste of the World
Located in the bustling Haymarket District, Fireworks offers a globally inspired menu with a focus on flavorful and often spicy dishes. This spot is great for groups looking for something a bit different, with options ranging from Asian-inspired entrees to unique appetizers. The vibrant atmosphere of the Haymarket makes it a popular choice for post-game celebrations or casual team dinners. Their diverse menu ensures there’s something to please most palates, from adventurous eaters to those preferring milder flavors.
402 N 21st St · 3.5 miThe Mill Coffee & Tea
A local favorite, The Mill provides a cozy atmosphere perfect for a relaxed meet-up or a quick coffee break. They offer a wide selection of coffee, espresso drinks, teas, and pastries. It’s a convenient stop for parents and coaches to gather and discuss the game, or for players to grab a treat after a long day of competition. With several locations across Lincoln, including one near the Haymarket, The Mill is a reliable choice for quality beverages and a welcoming environment.
800 P St · 3.3 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Deli Downtown
Deli Downtown is a quintessential Lincoln establishment, renowned for its hearty sandwiches, soups, and salads, making it a perfect spot for a satisfying team lunch or family meal. The casual setting and generous portions cater well to athletes and their families looking for straightforward, delicious food. It’s a popular choice for its consistent quality and friendly service, offering a taste of local Lincoln dining. Expect a lively atmosphere, especially during peak lunch and dinner hours.
110 N 14th St · 3.2 miEmmy's Gourmet Ice Cream
For a sweet treat after a game or a fun family outing, Emmy's Gourmet Ice Cream is a must-visit. Located conveniently near the Haymarket, this shop serves up a delightful array of unique and classic ice cream flavors. It’s a wonderful place to celebrate a win or simply unwind and enjoy a delicious dessert. The creative flavor combinations often include seasonal specials, adding an element of discovery to each visit and providing a delightful reward for players and spectators alike.
626 N 7th St · 3.5 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Navigating the State Fair Park requires attention to signage, especially during larger multi-event days.
- Weekend evenings, particularly when the University of Nebraska has home games, see increased traffic near campus and downtown.
- Public skate sessions can draw a varied crowd; check posted times for open skating availability.
- Reservations for larger groups at popular restaurants, especially in the Haymarket, are strongly advised.
- Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience at local attractions and eateries.
Weather & Seasons at The ICE Box
- Winter: Lincoln winters are typically cold, with average temperatures often below freezing, and snowfall is common. Visitors should pack heavy winter coats, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots. While the ice arena offers a consistently cool environment, travel to and from the venue can be impacted by weather conditions, so allow extra time for your journey and check road conditions.
- Spring & early summer: Spring brings gradually warming temperatures and increasing chances of rain, transitioning into mild to warm early summer days. Pack layers, including a light jacket or sweater, and comfortable walking shoes. Outdoor activities become more pleasant, but occasional rain showers mean an umbrella or light raincoat is a good idea for getting between venues.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer in Lincoln is characterized by warm to hot temperatures, often accompanied by high humidity. Light, breathable clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses are recommended. While the arena provides a cool refuge, outdoor activities require hydration and sun protection. Be prepared for occasional thunderstorms that can pop up quickly in the afternoon.
- Fall season: Fall offers a pleasant transition with cooler, crisp air and comfortable temperatures, ideal for exploring the city. Pack layers, including long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and a light jacket. This season is perfect for enjoying both the indoor environment of The ICE Box and the city's outdoor attractions before winter sets in.
- Rain & snow: Rain is possible throughout the year, particularly in spring and summer, often occurring as afternoon thunderstorms. Snow is characteristic of winter months, from late fall through early spring. Always pack a compact umbrella and consider waterproof outerwear and footwear, especially during the colder months or during periods of frequent precipitation to stay comfortable navigating between your vehicle and the arena.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Lincoln Stars (USHL)
- Neighborhood: State Fair Park Area
- Nearest airport: Lincoln Airport (LNK)
- Parking: Ample lots at the State Fair Park
- Walkable district: Limited immediate area; Haymarket is a short drive
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Hy-Vee, 2500 Bob Boozer Dr
- Pharmacy: CVS Pharmacy, 2600 N 27th St
- Urgent care: CHI Health Immediate Care, 5620 R St
- Downtime: UNL campus grounds, local parks
- Pro tip: Check the State Fair Park website for event schedules to anticipate crowds.

