Lincoln's Children's Zoo in Antelope Park is a compact, well-maintained zoo that has been considerably upgraded in recent years. Despite the name it is not limited to children — the animal collection includes red pandas, snow leopards, Amur tigers, and an impressive variety of reptiles and birds, all in habitats that are more naturalistic than most zoos of this size. A treehouse structure allows visitors to see some animals at eye level or from above.
The zoo is genuinely good for what it is: a mid-sized American city zoo that punches above its weight. Admission is charged; the zoo is closed in winter (roughly November through March). For families with children it is the obvious choice for a half-day; for adults without children it is still a pleasant hour and a half, particularly if you have a soft spot for red pandas.