Experience the charm and history of Lincoln’s beloved Near South Neighborhood with the 2025 Tour of Homes, taking place on Mother’s Day weekend, May 10-11, 2025. This biennial tradition celebrates historic preservation, architectural beauty, and community pride, offering visitors a rare glimpse into some of the city’s most unique and storied residences.
VIP Tour: Saturday, May 10, 2025 | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM | $50 (limited tickets available)
General Tour: Sunday, May 11, 2025 | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM | $20 (unlimited tickets)
General Tour Starting Location: First Plymouth Church – South Parking Lot
Tickets: Available online at www.nearsouth.org starting April 4, 2025. Limited VIP tickets available.
This year’s theme, "Storied Streets," showcases Lincoln’s history revealed through the stories of our beloved Near South homes. Featuring six distinguished properties, each with its own unique past, the tour will showcase homes that have played a significant role in shaping Lincoln’s neighborhoods.
Featured Homes:
Proudfit House (2128 B St.) – A beautifully restored Prairie Box home originally built in 1909.
Junkin House (1945 C St.) – Originally owned by a Nebraska Secretary of State, this home has been returned to its original charm, comfort and relaxed elegance.
Hedge House (1816 C St.) – A stunning example of the American Foursquare style, once owned by Lincoln’s mayor.
Yost House (1900 S. 25th St.) – A Renaissance Revival home built in 1912, reflecting the success of its original owners.
Sidles House (2110 A St.) – Once home to a pioneer in Lincoln’s automotive industry, featuring stunning architectural details.
Andrus-Smith House (2007 Pepper Ave) – A hidden gem showcasing Near South’s diverse housing styles.
Experience exclusive behind-the-scenes access to some of Lincoln’s most historic homes.
Learn about the architectural styles and restoration efforts that preserve Lincoln’s character.
Support NSNA’s community initiatives, including historic preservation, tree canopy restoration, and public parks.
Enjoy a weekend filled with local history, beautiful homes, and community spirit.
For those looking for an enhanced experience, the VIP Tour on Saturday, May 10, offers small-group, guided tours through the homes with homeowners present to discuss their restoration journeys. Guests will enjoy a private reception with appetizers, and beverages, at an exclusive venue. VIP guests are welcome to return on Sunday for the general tour at no extra cost.
The NSNA is seeking volunteers and sponsors to help make the 2025 Tour of Homes a success. Volunteers are needed for ticketing, house docent roles, and event setup.
For volunteer sign-ups, or additional event details, please visit www.nearsouth.org or contact Casey Mills at casey.mills@nearsouth.org
Do I need a physical ticket?
No physical tickets will be mailed or distributed in advance. When you purchase online, your name will be added to a guest list. Just check in at the starting location on the day of the event to receive your booklet and wristband.
Where does the tour start?
All General Tour guests will begin at First-Plymouth Church (east parking lot). This is where you'll check in, pick up your tour materials, and get started.
When is the tour?
The General Tour takes place on Sunday, May 11, from 1:00–5:00 p.m. Homes are open during this time only.
How do I get tickets?
Online ticket sales are open until 8:00 p.m. on Friday, May 9 at nearsouth.org.
After that, tickets will only be available in person at the check-in table at First-Plymouth Church (east parking lot) on the day of the tour.
How much are tickets?
$20 per person
Children under 10 are free
$5 discount with purchase of a Near South Neighborhood Association membership
Can I purchase multiple tickets for a group?
Yes! When you buy online, you can purchase for others in your group. Just have everyone check in under the same name at First-Plymouth.
Will I receive a map or guide?
Yes! Each guest will receive a tour booklet that includes a map, home descriptions, and important information at check-in.
Is this a self-guided tour?
Yes. You can visit the homes in any order at your own pace, but we recommend starting right after check-in to make the most of your time.
What if it rains?
There is no rain date. In the event of severe weather or cancellation, your ticket becomes a tax-deductible donation to the Near South Neighborhood Association.
The VIP Tour of Homes experience is designed for a more intimate and personalized experience. To help manage flow and ensure a great visit for all, VIP tickets are sold in small groupings labeled A through F, with only 10 tickets available per group.
Each group will have a designated starting time and tour route, which will be shared with ticket holders the week before the event.
Important Notes:
Want to tour with friends or family? Be sure to purchase all of your group's tickets under the same letter (A–F). Each lettered group is limited to just 10 people, so act quickly if you're coordinating with others.
Once a group (e.g., Group C) sells out, additional tickets for that group will not be available.
This structure allows us to keep the VIP tours relaxed and engaging, with time for questions, conversation, and exploration at each home.
After the tour, all VIP guests are invited to a reception with beverages, snacks, and live music at a nearby historic home to cap off the experience.
This year, we’re offering several different levels of sponsorship, selection is available at checkout.
$100 - Official Sponsor
Listed in text in the booklet and on the website.
$250 - Neighbor-Level
Logo inclusion in booklet and on the website with link.
$500 - Friend-Level
Logo inclusion in booklet and on the website with link.
Two complimentary tickets for VIP tour.
$750 - Pillar-Level
Logo inclusion in booklet and on the website with link
Two complimentary tickets for VIP tour.
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