Getting Around

StarTran, Lincoln’s public bus system, provides a convenient, reliable, comfortable, safe and
affordable way to explore Lincoln. StarTran buses operate throughout Lincoln, carrying passengers to work, school, popular attractions, shopping centers and residential areas. Most buses now run from 5:15 a.m. until 9:50 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays from 5:55 a.m. to 7:05 p.m. They also serve the UNL campuses and students ride free. You can now purchase your bus passes on your smart phone using the Token Transit app.  See below for more details.

A single ride is only $1.75, and for just 25¢, the popular Star Shuttle is a great way to get around Lincoln’s vibrant downtown. A number of passes are also offered, including a 31-consecutive-day pass for only $17 or a 20-ride pass for $33! During the summer, you can purchase the “Star Pass,” a bus pass that allows kids ages 5-18 to ride from June 1–August 31, for one low price, plus discounts from participating businesses. There are also reduced fare passes for senior, low income and handicapped residents. Bus passes are free for UNL students with ID. You can purchase your bus pass on your smart phone and then just use your phone as your bus pass through the Token Transit app. Just text TOKEN to 41411 to download the app. You will need internet connection to activate the pass when you are boarding the bus.  See the StarTran website for more information.

All StarTran buses are equipped with bike racks so you can ride your bicycle to a bus stop, load it onto the bus’s bike rack and then take your bicycle with you when you reach your destination. This works especially well for people who live far from work or school, but want their bicycle with them on campus or downtown.

StarTran also has Handi-Van service. This is a door to door service for disabled patrons who cannot ride regular service. The cost for Handi-Van service is $3.50, $34 for a low income 31-consecutive day pass and $66 for a 20-ride pass. To apply for this service, you can contact the League of Human Dignity at 402-441-7871.

To find out more about how you can “Get On Board” StarTran, call 402-476-1234 or visit the StarTran websites. At getonboard.lincoln.ne.gov, you’ll find “Where’s My Bus,” which allows you to track the buses online and set up alerts to notify you when the bus is scheduled to be at your stop. At startran.lincoln.ne.gov, you’ll find complete information on routes, schedules, fares and locations where you can purchase passes, and a Trip Planner, to help you map out your trip in the most efficient way, utilizing the best route with the least amount of walking and transfers.  

StarTran supports UNL Husker football with its Big Red Express Service for each home game. Fans can avoid traffic and parking hassles by taking a StarTran bus to and from locations all over the City. This service begins two hours prior to kick-off and stops 45 minutes prior to kick-off, and buses return to the remote locations immediately after each game. Exact change is needed. You’ll find more information on startran.lincoln.ne.gov.

StarTran buses operate Mondays through Saturdays, except for these holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

If you need a ride to and from the Lincoln to the Omaha airport, there’s Leisure Limousine & Sedan at 402-476-8132.

And, of course, Lincoln has Lyft, Uber and many local taxi companies.