Discovering the Best Places to Visit in Nebraska

Nebraska, often known as the Cornhusker State, is a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and unique attractions. From the rolling plains to the bustling cities, Nebraska offers a variety of experiences for travelers. Here are some of the best places to visit in Nebraska:

1. Omaha

Omaha, the largest city in Nebraska, offers a mix of cultural attractions, family-friendly activities, and vibrant nightlife.

• Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium: Consistently ranked among the best zoos in the world, it features a massive indoor rainforest, desert dome, and an impressive aquarium.
• Old Market: A historic district with cobblestone streets, filled with boutique shops, art galleries, restaurants, and bars.
• Joslyn Art Museum: Home to an extensive collection of art, including works by Rembrandt, Monet, and Degas, as well as contemporary pieces.
• Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge: A scenic bridge spanning the Missouri River, offering great views of the Omaha skyline and connecting to trails in both Nebraska and Iowa.
• Durham Museum: Located in the historic Union Station, this museum offers exhibits on the history of the region, including restored train cars and artifacts.

2. Lincoln

As the capital city of Nebraska, Lincoln is known for its historic sites, vibrant arts scene, and beautiful parks.

• Nebraska State Capitol: An architectural masterpiece, offering guided tours that highlight the building’s history and art.
• Sunken Gardens: A beautifully landscaped garden with ponds, sculptures, and a variety of flowers, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
• Haymarket District: A revitalized historic district with trendy shops, restaurants, and the popular Haymarket Farmers’ Market.
• University of Nebraska State Museum: Located on the university campus, this museum features exhibits on natural history, including impressive dinosaur fossils.
• Pioneer Park Nature Center: Offers walking trails, wildlife viewing, and educational exhibits about the local flora and fauna.

3. Scotts Bluff National Monument

Scotts Bluff National Monument is a significant natural and historical landmark, offering stunning views and insights into the westward expansion.

• Saddle Rock Trail: A scenic hiking trail that leads to the top of the bluff, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
• Oregon Trail: Learn about the historic Oregon Trail and see remnants of the wagon tracks that pioneers followed westward.
• Visitor Center: Offers exhibits on the natural and cultural history of the area, including the significance of Scotts Bluff in American history.
• Driving Tour: A road that winds to the top of the bluff, providing stunning views and easy access to the summit for those who prefer not to hike.

4. Chimney Rock National Historic Site

Chimney Rock is one of the most recognizable landmarks on the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails.

• Visitor Center: Features exhibits on the history of the trails and the significance of Chimney Rock to the pioneers.
• Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the rock formation and the surrounding prairies.
• Historical Significance: Learn about the emigrants who used Chimney Rock as a navigational landmark during their journey west.

5. Carhenge

Located near Alliance, Carhenge is a quirky and unique attraction, replicating England's Stonehenge with vintage American cars.

• Sculpture Park: In addition to Carhenge, the park features other car sculptures created by local artists.
• Visitor Center: Provides information about the creation of Carhenge and its significance as a piece of Americana.
• Photo Opportunities: A fun and unusual spot for photography and a great example of roadside Americana.

6. Sandhills

The Nebraska Sandhills region is a unique and beautiful landscape of rolling sand dunes covered in grasslands.

• Sandhills Scenic Byway: A picturesque drive through the heart of the Sandhills, offering stunning views and opportunities to explore small towns and natural areas.
• Valentine National Wildlife Refuge: A haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
• Merritt Reservoir: A popular spot for boating, fishing, and camping, surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Sandhills.
• Cowboy Trail: A rails-to-trails project offering hiking, biking, and horseback riding through the beautiful Sandhills region.

7. Niobrara River

The Niobrara River is a National Scenic River, known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and recreational opportunities.

• Canoeing and Kayaking: The Niobrara River is a popular destination for paddling, with scenic views and gentle rapids.
• Smith Falls State Park: Home to Nebraska’s tallest waterfall, Smith Falls, with hiking trails and picnic areas.
• Wildlife Viewing: The river corridor is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, and numerous bird species.
• Camping: Numerous campgrounds along the river offer a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

8. Fort Robinson State Park

Fort Robinson State Park is a historic site and recreation area, offering a glimpse into the past and a variety of outdoor activities.

• Historic Fort Robinson: Tour the historic buildings, including the museum, officer’s quarters, and cavalry barracks.
• Horseback Riding: Explore the park’s trails on horseback, with guided rides available.
• Jeep and Stagecoach Rides: Take a scenic tour of the park in a jeep or a historic stagecoach.
• Hiking and Biking: Numerous trails offer opportunities for hiking and mountain biking through the scenic landscape.
• Fishing and Boating: The park’s lakes and streams offer excellent fishing and boating opportunities.

9. Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

This world-renowned zoo is a must-visit attraction, offering a wide range of exhibits and interactive experiences.

• Desert Dome: The world’s largest indoor desert, featuring plants and animals from desert environments around the globe.
• Lied Jungle: An indoor rainforest with waterfalls, tropical plants, and exotic animals.
• Aquarium: Features a walk-through tunnel, allowing visitors to get up close with sharks, stingrays, and other marine life.
• Kingdoms of the Night: An exhibit showcasing nocturnal animals and their habitats.
• Skyfari: An aerial tram that offers a bird’s-eye view of the zoo.

10. Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum

Located near Ashland, this museum offers a fascinating look at aviation and aerospace history.

• Aircraft Collection: See a variety of aircraft, including bombers, fighters, and reconnaissance planes.
• Space Exhibits: Learn about space exploration and see artifacts from NASA missions.
• Interactive Displays: Hands-on exhibits and flight simulators provide an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
• Restoration Hangar: View ongoing aircraft restoration projects and learn about the preservation of historic planes.

11. Indian Cave State Park

Indian Cave State Park is a beautiful natural area along the Missouri River, known for its hiking trails and historic significance.

• Hiking Trails: Over 22 miles of trails offer scenic views of the river, forests, and bluffs.
• Indian Cave: See the prehistoric petroglyphs etched into the rock walls of the cave.
• Camping: The park offers a variety of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, and cabins.
• Fishing and Boating: The Missouri River provides opportunities for fishing and boating.

12. Toadstool Geologic Park

Located in the Oglala National Grassland, Toadstool Geologic Park is known for its unique rock formations and fossil beds.

• Hiking Trails: Explore the otherworldly landscape on the park’s trails, which offer views of the unusual rock formations.
• Fossil Beds: See fossils from prehistoric animals that once roamed the area, including ancient mammals and reptiles.
• Scenic Views: The park offers stunning views of the badlands and surrounding grasslands.

Nebraska's diverse attractions offer something for every traveler, from the vibrant cities of Omaha and Lincoln to the serene beauty of the Sandhills and the historic landmarks of Scotts Bluff and Chimney Rock. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or a glimpse into the past, Nebraska has a wealth of destinations to explore.