Things to Do in Nebraska
The midwestern U.S. state of Nebraska features the great plains and sandhills and dramatic rock formations in the panhandle. The state capital, Lincoln, is a vibrant university town distinguished by its towering state capitol. Omaha is home to the Durham Museum, which honors the state’s pioneering past. No matter your interests, there’s sure to be something for everyone in Nebraska.
Lauritzen Gardens
For a magical experience, visit the Lauritzen Gardens, a botanical garden in Omaha, Nebraska. Open seven days a week, the gardens are divided into themed areas and feature a 4-acre arboretum representing seven plant communities. The gardens are beautifully landscaped with colorful perennials and native grasses. A visitor and education center houses seasonal plant displays, an art gallery, and a horticultural resource library.
For the family, there are activities for all ages. Kids can enjoy the indoor conservatory or stroll through the outdoor gardens. The Lauritzen Gardens also maintains an outdoor flower and plant exhibit, including a rose garden. You can also visit the second Legos temporary exhibit beginning in January. In addition to Legos, you can see a praying mantis, the Monarch butterfly, and a family of ducks.
For adults, you can also visit the Joslyn Art Museum, located in downtown Omaha. Originally named after businessman George A. Joslyn, the museum contains significant works by Veronese and El Greco. There is also Greek pottery on display. You can also spend time exploring the Joslyn Sculpture Garden, which includes several installations by local and national artists. The jazz on the Green festival is held here every year.
Scotts Bluff
Scotts Bluff, Nebraska, is a county in the state of Nebraska. The population is around 35,000. Its seat is Gering, but the county’s largest city is Scottsbluff. The county was named for the town that sits at the county’s center. However, the area has several attractions that make it worth a visit. Here are some facts about Scottsbluff.
The town was platted in 1899, so this photo shows the city from a water tower. You can see Broadway in the background and other landmarks throughout the downtown area. In addition to museums, there are other ways to spend your time in Scottsbluff. You can hike the Toadstool Trail, only about 1.5 hours from town. Be aware, though, that it gets pretty hot in late summer. You will also find little water and a few campsites. In case of this, you can also camp at the nearby Fort Robinson State Park.
The area surrounding Scotts Bluff is home to two major rock formations. Chimney Rock and Scotts Bluff are notable examples. The bluff was eroded by rivers for millions of years. However, the bluff itself is protected by a hard limestone caprock. This caprock also slows down the erosion rate. A view of the bluff and the surrounding landscape from the bluff makes the hike worthwhile.
Niobrara National Scenic River
For an unforgettable trip through a breathtaking landscape, the Niobrara National Scenic Area is a must-see destination in Nebraska. Located in north-central Nebraska, about 300 miles northwest of Omaha, the river’s 76-mile length was set aside by Congress in 1991 for preservation. The National Park Service and local Niobrara Council assist with the protection of this natural beauty.
You can explore the area’s wildlife and nature by hiking or canoeing the trails, which cross the state’s border. You can also watch for wild turkeys and white-tailed deer in the nearby areas. You can also take a horseback ride at one of the several parks in the area. Smith Falls State Park, named for homesteader Frederic Smith, has Nebraska’s tallest waterfall. It was named a state park in 1992, and it boasts a rich natural history.
Hunting is another popular activity at Niobrara National Scenic Area. While there are some public hunting grounds, most of it is on private property. Hunting licenses are necessary to legally hunt in the area. For your convenience, you should check out the park’s website before planning your trip. A few companies have a guide and equipment for hire. Some even provide shuttle service.
Audubon’s Nebraska Crane Festival
The 48th annual Nebraska Crane Festival will bring together enthusiasts and experts worldwide to celebrate cranes. Speakers will include award-winning nature photographer Nappadol Paothong and Rich Beilfuss, president of the International Crane Foundation. Ticket prices include admission to the festival and breakfast and lunch on Saturday.
You can purchase tickets to individual sessions or attend concurrent sessions if you’d like more hands-on experience. If you’re looking for a way to get up close and personal to the cranes, consider purchasing a membership to the festival. The cost for adult tickets is $150, $60 for students, and $20 for children.
The festival’s main attraction was the chance to get up close and personal with cranes, but concurrent sessions kept attendees interested throughout the day. Each time slot was filled with three different topics, ranging from birdcalls to how power-line designs affect bird populations. Other topics included the importance of identifying and recognizing bird call signals. There were also inspirational speakers, including Jane Alexander, who discussed the importance of crane conservation in our modern world.
Toadstool Geological Park
Toadstool Geological Park is a great destination if you’re interested in geological formations. Although it’s not part of the National Park System, the USDA Forest Service manages the park. You’ll be able to learn about the formations and processes of the hoodoos while hiking the park’s loop trail. The trail also links up with the three-mile Bison Trail.
Toadstool Geological Park is a popular natural attraction in Nebraska. The park contains formations resembling toadstools, famous for their fossil deposits and bizarre rock formations. The park’s visitor center explains the local geology and the history of the grasslands in the park. You can hike in the badlands and get close to these ancient creatures.
The CG Trail winds through the park and leads you through grasslands and badlands. You may even spot coyotes roaming the area. Eventually, you’ll enter the barren hinterlands and see dinosaur fossils. It’s the perfect spot to picnic, take pictures, and learn about the region’s geology. Toadstool Geological Park is part of the National Park Service’s National Park System.
Lincoln Children’s Museum
As one of the things to do in Nebraska, a visit to the Lincoln Children’s Museum is an excellent choice for families. This museum encourages creativity and learning through play with over 40 hands-on exhibits and educational workshops. Visitors can also enjoy a visit to the museum’s cafe or toy store. It is well worth a visit, whether you’re visiting for a day or spending an entire day.
The Children’s Zoo, founded in 1965, houses more than 400 animals. This art and science attraction offers educational benefits and helps children understand the importance of caring for animals and the environment. Children will also love the opportunities to take pictures with the animals and purchase animal-related artwork. It’s also one of the things to do in Nebraska for kids of all ages. The museum’s zoo is a great option for families with children.
The museum is a great place to spend a few hours with your family. The Museum features play areas for little kids, such as the Tiny Town. You can also visit the BNSF Train Exhibit, the Sky-High Airport, and the Artist’s Studio. If you’re traveling with a child, you can bring them to the Lincoln Children’s Museum.
Lincoln’s Old West history
When it comes to the state’s Old West history, Lincoln has a rich history that will not disappoint. The city’s rich past includes a gruesome murder committed by Billy the Kid, one of the most famous outlaws of the Wild West. Although the crime occurred in 1876, the town’s reputation as a great trading post still lives on. While visiting Lincoln, make sure to check out the Old Lincoln County Courthouse. The jail is a fascinating example of early American history, especially for those interested in the town’s long and colorful history.
There are many tales of gunfights in Lincoln’s Old West history. Some were spontaneous, some were longstanding feuds between rival bandits, and some were even romanticized. Wild Bill Hickok and Davis Tutt’s shootout and the Luke Short-Jim Courtright duel are two examples of such gunfights. However, other gunfights were much more severe. Fatal duels were fought for personal honor, oftentimes in the open.
Omaha’s cultural scene
The arts community in Omaha is vibrant, visceral, and internationally recognized. Omaha attracts established and emerging artists from Saddle Creek Records to the Bemis Gallery and the Jun and Ree Kaneko Gallery. A vibrant arts scene also supports the city’s youth, with new galleries opening yearly. Visitors can enjoy various shows and performances at a local theater or a popular downtown art gallery.
Benson is another thriving neighborhood. A block-long area near Maple and 61st streets, Benson is a cultural center. Locals and tourists alike can catch live performances by bands such as Adam Weaver and the Ghosts. The Waiting Room has a busy music calendar and hosts almost every week of the year. Upcoming shows at The Waiting Room include performances by City and Colour, The Nadas, and Appleseed Cast.
Art lovers can check out a number of galleries and museums throughout the city. The Orpheum and Joslyn Museum are landmarks of Omaha’s art scene. The Union for Contemporary Art, Benson First Friday, and Omaha Gallery of Art are also worth a visit. Though smaller than these larger art venues, you can also find some locally crafted works of art. However, you should be aware that the art scene in Omaha is not as developed as in some other major cities.
Best Sightseeing in Nebraska
Known for its diverse landscape, Nebraska is a midwestern U.S. state that spans the towering dunes of the Sandhills to the dramatic rock formations of the panhandle. The state’s capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, dominates the city skyline, while Omaha, home to the Durham Museum, honors the state’s pioneering past. If you’re traveling with a family, plan a day trip to Lincoln for the state’s landmark monuments, historic sites, and museums.
Lewis and Clark Landing
If you’re visiting Nebraska, you should make time to visit the state’s best sightseeing spots, like the five-acre public park at 515 North Riverfront Drive in Downtown Omaha. Located just north of U.S. Interstate 480, this 23-acre park sits along an eight-foot-tall walk along the Missouri River. Visitors can even visit the National Park Service’s nearby Fort Robinson, and view wildlife and other natural wonders.
This 23-acre public park is perfect for sightseeing and absorbing historical information. A 20-minute film and interpretive exhibits will help you learn about the history of this historic expedition. You can also walk the riverfront, which includes the Bob Bridge. The Anderson O Brien Fine Art Gallery has been the main venue of the Omaha art community for the past 30 years. Exhibits change frequently, showcasing the region’s top artists.
The park is located in a historical area where the Lewis and Clark Expedition first landed in 1804. It was here that the men hoped to find a passage to the Pacific Ocean. The park features historical exhibits and walkways that lead to the Heartland of America Park and the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. It also houses a visitor center. There is no better way to see history than by visiting this park, especially if you’re traveling with kids.
Arbor Lodge State Historical Park
If you’re looking for the best sightseeing in Nebraska, Arbor Lodge State Historic Park might be worth a visit. This park is home to the mansion and arboretum of the founder of Arbor Day. If you’re interested in history, you’ll want to check out the mansion, its grounds, and the park’s nature trail. Then, you can continue to the park’s other attractions, such as the Heritage Park, which features a replica of the founder’s homestead.
Whether you’re interested in the history of a state or a city, you’ll find a number of historic sites in Arbor Lodge State Historical Park. From fun historical landmarks to an all-night party addiction, you can find plenty of things to do in this state park. No matter what time of day you choose to spend in the historic district of Arbor Lodge, there’s sure to be something to pique your interest.
The park is located in the heart of Nebraska City, and the mansion was built in 1855 as the home of J. Sterling Morton, who was credited as the father of Arbor Day. It’s an important historical site for Americans, as it contains the mansion, arboretum, and Italian terraced garden. There are also walking trails and 200 varieties of lilacs. The park is open year-round, and hosts special events and programs.
Lake Mac
Located just eight miles north of Ogallala, Nebraska, the state’s largest reservoir is Lake McConaughy. Its dam is one of the largest in the world, and its fish account for several state records. Its name, “Lake Mac,” is appropriate given the size of the lake and the surrounding region. The white sand beaches make it a favorite for outdoor recreation, and you can rent a cabin, RV, or even go camping!
There are many different reasons to visit Nebraska’s Lake McConaughy, and it is possible to visit several of them without even leaving the state. Many travelers make the trip from surrounding states to experience the scenic beauty. A campground near Lake Mac’s north shore provides clean sand and a nice spot to cool off in the sun. During low-water periods, the campground has a boat ramp for easy access to Lake Mac waters.
Cody Park
When visiting Lincoln, Nebraska, one of the best places to spend the day is Cody Park. This urban park is filled with plenty of fun activities for all ages, and includes numerous sporting facilities, a swimming pool, and designated playgrounds for kids. It is an excellent place for picnicking and catching some rays. It is also the site of the world’s largest stamp ball. While visiting, be sure to visit the railroad museum, which features historic steam engines and locomotives.
If you are interested in shopping, visit the Fort Cody Trading Post, which features a museum devoted to Buffalo Bill. You can also shop for Native American jewelry and Western gear. The Trading Post also offers live entertainment on select days during the summer. There are also daily concerts, and the North Platte Community Playhouse hosts a children’s theatre program. The best time to visit is during the early summer, when the weather is warm and there are plenty of activities to keep kids busy.
For the kids, the park is home to the world’s only Challenger 3900 series steam locomotive. You can climb up on the locomotive for a close-up look at the engine and its components. Other attractions include a miniature golf course and a go-kart track. This family-run park is fun for all ages, although some attractions are geared toward children. The park allows coolers, and there is a snack bar.
Lauritzen Gardens
The botanical gardens of Lauritzen Gardens in Omaha, Nebraska are a must-visit destination when in the city. Omaha is a vibrant metropolis with a unique cultural heritage. You can explore the gardens in a day, or spend a whole weekend exploring the city. There is a museum for every taste, as well as a variety of activities. If you are visiting Omaha for the first time, Lauritzen Gardens is definitely worth the visit.
The garden is located near the Missouri River in the Riverview district, and is open every day until late. If you visit during a weekday, you can also take advantage of other attractions nearby, such as the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, a 9-hole golf course, and the Western Historic Trails Center. It is also possible to view live concerts, as well as watch a variety of other events.
If you are traveling with kids, you will enjoy the beautiful outdoor space of Lauritzen Gardens. This attraction includes an educational wing with two classrooms and a horticultural library. You can also enjoy a delicious lunch at the ConAgra Cafe, a popular cafe in the garden. Despite the garden’s beauty, there are a few drawbacks. One is that it does not offer a discount for Union Pacific passengers.
Scotts Bluff National Monument
The National Park Service manages this beautiful land west of Gering in western Nebraska. Over 3,000 acres of historic overland trail remnants, mixed-grass prairie, rugged badlands, towering bluffs, and riparian areas of the North Platte River are protected in the monument. The park offers plenty of hiking, biking, and picnicking opportunities and great photo ops.
If you are interested in history, you should definitely check out Scotts Bluff National Monument. The wind-sculpted buttes rise 800 feet above the Platte River Valley. To see early pioneer life, you can visit the visitor center, which features covered wagons. There, living history interpreters tell stories of life on the trail, and you can taste hard tack (a dry biscuit made from flour and water).
The name “Scotts Bluff” is also a geomorphic feature, and there have always been differences in spelling. In 1843, John C. Fremont spelled the town with an apostrophe. In 1875, G.K. Warren spelled it without the apostrophe. Since then, it has been spelled with an apostrophe on numerous maps of the late 19th century and early 20th century.
One of the most beautiful and unique places in the state is the Scotts Bluff National Monument, where you can view 100-mile-long views. You can reach Scotts Bluff National Monument by driving about an hour and a half from the cities of Omaha and Cheyenne. It is also located near Chimney Rock. You can even visit a historic church and even a museum! If you have the time and money, you should definitely visit Scotts Bluff National Monument.
Top 5 Places to Visit in Nebraska
This midwestern U.S. state features the prairies of the Great Plains, the towering dunes of the Sandhills, and dramatic rock formations in its panhandle. Its capital, Lincoln, is a thriving university town, and the Durham Museum honors Nebraska’s pioneering past. A trip to Nebraska is not complete without visiting these beautiful places. But before you start planning your trip to Nebraska, you’ll need to find the perfect accommodation.
Ponca State Park
Located in northeastern Nebraska, Ponca State Park is a great place for outdoor activities. The park is named for a Native American tribe. Its trails wind over hills, over bluffs, and under the canopy of hardwoods. Hikers and mountain bikers love the trails in the park, which is also great for birdwatching, especially during the spring migration season.
This park has a variety of outdoor activities and is home to the Missouri National River, which expands public awareness of the area’s natural and cultural resources. It also has an art sculpture, called Towers in Time, which shows the four eras of human development and natural wildlife history. Guests can learn about Nebraska’s natural history by hiking or taking part in the river’s outdoor recreation program.
Ponca State Park is also home to several outdoor programs, including educational and recreational events. Visitors can participate in archery, fishing, canoeing, and kite-making competitions. Families can also take advantage of the park’s water park and horseback riding. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax or a romantic getaway, there’s something for everyone at Ponca State Park.
Lake McConaughy
If you are looking for a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Lake McConaughy is a good destination for you. This reservoir is located on the North Platte River nine miles north of Ogallala, Nebraska, and is accessible from U.S. Highway 26 or Nebraska Highway 61. It is named after Charles W. McConaughy, a grain merchant and former mayor of Holdrege, Nebraska, who was one of the primary promoters of the project.
There are several attractions and activities to keep the family occupied during your stay at Lake McConaughy. Visitors love to go parasailing or sailing on the lake, and there are countless opportunities to get up close and personal with the creatures of the sky. If you aren’t into water sports, you can also check out the rich history of the lake by visiting the visitor center and museum.
Carhenge
Located near Alliance, Nebraska, Carhenge is a replica of Stonehenge. The structure is a popular tourist attraction in the High Plains region of the United States, and is a great way to get in touch with the past. This is a must-see attraction for visitors of all ages. During your visit to Nebraska, you can take a guided tour of the structure.
If you’re looking for something to do while you’re in Nebraska, you should definitely check out Carhenge. This enigmatic structure has been featured in many popular culture works. It was the subject of a 2005 documentary, and was also featured in a book called 1,000 Places to Visit Before You Die. And last year, it even caught the eye of the solar eclipse. Now, you can see the site in a completely new light in a different way!
Though Carhenge is open around the clock, it’s better to go during daylight hours to get a feel for its ancient, prehistoric, and historic setting. During the eclipse, it will feel almost as intimately tied to the sun as its English counterpart! You’re sure to have an unforgettable time here. The best time to visit Carhenge is during a solar eclipse in April or May, when the sun will appear as a huge ball of fire.
Lauritzen Gardens
If you are planning a trip to Omaha, you should not miss the chance to explore Lauritzen Gardens, a botanical garden located in South Omaha. Lauritzen Gardens are Omaha’s botanical gardens and feature a diverse collection of native and exotic plants and animals. The gardens are home to two of the most famous locomotives that once plied the Union Pacific Railroad. The first of these locomotives, the EMD DDA40X #6900, is located here. The second locomotive is the Union Pacific Big Boy #4023.
The gardens are located on a bluff west of the Missouri River and feature over a hundred acres of land. It features a rose garden, children’s garden, model train garden, and classrooms. The gardens are open daily 9am to 5pm except on Thanksgiving and Christmas. In the summer months, they are open until 8pm on Mondays and Tuesdays. Memberships are available, and they provide up-to-date information about the gardens and their various programs.
Scotts Bluff National Monument
Located west of Gering in western Nebraska, Scotts Bluff National Monument is a national park that protects over three thousand acres of mixed-grass prairie, towering bluffs, and rugged badlands. It also preserves a riparian area along the North Platte River. There are lots of great reasons to visit this park, including the spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
Visitors to the park can take a scenic drive up Scotts Bluff, or ride the shuttle to the top of the ridge. The ride up is narrated by a ranger, and you can either hike the entire way up or take the shuttle back down. For those who don’t want to hike, the monument also features a half-mile Oregon Trail Pathway that begins across the street from the Visitor Center. This path follows the old Oregon Trail and Mitchell Pass.
If you’re interested in exploring the bluff itself, you can walk along its trails. The two major trails are 1.6 miles long, and both offer great views. If you’re in the mood for a hike, take the Saddle Rock Trail, which takes you 400 feet higher than the Visitors’ Center. The trail is graded and features a scenic tunnel. Regardless of the trail you take, you’ll find yourself surrounded by some of the most beautiful and unique rock formations in the world.
Old Market in Omaha
The Old Market is a neighborhood located in downtown Omaha, Nebraska. This area is bordered by South 10th Street to the east, South 13th Street to the west, and Farnam Street to the north and south. It is a great place to go shopping, and you’ll find upscale dining and shopping here. The Old Market has a lot to offer visitors, including art galleries and restaurants. For those who’ve never been, the neighborhood is a great place to start.
Today, the Old Market in Omaha features many old buildings and streets. The buildings and streets are mostly brick, with a few cobblestone and asphalt sidewalks. Most of the buildings were originally used as steam bakeries, but a 1985 rehab turned them into retail and office space. The Baum Hydraulic Company, which operates from the Old Market, was built in 1894. The architecture firm Mendelssohn and Lawrie and John Latenser and Sons designed many of the buildings in the area.
Smith Falls State Park
One of the centerpieces of Smith Falls State Park is the 63-foot Smith Fall. This majestic waterfall is 12 miles east-northeast of Valentine, 3 miles south-west of Sparks, on the south bank of the Niobrara River. To see this natural wonder, make your way to Sparks, where you can visit Smith Falls State Park. It is the perfect day trip for all ages.
A day trip to Smith Falls State Park in Nebraska should include hiking to the state’s tallest waterfall. Hikers can access the waterfall through an historic bridge spanning the Niobrara River. On the way, hikers will come across the Jim MacAllister Nature Trail, which alerts them to the convergence of diverse ecosystems. The park is open daily from dawn to dusk, and visitors can enjoy the falls and other attractions in the park. However, they must purchase a park vehicle entry permit to hike the trail.
There are numerous activities in Smith Falls State Park, including hiking trails, fishing along the river, and visiting historical interpretive sites. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Nebraska. It is located near the city of Valentine, Nebraska, and is accessible by foot or by car. There is a walking bridge to access the waterfall, which is accessed via a trail. The park also limits hiking to the falls, so that you can protect the plants and wildlife that live in the surrounding areas.
Chadron State Park
Located nine miles south of Chadron, Nebraska in the northwestern part of the state, Chadron State Park is a public recreation area. With 974 acres of land, the park features Pine Ridge escarpment and Chadron Creek. Visitors can hike or bike to explore these natural wonders. While hiking in the park, visitors can also enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
A 100-mile-long escarpment and towering ponderosa pines are some of the many reasons to visit Chadron State Park. The park also features a modern campground with 70 campsites and 30 amp electrical hookups. For the adventurous visitor, there are numerous opportunities for mountain biking, hiking, and wildlife viewing. If you’re on a budget, you can stay in a cabin for the night.
If you’re a nature lover, consider visiting Chadron State Park, the oldest state park in Nebraska. The park is surrounded by stately ponderosa pines and is set in an area that is often rugged. While the area was devastated by major forest fires in 2012, the state removed dead trees to limit snag hazards and future fire hazards. Trails in the park have been recently expanded, and they’re now 15 miles long.
