Unlock the charm of Nebraska, a state that often slips under the radar. Despite its nickname, the Cornhusker State extends beyond cornfields. Its expansive prairies, celestial skies, and cowboy culture create a distinct allure well worth exploring.
Amazing Places to Visit in Nebraska
Nestled in the Midwest, Nebraska is bordered by South Dakota, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, and Wyoming. It stands as the sole landlocked U.S. state in the East. The state’s eastern expanse is marked by rolling hills and river valleys, while the western reaches are defined by lush farmland and ranches. Immerse yourself in our guide to the “Amazing Places to Visit in Nebraska” and unveil the exceptional destinations that define this unique state.
The state capital of Lincoln and the bustling city of Omaha are two of the state’s highlights. In Lincoln, visitors can admire the art deco architecture of the state capitol building and catch an exciting professional football game. Meanwhile, Omaha is home to numerous museums, galleries, and cultural attractions, including the world-famous Henry Doorly Zoo, which boasts an indoor swamp, desert, and rainforest, and over 17,000 species.
In addition to these two cities, Nebraska also has plenty of natural wonders to explore. From the towering Chimney Rock spire to the vast sand dunes of Sand Hills, there’s no shortage of breathtaking sights to take in. Visitors can also experience outdoor adventures like canoeing down the Niobrara River, kayaking through the Oregon Trail gorges, or horseback riding and camping in the stunning Pine Ridge region.
If you’re looking for a taste of cowboy culture, Nebraska has plenty of historic ranches, modern cities, and quirky roadside stops to explore. So, don’t overlook this hidden gem in the heart of the Great Plains – Nebraska is waiting to be discovered!
10. Chimney Rock
View of the iconic Chimney Rock in Nebraska on a clear day. Image source: Zack Frank/Shutterstock.com
Chimney Rock was a crucial marker for 19th-century explorers crossing the Great Plains on their way west. The sandstone outcrop in the North Platte Valley rises to a height of almost 300 feet.
Chimney Rock was not only an important waypoint for western travellers but also had religious significance for Native Americans and Mormons. Since this is the case, the Chimney Rock National Historic Site should not be missed. The area now has a museum and a visitor centre where you can learn about the history of the area and pick up a map of the finest places to hike and take in the views from the surrounding cliffs.
Amazing Places to Visit in Nebraska: Carhenge
: Unique view of the Carhenge sculpture in Alliance, Nebraska. Image source: Edwin Verin/Shutterstock.com
The Sandhills are the surprising home of a monument known as Carhenge. Just north of Alliance, you’ll see a peculiar arrangement of stacked and organised automobiles. The arrangement of the stones is meant to evoke the famous British site of Stonehenge, thus the name.
All the automobiles in Carhenge are classics from the United States, but they’ve been painted grey to make them resemble Stonehenge. This unique, bold statement piece will appeal to contemporary art fans. Those who like classic automobiles will appreciate the memorial’s incorporation of historic vehicles. Carhenge is worth a visit even if you’re only passing by; you can get some stunning pictures there.
8. Sandhill Crane Migration
Sandhill cranes in flight during their spring migration in Nebraska. Image source: Kent Weakley/Shutterstock.com
There is a peculiar annual event in the Platte River Valley that draws a large number of people from all across the United States. Sandhill cranes make a long journey across the country in the spring and in the autumn. Sandhill cranes migrate north in the early spring and south in the late autumn.
Although aerial migration is common among many bird species, the sheer magnitude of these birds is really astounding. Eighty percent or more of sandhill cranes always use the same route throughout migration. Nebraska’s “flyover,” which extends for 80 miles between Grand Island and Kearney, is a popular route for migrating birds.
Amazing Places to Visit in Nebraska: Cowboy Trail
Aerial view of the Long Pine Creek Trestle in Nebraska. Image source: marekuliasz/Shutterstock.com
The Cowboy Trail is located in the state’s Outback Region, namely the Niobrara River Valley. The Chicago and Northwestern Railway Corridor, along which these paths now follow, was abandoned in the 1980s. The length of the converted rail corridor now exceeds 200 miles of trail.
Travelers may ride or walk along the crushed gravel and limestone trails, making it a recreational centre for the state. The path has an incredible 221 bridges, the longest of which is the so-called Valentine Bridge, at a breathtaking quarter mile in length.
6. Buffalo Bill Ranch
Scenic view of the Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park in Nebraska. Image source: Kevin Kipper/Shutterstock.com
Buffalo Bill was a 19th-century showman who became famous for taking his western-themed performances across the globe. Western legend “Buffalo Bill” Cody was born William F. Cody. North Platte is home to the Buffalo Bill Ranch Historical Park, which was formerly Cody’s residence.
His Second Empire home, built in the nineteenth century, is open for tours today. You may also marvel at the massive collection of Buffalo Bill artefacts, many of which relate to the legendary Wild West Show he hosted. In addition to these activities, visitors may also enjoy camping, hiking, and picnicking in the state park.
Amazing Places to Visit in Nebraska: Fort Robinson State Park
Beautiful view of Fort Robinson State Park in Nebraska. Image source: Micheal Heath/Shutterstock.com
Fort Robinson State Park is a massive park in the state’s far northwest where the history and landscapes of the Old West come to life. Fort Robinson, a military stronghold from the late 19th century, is today the greatest opportunity to see the agricultural side of the area.
Instead of driving yourself through the large park, consider renting a horse-drawn carriage, a four-wheel-drive Jeep, or even just a horse. If you’ve spent an hour or two inside the excellent Trailside Museum, it’s time to go outside and look for the longhorn herds or the beautiful buffalo herds.
4. The Archway
The iconic Great Platte River Road Archway in Kearney, Nebraska. Image source: Jason Patrick Ross/Shutterstock.com
Located on the outskirts of Kearney, the Great Platte River Road Archway Monument (or “the Archway”) is a popular tourist attraction. The arch itself spans the bustling Interstate 80 and was built to remember and emphasise the significance of the Westward Expansion’s arduous journey.
Though impressive on its own, the Archway is even more of a tourist attraction because of the museum it houses. Start the self-guided audio tour as soon as you enter the archway to immerse yourself in the action. You will learn about the Oregon Trail and its pioneers, the Mormon Trail, and the impetus behind the Westward Expansion.
Amazing Places to Visit in Nebraska: Scotts Bluff National Monument
Beautiful view of Scotts Bluff National Monument in Nebraska. Image source: Traveller70/Shutterstock.com
Scotts Bluff, like Chimney Rock, served as a landmark for travellers heading west through the United States. Despite the fact that the name suggests otherwise, the monument is really comprised of a series of bluffs that rise sharply from the otherwise level terrain.
You may go for a trek and observe the bluffs from all sides, since there are many routes that run around the region. A popular option is the Overlooks Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the North Platte Valley and the surrounding landscape.
2. Lincoln
Stunning aerial view of Lincoln, Nebraska. Image source: Jacob Boomsma/Shutterstock.com
As the state capital, Lincoln is naturally one of the most important and exciting destinations in Nebraska. Tours of the capital building, an impressive art deco structure, are available many times daily. One of the highlights of the trip is the opportunity to take advantage of the observation deck on the fourteenth level, which provides visitors with stunning panoramas of the city below.
Lincoln is home to the University of Nebraska, and Husker athletic events are the most popular attractions in town. On game days, more than 80,000 Husker supporters congregate at Memorial Stadium to watch the game and cheer on the team.
1. Omaha
Beautiful aerial view of downtown Omaha, Nebraska. Image source: Jacob Boomsma/Shutterstock.com
The city of Omaha, Nebraska’s largest, is known for its warm welcome and friendly locals. Omaha’s Old Market is a great place to get a feel for the city’s history, with its brick streets and the option of being driven about in a horse-drawn carriage.
It is also the location of the farmer’s market during the warmer months. Omaha has a lot to offer in the way of cultural pursuits for those so inclined. The Joslyn Art Museum is highly recommended; it has an excellent collection, including works by such masters as Degas and Renoir. Gene Leahy Mall is one of several downtown Omaha public green areas, and it offers spectacular views of the city skyline.
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What’s the prettiest place in Nebraska?
- Sandhills Region
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What is the most visited place in Nebraska?
- Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
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What is Nebraska famous for?
- Agriculture, wide open spaces, and the Sandhills.
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What are 5 things Nebraska is known for?
- Cornhusker football, the Oregon Trail, the Great Plains, prairies, and beef production.
Plan your trip with ontravelx and get ready for a journey full of breathtaking sights and priceless memories.
