Nebraska may be known as “Cornhusker State,” but it has a lot more to offer than simply corn. Nebraska, a state in the Great Plains, is home to impressive sand dunes, vast grasslands, striking rock formations, and thriving metropolises. Lincoln, the capital, is just one of many beautiful places to visit in the state.
Nebraska isn’t complete until you add in the cowboy heritage and culture. The top locations to visit in Nebraska range from rural retreats to bustling cities to offbeat landmarks along the highway.
10. Chimney Rock
When travelers travelled west through the Great Plains in the 19th century, there was one immensely important landmark they waited for: Chimney Rock. This sandstone outcrop towers over the North Platte Valley at an impressive height of over 300 feet.
Chimney Rock was a key landmark for western travelers, Native Americans, and even Mormons. Consequently, a visit to Chimney Rock National Historic Site is highly recommended. Today, the location features a Visitor Center and Museum, and you can receive a map that displays the best hiking paths and views all around the bluffs.
9. Carhenge
The Sandhills are home to the unexpectedly famous monument of Carhenge. In a peculiar arrangement, automobiles are stacked and organized just north of Alliance. Sounds like Stonehenge because it was designed to resemble that famous British site.
Vintage American automobiles were used to construct Carhenge, which was then painted a uniform gray to evoke Stonehenge. This unique, bold statement piece is perfect for any modern art fan. Classic car fans will appreciate the memorial’s incorporation of historic automobiles. Carhenge is worth seeing even if you’re only passing by; you can get some amazing photos there.
8. Movement of Sandhill Cranes
There is a strange annual event that draws many people from all across the United States to the Platte River Valley. There are two major migration periods for sandhill cranes: spring and fall. The sandhill cranes migrate north in the spring and south in the fall.
Although aerial migration is common among many bird species, the sheer magnitude of this event is truly remarkable. Nearly 90% of sandhill cranes migrate along the same route. The flyover, which spans 80 miles from Grand Island to Kearney in Nebraska, is a popular route for migrating birds.
7. Cowboy Trail
The Cowboy Trail is located in the state’s Outback Region, namely the Niobrara River Valley. These paths were built on top of the former Chicago and Northwestern Railway Corridor. In its current form, the rails-to-trails network covers about 200 kilometers.
Hikers and cyclists can enjoy the state’s recreational mecca on the finely crushed gravel and limestone path. The trail features an incredible 221 bridges, the longest of which is the so-called Valentine Bridge, which stretches for a breathtaking quarter mile and makes for a spectacular photo backdrop.
6. Buffalo Bill Ranch
In the 19th century, the man who would become known as Buffalo Bill took a western-themed show on the road. William F. Cody was more often known as Buffalo Bill. North Platte is home to the Buffalo Bill Ranch Historical Park, which was once Cody’s home.
Today, you may explore his 19th century mansion named the Second Empire. Buffalo Bill artifacts, much of which pertains to his illustrious Wild West Show, can also be admired. Along with its other attractions, the state park is a great place to go camping, hiking, or have a picnic.
5. Park Number Five: Fort Robinson
Fort Robinson State Park is a massive park in the state’s extreme northwest, where the history and scenery 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.
First, leave your car at the entrance and take a horse-drawn carriage, a horseback ride, or a four-wheel-drive Jeep with the top down to see the immense park. Visit the excellent Trailside Museum for an hour or two, then head outside to see the beautiful buffalo or longhorn herds.
4. The Monumental Gateway
Great Platte River Road Archway Monument, or simply the Archway, is located on the outskirts of Kearney. The arch itself reaches out over the bustling Interstate 80, and it was built to remember and emphasize the significance of the Westward Expansion’s arduous journey.
The Archway is not only an impressive landmark, but also home to an informative museum. Start the self-guided audio tour as soon as you enter the Archway to feel like you’re a part of the action. You’ll find out about the Mormon Trail, the Oregon Trail, and the motivations of the pioneers who used those routes to get to California.
3. National Monument No. 3: Scotts Bluff
Scotts Bluff, like Chimney Rock, served as a landmark for travelers on their way to the American West. The landmark is not just one bluff, as the name might imply, but rather a group of bluffs that rise sharply from the surrounding plain.
Many hiking paths weave around here, allowing you to explore the area and see the bluffs from all sides. Overlooks Trail, one of the most well-known, offers a breathtaking panorama of North Platte Valley and its surrounding landscape.
2. Lincoln
Lincoln, as the capitol of Nebraska, is naturally one of the state’s busiest and most fascinating tourist destinations. The state capitol is an impressive sight, and tours of the art deco interior are available at various times daily. The finest part of the trip is that visitors get to access the observation deck on the fourteenth level and take in one of the best vistas in the city.
Lincoln is home to the University of Nebraska, and Husker sporting events are always massive. On game days, more than 80,000 Husker supporters congregate at Memorial Stadium to watch the game and cheer on the team.
1. Omaha
Omaha is the state capital and largest city in Nebraska; it is also known for its warm welcome and friendly locals. Omaha’s Old Market is a wonderful place to see the city’s rich history, with its brick alleys and the option of being driven around in a horse-drawn carriage.
There is a farmer’s market there on Saturdays throughout the warmer months. Omaha has many options for people who enjoy experiencing different cultures. Among the best is the Joslyn Art Museum, which houses a world-class collection with works by artists like Degas and Renoir. Gene Leahy Mall, one of downtown Omaha’s several public green spaces, offers stunning vistas of the city skyline.
Is Nebraska worth visiting?
Located in the Great Plains, Nebraska has a lot of breathtaking views to offer. The state boasts open plains that stretch for miles and miles, natural rock formations, towering dunes, and several scenic spots. Those who love the hustle and bustle of city life will enjoy the offerings of Lincoln and Omaha.