Nebraska has museums, historic sites, and outdoor recreation – there is something for everyone to try. You might want to make a Nebraska bucket list so you can keep track of the things you want to do. If you have extra time, you can add in another activity from your list!
Agate Fossil Beds National Monument
The fossils found at Agate Fossil Beds include full skeletons of extinct Miocene mammals found here in the early 1900s. Before this, these animals were only known through bits and pieces of skeletons, so you can imagine what an incredible discovery this was.
Homestead National Historical Park
In 1862, the Homestead Act changed the history of America forever. Families, immigrants, single women, and even freed slaves were invited to file claims and create homesteads of their own. Unfortunately, this was land that was inhabited by Native Americans and it was taken from them to give away. Learn about the changes the Homestead Act put into effect at Homestead National Historical Park.
Missouri National Recreational River
There’s nothing quite so majestic as a strong and powerful river cutting through the land. You can see for yourself when you visit the Missouri National Recreational River. Whether you choose to fish, swim, or kayak, you’re sure to appreciate the beauty of this amazing place.
Niobrara National Scenic River
The Niobrara National Scenic River is a great place for floating, canoeing, hiking, or just sitting to watch the local wildlife. Whatever you choose to do, you’ll enjoy the time outdoors.
Scotts Bluff National Monument
For hundreds of years, Scotts Bluff has served as a landmark for people traveling through what is now Nebraska. This beautiful rock formation towers 800 feet above the North Platte River, and in addition to playing a big role in human history, it is also rich in geological and paleontological history.
National Historic Trails
Some excellent historical trails also crisscross the state. Use the visitor centers and landmarks along these trails to learn more about our country’s amazing history:
- The California National Historic Trail
- The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail
- The Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail
- The Oregon Trail
- The Pony Express National Historic Trail
Stroll the Sunken Gardens
A beautiful garden with lovely fragrances to boot, the Sunken Gardens were built in 1930 as a project for unemployed men. Today, the gardens are maintained by an army of volunteers and serve as an escape for those looking to take a stroll surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Explore the Lauritzen Gardens
The Lauritzen Gardens are well worth visiting. You’ll find over 100 acres of manicured hills and gardens, including a four-season botanical garden and an arboretum. Be sure to check out the children’s garden and the model railroad garden if you have little ones in tow!
Visit the Henry Doorly Zoo
The Henry Doorly Zoo is one of the world’s biggest and best zoos. It houses over 950 amazing animal species in some of the largest exhibits out there. The “Lied Jungle” building is especially spectacular, covering 1.5 acres.
The “Desert Dome” building and the aquarium are both very popular as well.
Dine at Runza
Runza is a local fast food chain that can be found in almost every town in Nebraska, so it shouldn’t be too hard to find one. We recommend trying the classic Runza sandwich with a side of onion rings — or if you have a hard time choosing, a side of “frings,” which combines those onion rings with some crinkle-cut fries.
Catch a Game at Memorial Stadium
Memorial Stadium, home of the Cornhuskers, holds some of the most exciting college football games in the country. It has the NCAA record of 349 consecutive sellouts since 1962, an astounding feat that you will fully understand when you attend a game there.
Discover the Archway Kearney
Honoring the role that Nebraska and the Platte River played in America’s expansion to the west, the Archway Kearney is an excellent road trip stop. The archway is about 300 feet wide and set above the busy I-80 highway. Inside, visitors are taken on an engaging journey through our country’s history.
Admire Art at the Joslyn Art Museum
The main focus at the Joslyn Art Museum is 19th- and 20th-century American and European art. The museum also features Greek pottery, American Western art, traveling exhibits, and a beautiful sculpture garden.
Try a “Cheese Frenchee” Sandwich
Another Nebraskan food that all visitors should try is the cheese frenchee. It’s a delicious and melty grilled cheese sandwich that is battered and deep-fried. It’s not the healthiest thing in the world, but it is absolutely delicious.
Learn at the Durham Museum
Located in the former Union Station in downtown Omaha, the Durham Museum is a wonderful place to wander, explore, and learn something new. The exhibits preserve and present the story of our country’s past and include some amazing artifacts such as restored train cars, reconstructed 1940s storefronts, and one of the world’s rarest coins.
Go Wild at the Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari
Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari lets you drive through four miles of park, checking out native North American animals such as bison, elk, and white tailed deer as you go.
Have a Slice of Raisin Pie
Raisin pie is popular in the Midwest, and is a delicious concoction of raisins, cinnamon, and sugar. Treat yourself to a slice … or compare recipes by ordering at a few different restaurants.
See Animals at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo
There are several excellent zoos in Nebraska, and the Lincoln Children’s Zoo is especially good for families with small children. It is a manageable size so there’s not too much walking for little legs. Attractions such as a train and animal encounter shows make visiting an exciting experience for children.
Wander at Pioneer Courage Park
Go for a walk and admire bronze sculptures representing the pioneer history of the area at Pioneer Courage Park. You’ll see bison, geese, and many more, and all of the sculptures offer perfect photo opportunities.
Gaze at St. Cecilia’s Cathedral
St. Cecilia’s Cathedral is a gorgeous cathedral that’s worth a visit. The building was designed in the Spanish Renaissance Revival style and is very unique.
Time Travel at Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park
Colonel William F. Cody first opened a show that was similar to a rodeo in North Platte in 1882. He called this show Old Glory Blowout, and it was the beginning of his time as the famous Buffalo Bill. Visit Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park to learn about the man and his work.
Blast Off at the Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum
See the largest collection of Cold War artifacts and aircraft in the US as you wander the Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum. Check out iconic airplanes as well as the Apollo Command Space Module, plus a collection of artifacts belonging to a local astronaut.
Get Hands-On at Lincoln Children’s Museum
A stop at the Lincoln Children’s Museum is a great activity for families. Little ones can play, build, and climb, all while learning about the world. Kids enjoy the mini theater, the prairie dog tunnels, and the tiny town where they can pretend to be adults.
Have Fun at the Omaha Children’s Museum
The Omaha Children’s Museum is filled to the brim with hands-on activities that encourage kids to get creative, think outside of the box, and problem-solve. Your kids will love creating art at the community sculpture and art island, and playing with wind, air, and water in the Super Gravitron.
See the Omaha Old Market
Shopping local is one of the best things you can do to get a feel for a place while visiting. The Omaha Old Market allows you to do just that. Visit local shops, galleries, pubs, and eateries in this lively neighborhood. Be sure to stop and admire the work of street artists and musicians along the way.
Step Back in Time at the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer
The Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer features a whole pioneer village just waiting to be explored. Chat with costumed interpreters who are happy to share everything they know about the time period.
It’s pretty clear that Nebraska is a wonderful place. The biggest issue is going to be finding places to stay near all of the amazing sites you’ve added to your Nebraska bucket list. Staying in an RV allows you to easily hop from one place to another, giving you freedom and comfort no matter where you roam. If you don’t have an RV yourself, you can rent one from RVshare that will suit you and your group.
