If you love pork tenderloin sandwiches, Rocky Mountain oysters, mouth-watering steaks, and of course corn, Nebraska is the place for you. It’s definitely a gastronomic state, but it’s also a great state to explore. That being said, it can be difficult to decide which places are best to visit once you arrive in Nebraska.
Whether you’re visiting on a dedicated trip or as part of an extensive road trip across the United States, Nebraska is worth your time to explore. Even if you’re driving along Highway 80, you’ll still be able to see many of Nebraska’s top attractions relatively nearby.
To help you make the most of your trip to Nebraska, here are some popular places you won’t want to miss. I hope you have a great time visiting America.
1.) Scotts Bluff National Monument
At nearly 800 feet tall, Scotts Bluff is one of the best places to visit in Nebraska. In fact, it’s one of the state’s most iconic natural landscapes and has a lot to offer.
Well, it’s best to explore Scotts Bluff National Monument Head west into Wyoming. It’s relatively close to Nebraska’s western border, making it easy to visit during a long drive.
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The site is worth a visit, especially as it served as a landmark for immigrants heading west across the Great Plains of Nebraska.
When you’re here, be sure to hit the trail to find Eagle Rock and see some of the iconic Conestoga wagons on the prairie. It’s a great place to explore and well worth an hour or two.
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2.) Alliance
Located on the Great Plains of Nebraska, Alliance is a relatively small city perfect for an afternoon trip.
Now, as I said, the town of Alliance is small, but it’s easy to stay overnight to explore this eclectic little town and use it as a base from which to explore Nebraska’s larger Great Plains region. It can be used.
Be sure to visit when you arrive in the city. Alliance Night Museum It shares the settler history of the area and the history of the American Indians. Admission is free, and the tour lasts about 30 minutes.
Be sure to reserve a table for lunch ken and dale. Delicious brisket and creamy mashed potatoes are so delicious.
Also, don’t forget to get up close and personal with one of Nebraska’s most iconic art installations.carhenge‘. Think of it as a modern version of England’s Stonehenge. A wonderful location in the Sandhills on the outskirts of Alliance.
Honestly, it’s in the middle of a huge field so it’s very hard to miss.
3.) Cowboy Trail
The Cowboy Trail is one of the longest trails in Nebraska, spanning approximately 300 miles between Valentine and Norfolk. This is one of the best places to visit in Nebraska if you want to hike and walk in this beautiful state.
Now, don’t get too carried away. You don’t have to walk all 195 miles. Choose a section of the trail to join during your trip to Nebraska. This way you can see everything you want to see without spending too much time on spots you don’t really care about.
One thing to note is that there are very few restrooms along the trail, especially in some sections. So plan your pee breaks wisely. Well, we love the new section between Valentine and Norfolk. But like I said, choose the section you like the most.
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4.) Omaha
Not far from the Iowa border, Omaha is one of the best places in Nebraska to visit while driving along Highway 80. Omaha is one of Nebraska’s largest cities, and you can spend a few days exploring the city itself.
Once you arrive, be sure to stop by the Old Market District. Despite its “old” name, this area is very young. There is much to see and do in the surrounding area.Please take a stroll Gene Leahy Mall Or Lake Conagra. It’s a great park within the city and well worth a visit on a sunny day.
Then, head to Lauritzen Gardens to admire the gorgeous botanical gardens and stop by Durham Museum. The latter is built inside a former train station and has been converted into a museum that can be visited all year round. Once inside, you can explore numerous exhibits, including: Pulitzer Prize Photography, Trans-Mississippi Exposition, and more.
If you want to drink delicious beer, come here upstream brewing company Local ales and proper pub food are also served here. Their pork chops are delicious. If you prefer seafood for dinner, try the following restaurants: Plank Seafood Offering. Their lobster rolls are so delicious.
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5.) Lincoln
Nebraska’s capital, Lincoln, is worth a visit when heading further west beyond Omaha. As you know, this hotel is located right on Highway 80 and is a great place to stay overnight.
If you’re here, be sure to check it out state capitol It is almost 100 years old. Best of all, you can take a free guided tour starting at the north entrance (second floor) of the State Capitol. Tours are held on the hour most days.
Then head to American Speed Museum It is located on the outskirts of Lincoln. A great museum to visit if you’re a fan of automotive history. The visit takes about 90 minutes and is quite nice.
If you love American football, check out Memorial Stadium, which is over 100 years old. The energy is incredible and it’s worth getting a ticket if you’re in Lincoln for a few days.
Are you getting hungry?I’m heading to Jaya’s One delicious slice of pizza. Their buffalo pizza is everything.
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6.) Courtroom and Prison Rocks
Not far from the town of Bridgeport, Court and Jailhouse Rock is a great area to stretch your legs and go hiking in Nebraska.
For hundreds of years, these rocks served as landmarks for pioneers crossing the Great Plains.There are currently a lot of different trails in the area
However, there is one thing to remember. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks. Upon arrival, there is very little in terms of amenities.
7.) Ashland
Ashland is one of the best Nebraska locations to visit when driving between Omaha and Lincoln. Look, you can stop at the following locations. holy family shrine Tour one of the most unique churches in the state (just outside of Ashland). It’s very beautiful and worth a visit for a peaceful walk.
Then move on. Strategic Air and Space Museum. It houses the most extensive collection of Cold War era aircraft and artifacts. It was first opened in 1959 and was just the Strategic Air Command. Nowadays, the scale of the museum has grown, and you can see a lot of amazing history.
Please allow at least 2 hours to see everything.
8.) Lake McConaughey
Lake McConaughey, just off Highway 80, is the perfect stop on an afternoon trip in Nebraska.
Lake McConaughey is a great option if you want to cool off a little while visiting Nebraska. Once you arrive, you can go for some super fun boating or jet skiing (from Big Mac Marina). Not only that, but it’s a great place to camp or park your RV if you want to spend more time in a larger area.
Be sure to arrive with a picnic and snacks. When you arrive, there’s not much in terms of restaurants.
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9.) Smiths Falls State Park
Home to Nebraska’s tallest waterfall, Smith Falls is one of the great spots to visit when exploring the northern tip of Nebraska.
You can easily spend a few hours walking around and the views of Smith Falls are truly beautiful. Best of all, many trails are accessible. This makes it easier for people with physical disabilities to visit.
Well worth a visit. However, be sure to carry bug spray during the summer months. You’ll get bitten.
10.) Nebraska National Forest
Not far from the town of Chadron, the Nebraska National Forest is a great place to visit if you love the great outdoors. As you can see, this area covers well over 200 square miles of forest and is filled with hiking trails.
Not only that, you can easily visit Chadron State Park It is located right next to the Nebraska National Forest area.
Set aside at least a few days to really slow down and explore Nebraska’s pristine natural areas. The scenery is amazing.
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11.) Fort Kearney State Historic Park
If you’re interested in pioneer history, this is a must-see. Fort Kearney State Historic Park. Come here to learn all about the Oregon Trail and how many settlers passed through the area on their journey west.
A visit takes about 50 minutes and is an easy stop while driving along Highway 80.
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12.) North Platte
For a great Nebraska day trip, head to the city of North Platte. Although relatively small, you can explore the Buffalo Bill Ranch. This was actually Buffalo Bill’s ranch. Now you can go inside and explore. If you’re interested in the life of Buffalo Bill, it’s well worth a visit.
Afterwards, head to the historic dining district. From here you can stop by the local cafes, bars and independent shops that line the street.we loved good life in brickwhich is like a facility in Nebraska.
It’s a totally unpretentious place for lunch, serving delicious brisket and macaroni and cheese.
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