Nebraska Travel Guide

Explore Nebraska with this comprehensive tour guide. Discover culturally important attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking trails, best things to do, where to stay, local food and drink scene, and more.


Nebraska is a state located in the Great Plains region of the Midwestern United States. Due to its central location, it is often referred to as the “Heartland” of America. It is known for its vast prairies, rolling hills, and diverse range of attractions, making it a popular tourist destination. In this comprehensive tour guide to Nebraska, we will explore the culturally important attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking trails, best things to do, where to stay, local food and drink scene, and more.

Introduction to Nebraska

Nebraska is bordered by South Dakota to the north, Iowa to the east, Missouri and Kansas to the south, Colorado to the southwest, and Wyoming to the west. The state’s capital and largest city is Lincoln, while its largest metropolitan area is Omaha. The state is home to numerous historical and cultural attractions, as well as natural wonders and outdoor activities.

List of Places to Visit in Nebraska

  • Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
  • Chimney Rock National Historic Site
  • Carhenge
  • Scotts Bluff National Monument
  • Pioneer Village
  • The Oregon Trail
  • Arbor Lodge State Historical Park
  • Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum
  • Great Platte River Road Archway Monument
  • Agate Fossil Beds National Monument

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Nebraska is rich in historical and cultural significance, with many museums and historical places worth visiting. Here are some of the top attractions in this category:

  • Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum showcases aviation history and aircraft displays.
  • Durham Museum located in Omaha hosts exhibits on the history of the state.
  • Nebraska State Capitol is a beautiful building that offers visitors a chance to learn about the state’s history.
  • Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park in North Platte, which was the home to William “Buffalo Bill” Cody and now houses a museum.
  • Homestead National Monument of America in Beatrice tells the story of westward expansion and the Homestead Act.

Natural Attractions of Nebraska: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The state features natural wonders such as its prairies, sandhills, and unique rock formations, and it’s the perfect location for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the top natural attractions of Nebraska.

  • Chimney Rock National Historic Site offers stunning views of the surrounding prairie landscape.
  • Sandhills of Nebraska is a unique area to explore and is one of the largest prairies in the world.
  • Lake McConaughy is a great place for water activities such as boating and fishing.
  • Niobrara River is the ideal location for kayaking.
  • Scotts Bluff National Monument is a unique rock formation and is a great destination for hiking and scenic views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nebraska

There are many beautiful trails and scenic routes to explore in Nebraska. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes to explore:

  • Cowboy Trail offers a beautiful route for bikers and hikers alike.
  • Platte River State Park has trails running through its beautiful terrain offering both hiking and biking options.
  • Ponca State Park has many trails offering visitors a chance to witness its beautiful mountain scenery.
  • Indian Cave State Park has many trails to explore its beautiful forests.

Best Things to Do in Nebraska: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours that visitors can enjoy while in Nebraska. Here are some of the top things to do:

  • Visit Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park.
  • Visit Boys Town, one of the world’s largest private orphanages.
  • Take a scenic drive to Chimney Rock.
  • View the wildlife of the Sandhills and wetlands at Rowe Sanctuary.
  • Take a hot air balloon ride, and get the bird’s-eye view of the state.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nebraska

For those looking to explore Nebraska in more detail, we have created a week-long itinerary that covers some of the top attractions in the state:

Day 1 - Omaha: Visit the Henry Doorly Zoo, Durham Museum, and Jazz on the Green.

Day 2 - Lincoln: Explore the Nebraska State Capitol, Pinewood Bowl Amphitheatre, and Sunken Gardens.

Day 3 - Grand Island: Check out Island Oasis Water Park, and explore Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer.

Day 4 - Scotts Bluff: Hike up Scotts Bluff National Monument and explore the Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area.

Day 5 - North Platte: Visit the Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park and go horseback riding at the historic Ponderosa Ranch.

Day 6 - Central Nebraska: Explore the Great Platte River Road Archway Monument and Hall County Historical Society Museum.

Day 7 - Sandhills: Take a scenic drive through the Sandhills, and visit Carhenge.

Food and Drink Scene of Nebraska

Nebraska has a diverse food scene with plenty of local specialties. Here are some dishes and beverages that you should try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Runza, a sandwich filled with ground beef, cabbage, and onions, all wrapped in homemade dough.
  • Kool-Aid pickles, a unique snack made by marinating pickles in Kool-Aid.
  • Reuben sandwiches are a staple in Omaha, featuring corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, served on rye bread.

Local Beverages

  • Kool-Aid was invented in Hastings, Nebraska, and is considered the official state drink.
  • Craft beer scene in Nebraska has exploded recently, and there are many microbreweries to explore.
  • Nebraska wineries offer visitors the chance to try locally made wine.

Where to Stay in Nebraska: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Nebraska offers a range of lodging options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some of the top places to stay in Nebraska:

  • Magnolia Hotel in Omaha is a beautiful historic hotel.
  • The Marriott in Lincoln is at the center of the city, offering convenient access to attractions.
  • Hostels and guesthouses are perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

What to Buy in Nebraska: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are many unique souvenirs and local products to bring back home from Nebraska. Some of the best things to buy include:

  • Handmade pottery and ceramics from Lincoln and North Platte.
  • Local honey and jams are perfect to take back home.
  • Artifacts and jewelry made by local Native American tribes.

Local Culture and Customs of Nebraska

Nebraska residents are friendly and hospitable. Visitors should expect these customs:

  • Nebraska is often considered a conservative state.
  • Baseball is the most popular sport in the state.
  • Tipping is standard practice in restaurants and bars.

Best Time to Visit Nebraska

The best time to visit Nebraska is between May and October when the weather is mild. Summer (June to August) brings the most tourists, while spring and fall are less crowded but still offer good weather.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nebraska

Do:

  • Visit farmers markets for fresh produce and handmade goods.
  • Hold the door open for others, and say “please” and “thank you.”
  • Respect local cultures and customs.

Don’t:

  • Litter or pollute the environment.
  • Be rude or disrespectful to others.
  • Ignore signs requesting privacy or no trespassing.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nebraska

Nebraska is a safe state with relatively low crime rates. Visitors should still exercise basic safety precautions, such as locking doors and not flashing valuables.

Health in Nebraska

Nebraska has excellent healthcare services available to residents and visitors alike. Travelers should check with their health insurance company and get up-to-date immunizations before traveling to Nebraska.

Getting to Nebraska: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nebraska

The main airports serving Nebraska are:

  • Eppley Airfield (OMA) in Omaha
  • Lincoln Airport (LNK) in Lincoln
  • Central Nebraska Regional Airport (GRI) in Grand Island

Bus Stations Near Nebraska

  • Greyhound offers bus service to several cities in Nebraska.

Other Options

  • Amtrak offers train service to Omaha and Lincoln.

How to Get Around in Nebraska

There are many ways to explore Nebraska, from rental cars to public transportation. Visitors can also use ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft.

Where to Go Next from Nebraska: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many great places to visit in the region after exploring Nebraska. Here are some of the top destinations and excursions:

  • South Dakota’s Badlands National Park offers a unique landscape.
  • Colorado offers stunning mountain views and outdoor activities.
  • Missouri’s Gateway Arch in St. Louis is a national icon.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nebraska is a state that offers a range of experiences for visitors. From its natural wonders and outdoor activities to its rich historical and cultural attractions, there is plenty to explore. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a chance to relax, Nebraska offers something for everyone.

Lincoln, Nebraska in the 19th century Lincoln, Nebraska in the 19th century Scott's Bluff Scott's Bluff


    Eastern Nebraska
    Nebraska Panhandle
    North Central Nebraska
    South Central Nebraska