Ashland Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, eat, and experience in Ashland, Nebraska with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Ashland

Nestled in Eastern Nebraska’s Saunders County, Ashland is a charming destination that is full of outdoor adventures, historical sites, and cultural attractions. This small city boasts a welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for families and solo travelers alike.

List of Places to Visit in Ashland

Are you planning a trip to Ashland anytime soon? Here are some of the must-visit destinations that will make your vacation unforgettable.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum: With over 300,000 square feet of exhibit space, the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum houses aircraft, missiles, and other important artifacts that highlight America’s airpower.
  • Ak-Sar-Ben Aquarium: If you’re traveling with kids, the Ak-Sar-Ben Aquarium is a must-visit destination. Here, you’ll be able to witness more than 80 species of aquatic creatures and learn about Nebraska’s waterways.
  • Civil War Veterans Museum: The Civil War Veterans Museum is one of the must-visit historical places in Ashland. This museum houses a vast collection of artifacts from the Civil War era and is a must-visit destination for history buffs.

Natural Attractions of Ashland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Eugene T. Mahoney State Park: The Eugene T. Mahoney State Park is a beautiful nature center that offers hiking trails, a miniature golf course, horseback riding, and a swimming pool.
  • Salt Creek: The Salt Creek is an excellent fishing spot where anglers can catch crappie, walleye, catfish, and bass. The area boasts beautiful scenery, and visitors can enjoy a peaceful day on the water.
  • Strategic Air Command Memorial: The Strategic Air Command Memorial is a beautiful outdoor memorial in honor of the Strategic Air Command, which was headquartered at Offutt Air Force Base.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ashland

Are you an adventure enthusiast looking for some great hiking and biking routes in Ashland? You’re in luck! Here are some of the best options to explore:

  • Platte River State Park: Platte River State Park has several hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the Platte River.
  • Lied Platte River Trail: This trail is a 23-mile bike path that runs between South Bend and Omaha and showcases diverse landscapes and wildlife.
  • Chalco Hills Recreation Area: Chalco Hills Recreation Area has numerous hiking and biking trails winding through the forest, prairie, and wetlands area.

Best Things to Do in Ashland: Activities and Tours

Ashland’s vast range of attractions makes it a great destination for solo travelers, couples, and families. Here are the top things to do and see in Ashland:

  • Visit the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum
  • Check out the Civil War Veterans Museum
  • Go on the Platte River State Park Canopy Tour
  • Go bird watching in the Standing Bear Lake area
  • Visit the Ak-Sar-Ben Aquarium

Week-Long Itinerary for Ashland

Are you visiting Ashland for a week? Here’s a sample itinerary to make your trip memorable:

Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7
Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum Visit Standing Bear Lake Hike at Platte River State Park Visit the Ak-Sar-Ben Aquarium Have a picnic at Chalco Hills Recreation Area Explore Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Check out the Civil War Veterans Museum

Food and Drink Scene of Ashland

Are you ready to discover the culinary highlights of Ashland? Here’s what to eat and drink when you’re in town.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ashland burgers
  • Nebraska-style hot dogs
  • Prime rib
  • Homemade pies

Local Beverages

  • Nebraska-made beer
  • Sarsaparilla
  • Nebraska-produced wine
  • Cherry cider

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

Regardless of what type of accommodation you prefer, Ashland has a range of options to fit your needs and budget.

  • The Ashland Inn: A small, budget-friendly hotel with comfortable rooms that is located in the heart of Ashland.
  • Lied Lodge & Conference Center: A luxurious hotel with an excellent on-site restaurant and beautiful views of the forest.
  • Super 8 by Wyndham Gretna: A budget-friendly hotel that is located close to all of Ashland’s top tourist destinations.

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

Go shopping in Ashland and take home some of its most delightful souvenirs, including:

  • Sarsaparilla candy
  • Nebraska-made wines
  • Ashland-branded T-shirts
  • Kool-Aid merchandise

Local Culture and Customs of Ashland

Nebraskans are generally warm and welcoming, so visitors should expect to be greeted with a smile. Dressing informally is acceptable in most places in Ashland, and visitors should generally be respectful of locals.

Best Time to Visit Ashland

The best time to visit Ashland is from May to September when the weather is warm and nature is at its best. The fall season is also beautiful due to vibrant foliage colors and pleasant temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ashland

Here are some of the cultural do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Ashland.

Do:

  • Greet strangers with a smile
  • Tidy up after yourself in public areas
  • Learn about Nebraska’s political and cultural history

Don’t:

  • Keep your shoes on when entering a local’s home
  • Be disrespectful of any religious or cultural practices
  • Refuse to try local food or drinks

Safety and Health

When visiting Ashland, keep these safety and health precautions in mind.

Safety in Ashland

Ashland is generally a safe destination, but common sense precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings and walking in well-lit areas at night are important.

Health in Ashland

It is recommended that visitors to Ashland receive a tetanus shot and stay up to date with their standard vaccinations.

Getting to Ashland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ashland is conveniently located near major cities and transportation hubs. Here are some of the best ways to get to Ashland:

Airports Near Ashland

  • Eppley Airfield (OMA): located 30 miles away from Ashland
  • Lincoln Airport (LNK): located 37 miles away from Ashland.

Bus Stations Near Ashland

  • Greyhound Bus Station: located 25 miles away in Omaha.

Other Options

  • It is recommended to rent a car to travel around Ashland with ease and flexibility.
  • Taxis and ridesharing services are also available.

How to Get Around in Ashland

Navigating Ashland is simple, and you can rent a car, bike, or take a taxi to move around. Public transport is not commonly available here, so it is important to plan ahead and book your transportation ahead of time.

Where to Go Next from Ashland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re planning a longer trip to Eastern Nebraska, here are some great destinations to pair with Ashland:

  • Omaha (25 miles away)
  • Lincoln (37 miles away)
  • Platte River State Park (20 miles away)

Conclusion

Ashland has something to offer every traveler, whether a history buff, cultural enthusiast, or an outdoor adventurer. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll have all the information you need to plan the perfect trip to Ashland, Nebraska.

SR-71 located at the Strategic Air & Space Museum SR-71 located at the Strategic Air & Space Museum The great American Bison can be seen in the Wildlife Safari The great American Bison can be seen in the Wildlife Safari