Nebraska Official State Travel Guide - The Official 2020 Not-At-All What You Thought State Travel Guide
SCENIC BYWAYS
2019-12-16 00:01:40
SEE THE SIGHTS, AND THE SITES
Follow the trails of pioneers, cruise city streets or go gallivanting off the grid. Nebraska has nine scenic byways that serve up eye candy in every flavor imaginable. What’s your favorite?
Miles 158 The Route US 385 between Chadron and Sidney
385 GOLD RUSH
SCENIC BYWAY
At its peak, more than $200,000 worth of gold traveled this historic route daily. Today, US 385 is considered one of the most scenic and historic roads in the nation, with impressive pine-covered buttes, rolling hills and lush river valleys.
4 GOLDEN OPPORTUNITIES
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Discover Nebraska’s oldest state park, Chadron State Park, founded in 1921 and located just outside Chadron. Its variable terrain offers hikers and bikers of all levels a spot to get outside and enjoy Nebraska’s wildlands.
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You have to see Carhenge to believe it: Built as a tribute to his father, Jim Reinders’ free Alliance attraction uses 39 spray-painted automobiles to form a replica of Stonehenge. The artist studied Stonehenge before beginning construction.
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Relive the history of the Sandhills region at the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center in Alliance, where exhibits delve into the area’s pioneer past, Native American life, railroad heritage and the larger-than-life personalities who settled the area.
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Two rock formations, Courthouse and Jail Rocks, signaled to pioneers that they were on the right track during a transcontinental journey west. Where the rocks rise 240 feet above Pumpkin Creek in Bridgeport, take advantage of epic views and photo ops.
SMALL TOWN STOP
SIDNEY
With its picturesque green spaces, historic sites and mom-and-pop-owned shops and restaurants, this friendly community offers plenty of small-town charm you won’t soon forget.
DO – Discover the oldest building in town when you visit Camp Lookout, an 1867 outpost that once housed soldiers tasked with protecting Union Pacific Railroad workers.
DO – Snap a pic with the bronze rider and horse memorialized by the National Pony Express Monument.
DO – Enjoy colorful blooms, a gazebo and veterans’ memorial at Living Memorial Gardens.
DO – Stroll downtown Sidney, a Main Street community on the National Historic Register.
Miles 231 The Route State 12 between South Sioux City and Valentine
OUTLAW TRAIL
SCENIC BYWAY
Add stops at Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area, Smith Falls State Park and Valentine National Wildlife Refuge—some of Nebraska’s top outdoor playgrounds—for a wilder Outlaw experience.
4 WILD OPPORTUNITIES
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Hit the Niobrara National Scenic River for water recreation surrounded by dramatic bluffs, diverse wildlife and gorgeous waterfalls. Brewers Canoers & Tubers in Valentine rents canoes, kayaks and tubes so you can explore at your own pace.
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Make Springview’s historic Turtle Butte Lodge your base for hunting, fishing, wildlife tours and the like. Stay the night and lodge cooks, well-versed in wild fare, will prepare your bag for you.
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At Ohiya Casino & Resort in Niobrara, owned and operated by the Santee Sioux Nation, play a variety of machine games, check out the evening’s entertainment and enjoy restaurant specials. Traveling with kids? Resort guests can access an arcade and indoor heated pool.
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In Ponca, explore 22 miles of scenic hiking and biking trails within Ponca State Park, the eastern gateway to the 59-mile section of the Missouri National Recreational River. In spring, take a guided bird tour to spot migrating species that stop over in the park’s wetlands.
NIOBRARA
Nestled alongside the Niobrara River, the name of this town means “running water.” With fewer than 400 residents—and as headquarters of the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska—it’s an ideal spot for exploring nature and tribal history.
DO – Peruse tribal artifacts, from beadwork to musical instruments, at Ponca Tribal Museum.
DO – In summer at Niobrara State Park, go on a horseback ride and attend the occasional bison cookout.
DO – Learn about the youngest member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition on the Shannon Trail.
STAY – Check into the Whitetail River Lodge, a log cabin lodge offering hunting packages.
Miles 197 The Route US 20 between the Wyoming border and Valentine
BRIDGES TO BUTTES
SCENIC BYWAY
From the high bridges of Valentine to the high plains near the Wyoming border, this route takes you through rolling Sandhills in the east, wild prairies in the northern panhandle and two wonders in the west: Toadstool Geologic Park and Agate Fossil Beds National Monument.
4 GEMS WORTH A STOP
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Stay overnight in the historic Harrison House Hotel in Harrison, built in 1886 by the Chicago Northwestern Railroad. With vintage details and period charm, this independently owned bed-and-breakfast gives guests a cozy yesteryear vibe.
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Visit a modern archaeological excavation site at Hudson-Meng Education and Research Center in Crawford, the site of the largest extinct bison bonebed in the world.
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Get a glimpse into Nebraska ranch life at Bowring Ranch State Historical Park near Merriman. The site’s Eve Bowring Visitor Center interprets ranching, homesteading, geology, wildlife and other topics related to the Sandhills and the Bowring family.
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Enjoy 3,000 acres of sparkling water in the midst of the Sandhills at Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area near Valentine. The area is open year-round, though summer is most popular for boating, fishing and watersports.
GORDON
Known for its rich pioneer history and outdoor recreation, Gordon offers a peek into the past, as well as a look into modern-day small-town living on the plains. You’ll find everything from cowboy culture to excellent hunting, fishing and golfing opportunities.
DO – Watch livestock shows, rodeos and live music performances at the Sheridan County Fair & Rodeo.
DO – Catch live music at Benny’s, a family-owned restaurant open daily.
DO – Visit the Tri-State Old Time Cowboys Memorial Museum to explore old ranching tools, an early chuck wagon and cowboy artifacts dating back to the 1880s.
EAT – Pull up to the window at the mainstay Covered Wagon Drive Inn to order burgers, fries and shakes on-the-go.
Miles 238 The Route US 136 between Edison and Brownville
HERITAGE HIGHWAY
SCENIC BYWAY
Traversing 10 counties, the Heritage Highway Scenic Byway transports road-trippers to communities where Nebraska history is preserved and worth exploring. Whether you start or end in historic Brownville, take time to explore the Missouri, America’s longest river.
4 HISTORIC SITES TO SEE
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Red Cloud Opera House, the stage home of author Willa Cather, sets the mood, scene and tone of the 1880s with a full schedule of performances. Marvel at the 19th-century grandeur of this Red Cloud venue, fully restored in 2003.
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Want to stretch your legs with a tranquil view? Take an extended break at Superior Estates Winery in Superior, where vineyard views pair nicely with Nebraska wine.
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In Fairbury, explore 350-acre Rock Creek Station State Historical Park. Among prairie hilltops, creek bottoms and rugged ravines, you’ll discover deep ruts carved by wagons that traveled the Oregon and California trails.
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Stop at the Homestead National Monument of America in Beatrice to learn about the importance of the Homestead Act of 1862 in the expansion of the U.S.
FAIRBURY
Once home to the Rock Island Railroad Western Division Headquarters, this quaint railroad town is filled with historic landmarks, unique shops, antique stores and independently owned restaurants.
DO – Explore artifacts and memorabilia at the restored Rock Island Railroad Depot Museum.
DO – Trek through Rose Creek Wildlife Management Area to find McDowell’s Tomb, a hand-carved mausoleum within a sandstone cliff.
SHOP – At Stagecoach Mall & Mainstreet Coffee House, peruse antiques and sip gourmet coffee.
STAY – Stay within walking distance of Fairbury’s historic downtown at the modern Grayhouse Inn Bed & Breakfast.
Miles 150 The Route State 11 and State 91 between Dunning and Wood River
LOUP RIVERS
SCENIC BYWAY
From far-stretching farmlands, red barns and silos to the nature-scapes of the Sandhills and Calamus River, this byway is a treat for photographers and those willing to just sit back, relax and take it all in.
4 TREASURES IN CENTRAL NEBRASKA
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The Calamus River flows gently to Calamus State Recreation Area near Burwell. Stop into Calamus Outfitters nearby to rent a kayak, canoe or tank and float the river Nebraska-style.
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See the most complete historical fort in Nebraska: Fort Hartsuff State Historical Park near Elyria. Originally built to protect pioneers from a Sioux tribe, Hartsuff became a fortress for the friendly Pawnee Tribe and pioneers.
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Enjoy a pint of craft beer at Ord’s award-winning Scratchtown Brewing Company, the Sandhills’ first brewery. Choose from varieties such as the Black Eye Imperial Porter and Snipe Hunter American-Style Barleywine.
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The Happy Jack Peak and Chalk Mine in Scotia is the only publicly accessible chalk room and pillar mine in North America. Explore more than 6,000 square feet of honeycombed caves inside.
WOOD RIVER
Settled in the mid-1800s by emigrants, gold seekers and Mormons, this small town features numerous historic sites, as well as breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
DO – Watch the sky fill with migrating sandhill cranes every March at Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center.
DO – Hike Derr House Prairie, a serene chain of grasslands and wetlands along the Platte River.
DO – Drop a fishing line into the 15-acre pond at Cheyenne State Recreation Area.
EAT – Fill up on everything from pizza to sandwiches to tacos at Klinger’s Place.
Miles 400 The Route US 30 across the state
LINCOLN HIGHWAY
SCENIC AND HISTORIC BYWAY
What’s your rush? Get off the interstate and experience the history of pioneers, cowboys and Pony Express riders—plus cultural and natural treasures—as you cross the entire state of Nebraska.
4 DIVERSE DISCOVERIES
1.What is now the Fort Sidney Museum Complex ceased operation in 1894, but its post commander’s home, barracks and magazine building remain. Visit to learn the history of Sidney’s days as a railroad town.
2.Pony Express rider, Civil War soldier, rancher and entertainer “Buffalo Bill” Cody moved into his North Platte “Mansion on the Prairie” in 1886. Tour his home and barn, full of memorabilia, at Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park.
3.Visit Omaha’s Hot Shops Art Center, notable for its four anchor art studios: Crystal Forge glass studio, Bruning Sculpture, Hot Shops Pottery clay studio and C.K. Fabrication blacksmithing shop. Bi-annual open houses allow you to explore the studios and see demonstrations.
4.Originally built by Mormon pioneers in 1847, the restored Florence Mill in Omaha now houses the Winter-Quarters Mill Museum, ArtLoft gallery with special exhibits and a farmers market on final Sundays (June through September).
BLAIR
This family-friendly community along the Missouri River is an ideal launch point for boating, fishing and picnicking in your choice of parks and green spaces. The retail stretch along Lincoln Highway offers boutique shopping, dining and more.
DO – At Prairie Star Botanicals, learn how to identify natural, native herbs on a free walking tour.
SHOP – Stock up on barbecue sauces, spices and spreads at Chili Dawg’s Foods of Fire.
EAT – Savor a steak dinner and waterfront views at Driftwood Inn Restaurant and Lounge.
STAY – Complimentary refreshments and made-from-scratch breakfast is the draw at Bakers Bed & Breakfast.
Miles 82 The Route US 75 North between South Sioux City and Fort Calhoun
LEWIS AND CLARK
SCENIC BYWAY
Follow in the footsteps of the famous explorers. Through bountiful cropland and beautifully wooded bluffs framing the Missouri River, you’ll discover Native American culture and bustling Omaha, home to the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium.
4 DISCOVERIES IN EASTERN NEBRASKA
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The last full weekend in July, head to the Winnebago Reservation for the tribe’s annual Homecoming Powwow and Celebration. Year-round, visit the pasture of the tribe’s buffalo herd, also located in Winnebago.
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A quarter of the U.S. Army was once stationed at Fort Atkinson State Historical Park in Fort Calhoun. Visit to experience life in an 1820s military fort and periodic living history demonstrations in summer.
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Also in Fort Calhoun, wander the vast floodplains of the Missouri River at Boyer Chute National Wildlife Refuge. These wetlands shelter migrating birds in spring and fall.
4.Inside Omaha’s historic Union Station, find The Durham Museum. Packed with regional displays and traveling exhibits, the museum gives visitors a deeper understanding of Nebraska history.
SOUTH SIOUX CITY
Sidling the borders of Nebraska, Iowa and South Dakota, South Sioux City offers an array of activities, restaurants and waterfront views.
DO – Take in views of the Missouri River from a modern version of an earthen lodge at Blackbird Scenic Overlook.
DO – Pedal along 20 miles of paved trails from Veterans’ Bridge through Scenic Park, Cardinal Park and Crystal Cove on the Al Bengtson Bike Trail.
EAT – Enjoy prime steaks, fresh seafood and an extensive wine list at Kahill’s Chophouse.
STAY – Settle into sleek, modern rooms and peaceful river views at Delta Hotels South Sioux City Riverfront.
Miles 272 The Route State 2 from Grand Island to Alliance
SANDHILLS JOURNEY
SCENIC BYWAY
World-class natural wonders await along this rural route. Sand dunes and the Nebraska National Forest rise from the plains. In spring, migrating sandhill cranes fill the sky. By night, the stars put on an incredible show.
4 MUST-SEES
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Create woodblock decorations, join a painting party or see what artists are exhibiting at the Carnegie Arts Center in Alliance. The center repurposes the town’s original library, which opened in 1912.
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Victoria Springs State Recreation Area marks the location of mineral springs near the community of Anselmo. Fish, paddleboat and picnic, then camp or rent a cabin to extend your exploration.
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Located in a red barn in Broken Bow, the Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway Visitor Center invites road-trippers. Learn from exhibits inside and out, or chat with the friendly staff for area info.
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Especially during a new moon, stop and look up at the night sky along the byway’s vast stretches of open road—Nebraska promises some of the best stargazing anywhere in the world.
THEDFORD
Nestled in a winding crook of the Middle Loup River, this village of less than 200 people is a quiet place for enjoying the outdoors and a bit of history and culture.
DO – Learn the story of the two Haumann sisters, who got lost in the Sandhills in 1891, at the Little Girls Lost Historical Marker & Bronze Statue.
DO – Stop by the volunteer-run Thedford Art Gallery to explore local arts and culture.
DO – Rent a tube, tank or kayak from Sandhill River Trips to float the Middle Loup or Dismal Rivers.
STAY – Enjoy personalized tours of ranching areas when you stay at Middle Loup River Ranch and Guest House.
Miles 144 The Route US 26 and State 92 from the Wyoming border to Ogallala
WESTERN TRAILS
SCENIC AND HISTORIC BYWAY
Pioneers would have come across the same towering formations and pine-shaded bluffs on this route as drivers encounter today. Get out of your “wagon” and explore: Storied sites, picturesque trails and sparkling lakes await your discovery.
4 WAYS TO DO THE WEST
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Hike or mountain bike Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area and Nature Center in Gering. The views—of rocky bluffs, evergreen-studded canyons and the North Platte River Valley—are epic at this site, too.
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Chimney Rock National Historic Site in Bayard protects a rock formation so perfectly pointy, it appears to be “Towering to the Heavens.” Don’t forget comfy shoes for walking—or your camera.
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Homesteading artifacts from early settlers, as well as fossils and arrowheads, are the draw at the Bridgeport Pioneer Trails Museum in Bridgeport, free from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
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In Ogallala, access both Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala State Recreation Areas. These two Nebraskan lakes are peaceful and scenic—just right for fishing, swimming and taking shoreline hikes.
LEWELLEN
Just minutes from Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area, as well as historic pioneering sites, Lewellen welcomes adventurers and history buffs alike.
DO – Browse paintings, sculptures and other creations by local artists at The Most Unlikely Place.
DO – At Ash Hollow State Historical Park, look for an old schoolhouse and wagon ruts, evidence of the Oregon Trail era.
EAT – At Otter Creek Lodge, fill up on fried chicken in a log cabin-style restaurant, just steps from Lake McConaughy.
STAY – Enjoy the convenience of an in-room kitchenette at the remodeled Lewellen Lodge.
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SCENIC BYWAYS
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