Nebraska Official State Travel Guide - Nebraska 2026 Official State Travel Guide
Welcome Letter
2025-11-19 04:28:24
Dear Friends and Travelers,
Welcome to Nebraska!
You may be a first-time visitor, a returning guest who’s been coming here for years or a fellow Nebraskan, but you all have something in common: By picking up this travel guide, you’ve opened the door to one-of-a-kind adventures.
If it’s natural wonder you’re after, gaze at our pristine night skies at stargazing destinations like Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area, Nebraska’s first International Dark Sky Park; float down the Niobrara National Scenic River, North America’s first International Quiet Trail; and head west to trek the unexpected bluffs and buttes that Oregon Trail travelers passed on their own journeys over a century ago.
Speaking of history, Nebraska is a great place to explore the past. Learn about the origins of Arbor Day at Arbor Day Farm in Nebraska City, visit the world-class Museum of the Fur Trade in Chadron and get acquainted with the state’s rich Native American heritage at the many powwows hosted by local Native nations each summer. Some other things you may not know originated in Nebraska: Kool-Aid, Malcolm X, Johnny Carson and the Reuben sandwich. Go visit their birthplaces and learn their stories while you’re here!
If you’re looking for a good festival, we’ve got you covered, too. Head to Grand Island for the Nebraska State Fair, stop into Omaha for one of the country’s top Cinco de Mayo celebrations, and celebrate all things Nebraska at NEBRASKAland Days in North Platte. Want a party that’s a little bit more, well, unique? Try the Wayne Chicken Show or Popcorn Days in North Loup. They’re best experienced in person!
While you’re traversing our many scenic byways and charming back roads, you’ll have no shortage of places to stop and refuel with local and farm-fresh dining and drinking options. Whether your taste is Yoshitomo in Omaha, one of America’s top sushi restaurants; the Nebraska-original Tin Roof Sundae at the Potter Sundry; or good old-fashioned Nebraska beef from any number of our inviting steakhouses, there’s something for your taste.
No matter which direction you pick to travel, we can’t wait for you to encounter everything that makes our state special. With this book as your guide, and maybe a Nebraska Passport and a state map, too, you already have a head start planning your Nebraska adventure.
Sincerely,
Visit Nebraska
©Nebraska. View All Articles.