Places to Explore in Nebraska
Adventure awaits in spots across the state. Check out recommendations from the Nebraska Tourism Commission on places to explore in the Cornhusker state.
Henry Doorly Zoo
Omaha, Nebraska | About 60 miles from campus
Consistently ranked one of the top zoos in the world, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo is a must-visit. Explore 160 acres of plants, animals and immersive habitats from around the globe — from the world’s most venomous land snake in the Desert Dome to the red panda in the Asian Highlands exhibit.
While you’re in the area: Take in art at the Joslyn and KANEKO, check out shops or grab a bite in the Old Market and explore Lauritzen Gardens.
Toadstool Geologic Park
Crawford, Nebraska | About 440 miles from campus
Add this to your list of things you wouldn’t expect to see in Nebraska ✅ Toadstool has your fix of otherworldly, Instagram-worthy views.
While you’re in the area: Go horseback riding at Fort Robinson State Park and dive into history at the Trailside Museum.
Smith Falls
Valentine, Nebraska | About 300 miles from campus
Located along the Niobrara River, Smith Falls State Park is home to Nebraska’s highest waterfall — and is even home to several ice age species.
While you’re in the area: Kayak down the Niobrara National Scenic River and look for bison and other wildlife at Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge.
Fontenelle Forrest
Bellevue, Nebraska | About 60 miles from campus
Fontenelle Forest is one of the largest private nature centers in the nation with 17 miles of trails and over 1,500 acres of forest, prairie and wetlands. Outside of exploring nature, be sure to check out their Treerush Adventures where you can zipline and climb over six acres of forest canopy.
While you’re in the area: Lace up for some fun at Skate City and dive into history at the Sarpy County Museum.
Local Shops in Ashland
Ashland, Nebraska | About 30 miles from campus
Ashland’s town center is quaint and full of locally-owned shops and restaurants to check out, from Salt Creek Mercantile to Postscript!
While you’re in the area: Explore military and space aircraft exhibits at the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum and embark on an adventure through the Wildlife Safari Park.
Indian Cave State Park
Shubert, Nebraska | About 90 miles from campus
Bordering the Missouri River, Indian Cave State Park offers 3,052 acres of adventure, including camping and picnic spots and 22 miles of scenic trails.
While you’re in the area: Take a trip down the Missouri on the Spirit of Brownville Riverboat and celebrate art at the Flatwater Folk Art Museum.
Arbor Day Farm
Nebraska City, Nebraska | About 50 miles from campus
The birthplace of Arbor Day, this spot offers lots of outdoor adventure, from picking apples on the orchard to traversing their Treetop Village.
While you’re in the area: Grab a bite at Dinty Moore’s Lunch Room — a 100+ year-old Nebraska staple — and step back in time and explore the Wildwood Historic House and Victorian Garden.
Carhenge
Alliance, Nebraska | About 370 miles from campus
A unique recreation of Stonehenge, the replica consists of 39 automobiles arranged in a circle — a unique backdrop for your next photoshoot.
While you’re in the area: Dive into the state’s history at the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center and explore Nebraska at the turn of the century — touring a one-room schoolhouse to the first Black homestead in the state — at Dobby’s Frontier Town.
Nebraska State Capitol
Lincoln, Nebraska | About 1.5 miles from campus
The quickest trip on our list, the Nebraska State Capitol is a must-visit. From stunning tile floors to the beautiful State Library, the capitol has no shortage of views to take in. For more to explore in the star city, check out our Explore LNK series here.
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