Nebraska is a midwestern U.S. state encompassing the prairies of the Great Plains, the towering dunes of the Sandhills and the panhandle’s dramatic rock formations. Lincoln, the capital and a vibrant university town, is distinguished by its soaring state capitol. The city of Omaha is home to the Durham Museum, which honors the state’s pioneering past in a converted railroad depot. ― Google
Spring (April–June): Wildflowers in bloom, mild temperatures, and fewer crowds.
Fall (September–October): Pleasant weather, colorful foliage, and harvest festivals.
Summer (July–August): Great for outdoor activities and road trips, though it can get hot and humid.
Winter (December–February): Cold and snowy, but good for indoor attractions and a quiet getaway.
By Air:
Eppley Airfield (OMA) – Main airport in Omaha.
Lincoln Airport (LNK) – Serves the state capital.
Smaller airports in Kearney, Grand Island, and Scottsbluff.
By Train:
Amtrak’s California Zephyr runs across southern Nebraska, stopping in Omaha, Lincoln, Hastings, Holdrege, and McCook.
By Car:
Interstate access via I-80, I-76, and US Route 83 make for easy road trips across prairies, sandhills, and small towns.
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium: One of the top-rated zoos in the world with a desert dome, indoor rainforest, and more.
Scotts Bluff National Monument: Historic site on the Oregon Trail with panoramic views and hiking.
Chimney Rock: Iconic natural formation and pioneer landmark.
Carhenge (Alliance): A quirky Stonehenge replica made from vintage cars.
Sandhills: Vast, rolling grass-covered dunes—perfect for nature lovers and road trippers.
Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum (Ashland): Features military aircraft and Cold War artifacts.
Ponca State Park & Niobrara River: Canoeing, tubing, and scenic bluffs.
Nebraska State Capitol (Lincoln): An architectural marvel with murals, mosaics, and panoramic views.
Hiking & Camping: In state parks like Indian Cave, Eugene T. Mahoney, and Fort Robinson.
Wildlife Viewing: Visit Rowe Sanctuary in spring to witness the sandhill crane migration—a world-famous spectacle.
Tubing, kayaking, and canoeing on the Niobrara or Platte Rivers.
Attend Festivals: Like Omaha Summer Arts Festival, Nebraska State Fair, or AppleJack Festival in Nebraska City.
Explore College Towns: Lincoln (University of Nebraska) and Kearney have fun downtowns and sports energy.
Luxury:
The Kindler Hotel (Lincoln) – Modern boutique hotel near the Capitol.
Magnolia Hotel (Omaha) – Elegant and historic downtown stay.
Mid-range:
Graduate Lincoln – Trendy and university-themed.
Hilton Omaha – Near the Old Market and CHI Health Center.
Budget:
Chain hotels in every major town.
Motels and inns near highways for road trippers.
Unique:
Ranches and farm stays in central and western Nebraska.
Cabins in state parks like Platte River State Park.
Must-Try Nebraska Foods:
Runza – Stuffed pastry with ground beef and cabbage; Nebraska’s iconic fast food.
Reuben sandwich – Claims of origin in Omaha.
Rocky Mountain oysters – A daring local delicacy.
Steak – Nebraska beef is top-tier.
Sweet corn, kolaches (Czech pastries), and chili with cinnamon rolls – A school lunch tradition.
Top Restaurants:
Block 16 (Omaha): Farm-to-table street food.
The Grey Plume (Omaha): Fine dining with sustainable focus.
The Drover (Omaha): Famous for whiskey-marinated steaks.
LeadBelly (Lincoln): Creative American comfort food.
Spezia (Lincoln): Italian with Midwest flair.
Pioneer Heritage: Rich in frontier history—Nebraska was a key part of the Oregon, Mormon, and Pony Express Trails.
Agricultural Heartland: Corn, cattle, and open skies define the landscape and lifestyle.
Midwestern Friendliness: Laid-back, neighborly, and community-oriented.
Strong Czech & German Roots: Celebrated in festivals, churches, and bakeries.
College Football: Nebraska Cornhuskers football is a statewide passion.
Art & Music: From indie scenes in Omaha to bluegrass festivals in small towns.