Nebraska Travel Guide

United States of America

A river with a bridge, surrounded by trees and buildings.
A large aircraft with visible wear and tear, including a damaged wing and engine.
A museum exhibit with fossil displays, including a plesiosaur skeleton and various marine fossils.
A cable-stayed bridge with a tall central tower and a pedestrian walkway.
A red train, a large metal wheel, and a building with a sign reading "Hyatt Place".

Experience the U.S. at its most welcoming in classically American cities and vast prairies capturing the nation’s pioneering frontier spirit.

Nebraska is a state shaped by pioneers seeking a life for themselves on the far-flung frontier of a new nation. Today it is a place that prides itself on its hospitality, culturally active cities and engaging historical sites. Embrace the freedom of Nebraska’s vast prairies and soak up the atmosphere of its bustling and artistic cities.

The first pioneers to Nebraska were prehistoric American Indians, who arrived about 10,000 years ago. Different waves of colonists moved into the land from the 18th century onward. Discover pockets of Czech, Danish and Irish culture throughout the state from the waves of European settlers that arrived in the 1800s.

Learn about the story of the state in the Harold Warp Pioneer Village. This popular attraction features 12 historic buildings, including an old country church and a traditional general store. View displays dedicated to transportation and weaponry.

Relax in charming Omaha, Nebraska’s commercial and cultural center. The Joslyn Art Museum is one of the Midwest’s finest galleries and features a global array of paintings by artists such as Titian, Monet and Renoir. The Durham Museum and the Union Pacific Railroad Museum across the river in Council Bluffs, Iowa, cover numerous topics using interactive exhibits.

Stop in the capital, Lincoln, for eye-catching landmarks and family attractions. The massive State Capitol was built in the 1920s. Its central tower rises to an octagonal top with a large copper dome reaching 400 feet (120 meters) above the city. Lincoln also has a children’s zoo, sunken gardens and several museums.

Experience prairie farming life in agricultural attractions. Wessels Living History Farm features historic constructions such as a red, timber-frame barn and an old schoolhouse. Head to Arbor Day Farm, a national historic landmark, for seasonal activities and a ride through the grounds.

Fly into Omaha, on Nebraska’s eastern border. Drive across sweeping plains covering the center of the state. Visit Nebraska in summer for sunny days in the fields and longer opening hours in museums and heritage sites.

Popular cities in Nebraska

A red train, a large metal wheel, and a building with a sign reading "Hyatt Place".
Lincoln
Known for Sports, Universities and American Football
Under the sweeping Nebraskan skies, the state capital offers many historic sites and buildings, a thriving cultural scene and miles of outdoor trails.

Reasons to visit

  • Memorial Stadium
  • University of Nebraska-Lincoln
  • Lincoln Children's Zoo
A tree-lined street with a tall building in the background.
Lincoln
Known for Sports, Universities and American Football
Escape to Lincoln! Enjoy its sports, live music and art.

Reasons to visit

  • Memorial Stadium
  • University of Nebraska-Lincoln
  • Lincoln Children's Zoo
A rustic building with stone walls and a sign reading "Great Platte River Road."
Kearney
Known for Friendly people, Dining and Family-friendly
From sandhill cranes to a museum above the highway, discover Nebraska at its finest in the seat of Buffalo County.

Reasons to visit

  • Great Platte River Road Archway
  • Classic Car Collection
  • Fort Kearny State Historical Park
North Platte
North Platte
Known for Dining, Excursions and Family-friendly
Learn about the Wild West life of "Buffalo Bill,” explore the insides of historic trains and camp under star-filled skies in this hardy Nebraskan town.

Reasons to visit

  • Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park
  • Union Pacific Railroad Bailey Yard
A large, white Victorian-style house with a turret and wrap-around porch.
Grand Island
Known for Islands, Shopping and Festivals
The appeal of Nebraska’s central city is diverse: From wildlife viewing to historical attractions, this prairie town offers exhilarating and relaxing choices.

Reasons to visit

  • Island Oasis Water Park
  • Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer
A cityscape at night with a calm river reflecting buildings.
Omaha
Known for Shopping, Zoo and Sports
Nebraska’s largest city rises from the picturesque plains, its skyline encompassing modern landmarks, sprawling gardens and a lively riverfront precinct.

Reasons to visit

  • Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

Stay near popular Nebraska attractions