Let's be real about something for a second here: Nebraska isn't exactly thought of as a traveler's kind of place. It's often ignored or overlooked in favor of... well, literally anywhere else, but I think that's unfortunate. In my opinion, Nebraska is tragically underrated, and for what reason? I'm not entirely certain of that - but what I am certain of is that there's a short list of must-see tourist attractions in Nebraska that totally make the Cornhusker State worth checking out. If you live here, and you've never been to these must-do places, all the more reason to get out and enjoy it. Life in Nebraska is nowhere near as boring as it's all too often accused of being.
This incredible zoo originally opened back in 1894 as the Riverview Park Zoo, and to this day, it’s still the #1 attraction in Nebraska among visitors and locals alike. It’s home to more than 17,000 amazing animals that you’d never see here otherwise, the world’s largest indoor desert, and so much more. This absolutely incredible zoo in Nebraska is worth a visit from all corners of the nation.
Once upon a time, the jaw-droppingly elegant Durham Museum was known as Union Station and existed as, well, exactly what it sounded like – an important headquarters for its operations in Nebraska. With exhibits ranging from old-school train cars to model trains, vintage recreated store fronts, and so much more, the Durham Museum is a must-do for history lovers, architecture buffs, and intrigued residents all the same.
Just south of downtown Omaha is one of the best botanical gardens in Nebraska, known to all as Lauritzen Gardens. Coming in at about 100 acres in size, this stunning garden is proof of just how gorgeous Nebraska can be. There are several gardens to stroll through, including flower gardens, herb gardens, and more – and do the $5 tram ride! It’s worth it.
Of all the bridges in Nebraska, the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is one of the most famous (and photogenic). It spans between Omaha and Council Bluffs, Iowa, and was completed in 2008. Ever since, it’s been a crucial part of the Omaha skyline. It’s 3,000 feet long, 15 feet wide, and definitely not for those afraid of heights! The city just wouldn’t be the same without it.
Hidden away in the city of Lincoln is the Sunken Gardens, which originally opened in the 1930s and to this day remains an integral part of the community. Entry is free, and the garden is open to stroll around from April through October. With more than 30,000 plants that call this amazing garden home, you can’t go wrong for a date night or a solo outing spent in pensive thought.
Scotts Bluff National Monument consists of five peaks and 3,000 incredible acres, every single inch of which is worthy of a day trip (or longer). Locals and visitors alike need to make the time to explore Scotts Bluff; it’s one of the most remarkably unique National Monuments in the country, and it’s quite the unexpected landscape for the Cornhusker State.
Old Market is so much MORE than a cute hidden garden in Nebraska hidden on the north side of Howard Street right in between 10th and 11th streets. Here, you’ll find shops, eateries, and all sorts of creatively modernized old buildings given new purpose. It’s a bohemian hotspot, and you never know what (or who) you’ll find while you’re here. The cobbled streets offer a hint of just how old-school this little area of town is. Enjoy!
The wonderfully educational Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum is a must-do for locals, visitors, and students alike. This museum is home to one of the biggest collections of Cold War artifacts and aircraft, and it offers up lots of educational tours and programs (including STEM education). With 300,000 incredible square feet to check out, this one’s more than worthy of a full day trip.
Carhenge might just be the single most famous tourist attraction in Nebraska, featuring the obvious: a recreation of the real Stonehenge, but with old cars instead of insanely heavy stone. During the summer, there’s a gift shop nearby that’s open to visitors and in the winter, should you wander into town and visit the Knight Museum, you’ll find merch and other things there. It’s a must – a weird must, sure, but a must nonetheless.
So, there you have it: nine awesome tourist attractions in Nebraska that the locals say everyone ought to visit at least once. Need a place to stay while exploring Nebraska? Check out all the unique offerings from our friends at VRBO. What are your favorite touristy spots in the Cornhusker State? Let me know in the comments!
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