Whether you're stuck indoors or have moved away from Nebraska for a while, you may be missing some of your favorite places right now. It hurts to be away from the places you love, but don't worry - these 10 exceptional places are full of beauty, and they're not going anywhere. Whenever you can get out to see them, they'll be there for you.
1. The Niobrara National Scenic River
This gentle giant of a waterway is surrounded by natural beauty in all directions. It's no wonder it's such a popular summer destination for people eager to float around all day on an innertube or in a stock tank.
2. Lake McConaughy
This western Nebraska treasure is one of our most beloved places for recreation and relaxation. The lake and its surrounding beach are immense and offer the perfect setting for swimming, sailing, camping, and so much more.
3. The Sandhills
If you're a longtime reader, you know that the rolling, grass-stabilized sand dunes of central Nebraska are another of our absolute favorite plates. The region is unlike any other place in Nebraska - in fact, you won't find many places quite like this one anywhere else in the world.
4. Toadstool Geologic Park
Nestled into the Oglala National Grassland in northwestern Nebraska, this alien-like landscape is truly unforgettable. You'll feel a bit like you're walking on the moon when you're surrounded by these stunning rock formations that happen to look like giant toadstools.
5. Chimney Rock
Chimney Rock is perhaps the state's most recognizable image. It was an important landmark for westward-bound settlers, and it remains a significant symbol for all Nebraskans.
6. Scotts Bluff National Monument
You won't hear any disagreements from Nebraskans when you say that this is one of the most beautiful spots in the state. The majestic bluffs rising from the plains have captivated visitors for centuries and will continue to do so for many more centuries.
7. Nebraska National Forest
The largest hand-planted forest in the western hemisphere resides right here in the Cornhusker State. It was a grand experiment in horticulture and a bid to beautify the gentle plains and rolling hills, and it's unlike any other forest you'll ever visit.
8. Snake Falls
Nebraska has more waterfalls than most people expect. Snake Falls is the largest by volume, and while it's not easy to get to (requiring an admission fee and a short hike), it's absolutely worth the effort.
9. Agate Fossil Beds National Monument
Aside from the fossil finds and historical relics on this western Nebraska land, you'll find the type of natural beauty that's almost too majestic to believe. Do be sure to visit the museum while you're there to get a look at some of the animals (and humans, too!) that occupied the area hundreds, thousands, or even millions of years ago.
10. Honestly, just everywhere.
It's no secret that we've got a pretty intense love for our state. Where most people just see cattle, corn, and football, we see the true beauty of this spectacular place. The sky reaches all the way to the ground here, they say, and every one of these stunning places will be here for you whenever you return.
This isn't a complete list of all of Nebraska's most incredible places, so add your own favorites to the list in the comments!
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