There's so much to explore in Nebraska that you could spend a whole lifetime visiting every little spot and still not see it all. This year, dive into some of our state's coolest places when you take these 12 awesome day trips in Nebraska. Each one shows you a special side of our state that will stick with you all year long, so come along and check out the best one day trips in Nebraska you can do for every month of the year!

1. Norfolk

This Madison County city is perpetually underrated, so a visit is definitely in order to explore everything Norfolk has to offer. Johnny Carson's hometown is overflowing with parks, attractions, cultural events, and dining experiences that will have you planning your next trip before the first one is even over. It's ideal to visit at any time of the year!

2. Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge

This Niobrara National Scenic River-adjacent wildlife refuge in Nebraska is home to elk, bison, and the kind of scenery that inspires people to give up city life. There are new and spectacular sights to see in every season, so no matter when you visit you're sure to be stunned.

3. The annual crane migration

Every year in late winter/early spring, hundreds of thousands of sandhill cranes converge here in Nebraska to rest on their long migratory journey. It's an incredible sight (and sound!) that will leave you absolutely breathless. There are tons of places to see the cranes during their short stopover - you just need to know where to look!

4. The canyons at Chadron State Park

All of Chadron State Park is worth a visit, but we're specifically looking at the Black Hills Overlook Trail, Steamboat Loop Trail, and Norwesca Trail. These hikes lead through the craggy canyons of the Pine Ridge, offering hiking experiences unlike any other you'll find in Nebraska. Plan to visit in the spring, summer, or fall months when the ground is dry.

5. Happy Jack Chalk Mine

The only underground mine in Nebraska offers an unusual experience that's sure to become a beloved family memory. In addition to the mine tour, you can climb to the top of Happy Jack Peak for a look at the spectacularly lush Loup Valley. It's open Memorial Day through Labor Day every year, so mark it down on your calendar for summer vacation time.

6. Lake McConaughy

Lake McConaughy - or Big Mac, as it's affectionately known - is Nebraska's largest lake and one of the state's top summertime recreation destinations. You can do everything here from swimming to camping to parasailing to fishing and oh-so-much more. While you can visit any time of the year, summer is optimal for enjoying the lake to its fullest.

7. Spring Creek Prairie

This 850-acre site not far from Lincoln is a spectacular example of native tallgrass prairie known as Spring Creek Prairie. It's never been plowed or developed in any way, making it an oasis of perfectly-preserved prairie land. It's an excellent place for wildlife spotters, particularly birdwatchers. Visit in the summer to see the prairie fully decked out in vivid green grass, or come in the winter to do some snowshoeing...but there's plenty to be said for visiting in the spring or fall, too!

8. Cowboy Trail

The Cowboy Trail is the longest rails-to-trails conversion in the country; it currently stretches over 195 miles, and when it's done it will cover 321 miles between Norfolk and Chadron. Hike, bike, or bring your horse along as you follow the trail through majestic scenery.

9. Heritage Highway

This 238-mile scenic route through the southern portion of the state is best in the fall. It will take you through some of the best fall foliage in Nebraska - however, Highway 136 is no one-trick pony. Drive this route any time of the year for a view that's so much better than the one you'll encounter on the more-popular Interstate 80.

10. Fort Robinson

Located in northwestern Nebraska, Fort Robinson occupies an area known for its Wild West history and its almost unbelievable natural beauty. This state park marries history and nature in a way that emphasizes the unbreakable connection between the two. It's stunning in all seasons, but come in the summer if you want to explore inside the fort's old buildings.

11. Taylor

The little town of Taylor is one of those places that is easy to overlook, but once you know its secrets, it's hard to stay away. The town's main draw is its Villagers: around 100 handcrafted plywood people placed all throughout Taylor. But there are plenty of other reasons to visit this little Loup County town, including the nearby Bootleg Brewery.

12. Toadstool Geologic Park

This western Nebraska hidden gem looks nothing like what most people picture when they think about Nebraska. When you visit, you'll feel like you're on another planet - or at least in another state! Walk through the unearthly landscape and admire the distinctive eons-old rock formations that give this place its name. While you can visit at any time of the year, the site's remote location makes it difficult to access after rain or snow.

Which of these day trips in Nebraska will you be taking this year? Which have you already done? Do you have any favorite Nebraska day trips in mind? Tell us all about it in the comments!