When I first planned my trip to Nebraska, I honestly didn’t know what to expect. It’s not a place you hear about as often as other states, but that’s exactly what made it so special. Nebraska surprised me in the best way — from wide open prairies and peaceful lakes to vibrant cities and small-town charm, there was so much more to see and do than I imagined.
Whether you’re into history, nature, food, or just taking a relaxing road trip, Nebraska has something for everyone. In this guide, I’ll share the best things to do in Nebraska based on my personal experience — all in simple terms, so it’s easy to follow and fun to read.
Explore Omaha – City Vibes and Riverfront Fun
One of my favorite stops in Nebraska was Omaha. It’s the biggest city in the state, and it has a great mix of history, fun, and modern city life. The first place I went was the Old Market District. It’s a cool part of downtown with cobblestone streets, local shops, street performers, and amazing places to eat. I loved just walking around and soaking in the vibe.
I also visited the Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, which turned out to be one of the best zoos I’ve ever been to. The indoor rainforest and desert exhibits were huge, and the kids around me were having just as much fun as the adults.
Another highlight was walking along the Missouri River at the Gene Leahy Mall and Heartland of America Park. There’s a peaceful vibe here, and the river views are beautiful, especially at sunset. I even crossed the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, which lets you stand in two states at once — Nebraska and Iowa!
Omaha has a little bit of everything: fun attractions, good food, and friendly people. It’s the perfect place to start your Nebraska adventure.
Discover Lincoln – History, Art, and College Town Feel
After Omaha, I made my way to Lincoln, Nebraska’s capital city. It has a totally different vibe — a mix of history, culture, and college-town energy, thanks to the University of Nebraska being right in the heart of the city.
One of the first things I did was visit the Nebraska State Capitol. The building is tall, beautiful, and full of stories. I took the elevator to the top and got a great view of the whole city. Inside, there are murals and artwork that show the history of Nebraska in a really cool way.
If you’re into art and creativity, Lincoln won’t disappoint. I stopped by the Sheldon Museum of Art and also checked out some colorful public art scattered around the downtown area. The city has a fun, youthful feel — with coffee shops, local boutiques, and live music popping up all around.
I also took a walk through the Sunken Gardens, which felt like a quiet little escape in the middle of town. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy some fresh air.
Whether you’re interested in politics, history, or just want to enjoy some local culture, Lincoln is definitely one of the best places to visit in Nebraska.
Visit Scotts Bluff National Monument – History and Views
One of the most memorable stops on my trip through Nebraska was Scotts Bluff National Monument. This place is a mix of natural beauty and rich history, and it gave me a real feel for what life might’ve been like during the days of the pioneers.
I started at the visitor center, where I learned how Scotts Bluff was an important landmark for travelers along the Oregon Trail, California Trail, and Mormon Trail. It was wild to think about how many people passed through here in covered wagons on their way west.
Then I took the drive up to the summit — it’s a scenic road with a few tunnels carved right through the rock. Once I got to the top, the views were absolutely amazing. I could see across miles of open land and rolling hills, and the wide Nebraska sky seemed to stretch forever.
There are also hiking trails, like the Saddle Rock Trail, which winds around the bluffs and gives you even more great views. I took my time and just soaked it all in — it was peaceful, quiet, and really beautiful.
If you’re a fan of history or just love the outdoors, Scotts Bluff is a must-see. It’s one of those spots that makes you pause and appreciate how big and wild the land really is.
Take in the Beauty of Sandhills and Prairie Life
Driving through Nebraska’s Sandhills was like entering a different world — one that’s quiet, wide open, and absolutely stunning. I’d heard people talk about the Sandhills before, but seeing them in person was something else. This huge stretch of rolling grass-covered hills is one of the most peaceful places I’ve ever been.
The Sandhills region covers a big part of Nebraska, and it’s perfect if you love scenic drives. I took my time on Highway 2, also called the Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway, and honestly, it was one of the most beautiful drives I’ve done. I passed windmills, cattle ranches, little lakes, and endless fields of grass dancing in the breeze.
One of the best parts was just how quiet it was. I stopped at a few pull-offs and just stood there, listening to the wind and birds. It felt like stepping back in time — no traffic, no big crowds, just nature.
I also learned about prairie life and how important this land is to Nebraska’s ranching history. Some small towns along the way had museums and friendly cafes where locals shared stories. The people were just as warm as the landscape.
If you’re looking for a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Sandhills are worth the trip. It’s a side of Nebraska not many people expect — and that’s what makes it special.
Relax at Lake McConaughy
One of my favorite places to unwind in Nebraska was Lake McConaughy, or as locals call it, “Lake Mac.” It’s the largest lake in the state, and when I first saw it, I couldn’t believe I was still in Nebraska. The water was bright blue, and the beaches had soft white sand — it felt almost like being by the ocean.
I spent the day swimming, walking along the shoreline, and just soaking up the sun. People were out boating, paddleboarding, and fishing. It’s the kind of spot where you can do as much or as little as you want. I chose to take it slow — laid out a towel, brought some snacks, and just enjoyed the calm.
Camping is a big thing here too. I saw tents and RVs set up with families grilling, laughing, and watching the sunset over the lake. If you’re into fishing, this lake is known for walleye and bass. I didn’t fish, but I talked to a few folks who said it’s one of the best spots around.
What I loved most was the laid-back vibe. It’s the perfect escape from busy city life, and it’s family-friendly, peaceful, and beautiful.
Drive the Nebraska Byways – Scenic Road Trips
One of the best ways I got to see Nebraska was just by hitting the road. The state has some amazing scenic byways, and each one showed me something totally different — from wide-open prairies to charming towns and historic landmarks.
I started with the Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway (Highway 2), which winds through Nebraska’s rolling Sandhills. The quiet beauty of the grass-covered hills and the big, open skies made it one of the most peaceful drives I’ve ever taken. I stopped at a few small towns along the way and even spotted some wildlife.
Another favorite was the Lincoln Highway Scenic & Historic Byway, part of the first coast-to-coast highway in the U.S. Driving along it felt like stepping into history. I passed old diners, vintage gas stations, and little towns that reminded me of simpler times.
Then there’s the Gold Rush Byway in western Nebraska. It follows the old gold rush trail, and I got to see parts of the Oregon Trail and some amazing rock formations like Chimney Rock.
Each byway had something unique to offer — local food, roadside attractions, and plenty of spots to pull over and snap photos. I didn’t need a tight plan; I just drove, explored, and enjoyed the ride.
If you love road trips, Nebraska’s scenic byways are perfect. They’re relaxing, full of hidden gems, and a great way to really experience the heart of the state.
Experience Nebraska’s Small Towns and Local Food
Some of my favorite moments in Nebraska happened in the small towns — the kind of places where everyone waves, the pace is slower, and the food tastes like home. Exploring Nebraska’s small towns gave me a true feel for the heart and soul of the state.
I stopped in towns like Broken Bow, Red Cloud, and McCook, and each one had its own charm. In Broken Bow, I visited a local market and picked up homemade jams. In Red Cloud, I explored the childhood home of author Willa Cather and walked the same streets that inspired her stories. It felt like walking through a living book.
Now let’s talk about the food — Nebraska’s local food scene is all about comfort and flavor. I tried juicy steaks in small-town diners (after all, Nebraska is known for beef), fresh-baked pies at local cafés, and even runzas — a warm, stuffed bread that’s kind of like a pocket sandwich. I didn’t expect to love it as much as I did!
Every town seemed to have a little bakery or a hidden gem of a restaurant. The people were always welcoming and happy to recommend their favorite dishes. I also visited a few family-owned farms that sell fresh produce and cheeses.
Enjoy Seasonal Festivals and County Fairs
One of the coolest parts about visiting Nebraska was experiencing the seasonal festivals and county fairs. These events really bring the local culture to life and give you a chance to enjoy great food, music, and fun activities.
In the summer, I checked out a few county fairs, and they were full of colorful rides, games, and farm animals. It reminded me of classic small-town America, with a lively, friendly atmosphere. I tried funnel cakes, corn dogs, and fresh lemonade — all the fair favorites that tasted even better when shared with happy crowds.
Fall brought a whole new vibe with harvest festivals celebrating Nebraska’s farming roots. I got to walk through pumpkin patches, watch local craft demonstrations, and listen to live music. The crisp air and golden fields made it feel extra special.
Winter and spring have their own celebrations too — like ice fishing contests and cozy winter markets that offer homemade crafts and warm drinks. No matter when you visit, there’s usually a festival or event happening nearby.
I loved how these festivals showed me the warmth and pride Nebraskans have for their community and traditions. They’re perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a genuine local experience.
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Nebraska
Traveling with family? Nebraska has plenty of fun spots that kids and adults both enjoy. When I visited with my family, we found lots of activities that kept everyone happy and entertained.
One of our favorite stops was the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha. It’s one of the best zoos I’ve ever been to — with huge exhibits like the Desert Dome and an underwater tunnel where you can see sharks swimming right above you. The kids loved the interactive areas, and I enjoyed learning about conservation efforts.
If your family likes history, the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer in Grand Island is a great place to explore. It has old wagons, historic buildings, and fun hands-on activities that show what life was like on the prairie.
For some outdoor fun, we visited Mahoney State Park near Omaha. There are hiking trails, playgrounds, a water park, and even a small zoo. It was the perfect spot for us to run around and enjoy nature without traveling far.
Nebraska also has many family-friendly festivals throughout the year, with music, food, and games that kids love. And if your family enjoys lakes, places like Lake McConaughy offer swimming, fishing, and camping options.
Conclusion
Visiting Nebraska surprised me in the best way. From the lively city life in Omaha and Lincoln to the peaceful beauty of Lake McConaughy and the Sandhills, there’s so much to see and do here. I loved exploring small towns, tasting local food, driving scenic byways, and joining in on festivals that show off Nebraska’s warm community spirit.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or friends, Nebraska offers a mix of adventure, history, and relaxation that’s hard to beat. If you want a destination that’s full of hidden gems and friendly faces, I highly recommend putting Nebraska on your travel list.
I hope this guide helps you plan your trip and enjoy everything Nebraska has to offer!
