Central Nebraska Vacations

Central Nebraska is a largely unspoiled land, dotted with tiny towns and vast landscapes. Drive along its open roads and explore its many hidden gems.

Summer temperatures soar in Central Nebraska. Enjoy a break cooling off at Island Oasis Water Park in Grand Island. Speed down its many twisting slides and splash in the massive wave pool. Children of all ages can test their balance on the log walk or play on the sandy beach.

While in Grand Island, learn about Nebraska’s early history at the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer. Explore exhibits featuring authentic household items, tools and furnishings from the pioneer era. Relive history in Railroad Town, an impressive recreation of an 1890s prairie community, complete with a mercantile, blacksmith shop and more.

Because it spans Interstate 80, you truly can’t miss The Archway. Walk through the bridge-like museum and learn about Nebraska’s settlers, from early pioneers to modern car salesmen. Trace history in a self-guided interactive audio tour. Take a photo next to a pioneer wagon.

Explore military memorabilia at the Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles in Lexington. Check out over 100 vehicles, ranging from jeeps to tanks to helicopters.

Stop at Fort Cody Trading Post in North Platte. Check out Buffalo Bill’s Miniature Wild West Show, featuring 20,000 hand-carved figurines.

Meander through the honeycombed caverns at Happy Jack Peak and Chalk Mine. This unique destination takes you on more than a mile of winding underground paths. Outside, enjoy stunning views across the North Loup Valley.

Each spring, millions of birds migrate through Central Nebraska. Between late February and April, witness the stunning sandhill crane migration. Stop in Kearney, known as the Sandhill Crane Capital of the World, to see these large gray birds in action. Join other birdwatchers at Audubon’s annual Nebraska Crane Festival in March.

Discover Central Nebraska’s stunning Sandhills region. This part of the state is home to the country’s largest sand dunes complex. Drive through vast wilderness and quaint little towns such as Niobrara and Ainsworth.