Great Platte River Road Archway Tours

Photo provided by Nebraska Tourism
Great Platte River Road Archway featuring a garden and a bridge
Great Platte River Road Archway which includes signage and art
Great Platte River Road Archway showing interior views and heritage elements
Great Platte River Road Archway featuring interior views


Trace Nebraska’s settlers, from early pioneers to modern car salesmen, at this iconic bridge-like museum arching over Interstate 80.

Discover Nebraska’s important role in westward expansion at The Archway. The museum, which was known as the Great Platte River Road Archway until 2013, honors the brave 19th-century pioneers who pushed America’s boundaries.

Drive along I-80, just east of Kearney, Nebraska. You can’t miss the monument, which stretches 310 feet (95 meters) north and south, crossing both directions of the highway. The museum is housed inside the covered bridge spanning the road.

Step inside the sweeping log arch to the two-story escalator, where you’ll be greeted by statues of early explorers Lewis and Clark. Pick up a headset at the front desk and begin a self-guided audio tour through Nebraska’s history.

Be transported back to American pioneers’ discovery of Nebraska. Thunderstorm sound effects and a video of a buffalo stampede set the scene. Continue along to settlers and Native Americans interacting. Watch a Pony Express rider deliver mail across the country. Witness the building of the transcontinental railroad.

Crossing back on the second level, experience Nebraska’s 20th-century transportation role. Discover the rise of car travel. Check out a classic 1961 Cadillac convertible. Stop in the drive-in movie theater, which plays a short educational film about the rise of the American highway system. Use radar guns to track speed of motorists beneath you.

Outside, race against the clock in the TrailBlaze Maze. Navigate a twisting labyrinth that takes you around four towers and more twisting turns than you can count.

Get a souvenir to remember your visit in the Platte River Trader Gift Shop, which proudly sells Nebraska-made products. Purchase a postcard or a shirt bearing the iconic arch. Before you restart your travels, sit down for a snack or light lunch in the eating area.

Visit The Archway any day. Note that it opens later on Sundays. Purchase your admission ticket at the entry gate. Seniors and children have a reduced entry fee.

Allow an hour to see all the sights and hear all the sounds of The Archway. The site includes a Nebraska Tourist Information Center, so stop here for any local information you might need along your journey.

Plan a trip to see Great Platte River Road Archway

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kearney
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kearney
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kearney

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Great Platte River Road Archway

Motel 6 Kearney, NE

Motel 6 Kearney, NE

2 out of 5
101 Talmadge St, Kearney, NE
Motel 6 Kearney, NE
Holiday Inn Kearney by IHG

Holiday Inn Kearney by IHG

3 out of 5
110 2nd Ave, Kearney, NE
Holiday Inn Kearney by IHG
New Victorian Inn and Suites

New Victorian Inn and Suites

2.5 out of 5
903 2nd Ave, Kearney, NE
New Victorian Inn and Suites
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kearney

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kearney

3 out of 5
108 3rd Ave, Kearney, NE
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kearney
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kearney

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kearney

2 out of 5
104 Talmadge Rd, Kearney, NE
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kearney
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kearney

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kearney

2.5 out of 5
111 Talmadge St, Kearney, NE
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kearney
Crowne Plaza Kearney by IHG

Crowne Plaza Kearney by IHG

3.5 out of 5
707 WEST TALMADGE STREET, Kearney, NE
Crowne Plaza Kearney by IHG
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Kearney, NE

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Kearney, NE

3 out of 5
105 Talmadge St, Kearney, NE
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Kearney, NE
Suburban Studios, Kearney

Suburban Studios, Kearney

2 out of 5
301 2ND AVE BLDG B, Kearney, NE
Suburban Studios, Kearney
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Great Platte River Road Archway

At the Great Platte River Road Archway in Kearney, Nebraska, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming and exploring scenic walking trails. Engaging tours are available, such as historical and audio tours, perfect for those interested in learning more about the area's rich history. Additionally, tour groups can enhance the experience, making it a great destination for both individuals and families looking to discover the cultural significance of this landmark.

Shopping

Your shopping experience near the Great Platte River Road Archway includes Bumblebees, a charming store just 4 miles away, and Hilltop Mall, also 4 miles away, offering a range of family-friendly shops and entertainment options. If you're up for a drive, check out additional malls in the surrounding area.

Recreation

Meadowlark Hills Golf Course offers a scenic outdoor experience with well-maintained greens, perfect for golf enthusiasts seeking relaxation. For a more tranquil retreat, visit Union Pacific State Recreation Area, where you can unwind amidst nature and enjoy serene walking trails along the river.

Nightlife

Experience the fun at Big Apple Fun Center, just 3 miles from the Archway, offering arcade games and family-friendly adventures. For a cozy night, catch a movie at The World Theatre, also 3 miles away, where romance and entertainment blend perfectly for a memorable evening.

Find the best attractions near Great Platte River Road Archway

When visiting the Great Platte River Road Archway in Kearney, Nebraska, you'll find a variety of attractions, including the archway museum and the iconic Kearney arch. Explore local points of interest like national and state parks, a transport museum, and event venues, all catering to culture, family fun, and adventure. Be sure to check admission prices for the archway monument to enhance your experience.

  • Classic Car Collection: A must-visit for car enthusiasts, this transport museum features a stunning array of vintage and classic vehicles. Located 2 miles from the Great Platte River Road Archway, it offers a family-friendly atmosphere and a glimpse into automotive history that everyone can appreciate.
  • Younes Conference Center South: Situated 3 miles away, this event venue boasts modern facilities ideal for conferences and gatherings. While primarily business-focused, its architecture and design make it an interesting stop for those curious about event spaces.
  • Viaero Event Center: Just 3 miles from the Archway, this entertainment arena hosts a variety of events, from concerts to family shows. With its lively atmosphere, it promises fun and excitement for all ages.

Best time to go to Great Platte River Road Archway

Visitor numbers around Great Platte River Road Archway is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Great Platte River Road Archway is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January27.0°F (-2.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February28.6°F (-1.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
March42.3°F (5.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May61.0°F (16.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June72.9°F (22.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July77.0°F (25.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August75.2°F (24.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September68.4°F (20.2°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
October53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November41.5°F (5.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December29.8°F (-1.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Great Platte River Road Archway

To save money on your visit to the Great Platte River Road Archway, plan your trip between November and January when hotel prices are lower. Sundays are the best days to stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to find affordable accommodations and consider booking a package deal that combines hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future bookings. Look for free activities in the area and utilize public transport or walk to explore the site economically.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Great Platte River Road Archway are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March and June to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Great Platte River Road Archway is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Great Platte River Road Archway is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool lets you customize your travel experience by selecting your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily sort the results to display hotels from the most affordable to the more expensive, ensuring you find the best deals first. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type; for instance, by selecting the "Eco-certified" filter, you can discover sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Great Platte River Road Archway with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.