Five Remarkable Places to Visit in Nebraska
Nebraska often surprises travelers. What looks like a quiet stretch of prairie from afar turns out to be a state full of dramatic landscapes, quirky attractions, and deep cultural history. Whether you’re drawn to natural wonders or small‑town charm, Nebraska rewards anyone willing to explore beyond the interstate. These five destinations capture the state’s character and offer a memorable mix of scenery, heritage, and adventure.
Chimney Rock National Historic Site
Chimney Rock rises sharply from the rolling plains of western Nebraska, a towering spire of clay and volcanic ash that once served as a landmark for pioneers on the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails. For 19th‑century travelers, spotting Chimney Rock meant they were making progress on a long and dangerous journey. Today, it remains one of the most iconic natural formations in the Great Plains.
Visitors can explore the interpretive center, which offers exhibits on westward expansion, pioneer diaries, and the geology behind the formation. The surrounding landscape is quiet and expansive, giving you a sense of what early settlers saw as they crossed the prairie. While you can’t hike directly to the base due to preservation efforts, the viewpoints offer excellent photo opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset when the rock glows in warm desert tones.
Omaha's Old Market District
In contrast to Nebraska’s wide‑open spaces, Omaha’s Old Market District delivers a lively urban experience. This historic neighborhood, once a warehouse district, has been transformed into a vibrant hub of restaurants, boutiques, galleries, and cobblestone streets. It’s the kind of place where you can wander without a plan and still stumble upon something interesting.
Street performers, horse‑drawn carriages, and outdoor patios give the area a relaxed, artsy feel. Food lovers will find everything from upscale dining to cozy cafés, while shoppers can browse bookstores, artisan shops, and vintage stores. The Old Market is also home to several cultural attractions, including the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts and the nearby Durham Museum, housed in a beautifully restored Art Deco train station. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or just passing through, the Old Market is one of Nebraska’s most enjoyable urban stops.
Scott's Bluff National Monument
Just a short drive from Chimney Rock, Scotts Bluff National Monument offers another dramatic reminder of the region’s pioneer history. The towering bluffs rise more than 800 feet above the North Platte River Valley, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding plains. For centuries, Indigenous peoples, fur traders, and settlers used the bluffs as a navigational guide.
Visitors can drive the scenic Summit Road or hike one of several trails that wind through the rugged terrain. The Saddle Rock Trail is especially popular, taking you from the visitor center to the top of the bluff with sweeping views of the valley below. The monument’s museum provides insight into the cultural and geological significance of the area, making it a rewarding stop for both history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts.
The Sandhills and Valentine National Wildlife Refuge
Nebraska’s Sandhills are one of the most unique ecosystems in North America. Covering nearly a quarter of the state, this region consists of massive grass‑stabilized sand dunes that create a landscape unlike anywhere else in the country. The rolling hills, dotted with wetlands and ranchland, offer a peaceful escape from busier travel destinations.
The Valentine National Wildlife Refuge, located in the heart of the Sandhills, is a haven for birdwatchers, photographers, and anyone who appreciates quiet natural beauty. The refuge’s lakes and marshes attract migratory birds, including pelicans, cranes, and waterfowl. Scenic drives and walking trails allow visitors to experience the area’s serenity, while nearby Valentine offers access to the Niobrara River, a popular spot for tubing, kayaking, and canoeing. The Sandhills are ideal for travelers who want to slow down and immerse themselves in wide‑open spaces.
Carhenge in Alliance
Nebraska has its share of serious historical sites, but it also embraces the wonderfully weird. Carhenge, located near the town of Alliance, is a perfect example. This quirky roadside attraction is a full‑scale replica of England’s Stonehenge—except it’s made entirely of vintage American automobiles painted gray to resemble stone.
Created by artist Jim Reinders as a tribute to his father, Carhenge has become one of Nebraska’s most beloved oddities. Visitors can walk among the car‑monoliths, explore additional sculptures on the grounds, and enjoy the playful creativity of the installation. It’s a fun, unexpected stop that adds a bit of humor and imagination to any Nebraska road trip.
Travel Tips!
Keep your gas tank topped off Distances between towns can be long, especially in western Nebraska, and services aren’t always available late at night.
Prepare for unpredictable weather Nebraska can swing from sunny to stormy quickly. Layers and a light rain jacket make life easier.
Explore scenic byways Highways like the Sandhills Scenic Byway (Highway 2) offer some of the most peaceful, beautiful drives in the Midwest.
Try local favorites Runza sandwiches, Nebraska beef, and small‑town cafés are part of the experience.
Slow down and enjoy the friendliness Locals are welcoming, and many attractions are uncrowded—perfect for relaxed exploring.