FAMILY VACATIONS IN NEBRASKA WITH CHILREN - WHAT TO DO IN NEBRASKA WITH KIDS
FUN THINGS TO DO ON VACATION WITH KIDS - NEBRASKA
FUN & ENTERTAINMENT VACATIONS - NORTHERN NEBRASKA (For example - Chadron, NE - Saint Paul, NE - Niobrara, NE)
Museum of the Fur Trade - Combining an outstanding collection and scholarship to interpret the story of the fur trade, the non-profit museum’s three galleries discuss the fur trade from early colonial days to the present century. The exhibits trace the everyday lives of British, French, and Spanish traders, voyageurs, mountain men, professional buffalo hunters, and typical Plains and Woodland Indians
Dawes County Historical Society Museum - The Museum Grounds include the log house and barn, 1890s schoolhouse, pioneer church and C & NW caboose. The 9,000 square foot Museum houses an impressive collection of area antiques including displays of a general store, a hospital room, blacksmith tools, farm machinery, vintage quilts, a railroad room, and more.
Location: 341 Country Club Road, Chadron, Nebraska Tel: (308) 432-4999 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Howard County Historical Society - To preserve the history of Howard County in a manner that will educate and inspire interested individuals, to collect and preserve those artifacts related to its settlement: social, ethnic, religious, economic, military service, and farming. To be the storytellers for future generations.
Location: Post Office Box 1 Saint Paul, Nebraska 68873 Tel: (308) 754-4977 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Museum of Nebraska Major League Baseball - Dedicated to illustrating the careers of over 140 men with Nebraska ties who have made it to the Major Leagues of American Baseball. The museum contains artifacts and information on native Nebraskan's and those with Nebraska roots or ties.
Location: 619 Howard Avenue, Saint Paul Nebraska Tel: 308-754-5558 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sandhills Spirit of the West - Experience the Sandhills of Nebraska with genuine Cowboy surroundings. Come off the highway and relax for a spell with a rustic wagon ride and learn about area history, settlement and the ranching way of life from area cowboys and ranchers.
Location: P O Box 100 Nenzel, NE 69219 Tel: 1-402-823-4131 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
John G. Neihardt Center - The Neihardt Center is a branch museum of the Nebraska State Historical Society. The memorial room in the state historic site repeats the symbolism of the 'Hoop of the World' and chronicles Neihardt's life, works and the times in which he lived. While at the center, visitors may view videotapes that give the viewer the opportunity to see and listen to the poet. A research library offers scholars the opportunity to examine works by and about the poet, including copies of Neihardt's manuscripts and his critical essays.
Location: P O Box 344, Bancroft NE 68004 Tel: 888.777.4667, 402.648.3388 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Kreycik's Riverview Elk Farm - The Kreyciks began raising elk in 1986 as an alternative agricultural venture. The venture has expanded to include a buffalo herd, covered wagon tours of the farm that nestles in the hills overlooking the Niobrara River Valley and organized fair chase elk hunts in the fall.
Location: 88971 517 Ave Niobrara, NE 68760 6016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Washington County Historical Museum - The Washington County Historical Museum, the oldest county museum in Nebraska, houses artifacts from prehistoric time, Native American dress and equipment and relics from nearby Ft. Atkinson. Early farm tools and equipment, school and household items as well as fine china brought to the county from the old country depict how the pioneers lived in the 1800s. A display of Thomas Edison items and early telephone equipment moves the visitor into the 20th century. The library holds early county information valuable to genealogists.
Location: PO Box 25 Fort Calhoun, Nebraska 68023 Tel: 402-468-5740 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pierce Historical Society Museum - Visitors to the Pierce Historical Society Museum enter the complex through a new 3,000 square foot building. The main part of this large building is a virtual main street of of Pierce's past. You will see Clark Moore's drug store soda fountain, first installed in the 1930's. On designated days during the summer, root beer floats and sundaes are sold from the fountain.
Location: Pierce, Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Elkhorn Valley Museum & Research Center - The Elkhorn Valley Historical Society, through the Elkhorn Valley Museum and Research Center collects, preserves, researches, and interprets artifacts, documents, and published materials relating to the human history of the Elkhorn Valley region of Nebraska.
Location: 515 Queen City Blvd., Norfolk, NE 68701 Tel: 402-371-3886 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Atkinson Lake State Recreation Area - Atkinson Lake State Recreation Area's original lake impoundment built in 1894 by the Atkinson Milling and Irrigation Company and was operated for milling purposes and hydroelectric generation until 1929 when high water washed out the dam. In 1947, the city of Atkinson deeded the dam to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. In 1949, the Game and Parks rebuilt the structure but in the early 60's high water washed out the dam again and a third time in 1984 reducing it to just a stream.
Location: Atkinson, Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Smith Falls State Park - Nebraska's newest state park straddles the Niobrara National Scenic River, 18 miles east of Valentine. The park protects the biological and scenic significance of the location, while allowing the public to view the state's highest waterfall. The area primarily serves day-use visitors, canoers on the Niobrara River and canoe campers.
Location: Valentine, Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long Pine State Recreation Area - Long Pine is a 153-acre tract of Pine Ridge land straddling Long Pine Creek. The area offers primitive camping, hiking, picnicking and wildlife viewing. Long Pine features an archery range in the northern section
Location: Long Pine, Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long Lake State Recreation Area - Long Lake State Recreation Area is a natural sandhill lake consisting of 155 acres at normal water level. The State of Nebraska owns 80 acres of which 50 acres are marsh or water and 30 acres of rolling sand hills which produce an abundance of warm and cool season grasses.
Location: Johnstown, Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FUN & ENTERTAINMENT VACATIONS - WESTERN NEBRASKA (For example - Gering, NE - Scottsbluff, NE - Crawford, NE)
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WYOBRASKA WILDLIFE MUSEUM - Founded in 1991, Wildlife World is located in a historic Union Pacific Rail Depot in Gering, Nebraska at the north end of main street by the railroad tracks. The original building is an architectural wonder in itself with wood beams and carvings from the early 1900s. The building once served as the hub of transportation and travel via the railroad in this small settler's town. The building has since added three additions and continues to attract new and more exotic collections for the many visitors to enjoy year after year.
Location: 950 U Street Gering, Nebraska 69341 Tel: 308-436-7104 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Riverside Zoo and Campground - Your visit to Western Nebraska is not complete without a stop at the best little zoo in the west. At this 23 acre zoological park you will enjoy up close encounters with a family of chimpanzees, Moose, Lions, Red Pandas, Tigers and a walk through aviary. Also, enjoy our botanical experience, petting zoo and children will enjoy the playground and our colorful interactive graphics. Everyone will enjoy feeding and watching a variety of waterfowl on the zoo's lake.
Location: Scottsbluff, Nebraska Tel: 308-630-6236 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
North Platte Valley Museum - When you think of the days of the old settlers, a picture of horse-drawn carriages, covered wagons, one-room schoolhouses, general stores, sod houses, and a simpler way of life enters your mind. That’s exactly what you will find at Western Nebraska’s largest historical museum, the North Platte Valley Museum, where the history of our valley comes alive. There are over two dozen displays throughout the 10,000 square foot exhibit area, ranging from a family traveling on the Oregon Trail in 1850s to Nebraska’s first female doctor in the 1890s.
Location: 11th & J Gering, NE Tel: (308) 436-5411 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Farm & Ranch Museum - FARM presents a visual history of farm tractors and machinery used in the past of agriculture. One sees the mechanical advancement that took place from the monument of the first harvester and the first tractors that moved production of agriculture from dependence upon horses and mules to one that is totally mechanized!
Location: PO Box 398, Gering NE 69341-0398 Tel: (308) 436-1989 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Carhenge - Carhenge, which replicates Stonehenge, consists of the circle of cars, 3 standing trilithons within the circle, the heel stone, slaughter stone, and 2 station stones, and the Aubrey circle, named after Sir John Aubrey who first recognized the earthworks and great stones as a prehistoric temple in 1648. It was not until excavations undertaken in the 1920's that they were found to be holes cut to hold timber uprights. A total of 56 holes were discovered and named the Aubrey Holes in honor of John Aubrey's observation.
Location: P.O. Box 464, Alliance NE 69301 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fort Robinson State Park - Western Nebraska's premier state park, Fort Robinson, west of Crawford, has it all with more than 22,000 acres of exquisite Pine Ridge scenery, compelling old west history, exceptional lodging, loads of fun-time activities, scenic camping and the park's own buffalo and longhorn herds.
Location: 3 Mi West Of Crawford; Box 392, Crawford, Nebraska 69339 Tel: 308-665-2900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lake Minatare State Recreation Area - Lake Minatare is just minutes from Scotts Bluff National Monument and Chimney Rock and offers camping pads with electrical hookups and more than 100 nonpad sites. Facilities include showers, laundry, modern restrooms, dump station, water, picnic tables, shelters, boat ramps, unsupervised swimming, fishing and fish cleaning stations.
Location: Scottsbluff, Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area - Picturesque wilderness, Wildcat Hills SRA and Big Game Reserve encompass 761 acres of rugged rock buttes and pine-covered canyons, 10 miles S of Gering. It is also home to an extraordinary Nature-Visitor Center. It is open 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. daily April-September and 8-4:30 Monday-Friday October-March (closed weekends). Facilities: Picnic tables, shelters, water, vault toilets, hiking trails and 30 non-pad campsites
Location: Gering Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Oliver Reservoir State Recreation Area - With 917 acres of land and a 270-acre lake, Oliver Reservoir State Recreation Area is the only waterbased recreational facility in the southwest Panhandle. Located 8 miles west of Kimball on U.S. 30, Oliver offers the same basic facilities as those found at similar recreation areas across the state.
Location: Kimball, Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FUN & ENTERTAINMENT VACATIONS - CENTRAL NEBRASKA (For example - Paxton, NE - Grand Island, NE - North Platte, NE)
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Ole's Big Game Steakhouse - There's Ole's Big Game Steakhouse and Lounge in downtown Paxton known for six decades as a place where good friends gather, enjoy each other's company, grab a bite to eat and spin a yarn or two. More than 200 big game trophies and countless mementos of Ole's worldwide safaris make this visit to history and adventure a treat for the whole family.
Location: P.O. Box 248, Paxton, NE 69155 Tel: 308-239-4719 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Custer County Historical Society - In the museum you'll find exhibits that provide a glimpse into 19th century life in Custer County. For example, a wonderful bit of Americana can be seen in the museum's large front room--a recreation of the Wescott, Gibbons, and Bragg General Merchandise Store of Comstock, Nebraska-complete with the most of the store's original display cases and merchandise. The store was first established in 1886 in Westcott, Nebraska by Walter Wescott, a Wisconsin cattleman, who was later joined by son-in-laws Walter Gibbons and Charles Bragg. After the railroad came to the east side of the Middle Loup River, Walter is said to have slid his store across the ice to Comstock in December of 1899.
Location: Post Office Box 334 445 So. 9th. Ave. Broken Bow NE 68822 Tel: (308) 872-2203 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer - Praised as "one of the top '10' places to relive America's past" by Good Housekeeping magazine, Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer offers a hands-on living history experience that tells the story of early town building in Nebraska. Stuhr Museum is a world-class, nationally recognized educational and cultural institution.
Location: Grand Island, Nebraska. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Platte River - The Middle Platte Region is one of nature's great crossroads. Here the east-west human transportation corridor provided by the river valley crosses the North American Central Flyway. Changing land use patterns and development of the Missouri River have shaped the Flyway into an hourglass figure, with its narrow waist in south central Nebraska. Millions of waterfowl pass through the region on their annual migration. Each spring several hundred thousand Sandhill Cranes spend four to six weeks in the Platte Valley, gaining strength before moving north to nesting grounds spread across Canada, Alaska, and Siberia. The Middle Platte provides critical habitat for a number of endangered species, including the whooping crane.
Location: Grand Island, Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Witch's Bridge - It is said that many years ago this witch hung herself from the bridge known as Witch's bridge. It is said that if you go out there on an odd night at an odd hour with an odd number of people and hang your head and top half of your body over the edge of the bridge you will see yourself hanging or she will pull you under the bridge.
Location: Grand Island, Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park - Remaining of William F. Cody's ranch are the 18-room house, barn, and many outbuildings. Interpretive film; display of buffalo.
Location: 2921 Scout's Rest Ranch Road, North Platte, Nebraska Tel: 308-535-8035 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Arnold State Recreation Area - Located immediately south of the community of Arnold. Mature trees provide summer campers with cooling shade. Arnold State Recreation Area is a primitive recreation area encompassing 10 acres of land and featuring a 22 acre lake. The area offers camping, fishing, hiking, picnicking and has electrical and primitive camping.
Location: Arnold, Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Calamus State Recreation Area - Nebraska's newest large reservoir and the site of a major fish hatchery, Calamus offers prime fishing and camping in the heart of the Sandhills, 6 miles NW of Burwell. The modern campgrounds have 122 pads with 30/50 amp electrical hookups, plus 55 non-pad sites, modern restrooms, showers, dump station and water. Other facilities include: Unsupervised swimming beach, 5 boat ramps, vault toilets, picnic tables and fish cleaning stations. The area encompasses 11,720 acres, including the 5,124-acre lake
Location: Burwell, Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pibel Lake State Recreation Area - Pibel Lake is a 72-acre state recreation area set in a small valley hidden from the highway. The lake was recently renovated and stocked with bluegills, largemouth bass and channel catfish. A boat dock for smaller boats also has been added.
Location: Bartlet, Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area - Another fine water-oriented area, Sherman Reservoir has a 2,845-acre lake and 4,721 land acres, 5 miles northeast of Loup City. The primitive camping includes 360 non-pad sites. Other facilities include picnic tables and shelters, water, dump station, modern restrooms, vault toilets, 3 boat ramps, fish cleaning stations, coin-operated showers and concession.
Location: Loup city, Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Victoria Springs State Recreation Area - Heralded for its therapeutic value, water from Victoria's mineral springs was once bottled for sale nationwide. Now, this secluded, scenic, 60-acre SRA, east of Anselmo, is a great little getaway place. Facilities: 2 housekeeping cabins, 60 non-pad campsites, 21 electrical hookups (30/50 amp), dump station, showers, restrooms, water, picnic tables, shelter, paddleboats, fishing lagoon.
Location: Custer County, Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FUN & ENTERTAINMENT VACATIONS - EASTERN NEBRASKA (For example - Omaha, NE - Bellevue, NE - Lincoln, NE )
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Fremont Dinner Train - The Fremont Dinner Train currently operates four dining cars, all of which have their unique and distinct personalities. These are before and after pictures of all of the train cars. We received most of the cars as bare shells and have remodeled them to resemble railroad cars from the 1940's era.
Location: 650 N. "H" St. Fremont, NE 68025 Tel: (800) 942-7245, (402) 727-8321 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Louis E. May Historical Museum - Louis E. May Museum is a twenty-five room mansion built in 1874 by Fremont's first mayor, Theron Nye. The museum includes a general store display, one room school house, a library research room, a formal rose garden and Victorian garden with bricklined paths.
Location: 1643 N. Nye Avenue Fremont, NE 68025 Tel: (402) 721-4515 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Henry Doorly Zoo - Continue to stay cool all day in air-conditioned animal exhibits like the 75° F Desert Dome, Kingdoms of the Night, Scott Aquarium, Wild Kingdom Pavilion and the indoor portion of Hubbard Gorilla Valley. Even the tropical environment of the Lied Jungle is cooler than outside; it’s kept at a comfortable 72° F. Grab a cool treat in the air-conditioned Durham’s TreeTops Restaurant while watching the antics of the Lied Jungle gibbons or experience the air-conditioned IMAX; it’s the next best thing to being there. Now playing at the Lozier IMAX Theater is Wild Safari 3D, Volcanoes of the Deep Sea and Lewis and Clark: Great Journey West
Location: 3701 S. 10th Street Omaha NE 68107 Tel: 402 733 8401 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FunPlex - FunPlex offers Nebraska's largest waterpark and rides. Attractions and rides include: motion ocean, water slides, lazy river, kiddie pool, go karts, slick track, bumper cars & bumper boats and lots more.
Location: 7003 Q St. Omaha, NE 68117 Tel: (402) 331-8436 , 1-800-353-4180 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Freedom Park Navy Museum - Permanent display are the U.S.S. Marlin SST2, the U.S.S. Hazard AM240 (a National Historic Landmark), an LSM45, an A-4 Skyhawk, an A-7 and much more
Location: 2497 Freedom Park Road Omaha, Nebraska 68110 Tel: (402) 345-7788 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fontenelle Forest Nature Center - Fontenelle Forest Nature Center features 1,400 acres of woods, wetlands and waterways, featuring deep ravines, loess ridges, more than 40 varieties of trees and over 200 species of birds.
Location: 1111 N. Bellevue Blvd. Bellevue, NE 68005 Tel: (402) 731-3140 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
El Museo Latino - El Museo Latino offers educational programs in conjunction with the special temporary and permanent exhibits. Programs offered include art classes, bi-lingual guided visits, scholarly lectures, workshops, demonstrations, hands-on art activities, artists-in-residencies, teacher in-service workshops, dance classes and Family Days.
Location: 4701 South 25 Street Omaha NE 68107 Tel: 402 731 1137 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Old Market - Old Market is a 'turn-of-the-century' marketplace of brick streets and buildings features a variety of quaint restaurants and shops.
Location: Omaha Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Omaha Botanical Gardens - Lauritzen Gardens' are a 100-acres property having Arboretum and Bird Sanctuary, Arrival and Parking Gardens, Children's Garden, Festival Garden,Founders Garden,Garden in the Glen,Herb Garden,FUTURE Japanese Garden,Rose Garden,Song of the Lark Meadow, Spring Flowering Walk, Victorian Garden,Woodland Waterfall,Woodland Trail.
Location: 100 Bancroft Street Omaha, NE 68108 Tel: (402) 346-4002 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Omaha Children's Museum - Some of the Permanent Exhibits include :: Charlie Campbell Science and Technology Center, Creative Center, Kids Construction Company, Baker’s Store, Rainbow Farm, Lego Landing, Toddler Exploration Center.
Location: 500 South 20th Street, Omaha NE 68102 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Omaha Community Playhouse - Founded in 1924, the Omaha Community Playhouse has grown into the largest community theatre in the nation. Two theatres with state of the art sound and lighting equipment feature eleven productions annually.
Location: 6915 Cass Street Omaha, NE 68132 Tel: 402-553-0800 or 1-888-782-4338 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vala's Pumpkin Patch - Vala's Has Lots of Fun Activities for Everyone! The Lost Pumpkin Mine and Tumbling Rock Cavern is a walk-through cave featuring the antics of many ornery miners! See the Pumpkin Eating Dragon! The Pirate Maze and Interactive play area for the kids will be a sure hit! An Old-Fashioned Hayride to the pumpkin field to pick out that perfect pumpkin for your family!
Location: 12102 South 180th St. Gretna, NE 68028 Tel: (402) 332-4200 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Durham Western Heritage Museum - Beautiful Art Deco architecture blends with memories of a time gone by at the historic Durham Western Heritage Museum. Opened in 1931, Union Pacific built Omaha's Union Station as a showpiece in the city of their headquarters. Considered one of Omaha's most unique treasures, the renovated building offers an exquisite look at Omaha's history.
Location: 801 South 10th Street Omaha, NE 68108 Tel: (402) 444-5071 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ak-Sar-Ben Aquarium Outdoor Education Center - This Game and Parks Commission complex is the only facility of its type in the Great Plains. Many organizations and individuals worked long and hard to bring it into reality. Its 12,000 square feet include the aquarium, terrarium, natural history classroom, World Herald Auditorium, orientation and display area, and office space. Exterior of the building is fluted concrete block and stone from a local quarry. The viewing area itself is somewhat unusual, since the 12 display tanks are placed on the outside of a circle and spaced so only one tank is visible at a time . . . adding to the visitor's enjoyment. Aquarium tanks are pre-cast concrete and have one-inch thick glass. The windows were custom-made in England.
Location: 2200 N. 33rd St., Lincoln, NE 68503 Tel: (402) 471-0641 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mormon Trail Center at Historic Winter Quarters - Witness a moment in the great "Mormon Migration." Explore a pioneer cabin, pull a handcart, and see what life was like for thousands of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who spent the winter of 1846 to 1847 in the encampment they called Winter Quarters. A short audiovisual presentation will teach you about the struggles and hardships they faced on their journey to the Salt Lake Valley. Visit the Mormon Pioneer Cemetery, where you can see the final resting place of more than 325 Saints who died at Winter Quarters from illness, hunger, and poor living conditions.
Location: 3215 State Street Omaha, Nebraska 68112 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Joslyn Art Museum - Nebraska's largest and most distinguished Art Museum, Joslyn features work from antiquity to the present and offers a wide range of exhibitions, music and educational programs.
Location: 2200 Dodge Street Omaha Nebraska 68102 1292 Tel: 402 342 3300 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Omaha Theater Company for Young People - One of the few buildings in the Midwest possessing a unique combination of Moorish and Classical architecture, The Rose is one of the last grand movie palaces left from the days when going to the theater meant escaping into an opulent
Location: 2001 Farnam Street Omaha , Nebraska 68102 Tel: 402-345-9718 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
National Museum of Roller Skating - Roller skating is a shared experience of many generations of Americans as a recreation, sport and commercial enterprise. The National Museum of Roller Skating is committed to enriching the experience of roller skaters by increasing their understanding and appreciation of its rich history and accomplishments, to extending public knowledge of these past events and by preserving this legacy for future generations.
Location: 4730 South Street, Suite 2 Lincoln, Nebraska 68506 Tel: 402/483-7551 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
International Quilt Study Center (IQSC) - The International Quilt Study Center (IQSC) at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln was established in 1997 as a result of the donation of more than 900 quilts by collectors Ardis and Robert James. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln responded to the Jameses’ gift by establishing the International Quilt Study Center and creating a graduate program in Textile History with an emphasis in Quilt Studies within the Department of Textiles, Clothing and Design in the College of Education and Human Sciences. The program, which encourages scholarship and nurtures the appreciation of quilts as art and their significant cultural history, is the only one of its kind in existence.
Location: University of Nebraska-Lincoln Lincoln, NE 68583-0838 Tel: 402-472-6549 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Museum of Nebraska History - See Fascinating artifacts and hear amazing stories from rich past of the state of Nebraska.
Location: 15th and P Streets Lincoln, Nebraska 68508 Tel: 402-471-4754 , 1-800-833-6747 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Strategic Air & Space Museum Strategic Air & Space Museum - In 1959, the first plane in the collection of the Strategic Aerospace Museum arrived at Offutt AFB, Nebraska. General Curtis LeMay's vision of a Museum that preserved historic aircraft had become a reality. Over the years, the Museum grew in size and popularity, and the name was changed to the Strategic Air Command (SAC) Museum.
Location: 28210 West Park Highway Ashland, NE 68003 Tel: 1-402-944-3100 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Frank H. Woods Telephone Pioneer Museum - The Frank H. Woods Telephone Pioneer Museum was incorporated in 1994 and officially opened in October 1996. It was created through the hard work of many local Pioneer volunteers, a grant by the Independent Telephone Pioneers Association (ITPA) and funding and support from Aliant Communications. The museum is named for Frank H. Woods, Sr. (1868-1952) who founded Lincoln Telephone Company in 1903. The company began serving 1,800 Lincoln customers in June 1904. Telephony, an industry publication, praised the new company as "the first large automatically operated telephone exchange west of Chicago."
Location: 2047 M Street Lincoln, Nebraska 68508 Tel: 402 436-4640 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Folsom Children's Zoo & Botanical Gardens - Lincoln’s Wild Spot, the Folsom Children’s Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Home to and up close viewing of more than 300 animals with the child’s eye view in mind! The Zoo and Botanical Gardens are situated on 19 beautifully landscaped acres in the heart of Lincoln
Location: 1222 S. 27th Street, Lincoln, NE 68502 Tel: (402) 475-6741 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
State Museum of Natural History and Mueller Planet - See these historic specimens on display from the Museum's Zoology Research Collections. Read about the Ivory-billed woodpecker and see photos by Joel Sartore. Explore Marx Discovery Center uncover the secrets of the past in this new space, A fun family astronomy show designed especially for young children.
Location: 307 Morrill Hall, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Lincoln, Nebraska 68588-0338 Tel: (402) 472-2642 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lied Center for Performing Arts - Located on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus, this magnificent performing arts center serves students and residents of this entire region by bringing the world's finest arts and entertainment to its stage.
Location: 12th and R Street Lincoln, Nebraska 68588-0151 Tel:(402) 472-4747 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lincoln Children's Museum - Build, dance, play, climb, create, sing, and laugh at the Lincoln Children's Museum in Lincoln, Nebraska. Here you can be whatever and wherever your imagination takes you! The Lincoln Children's Museum offers three floors and 45,500 square feet of hands-on exhibits and imaginative programs that allow children and adults to discover the adventure of learning through play together.
Location: 1420 P Street Lincoln, Nebraska 68508 Tel: 402-477-4000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FUN & ENTERTAINMENT VACATIONS - SOUTHERN NEBRASKA (For example - Kearney, NE - Hastings, NE - Aurora, NE)
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Cabela's - Outdoor equipment of every sort from fishing and hunting to backpacking at this huge 62,000-sq.-ft. store. See over 500 trophy mounts.
Location: 3600 Highway 30 E Kearney, NE 68847 Tel: 308-234-3933 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Edgerton Explorit Center - The Edgerton Explorit Center exists to instill and nurture in all people the joy of scientific discovery and exploration through hands-on learning experiences. Located in Dr. Harold Edgerton's home town, the EEC inspires kids age 2 to 92 through exciting activities and state-of-the-art programming.
Location: 208 16th St. Aurora, NE 68818 1-877-694-4032 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Nebraska Prairie Museum - The Nebraska Prairie Museum, located in Holdrege, Nebraska, contains an exceptionally fine collection of over one acre of indoor exhibits. Once inside, you get a feeling of spaciousness as you view collections of period clothing, antique toys, farm equipment, tools and household items, a unique W.W.II German POW exhibit room, and much more!
Location: P.O. Box 164, N. Highway 183, Holdrege, NE 68949-0164 Tel: (308) 995-5015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hastings Museum - The Hastings Museum of Natural and Cultural History is dedicated to enhancing the learning experience of all visitors through collecting, preserving and interpreting specimens and artifacts of North America with particular emphasis on Nebraska and the Great Plains.
Location: 1330 North Burlington Avenue P.O. Box 1286 Hastings, Nebraska 68902-1286 Tel: 1-800-508-4629 ,402-461-4629 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Great Platte River Road Archway Monument - The Great Platte River Road Archway Monument is an interactive adventure that pays tribute to the pioneers who passed through this region of Nebraska on their way West. These entrepreneurs were shaped by what they saw and experienced, and they have given America a heritage that is a living spirit that molds our nation’s character today.
Location: 3060 East 1st Street Kearney, NE 68847 Tel: (877) 511-ARCH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Crane Meadows Nature Center - Crane Meadows Nature Center encompasses 250 acres of prime river habitat. The center offers a close-up viewing of wetland wildlife. Visitors can see turtles, ducks, turkey, deer, coyote and many other species.
Location: 9325 S. Alda Rd. Wood River, NE 68883 Tel: (308) 382-1820, 1-888-382-1820 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Plainsman Museum - The Plainsman Museum was dedicated July 4, 1976, as part of Hamilton County's participation in the Nation's Bicentennial. The Museum was designed and built for donations of area and regional history. The Museum's collections includes artifacts from an earlier museum near Hordville, Nebraska, which belonged to E. A. Carlson, and from the Doris Lord Doll Collection.
Location: 210 16th Street Aurora, NE 68818 Tel: 402-694-6531 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pioneer Village - The Pioneer Village complex comprises 28 buildings on 20 acres housing over 50,000 irreplaceable items of historical value, restored to operating order, arranged in groups and also in the chronological order of their development. There are 12 historic buildings around the circular "green". There's a Frontier Fort, a real honest-to-goodness Pony Express Station, an Iron Horse, and a home made of sod. There's a general store and a toy store, chock full of all the goods from yesteryear. An original art collection including 25 Currier and Ives prints, 23 Jackson paintings, and the largest single collection of Rogers statues. You can ride a priceless steam carousel, see 17 historic flying machines and marvel at 100 antique tractors. See a 1902 Cadillac and a 1903 Ford, both designed by Henry Ford, plus 350 other antique cars, all displayed in their order of development. For a relaxing trip into yesterday, come to Pioneer Village.
Location: Pioneer Village 138 East Highway 6 Minden, Nebraska 68959 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Museum of Nebraska Art - Enjoy the art of Nebraska! Like no other museum, MONA, home of the state’s official art collection, focuses on the art of Nebraska and Nebraska artists. See art representing the work of artist-explorers like George Catlin; early Nebraskans Robert Henri and J. Laurie Wallace; modern era artists Grant Reynard and John Falter, and artists of today. MONA also displays a collection of works by John James Audubon focusing on indigenous Nebraska wildlife. The permanent collection contains over 5,000 works by artists of regional, national, and international importance. MONA is housed in a 1911 Renaissance revival building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Explore all eleven galleries and you’ll see Nebraska in a whole new way! Visitors can also relax and stroll outside through the Cliff Hillegass Sculpture Garden, browse through the Museum Shop for one-of-a-kind gifts, and visit our Hitchcock Education Gallery.
Location: 2401 Central Avenue, Kearney Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rock Island Depot Railroad Museum - Located in one of the state’s two intact Rock Island depots, the Rock Island Depot Railroad Museum at 910 Second Street in Fairbury, Nebraska, gives visitors a look at life when trains were the fastest and classiest way to go anywhere, from the billowing steam engine to the 1950’s stream-lined Rock Island Rocket.
Location: Fairbury, Nebraska
