Do NOT Do These 4 Touristy Things In Nebraska. Do This Instead.
By Delana Lefevers|Published January 25, 2016
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Delana Lefevers
Author
As a lifelong Nebraskan, Delana loves discovering the many hidden treasures of her state. She has worked as a writer and editor since 2007. Delana's work has been featured on more than a dozen websites and in Nebraska Life Magazine.
Nebraska is a unique state in a lot of ways, but one of its most noticeable distinctions is how the population and land are divided. There are nearly two million residents, and about half of those residents live in a handful of cities in the southeastern(ish) portion of the state. This population distribution can sometimes feel as though there are two Nebraskas: the more populous eastern side and the farming and ranching land to the west.
A lot of tourists stick to the state’s largest city – and truthfully, the Omaha area has a lot to offer. But for the tourist who wants to stay a few steps off of the beaten path, here are things to do in other parts of the state that you can substitute for Omaha’s top attractions.
Instead of the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha…
Visit the Riverside Discovery Center in Scottsbluff
Riverside Discovery Center is home to a zoo that houses more than 175 animals from all over the world. Although it isn't nearly as big as the Henry Doorly Zoo, it also doesn't come with the extreme crowds and insane admission prices. And in the warmer months, there's a splash pad for kids and adults to play in!
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...Or the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge in Valentine
If seeing native animals in their natural habitat is more your speed, the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge is one of several awesome places in Nebraska for animal spotting. Depending on the season, you can see 289 species of birds, 41 species of mammals, 16 species of reptiles, and six species of amphibians.
Instead of the Durham Museum in Omaha…
Learn about trains and blow off some steam at Cody Park in North Platte
Cody Park is all kinds of fun packed into one attraction. You'll see one of the largest steam locomotives ever made, learn about railroad history in the railroad museum, and even pet and feed some animals. Kids can ride amusement park-type rides in the summer, and the whole family can enjoy picnic spots, camping, and an outdoor pool in the warmer months.
North Platte has plenty of other fantastic attractions, by the way - set aside a weekend to explore all of them!
...Or learn about frontier life at the Museum of the Fur Trade in Chadron
This museum is the only one of its kind in the world. It's dedicated to preserving the memory of the fur trade in long-ago Nebraska. Exhibits include items exchanged between settlers and Native Americans, weapons, clothing, and the everyday objects Europeans brought with them to the new world.
Also check out the Legacy of the Plains Museum in Gering.
Walk amongst trucks, tanks, helicopters, ambulances, and other vehicles used by the U.S. military. The museum also features memorabilia exhibits from various wars and conflicts. You can even climb inside this huge tank to get an idea of what operating one might be like.
...Or check out Sallows Military Museum in Alliance
This monument to military history includes uniforms, gas masks, medals, flags, photos, and lots more - all commemorating the the U.S. military and its members.
Instead of the Joslyn Art Museum in Omaha…
Stroll through the Museum of Nebraska Art in Kearney
While Kearney isn't exactly off the beaten path, you might be surprised at how many people don't know the Museum of Nebraska Art exists. Showcasing art made by Nebraskans and art about Nebraska, the museum is a unique treat.
...Or visit Robert Henri's childhood home-turned-museum in Cozad
Famed artist Robert Henri, born Robert Henry Cozad, was a childhood resident of Cozad. Some dramatic events led to the entire family changing their names and moving away. Years later, Henri became one of the most celebrated impressionists in the art world. His hometown commemorates his art and his life in the family's perfectly preserved home.
Just to be clear, we aren’t suggesting that you never visit the Omaha attractions…they are pretty great. And the alternatives we offer here don’t even begin to cover the vast number of other awesome activities and attractions all around Nebraska. In fact, here’s a long list of just the museums across the state. Get out there and explore all of Nebraska – from the nationally-recognized attractions to the quirky small-town places. You’ll definitely be glad you did.
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