Looking for a Nebraska Day Trip idea? Travel and adventures are my two favorite things. When I don’t have the time or cash for a long hiatus, I love to explore my home state. Outside of the major cities of Omaha and Lincoln, there are adventures to seek and day trips galore.Favorite Nebraska Day Trips with Kids
Nebraska Day Trip: State Parks
Indian Cave State Park
This is located near Schubert by the Missouri Border. You’ll find hiking, biking, and prehistoric petroglyphs. This park is a treasure that I can’t wait to take my boys to explore after winter. For more info visit the state website.
Fort Robinson State Park
Complete with buffalo and longhorn herds, this park looks insanely beautiful! This historic park was the death place of Chief Crazy Horse and an outpost from the Indian War until World War II.
Toadstool Park
This is known as the “Badlands of Nebraska“. It’s on my must-see list of hikes!
Kearney
Fort Kearney
Along with the fort, there are a few monuments, a museum, a preserved blacksmith shop, and a covered wagon. My boys liked playing and climbing in the fort and the cannons while I enjoyed learning about the history.
The Archway Museum
This Nebraska Day Trip is free of charge! Older kids and adults would enjoy the museum which has a self-guided tour with headphones. The lobby has a unique local Nebraskan gift shop. The replica forts in the parking lot have a maze and an adobe hut that my kids enjoyed. Worth the stop.
Pioneer Village
The entire town is a 2 block radius! I recommend spending a half day here!
North Platte
Fort Cody Trading Post
This is a classic Americana road stop located off I-80. The historic fort is a gift emporium for old-west toys. There’s an open play area in the center with a teepee and wagon! Best of all, if you can escape the gift shop, it’s free!
Cody Park
The park offers carnival rides for little ones as well as places to camp, playgrounds, basketball and tennis courts, concessions, retired engines and rail cars with memorabilia, and native wildlife like buffalo and antelope. My kids loved this place and it is very affordable!
Golden Spike Tower
I recommend this Nebraska day trip for adults and older children. The museum had some interesting old railroad logs, maps, history, and a panoramic view of the impressive Bailey rail yard.
Buffalo Bill’s Ranch
Next on my list to visit!
Gothenburg
Pony Express Station
This is a free museum located in the city park/arboretum that is open to visitors in the warmer months.
Lake Maccaughaney
We love Lake Mac! The lake had its beginnings as an irrigation project, and is now the largest reservoir in the state! It’s ranked as one of the best kale destinations in the nation. And check out The Most Unlikely Place for coffee or a bite in Lewellen. You’ll be glad you did!
Paxton
Ole’s
This is a classic and a must-see! The Big Game Steakhouse and Lounge is massive, always busy, and nostalgic. Fun for the whole family!
Valentine
The Cowboy Trail
This is an old abandoned railroad track turned trails-runs nearby offering a unique experience for those hoofing it, or on two wheels, and is said to have incredible views.
Niobrara and Snake Rivers
There are plenty of hiking opportunities and parks with waterfalls as well as tanking and tubing.
Valentine also has vineyards, a game preserve, and several museums. A perfect little weekend getaway!
Northwest Nebraska
Chimney Rock
The Sandhills, Courthouse, and Jailhouse Rock
Alliance
Carhenge
What are your favorite places to visit in Nebraska?
This post was originally written in 2019 and updated in 2023.
