Top Places To Visit In Nebraska In The Fall
Nebraska is known for its large supply of underground water and is geographically classified within the Great American Desert. While Nebraska is a relatively large state, it maintains a low population density and is therefore a perfect destination for an uncrowded, fall vacation! There are several fall festivities held between September and October, in addition to scenic hiking trails and sites that are unique to the state. For travelers looking to embrace and celebrate the coming of the autumn season, let the following events and destinations serve as a guide!
Harrison
Blue agates are abundant in Nebraska and the Oglala National Grasslands, and are aptly, the state’s gemstone. The beautiful landscape is located in the northwestern corner of Nebraska. The Hudson-Meng Education & Research Center is located in grasslands and offers educational tours about the history of the area, as well as uncovers extinct remains of Bison antiquus, which lived in the area. Take a fall hike near Nebraska’s Pine Ridge through the Toadstool Geologic Park which stretches 3 miles through the grasslands and showcases various peculiar rock formations in the crisp autumn air. The grasslands are located in Harrison, Sioux County. Visiting during early October is ideal because of the region's low precipitation and warm temperatures which range between 70 degrees Fahrenheit and 48 degrees Fahrenheit.
Gurley
The family-owned farm has been in the pumpkin and berry business for almost a decade. Fanny’s Fruit Farm and Pumpkin Patch is located in Gurley, a small town populated by less than 250 people. The farm has spooky season written all over it all year long. However, the best time to visit is during late October when Haunted Hallows takes place. It also hosts annual pumpkin patches to showcase harvest and ornamented pumpkins. The event entails discounted pumpkins and free hot chocolate for attendees wearing costumes. This destination is a perfect chance to enjoy warm winds before the weather gets too cold.
Omaha
Omaha is full of gorgeous landscapes that are accentuated by the autumn season, however, Omaha is also home to many unique activities. Lied Jungle Zoo, for instance, is located in Omaha and is the largest indoor natural rainforest in the country. The zoo’s exhibits will give visitors a glimpse of rainforests and natural habitats of endangered species from every continent. These exhibits range from African grasslands with giraffes and rhinos to Asian highlands populated by red pandas and sloth bears. The zoo also hosts numerous fall events, such as Ghouls and Glow which takes place in October. Ghouls and Glow is intended for kids and is presented by Veridian Credit Union. However, there are other events such as Late Nights at the Zoo: Hallowe'en Edition which has an age restriction of 21 years old and requires IDs. The exhibit is indoors and an ideal destination if visiting Omaha during late fall when it is chilly outside or on a rainy day!
Halsey
Halsey National Forest is split into two areas: the northwest panhandle in Chadron and the second section located in Halsey in central Nebraska. The forest is located between the slopes of the Nebraska Sandhills which have a unique ecosystem and various species of reptiles, mammals, insects, and birds. The forest encompasses more than 90,000 acres of scenic landscapes. Fortunately, Off-Highway Vehicle riding and hunting are permitted. You can access the area any time of the year but it is advised to check for fire alerts and road closures. Fall is the perfect time for a hike in the forest since heavy rains in Spring can make some routes difficult to access.
Burchard
Located in Pawnee County, there’s no better place to escape work than Big Blue Ranch. The ranch has no internet and cell phone services, making it a perfect getaway. The ranch is off the beaten path and almost 90 minutes away from Lincoln. The lodge’s porch overlooks a lake and the serene great plains of the calm county. Hunting and fishing are allowed in the reservation the ranch is located in, with deer and other sport inhabiting the untouched lands nearby. Whitetail deer are most active during the spring and fall. However, there are limits to the amount of deer and turkeys that can be hunted (1 deer and 2 turkeys). The lake is home to catfish, northern pike, and bluegill, all of which are abundant during the fall. Additionally, Burchard is also the birthplace of famous actor Harold Lloyd!
Bellevue
The Fontenelle Forest is located in Bellevue and serves as a preserve for some endangered species in the area and specific camping sites that encourage wildlife preservation and education, such as Camp Wa-Kon-Da. The forest encompasses the Fontenelle Forest Nature Center and the wetlands, along with specific areas where camping is allowed. The trails in the forest are paved so camping, walking pets, and biking are not allowed near and on them. The reserve’s educational program, Fontenelle Forest’s Raptor Program, is involved in protecting bird species that play a critical role in Bellevue’s ecosystem. Every full moon, hikes are organized to observe nocturnal life and the reflective full moon.
North Platte
The Homestead Pumpkin Patch takes place during late September and late October. Located in North Platte, the pumpkin patch celebrates fall with s’mores, apple cider slushies, and hot dogs. Activities included with entry include ziplines and barrel car rides! If folks are staying in North Platte, check out Buffalo Bill State Historic Park, the home of legendary 19th-century actor Wilian Cody. The park displays the celebrity’s memorabilia from when he performed on his infamous hit, the Wild-West Show. The furnishings and rooms were refurbished and restored to recreate the Wild West feel and indulge visitors in Buffalo Bill’s historic career. The mansion is closed during winter and opens from April to late October on Wednesdays and Sundays, perfect for an early fall getaway.
Conclusion
These destinations in Nebraska have unique terrain, culture, and festivities that are perfect during the fall. Whether visitors want to indulge in a scenic hike, stay in a secluded lodge with no phone service, or a wild-west-themed park, you can have it all in these destinations. There are activities and adventures for couples, families, and people of all ages in these places, so make sure to add the lovely state of Nebraska to your travel list!
