8 Breathtaking Towns to Visit in Nebraska

A visit to Nebraska is a visit to the past, where dusty badlands, grassy plains, and rushing rivers nudge up against frontier towns steeped in the rich history of the Old West. Nebraska gained statehood in 1867 but archaeological evidence shows people were living in the region 13,500 years ago. The state takes its name from the Native American words meaning "flat water," but just because it’s flat, doesn’t mean it's boring. The dynamic scenery of Nebraska makes it a must-see for nature lovers. Crashing waterfalls, sweeping valleys, and imposing rocky monuments make the state a breathtaking backdrop for stunning vacation albums.

Blair

Near the shores of the Missouri River, you will find Blair, a town where the scenery takes center stage. Head to the DeSoto Chute National Wildlife Refuge to experience the best of Blair’s natural attractions. This beautiful 8,365-acre park features lush forests, wildflower-covered wetlands, grassy prairies, and the stunning DeSoto Lake. If you're looking for more outdoor beauty, hike up to Black Elk Neihardt Park, the town’s highest point, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the town and the river beyond. The park offers a variety of hiking trails, a picnic area, a playground, and a disc golf course.

A short drive from town will take you to Fort Atkinson State Historical Park, the site of Nebraska's first military post. Now managed by a local historical preservation group, the park regularly hosts living history exhibits that showcase life in the early 1800s.

North Platte

North Platte hosts approximately 300,000 winged visitors each spring, making it a must-visit for birders and nature enthusiasts. Located in the beautiful North Platte River valley, it is a key stop on the migratory path of Sandhill Cranes. These birds spend around six weeks here, preparing for nesting season, and observing them gather at the Dusty Trails viewing site will be a highlight of your Nebraska trip.

Outdoor enthusiasts and history fans will also love the Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park and Recreation Area, where you can get the full Old West experience and tour the legendary entertainer’s mansion, built in 1886.

Valentine

As its romantic name suggests, you will fall in love with Valentine. Home to Nebraska’s tallest waterfall, the town is a must-see destination. Smith Falls, which drops 63 feet, is situated in Nebraska’s newest state park, named after the falls. Inside the park, you can get the perfect shot of the falls from a historic bridge over the Niobrara River. You will also find dozens of winding trails that showcase the park’s diverse ecology.

For a greater challenge, visit the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge, where you can explore the 195-mile-long Cowboy Trail — an old railway route with decked bridges spanning over rivers and deep valleys to offer breathtaking views. The refuge is home to 270 bird species and 59 mammal species, so be sure to bring your camera. You might spot a coyote hunting or witness the spring mating dance of a sharp-tailed grouse.

Brownville

Historic Brownville is a charming small town full of old-world character. Its lovely downtown is filled with historic sites, beautiful architecture, and natural scenery. Don’t miss Dr. Spurgin’s Dental Office on Main Street, one of Nebraska's most unique museums. This small wooden cabin is a replica of an 1800s dental office, complete with antique medical tools and curiosities. The Brownville Village Theatre is also worth visiting. The pretty white clapboard building is a former church that’s over a century old.

Another highlight on Main Street is the 1860 Carson House, a beautiful historic mansion and carriage house listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Outside Brownville, you will find more scenic spots along the Steamboat Trace Hike/Bike Trail, which runs alongside the Missouri River and has been designated an official Lewis and Clark site.

Nebraska City

Don’t be fooled by the name; Nebraska City has a small-town atmosphere and is home to only 7,000 residents. It’s also one of the oldest settlements in the state and once hosted the legendary explorers Lewis and Clark. You can learn all about their visit to the town at the Missouri River Basin Lewis & Clark Interpretive Trail & Visitor Center, a museum and park with extensive birding and hiking trails.

Nebraska City takes pride in its heritage and boasts nine museums, including Arbor Lodge State Historical Park, a stunning mansion and estate from the 1800s, and Nelson House, an 1857 brick home that showcases the town's history through the families who have lived there over the years.

Kearney

East of Kearney, you will find one of the town’s most popular tourist attractions, The Archway. This fascinating exhibit details the story of the Oregon Trail pioneers, tracing the steps of the adventurers through the Great Platte River Valley. Learn more history at the Fort Kearny State Historical Park, the site of an important frontier outpost.

There are more scenic views along the Kearney Water Trail, a beautiful 2.3-mile river route popular with hikers, paddlers, and boaters. Just outside of town, Cottonmill Lake is a perfect spot to watch the sunset or enjoy a sunny afternoon. The surrounding park features disc golf, hiking trails, volleyball courts, and a seasonal marina.

Gering

Another historic highlight, Gering’s most renowned feature, is the Scotts Bluff National Monument, a striking natural landmark that guided Oregon Trail pioneers. Standing an impressive 800 feet tall, the monument overlooks the North Platte River. It offers nearly 4 miles of trails, but you don’t have to hike to enjoy the best views—you can drive the Summit Road to reach the top and take in stunning vistas. If possible, plan your visit for sunrise or sunset to experience a truly unforgettable moment.

If you are visiting in summer, catch a show at the Five Rocks Amphitheater just west of Gering. This open-air pavilion is an amazing venue for live entertainment, such as theater productions, bands, and shows. Get more nature at the Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area, which covers 1,094 acres of rocky canyons, forest ecosystems, and thriving bird habitats.

Norfolk

Norfolk serves as the trailhead for the epic outdoor route, the Cowboy Trail, making it popular among hikers and cyclists. The trail’s eastern start point is located in Ta-Ha-Zouka Park, a 180.3-acre green space along the Elkhorn River that features a shady lagoon, ideal for picnics and fishing. From this point, the Cowboy Trail extends 300 miles west to Chadron, but you don’t have to travel that far to enjoy breathtaking views. Don’t forget to look up—soaring bald eagles often fly over this part of the Elkhorn River Valley.

Learn more about Norfolk’s fascinating past in the Elkhorn Valley Museum, situated in beautiful Verges Park and home to over 25,000 artifacts. The park also contains an 1800s cabin and schoolhouse and Verges Cave, a man-made bunker dug out by the Verges family in the early 1900s.

Welcoming Towns, Unforgettable Landscapes

Sprawling plains, rolling hills, winding rivers, and welcoming small towns — Nebraska has it all, along with its own signature Midwest charm. This is a state for adventurers looking to make their own fun. Spend the day enjoying the glorious outdoors, hiking, biking, boating, or birding, before rewarding yourself with delicious dining or a tasting session at one of the state’s many craft breweries. Don’t forget to make room on your itinerary to visit one of Nebraska’s many museums to peer back through the past to the grind and glories of the 19th-century Midwest. The Cornhusker State will take your breath away whether you are a first-time visitor or a regular guest.