Among this vast state, wide prairies, towering sand dunes and majestic mountains reign, juxtaposed by the towns and cities peppered in between. Embark on a road trip through Nebraska and discover a different side of the USA.
Gateway to the west
As the state’s biggest city, Omaha is the perfect place to begin your time in Nebraska. Situated on the Missouri River, this metropolis has long been an important transport hub, with the Union Pacific Railroad leading west out of the city from the late 19th century. Head to Council Bluffs, just across the river in Iowa, to visit the Union Pacific Railroad Museum and learn all about how it transformed America.
Next stop, the Old Market – a historic neighbourhood packed with boutique stores, art galleries and restaurants. It’s also a popular entertainment district where you’re sure to find something happening day or night.
If you’ve got kids in tow, squeeze in a trip to the Henry Doorly Zoo, a huge site boasting the world’s largest indoor desert and the largest indoor rainforest in North America. Home to exotic animals that are free to roam in their natural habitat, it’s a fascinating day out and the zoo also plays a key role in conservation efforts worldwide.
Capital sights
Just a short drive from Omaha you’ll find the state capital Lincoln, with the domed State Capitol at its heart. Take a free tour of this impressive art deco building, which includes the Great Hall and legislative chambers, as well as its collection of artworks.
Ride the elevator to the 14th floor to explore the Memorial Chamber with murals telling the story of Nebraska’s history – plus, there’s an observation deck where you can enjoy fantastic views of the city below.
Head back outside to discover the Sunken Gardens, featuring stunning floral displays that are rearranged into a different theme each year. Or head to Pioneers Park Nature Center, a huge wildlife sanctuary where you can see elk, bison and white-tailed deer.
Scotts Bluff
When you rent a car in Nebraska, it’s well worth taking the trip to Scotts Bluff National Monument, an important landmark on the Oregon Trail used by those emigrating west in the 19th century. Today, you can still see a wagon roadbed that was used all those years ago.
There are several different hiking trails available, while Summit Road gives you the chance to reach the top by car. It’s a drive of less than three kilometres with spectacular scenic views of the surrounding bluffs and plains. The site is open to visitors seven days a week, with hiking trails open from sunrise to sunset all year round.
Around 80 kilometres north of Scotts Bluff you’ll find the Agate Fossil Beds National Monument, where some of the world’s most important finds were discovered in the 1890s. There’s a museum where you can view fossils and fascinating Native American artefacts and you can even hike to see the areas where the digs took place.
Enjoy the best of this fascinating and beautiful state with car rental in Nebraska from Hertz.
