From unusual museums to enormous pieces of art, there’s a lot to see all through Nebraska. Some of these roadside attractions in Nebraska are worth a special trip and some are just a neat stop-off if you’re passing through … but they’re all so very Nebraskan.
- Carhenge - Alliance
flickr/Mark Goebel Possibly the most well-known of Nebraska’s roadside attractions, Carhenge is a replica of the famous English monument…but with cars. Thirty-nine classic cars, to be exact. What began as an art project has become an important part of Alliance’s identity. 2151 Co Rd 59, Alliance, NE 69301, USA
- The Nebraska Rest Stop - Alliance
flickr/photoreb Just a couple of miles north of Carhenge sits this classic Nebraska sight gag. Hay bales adorned with a toilet, a recliner, and a large spray-painted “REST AREA” sign beckon weary travelers. The site actually offers free Wi-Fi now, bringing it kind of into the 21st century. Alliance, NE 69301, USA
- Harold Warp Pioneer Village - Minden
flickr/Mark Goebel While this is far from the only “pioneer village” attraction in Nebraska, it is probably the most popular. Harold Warp Pioneer Village is enormous and features a real “village” consisting of 12 buildings; a steam carousel; thousands of fascinating historic items; and hundreds of vintage vehicles. Plan to spend at least an entire day here because there really is a lot to see. 138 US-6, Minden, NE 68959.
- Great Platte River Road Archway Monument - Kearney
flickr/Stephanie Flores This huge 300-foot-long monument to Nebraska’s role in history spans I-80 three miles outside of Kearney. Walking through the self-guided audio tour of the museum, you’ll see exhibits related to many different time periods in Nebraska, including the Pony Express, the Mormon, California, and Oregon trails, and Native American life. Plan to spend about an hour exploring the River Road Archway. There are also some outdoor exhibits that you can view for free. 3060 E 1st St, Kearney, NE 68847, USA
- The World’s Largest Porch Swing - Hebron
flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM A couple of other giant porch swings have claimed to be the largest, and the fact that this swing isn’t on a porch at all disqualifies it from the title in some people’s minds. But this big swing is worth a visit regardless of any controversy. Bring up to 17 adult-sized people to sit on the swing with you. South 5th Street & Jefferson Avenue, S 5th St & Jefferson Ave, Hebron, NE 68370, USA
- World’s Largest Time Capsule - Seward
flickr/Isommerer Believe it or not, there are two cars, a motorcycle, and thousands of items of memorabilia in the world’s largest time capsule - and in the even larger below-ground portion. Seward businessman, writer, and historian Harold Davisson wanted to preserve for his grandchildren a snapshot of his life in 1975, so he filled the lower portion with items significant to him. The second portion was added in 1983 after another time capsule challenged Davisson’s claim to the “world’s largest” title. 318 Hillcrest Dr, Seward, NE 68434, USA
- Tribute to Andy, the Footless Goose - Near Hastings
flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM Andy the Footless Goose was a plucky little fellow who embodied the indomitable Nebraska spirit. Born without feet, he waddled helplessly on stumps until Gene Fleming adopted him and fashioned little boots that allowed Andy to walk almost normally. Andy became a celebrity and even appeared in national magazines and on The Tonight Show. Tragically, the famous fowl was murdered in 1991. The crime remains unsolved, but this large memorial at the site of Andy’s former home keeps his story alive. 4389 E Hadco Rd, Hastings, NE 68901, USA
- World’s Largest Ball of Stamps - Boys Town
flickr/j_rho Beginning in 1953, the Boys Town Stamp Collecting Club gathered canceled stamps to add to their ambitious collection. By 1955 the world’s largest ball of stamps had grown to a massive 600 pounds and 32 inches in diameter. No stamps have been added to the ball since then, and it now stands on a pedestal in the Boys Town Visitors Center. 13628 Flanagan Blvd, Boys Town, NE 68010, USA
- Sentinels Of The Prairie - Near Jackson
flickr/Ali Eminov Anyone of a certain age who grew up on a farm will fondly recall the metallic squeak of the windmill. The contraptions were generally used to pump water, a function for which they are no longer needed. While many still stand in fields, unattended and falling apart, Leonard Gill has lovingly collected and restored some of these historic icons of the Nebraska landscape. Walk among the giants and you’ll see a sign that says “You are viewing one of the finest collections of vintage windmills in the entire Midwest. This collection consists of different mills that existed from the 1880s to the 1930s. Note that, while visitors are allowed to walk around and read the signs, the Sentinels of the Prairie are on private property. If you visit, please be respectful of the landowners. Sentinels of the Prairie, 20, 1382-1404 NE-12, Jackson, NE 68743, USA
- Fort Cody Trading Post - North Platte
TripAdvisor/Fort Cody Management This family-owned business has been going strong since 1963, and it’s a favorite of locals and tourists alike. Part Nebraska history museum and part giant gift shop, the Fort Cody Trading Post features everything from wild west memorabilia to gag gifts to a stuffed two-headed calf. But the real star of the show is the tiny replica of Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show. With more than 20,000 hand-carved miniature figures, little scenes recreate the glory days of Buffalo Bill’s traveling show. 221 Halligan Dr, North Platte, NE 69101, USA
These are just some of the treasures that you’ll find while traveling through Nebraska. They’re the type of place that you see a sign for and wonder if you should stop. The answer should always be “yes.” Which of these roadside attractions in Nebraska are you itching to get on the road and visit? Did we leave any off that must be visited? If you love exploring Nebraska then take a look at our list of day trips in Nebraska. From spooky to stunning you’re sure to find a reason to get out on the road.
flickr/Mark Goebel
Possibly the most well-known of Nebraska’s roadside attractions, Carhenge is a replica of the famous English monument…but with cars. Thirty-nine classic cars, to be exact. What began as an art project has become an important part of Alliance’s identity.
2151 Co Rd 59, Alliance, NE 69301, USA
flickr/photoreb
Just a couple of miles north of Carhenge sits this classic Nebraska sight gag. Hay bales adorned with a toilet, a recliner, and a large spray-painted “REST AREA” sign beckon weary travelers. The site actually offers free Wi-Fi now, bringing it kind of into the 21st century.
Alliance, NE 69301, USA
While this is far from the only “pioneer village” attraction in Nebraska, it is probably the most popular. Harold Warp Pioneer Village is enormous and features a real “village” consisting of 12 buildings; a steam carousel; thousands of fascinating historic items; and hundreds of vintage vehicles. Plan to spend at least an entire day here because there really is a lot to see.
138 US-6, Minden, NE 68959.
flickr/Stephanie Flores
This huge 300-foot-long monument to Nebraska’s role in history spans I-80 three miles outside of Kearney. Walking through the self-guided audio tour of the museum, you’ll see exhibits related to many different time periods in Nebraska, including the Pony Express, the Mormon, California, and Oregon trails, and Native American life. Plan to spend about an hour exploring the River Road Archway. There are also some outdoor exhibits that you can view for free.
3060 E 1st St, Kearney, NE 68847, USA
flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
A couple of other giant porch swings have claimed to be the largest, and the fact that this swing isn’t on a porch at all disqualifies it from the title in some people’s minds. But this big swing is worth a visit regardless of any controversy. Bring up to 17 adult-sized people to sit on the swing with you.
South 5th Street & Jefferson Avenue, S 5th St & Jefferson Ave, Hebron, NE 68370, USA
flickr/Isommerer
Believe it or not, there are two cars, a motorcycle, and thousands of items of memorabilia in the world’s largest time capsule - and in the even larger below-ground portion. Seward businessman, writer, and historian Harold Davisson wanted to preserve for his grandchildren a snapshot of his life in 1975, so he filled the lower portion with items significant to him. The second portion was added in 1983 after another time capsule challenged Davisson’s claim to the “world’s largest” title.
318 Hillcrest Dr, Seward, NE 68434, USA
Andy the Footless Goose was a plucky little fellow who embodied the indomitable Nebraska spirit. Born without feet, he waddled helplessly on stumps until Gene Fleming adopted him and fashioned little boots that allowed Andy to walk almost normally. Andy became a celebrity and even appeared in national magazines and on The Tonight Show. Tragically, the famous fowl was murdered in 1991. The crime remains unsolved, but this large memorial at the site of Andy’s former home keeps his story alive.
4389 E Hadco Rd, Hastings, NE 68901, USA
flickr/j_rho
Beginning in 1953, the Boys Town Stamp Collecting Club gathered canceled stamps to add to their ambitious collection. By 1955 the world’s largest ball of stamps had grown to a massive 600 pounds and 32 inches in diameter. No stamps have been added to the ball since then, and it now stands on a pedestal in the Boys Town Visitors Center.
13628 Flanagan Blvd, Boys Town, NE 68010, USA
flickr/Ali Eminov
Anyone of a certain age who grew up on a farm will fondly recall the metallic squeak of the windmill. The contraptions were generally used to pump water, a function for which they are no longer needed. While many still stand in fields, unattended and falling apart, Leonard Gill has lovingly collected and restored some of these historic icons of the Nebraska landscape. Walk among the giants and you’ll see a sign that says “You are viewing one of the finest collections of vintage windmills in the entire Midwest. This collection consists of different mills that existed from the 1880s to the 1930s. Note that, while visitors are allowed to walk around and read the signs, the Sentinels of the Prairie are on private property. If you visit, please be respectful of the landowners.
Sentinels of the Prairie, 20, 1382-1404 NE-12, Jackson, NE 68743, USA
TripAdvisor/Fort Cody Management
This family-owned business has been going strong since 1963, and it’s a favorite of locals and tourists alike. Part Nebraska history museum and part giant gift shop, the Fort Cody Trading Post features everything from wild west memorabilia to gag gifts to a stuffed two-headed calf. But the real star of the show is the tiny replica of Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show. With more than 20,000 hand-carved miniature figures, little scenes recreate the glory days of Buffalo Bill’s traveling show.
221 Halligan Dr, North Platte, NE 69101, USA
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Unique things to do in Nebraska October 02, 2022 Sara Dager Does Nebraska have any strange museums we shouldn’t miss? Here at Only In Your State, the only thing we love more than a regular museum is a weird one! And boy are there a few weird museums in Nebraska. Home to over 7,000 unique clown dolls, the Klown Doll museum is the most fun (or scariest place!) in the world, depending on how you feel about clowns. For something a little less polarizing but equally out of the box, you can take a visit to Lee’s Legendary Marbles and Collectibles in York. This shop slash museum is home to the largest collection of marbles in the world, and if you come in without a passion for these lovely little orbs, you will certainly leave with one. What are the most unique spots to spend the night in Nebraska? There are so many interesting accommodations in Nebraska that it can be a little mind-boggling, but we have a few favorites that provide a unique experience (and maybe a few surprises.) A night at Hotel Deco is perfect for those who love the old-world style, creatively designed in the art deco style, you’ll feel a bit like you’ve stepped back in time when you lay your head down to sleep. If you are on the hunt for something a bit more rustic, then checking in at the Olde Main Street Inn could be an ideal experience. This hotel has been around since the 1890s and it’s oh-so-cozy. The Olde Main Street Inn may feel a bit stuck in time, but that’s because it is rumored a couple of ghosts make this place home, and we wouldn’t want to make them uncomfortable! Where can I have a one-of-a-kind dining experience in Nebraska? Dining in Nebraska is such a great adventure, and there are tons of dining spots that feel unlike any other restaurant you may encounter during your travels. At the Grey Plume in Omaha, your taste buds will go on a beautiful rollercoaster as you sample a seasonally changing menu full of locally-sourced ingredients and thoughtful flavor combinations. Just whatever you do, don’t skip out on the duck fat doughnut! Another one-of-a-kind option is the vegan restaurant Modern Love, also located in Omaha. Even the grizzliest of carnivores will find something to love here. They promise swanky vegan comfort food and deliver it.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Unique things to do in Nebraska
October 02, 2022
Sara Dager
Does Nebraska have any strange museums we shouldn’t miss? Here at Only In Your State, the only thing we love more than a regular museum is a weird one! And boy are there a few weird museums in Nebraska. Home to over 7,000 unique clown dolls, the Klown Doll museum is the most fun (or scariest place!) in the world, depending on how you feel about clowns. For something a little less polarizing but equally out of the box, you can take a visit to Lee’s Legendary Marbles and Collectibles in York. This shop slash museum is home to the largest collection of marbles in the world, and if you come in without a passion for these lovely little orbs, you will certainly leave with one. What are the most unique spots to spend the night in Nebraska? There are so many interesting accommodations in Nebraska that it can be a little mind-boggling, but we have a few favorites that provide a unique experience (and maybe a few surprises.) A night at Hotel Deco is perfect for those who love the old-world style, creatively designed in the art deco style, you’ll feel a bit like you’ve stepped back in time when you lay your head down to sleep. If you are on the hunt for something a bit more rustic, then checking in at the Olde Main Street Inn could be an ideal experience. This hotel has been around since the 1890s and it’s oh-so-cozy. The Olde Main Street Inn may feel a bit stuck in time, but that’s because it is rumored a couple of ghosts make this place home, and we wouldn’t want to make them uncomfortable! Where can I have a one-of-a-kind dining experience in Nebraska? Dining in Nebraska is such a great adventure, and there are tons of dining spots that feel unlike any other restaurant you may encounter during your travels. At the Grey Plume in Omaha, your taste buds will go on a beautiful rollercoaster as you sample a seasonally changing menu full of locally-sourced ingredients and thoughtful flavor combinations. Just whatever you do, don’t skip out on the duck fat doughnut! Another one-of-a-kind option is the vegan restaurant Modern Love, also located in Omaha. Even the grizzliest of carnivores will find something to love here. They promise swanky vegan comfort food and deliver it.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
Here at Only In Your State, the only thing we love more than a regular museum is a weird one! And boy are there a few weird museums in Nebraska. Home to over 7,000 unique clown dolls, the Klown Doll museum is the most fun (or scariest place!) in the world, depending on how you feel about clowns. For something a little less polarizing but equally out of the box, you can take a visit to Lee’s Legendary Marbles and Collectibles in York. This shop slash museum is home to the largest collection of marbles in the world, and if you come in without a passion for these lovely little orbs, you will certainly leave with one.
What are the most unique spots to spend the night in Nebraska?
There are so many interesting accommodations in Nebraska that it can be a little mind-boggling, but we have a few favorites that provide a unique experience (and maybe a few surprises.) A night at Hotel Deco is perfect for those who love the old-world style, creatively designed in the art deco style, you’ll feel a bit like you’ve stepped back in time when you lay your head down to sleep. If you are on the hunt for something a bit more rustic, then checking in at the Olde Main Street Inn could be an ideal experience. This hotel has been around since the 1890s and it’s oh-so-cozy. The Olde Main Street Inn may feel a bit stuck in time, but that’s because it is rumored a couple of ghosts make this place home, and we wouldn’t want to make them uncomfortable!
Where can I have a one-of-a-kind dining experience in Nebraska?
Dining in Nebraska is such a great adventure, and there are tons of dining spots that feel unlike any other restaurant you may encounter during your travels. At the Grey Plume in Omaha, your taste buds will go on a beautiful rollercoaster as you sample a seasonally changing menu full of locally-sourced ingredients and thoughtful flavor combinations. Just whatever you do, don’t skip out on the duck fat doughnut! Another one-of-a-kind option is the vegan restaurant Modern Love, also located in Omaha. Even the grizzliest of carnivores will find something to love here. They promise swanky vegan comfort food and deliver it.
