Free Nebraska Museums and Landmarks

Omaha, the state’s largest city, offers a collection of museums and landmarks that you can enjoy for free.

Explore the Hot Shops Art Center to see nearly 100 artisans at work. With 50 studios and two art galleries onsite, you can watch demonstrations and browse all kinds of unique artwork, including paintings, photography, jewelry, stained glass, metal and wood sculptures and more.

Discover the heartwarming story of Boys Town. Tour this 640-acre National Historic Landmark District to learn about the national youth development organization’s mission and history.

Stop into the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters Visitor Center to learn about the legendary explorers and their cross-country expedition. Then, trek across the Missouri River on the 3,000-foot Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. You’ll find Insta-worthy shots of the city skyline and riverfront from “Bob the Bridge.”

Continue on the pioneer trail, this time on a self-guided tour of the Mormon Trail Center at Historic Winter Quarters. Browse a handful of artifacts and interactive displays to learn more about the pioneers of the Mormon Trail and their winter stop in Omaha on the trail west. 

While in Omaha, you have to stop and explore Old Market District. This historic arts and entertainment district is full of shops, restaurants, galleries and live entertainment if you want to spend a little dough, but it’s also a fantastic locale to get out and stretch your legs as you immerse yourself in a bit of Omaha history. Consider taking the Old Market Historic Walking Tour to learn more about the district’s history.  

In Lincoln, take a tour of the Nebraska State Capitol. Climb the building’s 400-foot domed tower to the 14th-floor observation deck for spectacular views of the city. Head to the University of Nebraska to view an impressive collection of American art at The Sheldon Museum of Art. Then, head over to Historic Haymarket District. Snap a selfie with the “Iron Horse Legacy” three-dimensional mural before exploring the district on a self-guided history tour.

Learn about the Homestead Act of 1862 and how it pushed our nation west and changed the lives of millions in the process at Beatrice’s Homestead National Historical Park.

Browse a collection of ancient, petrified wood from around the world at the Petrified Wood and Art Gallery in Ogallala. In Gothenburg, discover an original Pony Express Station. Tour the museum to learn more about the historic “lightning mail” service.

Head to Alliance for the ultimate roadside attraction, Carhenge. Nebraska’s take on England’s world-famous Stonehenge was crafted entirely from old cars. For some ancient history, visit Agate Fossil Beds National Monument in Scottsbluff to see Miocene mammal fossils, as well as a collection of Native American artifacts. The Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center in Chadron features exhibits and displays on the works of the namesake author, as well as the culture of the region and the history of cattle ranching.

Free Nebraska Outdoor Attractions

Omaha’s Turner Park at Midtown Crossing is one of the city’s most popular parks and home to a number of free events throughout the year, including yoga, markets, live music and more.  For more outdoor fun in the heart of downtown Omaha, try Gene Leahy Mall. The recently revitalized park features a new playground, a dog park,  a sculpture garden and a live music pavilion.

In Lincoln, take a peaceful stroll through Sunken Gardens. This nationally acclaimed garden is home to a variety of plants, trees and shrubs, as well as a number of art installations. If you’re really looking to stretch your legs in Lincoln, visit the 668-acre Pioneers Park Nature Center. Explore miles of trails through wetlands, woods and prairies to see non-releasable raptors, bison and more animal exhibits.

Journey to Nebraska City to Arbor Lodge State Historical Park. This 72-acre park, located on Arbor Day Farm, features an arboretum, walking trails, a garden, and multiple historic buildings, including the mansion of J. Sterling Morton, the founder of Arbor Day. Park entry is free, but mansion entry is $9 for adults and $7 for children.

Valentine’s two wildlife refuges, Valentine National Wildlife Refuge and Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, are excellent destinations to immerse yourself in nature. Both offer designated hunting and fishing areas and, of course, excellent opportunities for birding and wildlife viewing. What about the iconic sandhill cranes? Grand Island’s Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center is a must for wildlife lovers and birding enthusiasts. Visit the center for nature hikes, a butterfly garden and a small herd of resident bison. Consider a late-winter or early-spring visit to witness the great sandhill crane migration. Keep in mind: While visiting the center is free, you must purchase tickets for crane tours.

Looking for an epic outdoor getaway? The Cowboy Trail, a 321-mile rails-to-trails project running from Norfolk to Chadron, is the perfect adventure for hikers, cyclists and horseback riders. Plan your trip across northern Nebraska along the trail.