Grand Island

Visiting Nebraska’s third-largest city will take you both to the heart of some of the state’s biggest events and to one of the most awe-inspiring natural phenomena on the planet. Lucky for you, it’s all in one place.

Festivals & Flocks

Nestled in the middle of the state, Grand Island is host to the annual Nebraska State Fair, so make sure your summer plans include this fun opportunity to delve into Nebraska’s agricultural heritage. Join the crowd for Hear Grand Island, a free, all-summer concert series downtown. Or, take in the most unique annual tradition: The Sandhill Crane Migration. Each March, nearly a million sandhill cranes flock to Nebraska’s Central Flyway, and the area is a fantastic spot to view the awe-inspiring gathering.

Old & New

The city marks the convergence of old and new for visitors. Fonner Park is a longtime favorite and hosts thoroughbred racing and other events throughout the year. Stuhr Museum showcases the history of the Platte River Valley and includes a living history Railroad Town, a re-created 1890s community. And the Railside BID fuses the historic downtown with the newest entertainment and businesses.

Family Fun

Grand Island is a fantastic place to pack up the family and visit. Raising Nebraska gives an interactive exhibition of Nebraska’s agriculture. Stolley Park features an arboretum, wading pool and Kid’s Kingdom. The Happy Brush is a paint-your-own studio that folks of any artistic ability are bound to enjoy. Here in the summer? Island Oasis Water Park is a splashy paradise to help everyone cool off.

Fabulous Food

Coney Island Lunch Room has served up Coney dogs for nearly 100 years. The Farmer’s Daughter Cafe is a well-known staple for breakfast and lunch. Wave Pizza Co. gives off an unexpected beach bungalow vibe along with its tasty pizza. Kiko’s Cantina dishes up authentic Mexican food in a colorful and fun ambience. For dessert or coffee, make sure to stop at The Chocolate Bar for a sweet treat to cap your day.