Explore the Historic Lewis & Clark Scenic Byway
Follow Highway 75 for a historic and picturesque journey along the Missouri River. This scenic byway follows Lewis and Clark’s journey on their way to the Pacific Ocean and takes you through some of Nebraska’s earliest settlements nestled within beautiful country vistas and landscapes. See the land the explorers saw on this two-day and six-city itinerary.
Route Directions
Omaha to Fort Calhoun: 17 miles
Fort Calhoun to Blair: 9 miles
Blair to Tekamah: 18 miles
Tekamah to Winnebago: 37 miles
Winnebago to South Sioux City: 17 miles
Day 1
Omaha
Start your Lewis & Clark itinerary in Omaha with a traditional Lithuanian breakfast at Lithuanian Bakery before heading to west Omaha to learn more about Father Flanagan’s efforts to help wayward boys get off the streets at Boys Town. Satisfy your soul food fix with amazing food at Big Mama’s Kitchen and Catering before making your way back downtown to one of the city’s most iconic museums, The Joslyn, which underwent a massive multi-million expansion project. End the day shopping around the historic Old Market followed by a delicious dinner at Upstream Brewing Company.
Day 2
Fort Calhoun
Make your way north to Fort Calhoun to begin your experience at Fort Atkinson State Historical Park. Under the recommendation of Lewis & Clark’s expedition, the U.S. military established the fort in 1820.
Blair
Next, continue north to Blair to the DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge to view more than 200,000 artifacts on display from the 1865-era steamboat Bertrand which sunk in the Missouri River.
Tekamah
Next, stop at Master’s Hand for its wide variety of gifts and some of the best freshly baked goods and chocolates found anywhere in northeast Nebraska. Afterward, enjoy delicious comfort food for lunch in a cozy atmosphere at The Tipsy Pig.
Winnebago
The Winnebago Nation is home to the tribal buffalo herd visible from the highway and Angel De Cora Museum and Research Center where you can view authentic Winnebago Nation artifacts including traditional dolls, paintings, clothing and other items. Stop by the Honoring-the-Clans Sculpture Garden and Cultural Plaza which tells the story of the Winnebago Nation’s 12 clans through life-size sculptures.
South Sioux City
On your way to South Sioux City, make a short stop at Blackbird Scenic Overlook for a truly spectacular view of the surrounding countryside. Once you arrive in town, check into the Marina Inn Hotel & Conference Center and enjoy a delicious steak overlooking the Missouri river at Kahill’s Steak, Fish & Chophouse.