Itinerary: Sandhill Cranes & More along the Central Platte River

The Archway in Kearney brings American history to life. Since prehistoric times, the path along the Platte River through Nebraska, once known as the Great Platte River Road, has served as a migratory route across the continent. From the Oregon Trail era to today, the Archway's family-friendly exhibit tells the story of the adventurers who followed the trail and helped build America.

The Museum of Nebraska Art (MONA) celebrates the history of Nebraska’s visual art for diverse audiences. MONA collects, preserves, researches, exhibits and interprets the work of artists who were born, lived, trained or worked in Nebraska, or who created artworks that reflect the state's culture.

Lillian Annette Rowe Bird Sanctuary, commonly known as Rowe Sanctuary, is dedicated to the conservation of sandhill cranes, whooping cranes and other migratory birds, and their habitat along the Platte River in south-central Nebraska. Stop by after dinner to view the cranes in flight against the vibrant sunset. 

The G.W. Frank Museum of History and Culture engages diverse audiences with the history and culture of Kearney and the larger Great Plains region through collecting, preserving and sharing the stories of the many individuals associated with this historic site. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Frank Museum serves as a living institution, interpreting the home and its cultural resources, and is dedicated to exploring our past as a way of better understanding our present and future.

From science and innovation to community and culture and even the global economy, Nebraska's agriculture touches everyone. At Raising Nebraska, an interactive, 25,000-square foot agricultural exhibit, you can become part of it in ways you never imagined and that you'll never forget. Located inside the Nebraska Building at Fonner Park.

Arrange a crane viewing tour, then explore the Crane Trust visitor center and grounds. You'll discover native wildlife exhibits and touch-screen displays on the Trust's conservation programs, a nature-themed gift shop, butterfly garden, a herd of American bison and 10 miles of hiking trails through tall grass prairie, forest and wetland habitats.

Explore this historical site for changing exhibits, 100-plus structures and a chance to visit Railroad Town, a living history community staffed with costumed interpreters May 1 through Labor Day. Onsite, don't miss the Fonner Rotunda, housing cowboy and Native American artifacts, the mercantile or blacksmith shop. 

Watch a second-run film at a discounted rate in the 1937 Art Deco palace that is The Historic Grand Theatre.