Nebraska Historic Site Bucket List

Fort Robinson

Set in northwest Nebraska near Crawford, Fort Robinson is as historically important as it is scenic. The towering bluffs and pine ridge were the backdrop for important history, including a military fort, the Cheyenne Outbreak, the death of Crazy Horse, K-9 Corps training and more. The Fort Robinson History Center has artifacts from as early as 1874, and the sites of interest are well preserved and marked across the grounds.

Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park

Explore the life and legacy of William “Buffalo Bill” Cody at the Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park in North Platte. Scout’s Rest Ranch, Cody’s 1886 home, is a National Historic Landmark. You can tour this legendary figure’s second empire mansion and barn to see countless historical items and memorabilia of the frontiersman on display.

Harold Warp Pioneer Village

This treasure in Minden houses more than 50,000 items of Americana, dating from as early as 1830. From old-fashioned vehicles to children’s toys to reconstructed buildings, there is so much here that you could get lost exploring.

Ponca Educational Trail and Earth Lodge

Near the village of Niobrara in northeast Nebraska, this trail is a meaningful place to learn about the history of the Ponca and experience where culture and heritage intersect with the land. Features like interpretive kiosks and an earthlodge bring the area to life.

Fillmore County Courthouse

If you lose track of the time, this towering clock can help you find it again. Geneva, the county seat of Fillmore County, is home to this beautiful courthouse, constructed in a simplified version of the Richardson Romanesque style. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Joslyn Castle

One of Nebraska’s most recognizable homes, Joslyn Castle is an Omaha gem. The Scottish Baronial Revival architecture and the four-story structure are worth touring, and you won’t want to miss the photo opportunity.

Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park

12 million years ago, a cloud of volcanic engulfed a watering hole. Today, at this site near Royal, you can see the astonishing variety of prehistoric species, many still being excavated. It’s been declared a National Natural Landmark and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the deep past.

Stuhr Museum

Stuhr Museum is as impressive of a spot as you’ll find to learn about the history of the Platte River Valley in central Nebraska. This Grand Island stop mixes a large collection of artifacts with living history, as the 1890s Railroad Town is a reconstructed wonder with costumed interpreters presenting the past.

Chimney Rock

Perhaps the most recognizable landmark along the Oregon Trail, Chimney Rock is fascinating to visit. Near Bayard, you can get up close to this geological wonder or visit the museum to get a hands-on experience of the area’s history.

Scotts Bluff National Monument

Located in Gering, Scotts Bluff was another notable spot on the Oregon, California, Mormon and Pony Express Trails. It’s a towering natural formation with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, and the adjacent museum tells the story of the bluff’s history.

The Durham Museum

Serving as the Omaha Union Station starting in 1931, The Durham is now one of Omaha’s top museums. Whether you want to admire the towering historic architecture or experience the rotating world-class exhibits, it’s a stop that should be on your list.

Museum of the Fur Trade

Simply put, the Museum of the Fur Trade in Chadron is the top destination in the world to learn about the North American fur trade. There are more than 6,000 artifacts, plus the history of James Bordeaux’s trading post, which is at the site of the museum.

Genoa Indian School Interpretive Center

In the late 19th century, the Indian Industrial School at Genoa opened to help educated and assimilate Native American children into American society. Today, this museum preserves the past through models and reconstructions of the campus, original artifacts and plenty of pictorial displays. The museum’s mission is to promote healing and awareness as well as education.

Robber's Cave

Many people don’t know the fascinating history beneath Nebraska’s capital city, Lincoln. With a past ranging from legends to raucous parties, the sandstone cave contains several lifetimes-worth of lore, with much of it carved into its walls. Book a tour to bring your visit to life!

O'Neill

O’Neill is known as Nebraska’s Irish Capital, and it may surprise some that the world’s largest shamrock is located in this Nebraska town of fewer than 4,000. The annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration is full keeps the area’s rich cultural heritage alive.