15 Stops for a Nebraska Road Trip

Summer is rolling around, and you know what that means: road trips!

Growing up in Nebraska, I have never taken a dirt road through a cornfield at sunset for granted. But many people who pass through the state do. Nebraska is full of these simple, in-between moments and unexpected stops.

Here are some of my favorite stops across Nebraska for an American road trip this summer.

Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum (Ashland)

One of the most impressive museums in the state, filled with massive aircraft and Cold War history. Even if aviation isn’t your thing, seeing these planes up close is worth the stop. If you need a place to camp, check out Carol Joy Holling Center just around the corner for fishing and full hook-up sites.

Howdy Coffee Co. (Broken Bow)

A great small-town coffee shop with a welcoming vibe. It’s the perfect place to grab a drink before exploring the Sandhills or heading toward the Niobrara River.

Clarkson Bakery (Clarkson)

A classic Nebraska bakery known for its kolaches and old-school charm. It’s the kind of place that reminds you how special small-town stops can be.

Isis Theatre (Crete)

A beautifully restored historic theater in the heart of downtown Crete. Catching a movie here feels like stepping back into a different era.

Covered Wagon Drive-In (Gordon)

A classic roadside stop shaped like a giant covered wagon. Pull up to the drive-thru window for burgers, shakes, and a quick bite.

Stuhr Museum (Grand Island)

An immersive look into Nebraska’s pioneer past. The recreated prairie town gives you a real sense of what life was like on the frontier.

Yoder’s Amish Furniture (Greenwood)

Known for handcrafted Amish furniture built with incredible attention to detail. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s fascinating to see the craftsmanship up close.

Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles (Lexington)

Packed with restored military vehicles, tanks, and artifacts from multiple wars. It’s one of Nebraska’s most underrated museums.

Museum of American Speed (Lincoln)

One of the best automotive museums in the country. If you appreciate racing history, classic cars, or engineering, this place is incredible.

Nebraska History Museum (Lincoln)

A great place to learn how Nebraska was shaped over time. Exhibits cover everything from Native history to pioneer life and modern culture.

Nebraska State Capitol (Lincoln)

One of the most unique Capitol buildings in the United States. Take the elevator to the observation deck for one of the best views in Nebraska.

North Fork Outfitting’s Riverpoint Surf Shop (Norfolk)

Yes, Nebraska has river surfing. This shop sits right by the river and highlights the surprising outdoor culture growing in northeast Nebraska.

Front Street Steakhouse & Crystal Palace Saloon (Ogallala)

A recreated Old West town complete with a steakhouse, saloon, and cowboy museum. It is one of those stops that makes you feel like you stepped straight into Nebraska’s frontier past.

Niobrara Adventures (Verdigre)

One of the best ways to experience the Niobrara River. Float the scenic river valley, take in the bluffs and wildlife, and enjoy one of Nebraska’s most relaxing summer adventures.

Clayton Museum of Ancient History (York)

A hidden gem featuring artifacts from ancient civilizations around the world. It’s an unexpected museum you would never guess to find in a small Nebraska town.

Did I miss your favorite spot? Send it to us below!

If you're planning to camp along the way, you can also explore campgrounds using Set Your Sites.

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