Nebraska City Nebraska is located on the state’s Missouri River border with Iowa, about an hour’s drive southwest of Omaha and an hour’s drive east of Lincoln. It was the site of the original Fort Kearny, which was moved to what is present day Kearney on the Oregon Trail in the central part of the state. This is a cosmopolitan city with many things to do in Nebraska City and Nebraska City attractions having to do with the arts and culture. This was a major crossing point for pioneer wagon trains traversing the Oregon Trail during the great westward migrations of the mid 1800s. Because of this, there is also much rich history to discover.

Many things to do in Nebraska City are also provided by the Missouri River, with plentiful fishing, boating, hiking, and cycling along the river bluffs. You also will find yourself with easy access to the riverboat casinos that are technically located in Iowa. You can also learn about the river and its importance to the history of the region at the Missouri River Basin Lewis & Clark Interpretive Trail. There are plenty of interactive hands-on activities and exhibits chronicling the flora and fauna of the river basin.

Nebraska City Nebraska is home to Arbor Day, one of the important events in the region. This festival was begun by J. Sterling Morton who arrived to become editor of the local newspaper in 1855. Both he and his wife were lovers of the outdoors, and they established Arbor Day in 1872 to acknowledge that love. A festival food market is catered by local dining establishments; there are concerts, a run, a parade, and performances. One of the Nebraska City attractions is the former Morton home, a 52-room neo-Colonial mansion furnished with many original antiques. The family carriages are displayed in the carriage house, and there are guided tours of the property available. There is an arboretum to explore and walking and hiking trails throughout the 72-acre grounds of the estate.

Nebraska Map

Other Nebraska City attractions include the Museum of Firefighting that features the history of the Nebraska City Nebraska Volunteer City Volunteer Fire Department, a 150-year old department. The downtown historic district contains numerous buildings of architectural merit, including the Public Library built in 1896 and on the National Register of Historic Places. The Mayhew Cabin and Historical Village is the only site in the state that is part of the National Park Service Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. The 1857 Taylor Wessel Bickel House is considered one of the finest examples of Greek Revival architecture in the state. All of these museums are available for tours and events.

There are many things to do in Nebraska City in the great outdoors. Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure is a wonderful family experience set in beautiful forests and countryside. Here is a whimsical 50-foot high tree house with spectacular views, a nature hiking trail, and plenty of active fun for children. Its Lied Lodge serves as one of the Nebraska City hotels and a world-class golfing venue with the links designed by Arnold Palmer. Nebraska City Nebraska is also is also home to two of the state’s wineries, as well as numerous apple orchards providing signature cider and pies that will appear on the dining tables of local restaurants.