Plan Your Trip Along the Nebraska Sandhills National Scenic Byway

Aug 17, 2023

Today we’re exploring another great road trip opportunity, this time highlighting the Nebraska Sandhills National Scenic Byway (which is so beloved it has its own trip planning app!) Virtually untouched by development or human interference, this gorgeous byway is rife with scenic dune landscapes, rolling native grasses, sparkling blue lakes and streams, and incredible wildlife and ecosystems.

There’s 272 miles of scenic driving to explore with gorgeous diverse landscapes, farmlands, and memorable views. Dotted along the way you’ll find plenty of towns and cities worth stopping at for a bite to eat, a little bit of exploration, or some rest and relaxation. Plus, there’s more than 500,000 cranes migrating from the area seasonally, so you don’t want to miss that!

Let’s take a look at some of the interesting towns you’ll find along your route:

Ainsworth – Scenic and exciting things to explore in Ainsworth include the Keller Park State Recreation Area, the Sellors Barton Museum, and the Yellowthroat Wildlife Management Area.

Alliance – This city is jampacked with fun activities and destinations! You can explore history at the Sallows Military Museum, the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery, the Alliance Knight Museum, and Dobby’s Frontier Town. If you’re looking for something creative, check out Carhenge and Carnegie Art Center. Nature fans will love Custer State Park, Chimney Rock Museum, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and The Mammoth Site.

Anselmo – Take a drive over to the Victoria Springs State Recreation area to stretch your legs or campout under the stars.

Arnold – Home to the Fort Cody Trading Post for good ol’ fashioned roadside souvenirs and kitschy collectibles, and then take a jaunt over to the Golden Spike Tower museum and historic site. While you’re in town you can grab a bite to eat at its award winning and locally lauded eateries before you head back out on the road.

Bassett – Museums of note in this old-timey Americana city include the Akta Lakota Museum & Cultural Center and the Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village. Nature lovers can take a trek over to the Smith Falls State Park for some kayaking or fishing.

Broken Bow – History buffs will love the Custer County Museum, followed by some exploring at the Boneyard Creation Museum. Head over to the Kinkaider Brewing Company for some craft brews, or perhaps to Prairie Grounds Cafe and Gifts while you’re in town.

Grand Island – This stop off will thrill nature enthusiasts with a visit to the Crane Trust Nature and Visitor Center to catch a glimpse and learn about the Sandhill and Whooping Cranes and their natural habitats. Then swing by the Platte River State Park to do some birding! History nuts will have a great time walking through the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer, and enjoy a walk down the historic Townsley-Murdock Immigrant Trail site.

Halsey – This city is home to the Nebraska National Forest and Grasslands, perfect for scenic views, camping, and hiking. From there you can check out the Bessey Nursery, Scott Lookout Tower, the Middle Loup River, and Dismal River OHV Trail.

Merriman – This village is perfect for a camping trip at the Cottonwood Lake Recreation Area, or take a trip over to explore Bowring Ranch Historical State park

Nenzel – Adults will enjoy a stop off here to the Niobrara Valley Vineyards for some wine tasting and wine selection.

St. Paul – Is perfect for history lovers to spend the day as you check out the Major League Baseball Museum, Tubby’s Firehouse Museum, and the Howard County Historical Village with authentic pioneer era buildings!

Taylor – This stop off is home to Harrop Sandhills Park where you can enjoy hiking and camping as well as nature watching, the Log Cabin Museum, and the Taylor Community Arboretum. And be sure to grab a brew or two at Bootleg Brewers while you’re in the area.

Valentine – Smith Falls State Park is where it’s at if you want to see the tallest waterfalls in Nebraska! It’s great for some peaceful hiking and nature photography opportunities.