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Land O' the Trails Tour PDF Print E-mail

Head south of Lincoln for a journey into history. This route has no shortage of historically significant attractions, family-friendly stops, and good old-fashioned fun.

Scenery
The Missouri River, sun-drenched countryside, old world-influenced towns, bountiful orchards, tallgrass prairies, historic settlements.

History
See how Nebraska was settled, starting with the journey of Lewis and Clark. The Missouri River Basin Lewis & Clark Interpretive Trail & Visitor Center in Nebraska City is an 80-acre site overlooking the Missouri River. The center focuses on the recorded scientific discoveries of plants and animals made during the expedition. The Pawnee City Historical Society Museum displays 16 historical buildings housing antique furnishings, tools, vintage vehicles, rare photos, books, unique handcrafted items, and more. At the Homestead National Monument of America near Beatrice, learn about the Homestead Act and how it helped shape Nebraska into what it is today.

Family Fun
While you’re in Nebraska City, be sure to stop by the Arbor Lodge State Historical Park and Arboretum. The National Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree Adventure at Arbor Day Farm is also a big treat for kids and adults alike. At Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard, the whole family will enjoy picking fruit from the rows of bountiful apple trees. In Brownville, treat your family to a cruise down the Missouri River on the Spirit of Brownville.

Route directions:

Start in Lincoln
30 miles (:45) east on US-34 to Avoca
25 miles (:45) east on US-34, south on US-75 to Nebraska City
34 miles (:40) south on US-75, east on US-136 to Brownville
23 miles (:45) south on NE-67 and US-73 to Falls City
41 miles (1:00) west on NE-8 to Pawnee City
42 miles (1:00) west on NE-8, north on NE-99, west on NE-4 and US-136 to Beatrice
28 miles (:45) west on NE-136 to Fairbury
37 miles (1:15) north on NE-15, east on NE-41 to Wilber
11 miles (:25) north on NE-103 to Crete
14 miles (:25) west on NE-33, north on US-77 to Lincoln

 

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Nebraska Department of Economic Development • 301 Centennial Mall South • PO Box 94666 • Lincoln, NE 68509-4666 • Tourism Contacts