Nebraska

Travel Guide North America USA Midwestern United States Nebraska

Introduction

Scotts Bluff National Monument, Nebraska

Nebraska is one of the 50 US states that gets bad reputation. Many people consider it a fly over or drive through state. This can't be further from the fact. It has many wonderful natural sights, historic monuments and quirky Americana that only the USA can produce. Just remember that if it starts to get cloudy and thunderstorms start to brew and you see funnel cloud look for cover because tornado's also like to go through this state!

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Geography

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Cities

Bellevue
Columbus
Fremont
Grand Island
Hastings
Kearney
Lincoln, the state's capital
Norfolk
North Platte
Omaha, the state's largest city.

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Sights and Activities

Carhenge and Michael

Carhenge, located outside of Alliance in western Nebraska, is an example of the more quirky side of the USA. Carhenge is a 'replica' of Stonehenge made out of crushed cars. There are also other examples of car art for people to appreciate. Carhenge is open 24 hours a day 365 days a year. Entrance is free, although donations are greatly appreciated.

The Sand Hills in central Nebraska consists of over 19,000 acres of wind-deposited sand dunes, the largest sand dune formation in America.

Scott's Bluff National Monument rising 800 feet out of the flat lands this wonderful sight is a great place to stop and rest. It was also a stopping point and landmark for people on the Oregon Trail.

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Events and Festivals

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Weather

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Getting There

By Plane

By Train

The California Zephyr, operated by Amtrak, travels between Chicago, Illinois and Emeryville (San Francisco), California, stopping in a number of places in Nebraska.

By Car

By Bus

By Boat

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Getting Around

By Plane

Many international rental companies have a wide selection of rental cars and these include Hertz, Avis, Dollar, Thrifty, Enterprise, Budget and Alamo/National. Most companies will require you are at least 25 years of age, although younger people might be able to rent cars at slightly higher rates and with some insurance differences as well. A national driver's license is usually enough, but an additional international one is recommended. Also note that it usually costs more to include lots of other extra things. For example extra drivers, GPS, the first full tank, SLI (Supplemental Liability Insurance), PAI (Personal Accident Insurance, usually covered already at home), road assistance/service plan, and drop-off costs for one-way rentals.
If you want to book a car, it is recommended that you book your car before arriving in the USA. This is almost always (much) cheaper compared to just showing up. Also, try and book with a so-called 'broker', which usually works together with a few or many car rental companies and can offer the best deal. Some examples include Holidayautos, Holidaycars and Sunny Cars. Some of the cheapest deals to book from Europe, includes Drive-USA, which also has a German version.

For more information and tips about renting cars and campers, additional costs, insurance, traffic rules, scenic routes and getting maps and fuel it is advised to check the USA Getting Around section.

By Train

By Car

By Bus

By Boat

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Eat

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Drink

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Sleep

Hotel and Motel Chains

There are dozens of hotel and motel chains, ranging from budget to top end. Allthough they are not the most charming accommodations, they usually have a very decent midrange service with good rooms and are generally good value. At least you know what to expect and in some cases they are either the only or the best option in the area. Some of them include: