Nebraska Staycation: 7 Fun Things to Do While Staying Close to Home

Nebraska is known for its wild frontier and modern development making it a perfect place to visit when planning a family vacation or staycation. Known for their treeless prairies and historic trails, Nebraska has plenty to do and see.

Here are seven great places to visit when in Nebraska:

1. A trip to Lincoln, the state's capital includes a free tour of the building. There are also plenty of other fascinating places to tour while in the city. People of all ages would enjoy stops by the Lincoln Children's Museum, the Muller Planetarium and the University of Nebraska State Museum.

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2. The Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha is a favorite family attraction. Along with a variety of animals from around the world, the zoo includes an IMAX theater and aerial sky ride for an overview of the zoo. A trip includes the Hubbard Orangutan Forest and Gorilla Valley, the Scott Aquarium and a butterfly and insect pavilion.

3. The Joslyn Art Museum in Omaha features everything from Art Deco styles to Native American works. International works of art include exhibitions by such greats as Matisse, impressionist works from the 19th century and permanent collections from the romantic and realist eras. Events are held in a 1,000-seat auditorium and a sculpture garden.

4. The Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari provides visitors with an up-close look at animals throughout the 440 acre site while also participating in wildlife conservation and care. A short drive from Lincoln or Omaha, the area features antelope, white-tailed deer, bison, elk and other creatures during a four-mile drive through the park. Visitors can also take safe walks on guided tours.

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5. Entertainment and Wild West star Buffalo Bill lived in a home now featured at the Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park. Visitors enjoy memorabilia from the legendary figure, including costumes and film clips from his shows. Camping and horseback riding are available at the park in North Platte.

6. The pristine and undisturbed prairie land of the Chimney Rock and Scotts Bluff National Monument allows visitors a view of the beautiful, present-day landscape, as well as a look into the past of the pioneer days. Some 3,000 acres of land in Bayard include striking cliffs, barren badlands and exhibits about the area's history in a museum on the grounds.

7. Family vacation or staycation in Nebraska Panhandle includes the Agate Fossil Beds National Monument with fossils from huge mammals and the 100 mile Pine Ridge Trail with panoramic views of the beautiful surroundings. Also, there's the recent creation of "Carhenge," made of scrapped cars from the 1950s and 1960s and resembling England's Stonehenge.

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