There are some great things about Nebraska that make it a perfect destination for a summer vacation. The state is known for its wide open spaces, beautiful scenery, and friendly people.
Although Nebraska is a hot and humid place during summertime, it is still a wonderful place to visit. The sky is always a bright orange or red, and the landscape is covered in lush green trees. It's also a great place to stay cool and enjoy the sunshine, as there are lots of places to go swimming, play in the water parks, and enjoy lots of delicious food options.
With so many great things to do in the state, it's no wonder that people from all over the country flock here every year. If you're interested in experiencing all that Nebraska has to offer, here's a list of the 6 places you'll love.
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1. Fun-Plex
This summer season, cool off in Nebraska while visiting Fun-Plex! Located in Omaha, Fun-Plex is a waterpark that provides families with fun and excitement while spending quality time together.
This place is definitely a fun little spot in Omaha as there aren't tons of waterparks here unlike most states. Compared to others, it's not a huge waterpark but it's got 3 waterslides with multiple slide options.
Aside from their water-based activities, Fun-Plex also offers go karts and bumper cars. All in all, this place is perfect for a summertime adventure.
2. Neighborhood Offshore
As Omaha's premier surfing camp, Neighborhood Offshore is the place to go when you want to learn how to surf. This place is located in Flanagan Lake, and they provide urban surf fitness classes for beginners and intermediate level surfers.
In addition, they also offer stand up paddleboard rental, lessons, and yoga (imagine doing yoga while standing up on a paddleboard!). Booking in advance is required, so make sure to plan ahead and make your reservation as soon as possible.
3. Papio Fun Park
The summer season is for trying different things, and this is what Papio Fun Park is all about. Trampolines, arcade games, go karts, mini golf, laser tag, skee ball, air hockey -- whew! Just reading it will make you happy from all the fun you can have here.
Papio Fun Park has something for everyone, from kids to adults. Although it's quite small compared to other amusement parks, you will have tons of fun here for sure.
What we love about this place is that they also offer foods and drinks, which are priced low as well. In addition, you will be impressed with the staff, the safety protocol in place (especially at the go karts), and its affordability. Overall, if you want to have fun with your family, Papio Fun Park is the place to be.
Other Places You Should Check Out in Nebraska This Summer
Of course, there are also plenty of other places in Nebraska you should check out. From aquariums and museums to a Stonehenge replica, you will find that Nebraska has many things to offer.
1. Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
This huge zoo and aquarium -- 160 acres, to be exact -- is home to different plants, animals, and unique habitats from around the world. Once you visit this place, you can easily see why they are overall one of the best zoos in the whole United States. Most of the exhibits are indoors so you can definitely escape the summer heat outside.
There is so much to enjoy here, with little nooks to get up close to the exhibits and plenty of spots to sit down as you're walking around. From the time you enter until the time you leave, you and your family will be amazed for hours.
2. Scotts Bluff National Monument
Beautiful and inspirational -- that's how we can describe Scotts Bluff National Monument. If you're into hiking, then this place is for you. Towering above the North Platte River, this magnificent monument is sure to make you feel like you're in the middle of the mountains.
Scotts Bluff National Monument also got a visitor center and a museum where you can learn about the history of this place. From the visitor center, you can drive 1.5 miles to the top of the monument. At the top, you can access North Trail (0.2 mile) and South Trail (0.5 mile). From the South Trail, you can also access Saddle Trail (1.6 mile each way, not loop). Views from both the North and South trails are breathtaking.
Once you are there, don't forget to take the old Oregon trail which is right across the visitor center. This trail is just half to 3/4 mile, so it won't take too much effort to complete.
3. Carhenge
Definitely, this is one of the most interesting sights you'll see in Nebraska. Once you're done visiting Scotts Bluff, you can make a stop at Alliance and stretch your legs while marveling at this amazing roadside attraction.
Carhenge is a unique, quirky monument that resembles Stonehenge. But instead of large blocks of stones, the monument uses a number of cars. Thirty-nine automobiles were used and then arranged to mimic the shape of Stonehenge. Aside from this monument, you can also find other car sculptures nearby.
Conclusion
This summer, take the time to explore Nebraska and its natural beauty. This state has plenty of great attractions that are perfect for families and groups. Whether you're looking for a fun family trip, a romantic getaway, or just a place to relax, Nebraska got you covered.