Nebraska and the Midwest
Covering an area of 200,375 square kilometers,
Nebraska is as extensive as the seemingly endless
sky and part of the Midwest. In addition to
Nebraska, eleven other states belong to this part of
the United States. The name originated from the need
to differentiate itself from the east
coast. However, there is no statutory
delimitation. Depending on the historical or
geographical division, more or less states are
included in this region, which are also divided into
a western and an eastern part. Along with its direct
neighbors North and South
Dakota, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri and Iowa Nebraska
is one of the western Midwest states.
This term is of historical origin because it goes
back to the development and settlement of the
American West. The settlers set out from the larger
cities on the east coast to the largely unknown west
at that time. With the term Midwest there was a
demarcation to the east coast. The states belonging
to this region were considered to be the gateway to
the west, since the settler routes passed through
these states on their way to the Wild West, which is
known as the Frontier. The name Nebraska goes back
to the Indian language and is translated as "flat
land". This description is due to the Platte River,
which flows from east to west throughout the
state. Nebraska is the state with the longest
rivers.
Versatile options for leisure activities
The huge state has a lot to offer, as it is not
only the birthplace of the rodeo, which is
celebrated by the Americans, but is also home to
many historical landmarks such as the Lewis and
Clark Trail, the Ashfall Fossil Beds State
Historical Park and numerous military
fortifications. Although Nebraska is geographically
part of the Midwest, anyone who is here feels like
in the Wild West. When the sun sets over the
impressive sandhills, images of large wagon trains
with settlers who were looking for their luck in the
unknown west and crossing this long grass plain on
their way appear before the mind's eye.
The guided farm tours, in which some of the most
beautiful ranches in the country are visited, convey
an authentic picture. Dinners in the so-called
farm-to-tables restaurants offer a successful end to
an eventful day. The steaks are so good here that
they are a real treat. Anyone who enjoys this juicy
meat knows why Nebraska is nicknamed "Beef State".
Landmarks that shouldn't be missed in Nebraska
The Sandhills
This extensive panoramic road, over which the
settlers drove west on their way about 250 years
ago, meanders through the gentle hilly landscape of
Nebraska. Along this route are numerous ranches,
farms, larger and smaller cities, which allow an
authentic view of this state.
Toadstool Geologic Park
This seemingly unreal giant rock formation is
reminiscent of a lunar landscape. Some structures in
this rocky landscape look like toadstools. This
sight is even more impressive when fast moving cloud
formations darken the sky over this lunar landscape.
Chimney Rock National Historic Site
Characteristic of this rocky landscape is the
prominent jagged tower, which has become an
important point of orientation for the settlers'
trails heading west. Anyone interested in the
history of the Wild West development should visit
the visitor center in the park to learn more about
this period of American history.
Niobrara National Scenic River
This large river, which meanders through a hilly,
lush green landscape, can be kayaked. An extensive
hike through this idyllic landscape offers a view of
a species-rich fauna with more than 500 plants and
200 waterfalls.
Scotts Bluff National Monument
This 1,200 hectare protected area with the
striking rock formations crossed the settlers on
their way to the west. The exhibition in the
attached museum offers a comprehensive insight into
the development of the Wild West. If you want to
feel like a pioneer yourself, take part in a ranger
tour, take a hike on the Saddle Rock Trail or drive
up Summit Road to the summit of this rock formation,
which offers an impressive panoramic view of the
vast country.
Grand Island
Grand Island was created when the railroad was
built. Interesting stories and insights are waiting
all over the place about this fascinating period
that has made the United States of America what it
is today. The rails of one of the largest historic
railroad companies, the Union Pacific Railroad, run
straight through the center of Grand Island. Time
seems to stand still in this pioneer city with
postcard idyll. Films are regularly shown in the
lovingly restored Grand Theater with the flair of
the 1930s, the historic steam locomotive of the
Union Pacific with the number 844 still finds its
way into the city. The train station built in 1911
and Antiques Avenue with art galleries, shops,
boutiques and markets fit perfectly into this
historical picture.
In the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer,
visitors can learn more about the history of the
city and its pioneers. Around Grand Island there is
a real paradise for nature and bird lovers. No fewer
than 500,000 of these specimens settle on the
surrounding sandbars. This area is also known as the
"Nebraska Flyaway".
Omaha
Although the history of the most populous city in
Nebraska is closely linked to agriculture, it is a
cosmopolitan city. A shopping spree through the Old
Market district or a walk through the street markets
of the city center offer something for every
taste. A fascinating view opens up from the high and
extensive pedestrian bridge, the Nebraska with Iowaconnects. Endless
highways and unpaved slopes around the city lead to
all parts of the country. Unforgettable experiences
are the Oktoberfest of the German American Society
and fireworks over the Bob Kerry Pedstrian Bridge on
the Missouri River. A large part of the cultural
facilities is located in the Old Market
district. Two rivers and five lakes make the Omaha
area an adventure playground for outdoor
enthusiasts. The much praised Henry Doorly Zoo is
also worth a visit.
Lincoln
The lively capital of Nebraska is also a
university city. 125 parks, numerous cultural
institutions and museums, a high quality gastronomy
offer and a lively music scene characterize this
traditional and modern city. The historic district
of Hay Market leaves nothing to be desired, as
numerous galleries, shops, boutiques, museums and
restaurants are lined up here. The Railyard Lincoln
entertainment mile is known for its many live shows. |
