Exploring the Nebraska Sandhills Journey National Scenic Byway

Aug 17, 2025

Just because the kids are back at school doesn’t mean the road trip season is over! Autumn is the perfect time to take another vacation and start a new adventure. The weather is cooler and breezier, there are numerous species of animals on the move for migration, and of course, we can’t forget our beloved fall foliage. Today, we’re sharing some great stops to add to your itinerary as you travel the Nebraska Sandhills Journey National Scenic Byway.

This roadway is a whopping 272 miles leading east to west along Historic Nebraska Highway 2 and includes 19,300 square-miles of vegetated sand dunes, a critically protected environment for wildlife. You don’t want to leave your camera at home for this one, as there are too many beautiful landscapes and creatures to photograph along your journey. You’ll be able to spot more than 300 species of birds, including the infamous Sandhill Cranes, and dozens of other animals like jackrabbits, pronghorn antelope, red foxes, coyotes, prairie dogs, and more. So, let’s take a look and get to planning our next adventure!

Ainsworth – Scenic and exciting things to explore in Ainsworth include the Keller Park State Recreation Area, the Sellors Barton Museum, and the Yellowthroat Wildlife Management Area.

Alliance – Visit the Sallows Military Museum, the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery, the Alliance Knight Museum, and Dobby’s Frontier Town. We also love Carhenge and Carnegie Art Center. Nature stops include Custer State Park, Chimney Rock Museum, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and The Mammoth Site.

Anselmo – Take a drive over to the Victoria Springs State Recreation area to stretch your legs or campout under the stars.

Arnold – Home to the Fort Cody Trading Post and the Golden Spike Tower museum and historic site.

Bassett – Museums of note in this old-timey Americana city include the Akta Lakota Museum & Cultural Center and the Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village. Nature lovers can take a trek over to the Smith Falls State Park for some kayaking or fishing.

Broken Bow – History buffs will love the Custer County Museum, followed by some exploring at the Boneyard Creation Museum. Head over to the Kinkaider Brewing Company for some craft brews, or perhaps to Prairie Grounds Cafe and Gifts while you’re in town.

Dunning – Get your hiking boots out and your camping gear ready, because the Nebraska National Forest is ready for your next adventure! Stop by the Sandhills Heritage Museum and learn about the local history of farms, ranches, and the Wild West.

Grand Island – You don’t want to miss the Crane Trust Nature and Visitor Center where you can see and learn all about native Sandhill and Whooping Cranes. Platte River State Park is a great follow-up for some more birding. Historic stops in the area include the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer and Townsley-Murdock Immigrant Trail site.

Halsey – This city is home to the Nebraska National Forest and Grasslands, an excellent campsite and nature trail excursion. While you’re in the area, you can visit the Bessey Nursery, Scott Lookout Tower, the Middle Loup River, and Dismal River OHV Trail.

Merriman – This village is perfect for a camping trip at the Cottonwood Lake Recreation Area, or take a trip over to explore Bowring Ranch Historical State park

Mullen – The Visitor Center at the Bowring Ranch State Historical Park offers travelers a chance to enjoy an inside look at ranch life up close with photographs and artifacts, and the park’s 7,202 acre ranch is preserving history since the turn-of-the-century.

Ravenna – Take a stroll through the beautiful green space of Annevar Park and check out the local monuments. Visit the Veterans Memorial Wall to learn more about the history of Ravenna!

St. Paul – Is perfect for history lovers to spend the day as you check out the Major League Baseball Museum, Tubby’s Firehouse Museum, and the Howard County Historical Village with authentic pioneer era buildings!

Taylor – This stop off is home to Harrop Sandhills Park where you can enjoy hiking and camping as well as nature watching, the Log Cabin Museum, and the Taylor Community Arboretum.

Valentine – Smith Falls State Park is is home to the tallest waterfalls in Nebraska! Plus, it offers ample opportunities for hiking and nature photography as well as wildlife viewing.