Springtime in Nebraska

It often flies under the radar…but even the birds are smart enough to stop here. In fact, it’s home to one of the last great animal migrations where 600,000 sandhill cranes convene on the Platte River every spring (March to early April), the world’s largest migration of one of the oldest species. Although, Sandhill cranes are not the only spectacles in Nebraska; for those looking for an affordable Spring Break getaway, avoid flying and take a road trip through Nebraska!

Where to Stay: In Spring of 2022 Lincoln is welcoming a new luxury, boutique hotel, The Scarlett Hotel. A full-service boutique Marriott hotel that will be run by the University of Nebraska Lincoln hospitality program students. Offering 154 unique stays—151 guestrooms will be named after small towns in Nebraska, and 3 suites are named after prominent leaders— the hotel promises to celebrate the state in every detail.

Additional Activities:

Meet some nocturnal friends at Fontenelle Forest. Experience a 30-minute guided night hike under the full moon in Fontenelle Forest. The celestial stroll will include an educational overview of nocturnal animals and the full moon, possible wildlife sightings, and a warm bonfire complete with s’more making.

In Omaha’s Old Market District nightlife is encouraged. Stop by Omaha’s oldest craft cocktail lounge, The Berry & Rye, or peek through the looking glass at the Wicked Rabbit for a unique nightcap experience.

Never been tanking? You’re not alone. It’s a Nebraska thing because it takes a particular balance of mineral and river depth to produce the right conditions and buoyancy for a horse trough to carry a group of friends for a casual float down the river. Get a unique spin on river floating by taking a Tanking trip on the North Platte River with outfitters like Dusty Trails, where your floating vessel is a livestock tank! (Nebraska has more miles of river than any other state, making it the perfect place for a float trip!).