Are you a real history buff and are you looking for the best history museums to visit in Nebraska? These are the ones:
1Homestead Heritage Center - Homestead National Historical Park
Beatrice, NEThe Homestead National Monument of America is a significant historical site that commemorates the passage of the Homestead Act of 1862. This act allowed any qualified person to claim up to 160 acres of federally owned land in exchange for five years of residence and the cultivation and improvement of the property. This act played a crucial role in the history of American land ownership and settlement, making the monument a fascinating destination for those interested in American history. 2Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center
Omaha, NEThe Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail is a significant route that stretches across the United States, commemorating the historic Lewis and Clark Expedition that took place from 1804 to 1806. This trail is a part of the National Trails System of the United States, marking it as a significant part of the country's history and heritage. 3Buffalo Bill Ranch
North Platte, NEBuffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, also known as Scout's Rest Ranch, is a living history state park located west of North Platte, Nebraska. The ranch was established in 1878 by William (Buffalo Bill) Cody and has been under the management of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission since 1964. The park, which spans 25 acres, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 2021. 4Fort Atkinson State Historical Park
Fort Calhoun, NEFort Atkinson holds a significant place in American history as the first US Army outpost built west of the Missouri River. Constructed in 1819, it served as a strategic military base until it was abandoned in 1827. Today, visitors can explore the reconstructed fort and learn about its historical importance. 5Willa Cather Childhood Home
Red Cloud, NEThe Willa Cather House, also known as the Willa Cather Childhood Home, is a historic house museum located at 241 North Cedar Street in Red Cloud, Nebraska. This is the house where the renowned author Willa Cather grew up and it has been preserved as a museum for visitors to explore and learn about her life and work. 6Durham Museum
Omaha, NEThe Durham Museum, previously known as the Durham Western Heritage Museum, is situated at 801 South 10th Street in the heart of downtown Omaha, Nebraska. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city, and its central position allows for easy exploration of the surrounding areas. 7Freedom Park
Omaha, NEFreedom Park is a unique combination of an outdoor park and a maritime museum. It is situated in the Grand Omaha marina, on the bank of the Missouri River, in the East Omaha section of Omaha, Nebraska. This location offers visitors a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the area while exploring the maritime history presented in the museum. 8G.W. Frank Museum of History and Culture
Kearney, NEThe G.W. Frank Museum of History and Culture, located in Kearney, Nebraska, is housed in the historic George W. Frank House. This mansion, built in 1889, has been under the ownership of Kearney State College, now known as the University of Nebraska at Kearney, since 1971. The museum offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the rich history and culture of the region. 9Hudson-Meng Education & Research Center
Crawford, NEThe Hudson-Meng Bison Bonebed site, also known as the Hudson-Meng Education and Research Center, is a significant fossil site situated in the Oglala National Grassland of Sioux County, Nebraska. It is located approximately 20 miles northwest of Crawford. This location is renowned for its rich historical and archaeological significance, making it an interesting destination for tourists interested in history, archaeology, and nature. 10Mormon Trail Center at Winter Quarters
Omaha, NEThe Mormon Trail Center at Winter Quarters is a museum and visitors' center of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is situated in the Florence neighborhood of Omaha, Nebraska, United States. The center provides a comprehensive understanding of the Mormon Trail and the history of a temporary Mormon settlement known as Winter Quarters. 11Larsen Tractor Test & Power Museum
Lincoln, NEThe Lester F. Larsen Tractor Test and Power Museum is a unique institution dedicated to preserving and documenting the history of Nebraska's tractor test law. Operated by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, the museum is located in Lincoln, Nebraska, United States. It offers a unique insight into the history and development of tractor testing laws and practices. 12Rock Creek Station
Fairbury, NERock Creek Station, located in southeastern Nebraska, was once a stagecoach and Pony Express station. It is situated three miles northeast of the present-day village of Endicott. Today, the site is preserved as Rock Creek Station State Historical Park, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. 13Great Platte River Road Archway Monument
Kearney, NEThe Great Platte River Road Archway Monument, also known as The Archway or Kearney Archway, is a monument located three miles east of Kearney, Nebraska, United States. It is situated on Interstate 80 and is accessible via two numbered exits (275 and 272). The monument was opened in July 2000 and is a significant tourist attraction that highlights the history of the Platte River Valley. 14Joslyn Castle
Omaha, NEThe George and Sarah Joslyn Home, more commonly known as Joslyn Castle, is a historic mansion situated at 3902 Davenport Street in the Gold Coast Historic District of Omaha, Nebraska. This Scottish Baronial style castle, built in 1903, is a significant part of Omaha's rich history and a testament to the city's architectural heritage. 15Fort Hartsuff State Historical Park
Burwell, NEFort Hartsuff State Historical Park, located six miles southeast of Burwell, Nebraska, is a preserved U.S. Army cavalry outpost from the late 19th century. This park offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the life and operations of a typical cavalry outpost during this period. 16General Crook House Museum
Omaha, NEThe General George Crook House Museum is situated in the historic Fort Omaha, specifically in the Miller Park neighborhood of North Omaha, Nebraska. This location is not only significant for its historical value but also for its accessibility and proximity to other attractions in the area. Visitors can easily find the museum and enjoy the surrounding neighborhood, which is rich in history and culture. 17Thomas P. Kennard State Historic Site
Lincoln, NEThe Thomas P. Kennard House, also known as the Nebraska Statehood Memorial, holds the distinction of being the oldest remaining building in the original plat of Lincoln, Nebraska. This historic site offers a unique glimpse into the past, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore a significant part of Nebraska's history. 18Champion Mill
Champion, NEChampion Mill, located in Champion, Nebraska, is a historic flour and feed mill that was constructed in 1888. After a fire, it was rebuilt in 1892 and continued to be used commercially until 1968. Today, it stands as a testament to the industrial history of the region. 19George W. Norris Home
Mccook, NEThe Senator George William Norris House, located at 706 Norris Avenue in McCook, Nebraska, is a historic house museum. This location offers visitors a chance to delve into the life and times of George W. Norris, a significant figure in Nebraska's political history. 20Cook Blacksmith Shop Museum
Ponca, NEThe Cook Blacksmith Shop, located in Ponca, Nebraska, United States, is a museum that was once a functioning blacksmith shop. This historical site offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the traditional craft of blacksmithing. 21John G. Neihardt State Historic Site
Bancroft, NEThe John G. Neihardt State Historic Site, also referred to as the Neihardt Center, is situated in Bancroft, Nebraska, United States. The site is dedicated to the life and works of Nebraska Poet Laureate John Neihardt, featuring museum exhibits that provide insight into his life and legacy. It is an ideal destination for those interested in literature, history, and the arts. 22Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center
Chadron, NEThe Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center is a museum that pays tribute to the life and works of author Mari Sandoz. It also focuses on the High Plains region of the western United States, which was the setting for many of Sandoz's works. This museum provides a unique opportunity to delve into the history and culture of the High Plains region, as well as the life of one of its most notable authors. 23Civil War Veterans Museum
Nebraska City, NEThe Civil War Veterans Museum, also known as the Grand Army of the Republic Memorial Hall or William Baumer Post No. 24, is a historic building located at 910 1st Corso in Nebraska City, Nebraska. This building, which was once the meeting place of the William Baumer Post No. 24, one of 354 GAR posts in Nebraska, has been restored and now serves as a museum dedicated to Civil War Veterans. 24Fort Sidney Museum and Post Commander's Home
Sidney, NEFort Sidney is a historic fort situated in Sidney, Nebraska, United States. It was established by the 37th Infantry Regiment and has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. The fort was initially a block house on a bluff with soldiers residing in tents nearby. It was later moved and renamed Sidney Barracks, and in 1879, it was designated Fort Sidney. 25El Museo Latino
Omaha, NEEl Museo Latino, located at 4701 South 25th Street in South Omaha, Nebraska, is a museum dedicated to showcasing Latino and Hispanic art and history. Established in 1993, it is the first of its kind in the Midwest and offers a unique cultural experience for visitors. 26Swedish Heritage Center
Oakland, NEThe Swedish Heritage Center is a dedicated museum showcasing Swedish memorabilia. It is conveniently located at 301 N. Charde in Oakland, Nebraska. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich Swedish heritage. 27Great Plains Black History Museum
Omaha, NEThe Great Plains Black History Museum is situated on the first floor of the historic Jewell Building in North Omaha, Nebraska. This location is significant as it is a part of the rich history of the area. The museum was previously located at 2213 Lake Street in the Near North Side neighborhood in North Omaha, housed in the Webster Telephone Exchange Building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 28Historic Florence Bank Museum
Omaha, NEThe building that once housed the Bank of Florence now serves as the Bank of Florence Museum. It is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places and holds the distinction of being the oldest building in Omaha, Nebraska. This museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the city's rich history. 29Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum
South Bend, NEThe Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum is a unique institution that focuses on the aircraft and nuclear missiles of the United States Air Force during the Cold War. This museum offers a deep dive into a significant period of military and aviation history, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about the technology and strategies used during this time. 30Museum of American Speed
Lincoln, NEThe Museum of American Speed is a non-profit institution that is committed to the preservation and exhibition of artifacts that represent the history of American automotive. This museum is a testament to the evolution of the American automotive industry and offers a unique insight into its rich history. 31Kregel Windmill Factory Museum
Nebraska City, NEThe Kregel Windmill Factory Museum, originally known as the Kregel Wind Mill Company, has a rich history dating back to 1879. It was during this year that the company began producing water pumping windmills in Nebraska City, Nebraska. This historical context provides a unique insight into the industrial heritage of the region. 32Old Freighters Museum
Nebraska City, NE 33Wildwood Historic Center
Nebraska City, NE 34Arbor Lodge
Nebraska City, NEArbor Lodge State Historical Park and Arboretum is a mansion and arboretum situated at 2600 Arbor Avenue, Nebraska City, Nebraska, United States. This location is a National Historic Landmark and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1969. It is a significant site for tourists interested in history, architecture, and nature. 35American Historical Society of Germans From Russia Museum
Lincoln, NE 36Fort Kearney Museum
Kearney, NE 37Fort Robinson History Center
Crawford, NEFort Robinson, originally known as Camp Robinson, is a significant historical site in Nebraska. Established on March 8, 1874, by the United States Army, it is located near the present-day town of Crawford. The fort was named in honor of Lieutenant Levi H. Robinson and served as a military post during significant periods in American history. 38Sarpy County Museum
Bellevue, NEThe Sarpy County Museum, situated at 2402 Clay St in Bellevue, Nebraska, is a repository of a vast collection of artifacts and historical resources. These collections provide a comprehensive coverage of the history of Sarpy County, Nebraska, including the cities of Bellevue, Gretna, La Vista, Papillion, and Springfield. 39Pony Express Station Museum
Gothenburg, NE 40Boys Town Hall of History
Boys Town, NEThe Boys Town property holds significant historical value as it was listed in the National Register of Historic Places and was designated as a National Historic Landmark on February 4, 1985. This recognition underscores the importance of Boys Town in the history of child care and family support in the United States. 41Museum of the Fur Trade
Chadron, NEThe Museum of the Fur Trade, located near Chadron, Nebraska, is housed in the faithfully reconstructed Bordeaux Trading Post. Built during 1845-46 by James Bordeaux, the post has been restored using weathered old lumber from a nearby ranchhouse, maintaining the same location and post-holes. This meticulous reconstruction offers visitors a glimpse into the past, providing a tangible connection to the history of the fur trade. 42Meriwether Lewis Dredge Museum of Missouri River History
Brownville, NEThe dredge Captain Meriwether Lewis, a U.S. National Historic Landmark, is a significant piece of American history. It is one of the few surviving examples of its type, built with the purpose of controlling flooding and improving navigation along the nation's rivers. This makes it a unique and interesting site for visitors interested in history and engineering. 43Pioneer Village
Minden, NEPioneer Village is a museum and tourist attraction located along U.S. Highway 6 in Minden, Nebraska, United States. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the history and culture of the region. 44Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles
Lexington, NEThe Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles (HMMV) is located in Lexington, Nebraska. It is a non-profit organization that is managed by volunteers and funded through donations and grants. This museum is dedicated to the restoration, preservation, and display of historic military equipment of all types, as a tribute to those who have served in the military. 45Wayne County Museum
Wayne, NEThe Dr. W. C. Wightman House holds a place on the National Register of Historic Places since 1978. This listing signifies the house's importance in the nation's history and its architectural significance. Visitors to the Wayne County Museum can appreciate the house's historical value and architectural beauty. 46O'connor House Museum Complex
Homer, NEThe Cornelius O'Connor House was recognized for its historical significance and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977. This listing acknowledges the house's contribution to the nation's cultural heritage. 47Burt County Museum
Tekamah, NEThe Burt County Museum is housed in the E.C. Houston House, a historic two-story building in Tekamah, Nebraska. This house was constructed by Joseph Wixer between 1904 and 1905 for E. C. Houston. The architectural design of the house is in the Classical Revival style, which adds to its historic charm. 48Sturdevant-McKee Museum
Atkinson, NEThe Sturdevant-McKee Museum, also known as the Brantly Sturdevant House, is a historic Queen Anne style house located at 308 S. Main St. in Atkinson, Nebraska. Built in 1887, the house is a significant part of the town's history and offers a glimpse into the past. The museum is housed in this historic building, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore the rich history of the area. 49Plains Historical Museum
Kimball, NEThe Plains Historical Museum is housed in the Fraternal Hall, a building of significant historical and architectural value. Constructed in 1903-04, the building is located at the intersection of 2nd and Chestnut Streets in Kimball, Nebraska. It is a fine example of Classical Revival architecture, a style that was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. 50William Jennings Bryan House
Lincoln, NEThe William Jennings Bryan House, also known as Fairview, is a historic house museum located on Sumner Street in Lincoln, Nebraska. Constructed between 1902 and 1903, the house was the residence of the renowned politician William Jennings Bryan from 1860 to 1925. The house was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1963, making it a significant site of historical interest. 51Stuhr Museum
Grand Island, NEThe Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer, located in Grand Island, Nebraska, is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the pioneers who settled the plains of central Nebraska in the late 19th century. This museum provides a unique opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the pioneers, offering a glimpse into their lives and experiences. 52Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center
Gordon, NEThe Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center is a museum that pays tribute to the life and works of author Mari Sandoz. It also focuses on the High Plains region of the western United States, which was the setting for many of Sandoz's works. This museum provides a unique opportunity to delve into the history and culture of the High Plains region, as well as the life of one of its most notable authors.- 53
Great Plains Art Museum
Lincoln, NEThe Great Plains Art Museum, situated in Lincoln, Nebraska, is a fine arts museum that focuses on the arts of the Great Plains in the United States. This unique focus makes it a distinctive destination for art enthusiasts and those interested in the cultural heritage of the Great Plains region. - 54
The Florence Depot
Omaha, NEThe Florence Depot is a historical site located at 9000 North 30th Street in the Florence community of Omaha, Nebraska. This depot was originally constructed in 1887 and has since been a significant part of the local history. It offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the evolution of the railroad industry in the region. - 55
Sokol South Omaha Czechoslovak Museum
Omaha, NEThe Czechoslovak Museum, also known as Sokol South Omaha Czechoslovak Museum, is situated at 2021 U Street in South Omaha, Nebraska, United States. This location is easily accessible and provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the rich history and culture of the Czech and Slovak people in Omaha. - 56
Museum of Nebraska History
Lincoln, NEHistory Nebraska, which was previously known as the Nebraska State Historical Society, is a state agency that was established in 1878. This institution has a long history of promoting historical research and inquiry, as well as disseminating historical information. It has been a state institution since 1883 and was upgraded to a state agency in 1994. - 57
Arbor Day Farm
Nebraska City, NE - 58
Nebraska City Museum of Firefighting
Nebraska City, NE - 59
Rock Island Depot Railroad Museum
Fairbury, NE - 60
Fairbury City Museum
Fairbury, NE - 61
Trails and Rails Museum
Kearney, NE - 62
Richardson County Historical Museum
Falls City, NE - 63
Richardson County Military Museum
Falls City, NE - 64
Scamahorn Museum
Gordon, NE - 65
Tri-State Oldtime Cowboys Memorial Museum
Gordon, NE - 66
Hastings Museum
Hastings, NEThe Hastings Museum of Natural and Cultural History, situated in Hastings, Nebraska, holds the distinction of being the largest municipal museum between Chicago and Denver. This museum offers a unique opportunity to explore a wide range of exhibits and collections, making it a significant destination for those interested in both natural and cultural history. - 67
Webster County Historical Museum
Red Cloud, NE - 68
Legacy of the Plains Museum
Gering, NE - 69
Gothenburg Historical Museum
Gothenburg, NE - 70
Gage County Historical Society and Museum
Beatrice, NE - 71
Homestead Heritage Center - National Park Service
Beatrice, NE - 72
Boys Town Father Flanagan House
Boys Town, NE - 73
Louis E May Museum
Fremont, NE - 74
Dawson County Historical Society Muesum
Lexington, NE - 75
Heritage Center II
Hay Springs, NE - 76
Heritage Center I
Hay Springs, NE - 77
1908 Gruber House
Saint Paul, NE - 78
Howard County Historical Village
Saint Paul, NE - 79
Hitchcock County Museum
Trenton, NE - 80
Sherman County Historical Society
Loup City, NE - 81
Elkhorn Valley Museum
Norfolk, NE - 82
Saunders County Historical Society
Wahoo, NE - 83
Bess Streeter Aldrich House and Museum
Elmwood, NE - 84
Valley Community Historical Museum
Valley, NE - 85
Dundy County Historical Society & Museum
Benkelman, NE - 86
Dalton Prairie Schooner Museum
Dalton, NE - 87
Seward County Historical Society Museum
Goehner, NE - 88
Wilber Czech Museum
Wilber, NE - 89
Thayer County Museum and Historical Society
Belvidere, NE - 90
Cuming County Historical Society Museum Complex
West Point, NE - 91
Courthouse Museum
Arthur, NE - 92
Platte County Historical Society Museum
Columbus, NE - 93
Butler County Nebraska Historical Society
David City, NE - 94
Pawnee City Historical Society & Museum
Pawnee City, NE - 95
Museum of the High Plains
Mccook, NE - 96
Wisner Heritage Museum
Wisner, NE - 97
Washington County Museum
Fort Calhoun, NE - 98
Garfield County Historical Museum
Burwell, NE - 99
Cedar County Hartington Nebraska Historical Museum
Hartington, NE - 100
Farwell Area Historical Museum
Farwell, NE - 101
Garden County Historical Society
Oshkosh, NE - 102
Fillmore County Museum
Fairmont, NE - 103
Museum of Nebraska Major League Baseball
St. Paul, NE - 104
Heritage Museum of Thurston County
Pender, NE - 105
Sheridan County Historical Museum
Rushville, NE - 106
Banner County Historical Society
Harrisburg, NE - 107
Knight Museum and Sandhills Center
Alliance, NE - 108
Graves Library Museum
Wakefield, NE - 109
Lincoln County Historical Museum
North Platte, NE - 110
Custer County Museum
Broken Bow, NE - 111
Antelope County Museum
Neligh, NE - 112
Plainsman Museum & Hamilton County Historical Society
Aurora, NEThe Plainsman Museum, situated in Aurora, Nebraska, is a historical institution that concentrates on the history of the settlers and their descendants in the central Nebraska plains region. This museum provides a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the past and understand the lives and experiences of the early settlers in this region. - 113
Didier Log Cabin
Nebraska City, NE - 114
Brownville Historical Society
Brownville, NE - 115
Kearney County Historical Museum
Minden, NE - 116
Madison County Museum
Madison, NE - 117
Historical Museum of Loup County
Taylor, NE - 118
Johnson County Historical Society
Tecumseh, NE - 119
Clarkson Historical Museum
Clarkson, NE - 120
Saline County Historical Society Museum
Dorchester, NE