Nebraska Field Trips for Homeschoolers

Homeschoolers in this midwestern state can make so many day trips out of the fun, educational destinations available to them. It’s easy to make the landscape and history of this state your outdoor classroom when learning about history, science, geology, and more.

This printable map of Nebraska can help your students become familiar with the state’s geography. They can label the capital and other important cities, and then you can pinpoint the areas that you’d like to visit. You can also download the Time4Learning lesson tie-ins at the end of this post to help supplement your field trips in Nebraska. Please make sure to contact each site before you plan your visit, as COVID-19 may have impacted their hours of operations.

Field Trips in Nebraska’s Western Region

• Chimney Rock National Historic Site, Bayard – This 470-foot geologic formation was once an important landmark for pioneers who were traveling on the Oregon Trail during the 19th century. Families can see Chimney Rock along Nebraska Highway 92 and also explore the nearby visitor center that features exhibits and other educational materials.
• Toadstool Geologic Park, Harrison – There is so much to learn and explore at this park that is home to numerous unique rock formations and prehistoric fossils. Be sure to check out the interpretive kiosk or grab a brochure to make the most of your day trip. Taking the longer Bison Trail  leads to the site of hundreds of bison fossils from 10,000 years ago and the Hudson-Meng Education and Research Center.
• Agate Fossil Beds National Monument, Harrison – Families learning about Earth’s history will love this educational trip where they can explore the fossil beds at this site whose remains date back about 20 million years. Families can check out the visitor center that features two exhibit galleries with hundreds of artifacts, a theater, and more; or head outdoors and hike the trails.
• Nebraska National Forests, Chadron – At over 141,000 acres spread across four counties, this forest once held the title of the largest man-made forest in the world. It is made up of two areas: Pine Ridge Ranger District and Bessey Ranger District. Families can stop at the visitor center to explore exhibits, watch a film, take part in the junior ranger program, and more.
• Fort Robinson History Center, Crawford – Located in Fort Robinson State Park, families can learn about the rich history of this fort and the role it played throughout the years. The history center features exhibits, photos, unique artifacts, and more.  Be sure to explore the area’s historic buildings dating back to the late 19th century including a blacksmith shop, officers’ quarters, veterinary hospital, and more.

Field Trips in Nebraska’s Northern Region

• Snake River Falls, near Valentine – Don’t pass up the opportunity to visit the largest waterfall by volume in Nebraska that plunges over a 54-foot wide ledge. Families can either enjoy the view from different points and explore the surrounding area.
• Smith Falls State Park, Valentine – Established in 1992 and home to Nebraska’s highest waterfall (70 feet), this state park offers tons of things to do for families making it perfect for a day trip. A footbridge allows homeschoolers to get up close to the falls. Families looking to get active can hike, fish, tube, canoe or camp at the park.
• Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park, Royal – Future paleontologists will love this park that is home to over 200 fossils of rhinos, horses, and camels, just to name a few. Students can learn science as they explore the visitor center, Rhino Barn, and even ask paleontologists working on site questions.
• Niobrara State Park, Niobrara – Families looking to change up the schedule or prevent homeschool burnout can head to this 1,600-acre state park. Here, you can burn some energy by hiking, swimming, horseback riding, and more. An interpretive center allows students to learn about the history of the area.

Field Trips in Nebraska’s Southern Region

• Petrified Wood Gallery, Ogallala – Check out the collection of hand-crafted pieces at this gallery featuring fossils from around the world. Families can view tons of Native American artifacts, paintings, sculptures, and numerous other items on display.
• Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, North Platte – Visit this restored mansion that was built in 1886 and once home to Buffalo Bill. Families can learn about this Pony Express rider, scout, showman, and more by taking a self-guided tour of the home, barn, and other historic buildings in the park.
• Stuhr Museum-Prairie Pioneer, Grand Island –  Learning about pioneers will take on a whole new meaning as families step back in time at his living history museum. Railroad Town, the onsite village, allows students to learn about life in 1899. Families can make the most of this educational field trip by touring the grounds and taking part in hands-on activities.
• MONA, Kearney – The official art museum of Nebraska features 11 galleries, classes for kids and teens,  special events, and more. The museum’s collection began in 1976 with about 30 pieces and today it features more than 6,000. Homeschoolers can also explore the sculpture garden outside and the education gallery.
• Fort Kearny State Historical Park, Kearney – Established in 1848, families can explore the buildings and exhibits at this fort that once offered refuge for travelers and served as a station for Pony Express riders. In addition to numerous trails, families can also explore the interpretive center to learn about the fort’s past, and watch living history demonstrations.

Field Trips in Nebraska’s Eastern Region

• Angel De Cora Museum and Research Center, Winnebago – Families learning about Native Americans should stop at this museum that first opened in 2002 and is named after Native American artist and activist Angel De Cora. Here, you can learn about the area’s Winnebago Tribe through exhibits, artifacts, photographs,and more.
• Indian Cave State Park, Shubert – Located near the Missouri River, this 3,000-acre park features miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as the famous cave for which it’s named after. Students can view the Native American petroglyphs from a boardwalk as well as visit the restored schoolhouse and general store nearby.
• Platte River State Park, St. Louisville –  There is so much to do at this state park situated between Omaha and Lincoln. Families can hike, cool off in the spray park, take guided horse rides, get hands on in Crawdad Creek, and more. Two observation towers give homeschoolers a bird’s eye view of the Platte River Valley.
• Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Omaha – With a mission to “inspire, educate and engage’, animal lovers will find no shortage of things to see and do at this zoo that dates back to 1894. Numerous exhibits, educational programs, and visitor experiences provide tons of learning opportunities for families.
• Omaha Children’s Museum, Omaha – From interactive exhibits to special events and  activities, families will love this homeschool field trip idea. Students can learn about numerous topics with exhibits like Zooland, Tinker Lab, Art Smart Center, Imagination Playground, and more.