Explore the Sandhills Journey National Scenic Byway
Dive into Nebraska’s rolling sandhills on this National Scenic Byway. This trip highlights many smaller, often overlooked Nebraska towns that are full of hidden gems. You are sure to see a multitude of natural beauty along with unique historical attractions and museums as well. The Sandhills Journey National Scenic Byway has something in store for everyone.
From Grand Island:
33 miles west on NE-2 to Ravenna • 49 miles west on NE-2 to Broken Bow
41 miles west on NE-2 to Dunning • 11 miles west on NE-2 to Halsey
17 miles west on NE-2 to Thedford • 25 miles west on NE-2 to Mullen
39 miles west on NE-2 to Hyannis • 59 miles west on NE-2 to Alliance
Grand Island
Begin your trip in vibrant Grand Island, home of the Nebraska State Fair and Fonner horse racing. Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the Farmer’s Daughter Café or enjoy a pizza for lunch or dinner in a unique beach-themed atmosphere at Wave Pizza Company. Brush up on your local history at the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer which features an 1890s railroad town complete with costumed interpreters. If visiting in the springtime, be sure to go out and witness the annual sandhill crane migration.
Broken Bow
The next stop is the town of Broken Bow. The Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway Center is an obvious must-see during this trip while here for a closer look at the beauty of the Sandhills. Dive into the past and pay the Custer County Museum a visit. Melham Park & Sports Complex offers fun for the entire family with an Olympic-sized pool and more! For the adults, try a beer at Kinkaider Brewing Co. that feature flavors that embody the spirit of the Nebraska Sandhills.
Halsey
Home to North America’s largest man-made forest, Nebraska National Forest covers over 90,000 acres of public land perfect for various kinds of recreation. Check out the Charles E. Bessey Tree Nursery, which is the oldest seeding nursery in the United States. Be sure to enjoy a homemade meal at Double T Bar as well!
Mullen
The town of Mullen may be small, but it is filled with things to see and do. Take in the rolling sandhills on a float down the Middle Loup River in a rental canoe, kayak, or tank from Glidden Canoe Rental. Try a home-cooked taste of the good life at the Nebraska Pantry Café and Coffee House and enjoy the work of various local artists at the Mullen Arts Center.
Alliance
Home of Carhenge, Nebraska’s very own version of Stonehenge made of old cars, Alliance is full of unique attractions for everyone. Immerse yourself in the fine arts at the Carnegie Arts Center, complete with gifts and a sculpture garden. The Knight Museum and Sandhills Center and Dobby’s Frontier Town are must-sees for any history buff. End your trip with a stay at the Go West Guesthouse.
