Sweet & Scenic Surprises in Southeast Nebraska

This corner of the state is filled with unique places to visit, like Nebraska City, the birthplace of Arbor Day, and top-notch parks like Eugene T. Mahoney State Park. Be sure to hop off the beaten path and see some of these unique sites, which include fascinating features of the past, animal adventures and much more.

The Refuge at Landmark Nursery - Eagle

Seek refuge from the mundane and come shop this unique boutique at Landmark Nursery & Garden Center. This store filled with carefully curated, on-trend gifts, pottery, global fair-trade items, home décor and more.

therefuge

 

Shepherd’s Rest Goat and Sheep Rescue - Pickrell

Located on 13 acres of woodland and meadowland, Shepherd’s Rest Rescue is a nonprofit rescue devoted to the care of goats and sheep. Your visit will include access to goats, sheep, mini horses, llamas and nightly tree frog visits, as well as pristine forest. 

Shepherd's rescue

Gage County Historical Society and Museum - Beatrice

Gage County Historical Society and Museum preserves the history of the county. This stop showcases a wide variety of history related exhibits to Gage County and Nebraska. 

Gage county

Scatter Joy Acres - Murray

This stop’s friendly barnyard animals are sure to delight people of all ages. Learn about various farm animals through interaction, from ducks to cows to llamas and their camel. 

Scatter joy

Civil War Veterans Museum - Nebraska City

The museum is housed in one of the last GAR (Grand Army of the Republic) Memorial Halls in the state. The exhibits and artifacts on display tell the story of the Civil War from its origins to its legacy, as well as the stories of freed and enslaved African Americans, civilians on the home front and the Nebraska regiments that went off to fight. 

Civil war

Crunchy Bits Candy - Auburn

Crunchy Bits offers a fun and unique candy experience in the heart of Auburn. Stop and grab some freeze-dried treats and explore the many historic and recreational areas around!

crunchy bits

Wayside Barn Shoppe - Stella

Wayside Barn Shoppe is located in a 1904 barn with gift items, craft item and antiques. Next to the barn is a small building with original broom making equipment and handmade brooms for sale. 

wayside

Indian Cave State Park - Shubert

Often called the “Nebraska Ozarks”, Indian Cave State Park boasts more than 3,000 acres of gorgeous hardwood forest, a front-row view of the Missouri River and some of Nebraska’s finest camping and hiking opportunities. Founded in 1962, Indian Cave State Park is named for a large sandstone cavity that bears prehistoric Native American drawings. 

indiancave

Collection Museum - Falls City

This stop is a newly designated site on the National Parks Service Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. It features all sorts of personal collections, including one with more than 1,600 items!

collection museum

Gatherings Market - Falls City

Gatherings Market is a place to take a break from your busy life and be inspired to create the home of your dreams! Spend a few minutes relaxing in an upscale modern boutique while you browse through home décor and gift items. 

gathering market

Branding Iron Café - Wahoo

Branding Iron Café is your stop for incredible homemade breakfast, lunch and bakery favorites in a setting that will take you back to the “good ol’ days”. Bring your family to meet theirs!

brandingiron