With a rich cultural and historical legacy, Omaha, Nebraska is known as the Gateway to the West. In its early days Omaha was the last stop for the first transcontinental railroad and a shelter for westward pilgrims. Louis and Clark explored near present-day Eppley Airfield, the Mormon Trail Center at Historic Winter Quarters still commemorates the Mormon pilgrimage through the area, and the legendary Oregon Trail led through Omaha as well. The Missouri River brought trade, transportation, and western recognition through the Omaha river port. Today the city is experiencing continuing growth in economy and population due to it major transportation, military, and agricultural center. Since the days of Omaha’s first world fair, known as the Trans-Mississippi and International Exposition and National Indian Congress of 1898, it is continually recognized for its entertainment. Whether you are looking to entertain the kids at Fun Plex, Nebraska’s largest amusement and Water Park, romantically cruise the Missouri River with River Star, or go for a hike at the 31-acre Heartland of America Park, recreation will not be lacking. The world class Henry Doorly Zoo is home to unique species like the white tigers and sun bears, the world’s largest indoor rainforest and desert habitats, and an aquarium with underwater pedestrian tunnels. The Omaha Community Playhouse, the largest community theater in the nation, debuted renowned actor Henry Fonda, and this performance arts centered city has continued to produce stars from Fred Astaire to Johnny Carson throughout the years. The Joslyn Art Museum displays only the finest Art Deco architecture with 38 unique marbles from seven countries, while masterful art collections are displayed in the largest urban artists’ colony, The Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts. The cultural collection, however, would not be complete without the annual Omaha Blues, Jazz, and Gospel Festival and Love’s Jazz and Art Center. Historic downtown is known as Old Market and boasts some of the greatest boutiques, bars, and art galleries and restaurants. In fact, Omaha’s Union Stock Yards is the largest livestock market in the country, giving way to renowned steakhouses like Gorat’s and the retail chain Omaha Steaks. Despite the historic racial tension and heated Civil Rights actions led by leaders like Malcolm X, today the community joins together in Native Omaha Days to celebrate its accomplishments. Convenient accessibility, diverse attractions, and a remarkable heritage combine to make Omaha an increasingly popular location for travelers and residents alike.

Located in the Great Plains, Nebraska joined the U.S. as the 37th state in 1867. It’s named derived from a Chiwere word, ancient Siouan language, meaning “flat water” after the Platte River that flows freely throughout the state. Once considered a part of the Great American Desert, Nebraska has now made its mark as a leading U.S. farming state, which gave Nebraskans the nickname “Cornhuskers.” When it comes to vacation destinations, attractions, and great historical landmarks, Nebraska seems to have an endless list. From Frontier Trails to award-winning Golf Courses and Vineyards, Nebraska has something for everyone. The Kearney area has everything you want in a small town to unwind from the hustle and bustle of life. These Frontier Trails are located right along the Platte River. This is a perfect place to hike, fish or just take in the scenery. If nostalgia is what you are looking for, take a trip to Cambridge where this small town, which often goes undetected, is bursting at the seams with culture and is filled with a renaissance spirit. This town is nestled cozily outside of Kearney. If you head up to Northeast Nebraska you will find the Lewis and Clark area. Here, you can head up to the Prairie Blossom Trails and take in the vibrant wildflowers as you stroll along the wagon trails of the original pioneers. If the outdoors and wildlife is not what are looking for, well, Nebraska can take care of that as well. In 2007 marks the 10th anniversary of the James Arthur Vineyards located along the rolling hills and prairie grasslands just North of Lincoln. This climate is perfect for growing grapes to make delicious award-winning wines by Vineyard and Winery Management Magazine. Nebraska also offers two of the most prominent golf courses in the country. Quarry Oaks and Iron Horse are located in Ashland. Golf Digest named Iron Horse Golf Course “America’s Best New Golf Course” in 2002 and selected Quarry Oaks one of “Americas 100 Greatest Golf Courses” in 2003 and 2005. Whether it’s the great outdoors you are looking for, a relaxing day of wine tasting or a few holes of golf, Nebraska has it all.

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