Garland NebraskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Garland, Nebraska.
1. Germantown Bank
HISTORIC BANKING LANDMARK
Germantown Bank is a preserved historic building located at 101 4th Street in Garland. The structure serves as a reminder of the village's historical roots when it was formerly known as Germantown. Visitors can appreciate the architectural details while learning about the local heritage of this small Nebraska community.
2. Garland Village Park
COMMUNITY GREEN SPACE
Garland Village Park offers a relaxing green space for families and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities. The park provides recreational facilities where locals gather for community events and sports competitions throughout the year. It exemplifies the small-town charm that makes Garland a great place to live and visit.
3. Junto Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING
Junto Winery is a highly-rated vineyard and winery near Garland that offers visitors a delightful wine tasting experience. The establishment features locally produced wines in a picturesque setting perfect for relaxation and socializing. Wine enthusiasts can sample various vintages while enjoying the serene countryside atmosphere.
4. Red Path Gallery and Tasting Room
ART AND WINE EXPERIENCE
Red Path Gallery and Tasting Room combines fine art appreciation with wine tasting in a unique cultural venue. Visitors can browse local artwork while sampling regional wines in an inviting atmosphere. The gallery offers a sophisticated yet accessible experience for art lovers and wine enthusiasts alike.
5. Nebraska State Capitol
ARCHITECTURAL MASTERPIECE
Nebraska State Capitol is an impressive architectural landmark featuring beautiful imagery and detailed artwork throughout the building. The capitol rises 400 feet with a stunning tower visible from miles around the city of Lincoln. Visitors can explore the ornate interior with guided tours that highlight the building's historical and cultural significance.
6. Great Platte River Road Archway Monument
HISTORICAL BRIDGE MUSEUM
The Great Platte River Road Archway Monument spans Interstate 80 as an impressive tribute to Nebraska's pioneer history. The monument features museum exhibits that chronicle the state's role in westward expansion and development. Outside the main structure, visitors can enjoy walking paths, artistic statues depicting pioneer life, and picturesque covered pavilions.
7. Carhenge
UNIQUE AUTOMOTIVE ART
Carhenge is a remarkable replica of England's Stonehenge created entirely from vintage American automobiles. The unusual art installation features cars painted gray and arranged in the same pattern as the ancient stone monument. This quirky roadside attraction has become one of Nebraska's most photographed landmarks and a must-see for travelers seeking unusual destinations.
8. Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum
MILITARY AVIATION HISTORY
The Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum houses an impressive collection of aircraft and space artifacts from the Cold War era. Visitors can explore numerous military planes, missiles, and exhibits detailing America's aviation and aerospace history. The museum offers educational programs and special events throughout the year for aviation enthusiasts of all ages.
9. Pioneers Park Nature Center
NATURAL WILDLIFE PRESERVE
Pioneers Park Nature Center offers over 668 acres of tallgrass prairie, woodlands, wetlands, and eight miles of hiking trails. Visitors can observe native wildlife including bison, elk, and white-tailed deer in naturalized habitats. The center provides environmental education programs and seasonal events that connect people with the natural heritage of Nebraska.
10. Sunken Gardens
HISTORIC FLORAL PARADISE
Sunken Gardens is a meticulously maintained public garden featuring thousands of annual plants arranged in stunning themed displays. The gardens were constructed during the Depression era and continue to provide a tranquil oasis within the city. Seasonal plantings ensure the landscape remains vibrant and ever-changing throughout the year.
11. Seward County Historical Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
Seward County Historical Museum preserves and displays artifacts that tell the story of the region's development and cultural heritage. The museum houses collections relating to pioneer life, agricultural history, and the evolution of small-town Nebraska. Exhibits showcase period furnishings, historical photographs, and everyday items used by early settlers in the area.
12. Seward Bandshell Park
COMMUNITY ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
Seward Bandshell Park features a historic outdoor performance venue where community concerts and events are regularly held. The park's centerpiece is the beautifully preserved bandshell structure that provides excellent acoustics for musical performances. During summer months, visitors can enjoy free concerts while relaxing on the expansive lawn area.
13. Lee's Legendary Marbles & Collectibles
VINTAGE TOY MUSEUM
Lee's Legendary Marbles & Collectibles houses one of the most extensive collections of marbles and vintage toys in the Midwest. The museum displays thousands of rare and antique marbles alongside nostalgic toys from various eras. Visitors of all ages can appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry of these small glass treasures while learning about their historical significance.
14. Mueller Planetarium
COSMIC EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE
Mueller Planetarium offers immersive astronomical shows under its domed projection screen at the University of Nebraska State Museum. The facility presents regular programs about the night sky, space exploration, and cosmic phenomena using state-of-the-art digital projection technology. Visitors can explore the wonders of the universe while learning about current astronomical research and discoveries.
15. Homestead National Historical Park
PIONEER SETTLEMENT HERITAGE
Homestead National Historical Park commemorates the Homestead Act of 1862 that allowed citizens to claim free land across the American West. The park features restored prairie landscapes, a heritage center with interactive exhibits, and the Freeman School, a one-room schoolhouse built in 1872. Visitors can walk nature trails and experience living history demonstrations that bring pioneer life to vivid reality.