Orleans NebraskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Orleans, Nebraska.
1. Orleans Hotel
HISTORIC LODGING EXPERIENCE
The Orleans Hotel is the longest continuously operating hotel in Nebraska, offering a unique blend of modern amenities and vintage decor. The hotel features 20 recently refreshed rooms, a well-appointed kitchen, and a game room with various entertainment options including darts, billiards, and shuffleboard. Completed in 1930, the hotel showcases breathtaking woodwork, hardwood floors, and beautiful staircases that have been preserved in their original condition for nearly a century.
2. Harlan County Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
Harlan County Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history of Orleans and the surrounding area. Located at 420 S. Harlan Ave., the museum houses artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that document the development of the region over time. Visitors can explore the cultural heritage and historical significance of Harlan County through thoughtfully curated displays.
3. Harlan County Reservoir
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Harlan County Reservoir is the second largest lake in Nebraska, offering extensive public access areas for outdoor enthusiasts. Operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the reservoir provides opportunities for ATV trails, boating, hunting, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, biking, and camping. The lake's expansive shoreline and clear waters make it a premier destination for water recreation in the region.
4. Patterson Harbor Marina
LAKESIDE FUN HUB
Patterson Harbor Marina on Harlan County Lake is a full-service marina catering to boaters and lake visitors. The marina offers numerous amenities including ice, snacks, beer, gas, live bait, apparel, and equipment rentals for water activities. Its Beach Bar hosts regular entertainment throughout the summer months, making it a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists.
5. North Shore Marina
WATERFRONT RECREATION CENTER
North Shore Marina provides comprehensive services for visitors to Harlan County Reservoir. The marina features boat rentals, food and beverage options, and organized entertainment events throughout the summer season. Visitors can enjoy the convenience of lakeside amenities while taking advantage of the beautiful natural setting.
6. Lost Way Brewery
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Lost Way Brewery is a charming local establishment offering handcrafted beers in Orleans. The brewery combines the atmosphere of a traditional bar with the unique experience of a craft brewery, providing a relaxed environment to enjoy specialty brews. Visitors can sample a variety of house-made beers while enjoying the convivial small-town ambiance.
7. Nebraska Prairie Museum
PIONEER LIFE EXHIBITS
The Nebraska Prairie Museum showcases the history of prairie life and settlement in south-central Nebraska. With highly rated exhibits on pioneer life, agricultural development, and local cultural heritage, the museum offers an immersive educational experience. Visitors can explore both history and specialty collections that bring the region's past vividly to life.
8. The Tassel Performing Arts Center
CULTURAL ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Tassel Performing Arts Center serves as a hub for cultural entertainment in the region near Orleans. The venue hosts a variety of performances including concerts, theatrical productions, dance recitals, and community events throughout the year. With professional staging and acoustics, The Tassel provides high-quality arts experiences for residents and visitors alike.
9. Harlan County Lake Water Trail
SCENIC PADDLING ROUTE
The Harlan County Lake Water Trail offers paddlers a designated route to explore the natural beauty of Nebraska's second-largest lake. The trail features marked access points and routes suitable for kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards along the scenic shoreline. Paddlers can enjoy wildlife viewing, peaceful coves, and panoramic vistas while navigating this accessible water route.
10. Carhenge
UNIQUE AUTOMOTIVE MONUMENT
Carhenge is a remarkable replica of England's Stonehenge constructed entirely from vintage American automobiles painted gray. Created by artist Jim Reinders in 1987, this quirky roadside attraction has become one of Nebraska's most photographed landmarks. The site includes additional car-based sculptures in an area known as the Car Art Reserve, making it a truly unique destination for travelers.
11. Chimney Rock National Historic Site
ICONIC WESTERN LANDMARK
Chimney Rock National Historic Site features the famous 325-foot spire that served as a landmark for pioneers traveling the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails. The distinctive geological formation rises dramatically above the surrounding North Platte River Valley, creating an unforgettable silhouette on the western Nebraska horizon. The visitor center provides exhibits and information about the rock's significance to westward expansion in American history.
12. Scotts Bluff National Monument
HISTORIC WESTERN PASSAGE
Scotts Bluff National Monument preserves more than 3,000 acres of unusual land formations that served as an important landmark for travelers on the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails. Visitors can drive or hike to the summit for panoramic views of the North Platte River Valley and the historic Oregon Trail route below. The visitor center features exhibits on natural history, pioneer life, and the significance of this prominent landmark to America's westward expansion.
13. Indian Cave State Park
NATURAL WONDER GETAWAY
Indian Cave State Park encompasses over 3,000 acres of beautiful forested hills along the Missouri River, featuring a large sandstone cave with prehistoric Native American petroglyphs. The park offers extensive recreational opportunities including hiking trails, camping facilities, horseback riding paths, and river access for fishing and boating. Visitors particularly enjoy the spectacular fall foliage displays and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the seasons.
14. Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum
MILITARY AVIATION HISTORY
The Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum houses an impressive collection of aircraft, missiles, and space artifacts chronicling America's aviation and aerospace history. Spanning 300,000 square feet, the museum features restored aircraft from various military eras, interactive exhibits, and educational displays about strategic air defense. Visitors can explore the evolution of flight technology and learn about Nebraska's significant role in America's military aviation heritage.
15. Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
WORLD-CLASS ANIMAL EXPERIENCE
Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium consistently ranks among the world's best zoos, featuring the largest indoor desert and indoor rainforest in North America. The zoo houses thousands of animals from around the globe in innovative habitats including the Lied Jungle, Desert Dome, Kingdom of the Night, Hubbard Orangutan Forest, and Scott Aquarium. Visitors can spend an entire day exploring diverse ecosystems and participating in interactive educational experiences throughout the expansive grounds.