America’s Pioneer Heritage: Explore the Nebraska Lincoln Highway Historic Byway

The Homestead Act of 1862 encouraged families to seek new opportunities in the west. You’ll find some of the best-preserved and interesting related points of interest in the cities and towns along U.S. Highway 30, known as the Nebraska Lincoln Highway Historic Byway. Start this historic road trip just south of Lincoln in Beatrice at the Homestead National Historic Park, where the stories of the first homesteaders are told through exhibits at the Homestead Heritage Center and Education Center as well as original artifacts, including the 1867 Palmer-Epard Cabin and Freeman School.

Spend a few days driving along the scenic byway and make stops at:

• Grand Island – Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer
• Minden – Pioneer Village
• Kearney – G.W. Frank Museum
• Gothenburg – Pony Express Station
• North Platte – Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park

At Ogallala, head northwest on U.S. Route 26 toward the small towns of Gering and Scottsbluff, following the routes of the Overland Trails as they pass a few of America’s iconic natural landmarks— Chimney Rock National Historic Site and Scotts Bluff National Monument.

Travel Tip: Each of these historic sites and museums are packed with rare artifacts with fascinating stories. From the preserved buildings at the Pioneer Village to an original Pony Express Station and Buffalo Bill’s Ranch, these sites connect historic places with ones that you’ll want to add to your bucket list for future travel.