LINCOLN, Nebr. (April 9, 2025) – Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation (NSHSF) is excited to announce the 2025 WanderNebraska Travel Adventure Program will kick off on May 1st. WanderNebraska was created to promote the work of local museums, historical societies, and libraries and increase awareness of what is found in the local sites along Nebraska’s backroads and in communities that are often overlooked by the typical tourist.
This 4th year, running from May 1st to November 30th, includes over 210 sites across the state of Nebraska, with over 50 new locations. Visitors can order their WanderNebraska booklet through the NSHSF website. Booklets contain information about each site, and include a map showing the seven different regions, which can be used to help visitors plan their trip.
“We are grateful to our donors and to the site participants who have contributed to the growth of this program,” said Leslie Fattig, Executive Director at NSHSF. “The fact that we have 213 organizations participating in the program this year underscores the program’s success in promoting Nebraska’s heritage and its ability to attract visitors from across the county.”
In 2024, the NSHSF distributed over 8,000 WanderNebraska booklets to tourists throughout Nebraska and beyond. The program’s reach extended as far as Honolulu, Hawaii, which marked the furthest travel and prize delivery destination. This impressive geographical span demonstrates the growing appeal of Nebraska’s rich historical and cultural offerings. WanderNebraska encompasses seven distinct regions, each showcasing unique aspects of Nebraska’s heritage. The top destinations in each region for 2024 were:
- Heartland Hub: Mormon Trail Center at Historic Winter Quarters
- Lewis and Clark Trailhead: John G. Neihardt State Historical Park
- Gateway to the Good Life: Arbor Lodge State Historical Park
- Pioneer Prairie: Stuhr Museum
- Prairie Playground: Central City Public Library
- Great Plains Gateway: Cody Park Railroad Museum
- Wild West Frontier: Ethel S. and Christopher J. Abbott Visitors Center at Chimney Rock
“There is so much amazing Nebraska history to witness and learn. The NSHSF Board of Directors is proud of the foundation’s programs created to promote Nebraska’s unique stories,” said Roger Lempke, President NSHSF Board of Directors.
Travelers who participated in the program shared their enthusiasm for the experience. One traveler noted, “The museums we visited were wonderful! They had great displays with a lot of terrific Nebraska history – so much to learn!” Another participant expressed their appreciation, saying, “I love to go to museums and this program provided a list for many I didn’t know existed. Thank you!” These testimonials highlight the program’s impact on engaging visitors and fostering a deeper appreciation for Nebraska’s rich history.
The WanderNebraska.com website is available for those who prefer to use their electronic devices. Each listing includes the site’s name and summary, hours of operation, contact information, a Google map for directions, upcoming events, and a list of nearby WanderNebraska sites.
The 2025 program will again include prizes for travelers. Travelers participating in the program can register their visits either online or by mailing in the map located in the booklet. Prizes include koozies, T-shirts, socks, a car shade and a special gift package for the Top 5 Visitors.
NSHSF has also brought back the historically focused, fun WanderNebraska Adventure Tours with Dr. Sara Crook. Look for information on social media and the nshsf.org website.
