Panama NebraskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Panama, Nebraska.
1. Roca Berry Farm
FAMILY FUN AGRICULTURAL DESTINATION
Roca Berry Farm offers a charming agricultural experience with seasonal activities for visitors of all ages. The farm features pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and hayrides during the fall season. Visitors can enjoy farm-fresh products and family-friendly entertainment throughout their visit.
2. Wilderness Park
NATURE ESCAPE NEARBY
Wilderness Park provides a natural retreat with extensive hiking and biking trails through wooded areas. The park spans several miles and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor recreation. Visitors appreciate the park's peaceful atmosphere and connection to nature so close to urban areas.
3. Woodland Hills
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Woodland Hills offers beautiful natural landscapes with well-maintained trails for hiking and outdoor activities. The area features diverse flora and fauna, making it popular for nature photography and bird watching. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas and seasonal events throughout the year.
4. Panama Park
LOCAL RECREATION SPOT
Panama Park serves as a community gathering space with sports facilities including the Dutch Hunt Ball Field. The park hosts summer ball leagues including T-Ball, Coach Pitch, and Men's Teams throughout the season. Visitors can enjoy picnic tables and open green spaces for relaxation and community events.
5. Great Platte River Road Archway Monument
HISTORIC INTERSTATE LANDMARK
The Great Platte River Road Archway Monument spans Interstate 80 and commemorates the historic trails that shaped America's westward expansion. The attraction includes a museum with interactive exhibits chronicling the journey of pioneers, settlers, and travelers who followed the Great Platte River Road. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor areas with artistic statues depicting pioneer life, a large bison statue, walking paths, and covered pavilions.
6. Nebraska State Capitol
ICONIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
The Nebraska State Capitol stands as an architectural masterpiece with its distinctive tower and Art Deco design. The building houses the state government offices and features impressive mosaic floors, murals, and a domed rotunda. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about Nebraska's political history and admire the detailed craftsmanship throughout the structure.
7. Carhenge
QUIRKY AUTOMOTIVE MONUMENT
Carhenge is a unique roadside attraction featuring vintage cars arranged to mimic England's famous Stonehenge monument. The installation showcases creativity through various automotive artworks positioned along a walking path. Recent visitors have described it as an interesting stop worth taking time to explore and photograph.
8. Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum
MILITARY AVIATION HISTORY
The Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum preserves the history of strategic air defense and the Cold War era through impressive aircraft displays. The museum houses numerous restored military planes, missiles, and space artifacts in its expansive hangar facility. Visitors can learn about aviation technology and the role of the Strategic Air Command in American military history.
9. Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
WORLD-CLASS ANIMAL EXHIBITS
The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium ranks among the world's best zoos with its diverse collection of animals and innovative habitat designs. The facility includes the Desert Dome, Lied Jungle, and Kingdom of the Night as standout attractions for visitors. Families can spend an entire day exploring the various exhibits, conservation programs, and interactive experiences.
10. Pioneers Park Nature Center
EDUCATIONAL OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE
Pioneers Park Nature Center offers environmental education through its natural prairie habitats and wildlife exhibits. The center maintains hiking trails, a small bison herd, and rehabilitation facilities for injured wildlife. Visitors can participate in educational programs and enjoy the peaceful setting just minutes from downtown Lincoln.
11. Ole's Big Game Steakhouse
UNIQUE DINING EXPERIENCE
Ole's Big Game Steakhouse combines hearty Midwestern cuisine with an unusual atmosphere featuring hundreds of exotic animal trophies. The restaurant has been serving travelers and locals since 1933, creating a distinct dining landmark along Interstate 80. Visitors come for the food but stay for the unique décor and stories behind the worldwide hunting expeditions that adorn the walls.
12. Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer
LIVING HISTORY EXPERIENCE
The Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer recreates life on the Nebraska prairie during the late 1800s through authentic buildings and costumed interpreters. The museum features a working Railroad Town with period-appropriate structures, artifacts, and demonstrations of pioneer skills. Visitors can immerse themselves in Nebraska's settlement history through seasonal events and interactive exhibits throughout the year.
13. Haymarket District
HISTORIC SHOPPING DESTINATION
The Haymarket District showcases Lincoln's vibrant downtown scene with restored brick warehouses now housing shops, galleries, and restaurants. This historic area hosts farmers markets, street performances, and seasonal events throughout the year. Visitors appreciate the blend of historic architecture with contemporary shopping and dining options in this pedestrian-friendly district.
14. Sunken Gardens
FLORAL URBAN OASIS
Sunken Gardens features meticulously maintained floral displays and themed garden areas that change seasonally. The garden includes water features, walking paths, and thousands of annual plants arranged in artistic designs. Visitors can enjoy this tranquil space for photography, relaxation, or appreciation of horticultural artistry.
15. Round the Bend Steakhouse
FAMOUS TESTICLE FESTIVAL
Round the Bend Steakhouse serves quality beef in a rustic setting just outside of Omaha. The restaurant is famous for hosting the annual Testicle Festival, featuring unique culinary offerings that have gained national attention. Visitors come for the hearty steaks and stay for the authentic Nebraska dining experience and friendly atmosphere.