Shelton NebraskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Shelton, Nebraska.
1. Shelton Historical Interpretive Center and Lincoln Highway Center
LOCAL HISTORY ON DISPLAY
The Shelton Historical Interpretive Center and Lincoln Highway Center offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the local heritage and the historic Lincoln Highway. Exhibits showcase the development of the region and the impact of this pioneering transcontinental road. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring Shelton's past to life.
2. War Axe State Recreation Area
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
War Axe State Recreation Area provides a peaceful natural setting for outdoor enthusiasts near Shelton. Visitors can enjoy fishing, picnicking, and various water activities in this serene environment. The recreation area serves as a perfect retreat for families and nature lovers seeking a break from urban life.
3. Audubon's Rowe Sanctuary
CRANE MIGRATION SPECTACLE
Audubon's Rowe Sanctuary is renowned for its spectacular crane migration viewing opportunities, particularly during spring. The sanctuary provides guided tours and viewing blinds for visitors to witness thousands of sandhill cranes along the Platte River. Nature enthusiasts and photographers from around the world visit this unique ecological treasure to experience one of North America's greatest wildlife phenomena.
4. Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION SHOWCASE
The Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center is dedicated to the conservation of cranes and their habitat along the Platte River. The center features educational exhibits, art galleries, and opportunities to learn about the region's unique ecosystem. Visitors can explore hiking trails through native prairie and potentially view wildlife in their natural habitat.
5. Townsley-Murdock Immigrant Trail Site
PIONEER HISTORY TRAIL
The Townsley-Murdock Immigrant Trail Site preserves an important segment of pioneer history in Nebraska. Visitors can walk along trails where settlers once traveled and learn about the challenges faced by early immigrants. Interpretive signs throughout the site provide historical context about this significant piece of America's westward expansion.
6. Crane Trust Wild Rose Ranch
NATURE'S PRISTINE BEAUTY
Crane Trust Wild Rose Ranch offers visitors a pristine natural environment with opportunities to view diverse wildlife. The ranch maintains native prairie habitats that support numerous bird species and other wildlife throughout the seasons. Guided tours provide insights into conservation efforts and the ecological importance of the Platte River Valley.
7. Heartland Public Shooting Park
PREMIER SHOOTING FACILITY
Heartland Public Shooting Park is one of the largest public shooting facilities in the Midwest, catering to various shooting sports. The park features multiple ranges for different disciplines including trap, skeet, sporting clays, and rifle/pistol ranges. Both beginners and experienced shooters can enjoy the well-maintained facilities and occasional competitive events.
8. Classic Car Collection
VINTAGE AUTOMOBILE MUSEUM
The Classic Car Collection showcases over 200 vintage automobiles spanning the 20th century, making it one of the premier car museums in the region. Visitors can admire meticulously restored vehicles that represent the evolution of American automotive design and engineering. The museum offers a nostalgic journey through time with cars from every decade, including rare and unique models.
9. Fort Kearny State Historical Park
HISTORIC MILITARY OUTPOST
Fort Kearny State Historical Park preserves the remains of a military post that played a crucial role in westward expansion during the mid-1800s. Visitors can explore reconstructed buildings and exhibits that tell the story of this important outpost on the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails. The interpretive center provides detailed information about the fort's role in protecting pioneers and supporting the Pony Express.
10. Great Platte River Road Archway Monument
SPANNING AMERICAN HISTORY
The Great Platte River Road Archway Monument is an impressive structure that spans Interstate 80, celebrating America's westward journey. Inside, immersive exhibits use light, sound, and detailed dioramas to chronicle 170 years of transportation and communication history. Visitors can experience the stories of pioneers, settlers, and travelers who followed the Great Platte River Road from the Oregon Trail era to modern times.
11. Nebraska Firefighters Museum
HONORING HEROIC SERVICE
The Nebraska Firefighters Museum celebrates the history and bravery of the state's firefighting services. Exhibits feature historic fire apparatus, equipment, and memorabilia that showcase the evolution of firefighting techniques. Visitors can learn about significant fires in Nebraska's history and gain appreciation for the sacrifices made by these public servants.
12. Hike-Bike Trail Bridge
SCENIC RIVER CROSSING
The Hike-Bike Trail Bridge offers a picturesque crossing over the Platte River, connecting recreational trails on both sides. The bridge provides excellent views of the river and surrounding landscape, making it popular with photographers and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy walking, running, or cycling across this scenic structure as part of the broader trail system.
13. Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park
ANCIENT WILDLIFE PRESERVED
Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park features remarkably preserved fossils of ancient animals that were buried by volcanic ash 12 million years ago. Visitors can observe paleontologists at work in the Hubbard Rhino Barn, where fossils remain in their original position. The park's interpretive center provides educational exhibits about the ancient savanna ecosystem and the volcanic event that created this unique fossil site.
14. Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer
LIVING HISTORY EXPERIENCE
Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer offers an immersive journey into Nebraska's pioneer past through its living history village and exhibits. The museum's Railroad Town recreates a 1890s community with period-costumed interpreters demonstrating crafts and daily life of the era. Visitors can explore historic buildings, participate in seasonal events, and gain insight into the challenges and triumphs of prairie settlers.
15. Yanney Heritage Park
FAMILY RECREATION DESTINATION
Yanney Heritage Park spans 80 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds featuring a variety of recreational amenities for all ages. The park's centerpiece is a 15-story observation tower providing panoramic views of Kearney and the surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy the environmental resource center, amphitheater, playground, and extensive walking trails throughout this community gem.