Exploring Nebraska City With Kids

Ever since childhood, Nebraska City has meant apples and trees to me. You may think you know all there is to know about the small Nebraska city – you know, “Seen one orchard, seen them all” – but I’ve found some spots there during a recent visit that were new to me. If you’ve got a free day coming up, plan a little Nebraska City adventure for your family. It’s only 45 minutes from Omaha, after all.

Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

The first time we took Farley to Nebraska City, we skipped the Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure, scoffing at the price and the fact we could see apple trees for free elsewhere in town. We ponied up the admission fee during our last visit and it was totally worth it. A family could spend an entire afternoon exploring the Tree Adventure.

Most activities are included with admission. The Discover Ride is an additional fee.

Arbor Lodge Historical Park

Nebraska City is home to Arbor Day, and thusly, Arbor Lodge, which is located inside Arbor Lodge Historical Park. The mansion of J. Sterling Morton, the founder of Arbor Day, is open for tours. There is admission into the 52-room mansion, but you’re free to explore the 72-acre park and enjoy the playground.

Having just been at the Tree Adventure nearby, my kids were in no shape to traipse through a historic home. A tour of the historic home is only going to be appealing to history-loving kids. We checked out the carriage house behind the mansion, though. That area’s free. There’s also a log cabin and hiking trail.

The playground was the highlight for my young kids, naturally.

Apple orchards in Nebraska City

You pretty much always have to visit an apple orchard when you’re in Nebraska City. It might be the law. (j/k)

Here are three apple orchards to see:

• Arbor Day Farm has a lovely little shop, with a wine tasting room and cafe. You can explore some of the grounds without having to pay admission for the Tree Adventure. However, if you want to pick apples, you have to pay admission to access that orchard. I recommend taking the Discovery Ride, as you’ll get to go into the heirloom varietals area of the ochard.
• Union Orchard is the one you see first when you drive from Omaha to Nebraska City. You’ll find all sorts of apple products there, and it’s a convenient location to stop in on your way out of town.
• Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard is the big one, with a large property to explore including a fun kids play area. We stop there to get cider for the kids and a sweet white wine for us. Don’t be surprised to find loads of tour busses parked out front.

Lewis & Clark history

Missouri River Basin Lewis & Clark Visitor Center is an interesting space to explore for families, especially those interested in history. It’s full of hands-on exhibits to immerse kids into the history of Lewis & Clark Expedition. I also liked the outdoor trail that leads to an earth lodge. The trail is paved and short enough for kids to tolerate.

There is an admission fee for the Missouri River Basin Lewis & Clark Visitor Center. The best time to visit (though, it’s also the busiest time) is when there are historical re-enactments. Check the visitor center’s calendar of events for details.

Your turn: What are your favorite places in Nebraska City?