After three years of construction, the museum was opened on November 29, 1931. The list below includes 21 free or cheap things to do in or near Grand Island, Nebraska, including 26 different types of inexpensive activities like Horse Races, Movie Theaters, History Museums and Bowling. The River has a record of receiving almost eight hundred thousand birds during spring 2019. Fairbanks Pottery Studio is one place you should visit in Grand Island, NE, for lovers of arts. There are rides, games, concerts, food booths, and much more. She is 100% ready to show you how fascinating it is to create something gorgeous and unique from clay. The center also offers sand volleyball leagues, food and drinks, arcade game machines and pool tables. First opened in 1937, The Grand Theatre is a recently restored, non-profit movie theater that shows the latest films. Popular Nebraska destinations include Omaha, Lincoln, and Grand Island. The programs roots came out of the Art 4 Omaha Initiative, a public arts initiative started in 2005 seeking to enhance the citys cultural landscape and raise awareness for contemporary art among its citizens. You should definitely make time to see the crane migration at least once in your life. Stuhr Museum is a two-hundred-acre facility that offers clear pictures of the builders of the pioneer town from the 1800s. You never know what you will find at the Platte River in Nebraska. The other two auditoriums are smaller and more modern. With a snack bar and recently renovated, Westside is also extra affordable. Saving it was a very expensive process with just the front glass bricks costing tens of thousands of dollars to replace and install. Very friendly staff, including the workers on the shop floor. Unique weekend getaways near me today: From Seattle, NC, FL, California, Near Atlanta, AL. Imagine strolling through downtown at a leisurely pace because the kids aren't there to rush you along. Buzz Rank Rating Popularity Name Distance Showing 1-10 of 33 2.4 Miles 100% 13 votes 1 (402-873-8733). The Grand Theatre was later reopened and regarded as one of the finest entertainment locations in the 1970s Grand Island. Located in Edgerton Explorit Center, Plainsman Museum covers six acres and house treasures and artifacts from the time Platte Valley was first settled. 2209 South Locust St. Grand Island,, NE. The meals were great too! Selected artists-in-residence are provided with $750 monthly stipend, as well as a live-in work studio at Omahas Old Market and 24-hour access to production and installation spaces, including the Okada Sculpture and Ceramics facility. Not to mention the veterinary shop. They serve Pastrami Melt, Philly Steak, Chicken Philly, BBQ Pulled Pork, Ruben w/Sauerkraut, Grilled Chicken, Tuna Melt, Fish Sandwiches, Cheeseburgers, Grilled Cheese, Chicken Strips, Garden Salad, Grilled Chicken Caesar, and more. The Heartland Public Shooting Park is a public shooting park featuring four hundred and twenty acres of shooting ranges. The programs success resulted in the establishment of a permanent worksite at the Bemis Bag Warehouse, part of citys historic Old Market building, and as such, the organizations name was changed to The Bemis Foundation to honor its new space. They do a lot for the local community. Dancing the night away as you stare into each other's eyes over the upbeat live music and the buzz of the town. Grand Island attractions offer plenty of opportunities for little smiles, laughs, and discoveries. In the middle of the park is the race meet of live thoroughbreds, extending from February to May. The owner, Harriet is very informative and thorough in her presentation. They also offer tasty tapas and wine by the glass. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. The timing of breakfast can be arranged to accommodate early schedules as well as special dietary needs. Every piece of her work portrays her personality and heart, making them unique and full of details different from conventional pottery or modern clay. WondrousDrifter. The Park also features a simple but exciting disc golf course where players of all skill levels can play, ranging from learners to intermediate and professionals. It offers a large collection of materials with computers that are targeted to encourage learning and education. This lovely, restored theatre has a nostalgic atmosphere with clean facilities and friendly staff. Omaha is a key industrial and business hub for the state of Nebraska, being home to four Fortune 500 companies and many other major corporations. We are open 7 days a week with the exception of Christmas Day Weekend, New Years Day Weekend, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, and Easter. Plan a romantic weekend getaway or a family vacation to one of these relaxing hotels, inns and B&Bs. The Park offers ranges filled with pistols and rifles with yards ranging from 25, 50, 100, 200, 300 to 600. Stolley Park features a trail open for biking, jogging, and walking, with numerous parking spaces scattered throughout the area. These lists and articles explore the little things that add up to a grand life in Grand Island, Nebraska. 68801. There is also the Grand Island City Recreation Field House that is home to 4-H exhibits. Stolley Park is home to the William Stolley House and a beautiful disc golf course where players of all skill levels can explore. Dinner: Thunder Road Grill. There is always a daily special with very friendly service no matter which attendant waits on you. Whether a believer or not, it is worth a quick stop. It is a chance for the 4-H youth members to develop the skills they learned in 4-H projects and inculcate their life skills and good attributes to work. and a head of Roman emperor Augustus commissioned around 20 A.D. An American Indian Collection features historic works by indigenous peoples, including preserved ledger books by Southern Cheyenne warrior Howling Wolf and Kiowa chief White Horse, noted artists among their tribes. It features a teaching and practice facility for those amateurs in sports. Other amenities include overnight shoe shines, valet laundry service, concierge service, iPad rentals, and Mercedes-Benz transportation. Showplex Cinemas Mall Stadium 7 was previously known as Dickinson Mall Stadium, housed in Conestoga Mall. Besides great food and friendly service, the restaurant features a wonderful decoration. he museum was dedicated as a gift to the people of Omaha by Sarah H. Joslyn, in memory of her husband, newspaper magnate George Joslyn. With over 300 miles in extension, the Platte River is a major river in Nebraska and a tributary of the Missouri River. The Nebraska State Fair, a popular event in Grand Island, offers 4-H members an opportunity to display whatever they have discovered and achieved throughout the year. Guests can also check out the exercise room, the sauna, the whirlpool, or the pool room which features an Olympic-sized indoor swimming pool and a separate pool for children. These lists and articles explore the little things that add up to a grand life in Grand Island, Nebraska. Hastings Museum 118 Natural History Museums Open now By MNDoodles The extensive exhibits on transportation, fossils, geology, history (including a fun Kool-Aid exhibit) and communicat. 14 places sorted by traveler favorites 1. Grand Island Attractions The little things make life grand Plan your getaway to Grand Island. They also offer other services such as immigration help. Yes, there is an area dedicated to the history of Kool-Aid which was curiously created in Hastings. The Ancient Collection includes pieces dating back to Egyptian, Greek, and Roman societies. Conestoga Mall is your typical shopping center with a variety of stores with great options to choose from and some decent eating spots where you can get a delicious snack or even sit down for a meal. From prairie settlers to a planetarium, lots of animals, and the Kool-Aid exhibit. The very welcoming St. Marys Cathedral features amazing glasswork and beautiful services. Westside Bowling features a fantastic bowling alley that attracts many people from different parts of the city. Visit this interactive agricultural experience, showing visitors how the many foods grown in Nebraska are used in our daily lives. Some are surrounded by scenic country views while others are close to famous museums, restaurants and attractions in Omaha, Lincoln and other destinations. 2023 Indianhead Golf Club is open throughout the year as long as weather permits offering lessons headed by professional instructors. Nebraska covers an area of 77,358 square miles and has an estimated population of 1.92 million. It is worth the hike! Guests can also find hiking, biking, and museum tours nearby. It provides a simple but laid-back setting. Go Golfing at Indianhead Golf Club The golf club is located along West Husker Highway. With five different rooms to rent, they all offer a different theme. (330-735-2824). Source: Flickr / USFWS Mountain-Prairie | CC BY 2.0 With over 300 miles in extension, the Platte River is a major river in Nebraska and a tributary of the Missouri River. Address: 8150 US-281, Grand Island, NE 68803, United States. Address: 313 W 3rd St, Grand Island, NE 68801, United States. Due to its history, Grand Island tells the story of pioneer migration in one of the best museums in the Midwest. Today at 7:00 AM + 1 more event. The outdoor and indoor exhibits take you on a journey through Control the Flow, Combine Drive, Grain Bin Theatre, and Agri-House. Google Map. Operating under the Department of Parks and Recreation in Grand Island, Nebraska, the Heartland Public Shooting Park features rifle an handgun ranges, a 3D archery range and a retriever training area. From the main building with its old-time boardwalk and military memorabilia and the agricultural buildings antique cars to the working blacksmith shop, prairie schoolhouse, and home of Civil War General Delevan Bates, The Plainsman Museum offers a relaxing and educational journey through the past. If youre a fan of racing, exploring Fonner Park should be on your list of fun things to do in Grand Island, NE. There are two guest rooms at the bed and breakfast, with private baths and a sharedbalcony. The Walter and Suzanne Scott Pavilion, a 58,000-square-foot pavilion added in 1994 by British architect Lord Norman Foster, connects the building to the ConAgra Foods Atrium. Address: 3034 W Schimmer Dr, Grand Island, NE 68803, United States. And the tent camping sites are large and covered with trees so you can get out of the sun if you want. Bowling itself is very fun at Westside. Grand Island Convention & Visitors Bureau. Binoculars, books, games, and magazines are available for guests who would rather enjoy the quiet. They have done a fantastic job of giving the cranes the optimal place to roost. The lanes and equipment are well-kept, the staff is cordial and helpful, and the shoes look brand new. (402-890-1245). Whether you are looking for a modern guest room, glamping or a home-away-from-home experience at a cozy inn, you will find ideas for nearly every taste and budget. It hosts conventional springtime horse races. Come experience the Grand Life and enjoy all the little things. This cooperative gallery offers a wide variety of media, from two-dimensional painting and photography to turned wooden bowls. There is a wave pool of 350, 000-gallon where you can relax, including its lazy river of 750 feet. It had undergone massive restoration after it was scorched in the mid-1930s by a fire. The current building was opened in 1937. This very affordable movie theatre features a small but complete concession stand. Due to its beautiful and charming areas, Grand Island is home to a wide range of wildlife, especially birds. Hotel Deco Omaha offers a luxurious getaway in a modern Art Deco style environment. This area is preserved to serve as a support system for sandhill cranes, whooping cranes, and other migratory species of birds. The Mall features more than sixty-five stores, including three empty anchor stores once occupied by JCPenny, Younkers, and Sears. A large event space, Fonner Park is most known for its live horse racing and equestrian activities. The Library provides a special section for little children to explore before choosing their books. Grand Island Public Library features a meeting room, handicapped parking, restrooms, water fountains, and every other necessary item. Home to the Huddle Lounge, Westside Lanes provides open and league bowling as well as party hosting and catering services. All of the cabins are fully furnished and include a kitchen as well as fireplaces, air-conditioners, and charcoal grills. During the tour, check out the huge precision machinery producing vast quantities of perfect bullets, from .17 HMR to .50 BMG. An on-site restaurant is also available on Fridays and Saturdays or for special events. They even rebuild the massive old precision presses in-house! The new carpet is an exact replica of the original carpet woven specifically for this project by Mohawk. Other eating options in town include the Town Talk Restaurant. Guests can relax in The Lounge, which features flat screen televisions and a full bar, or enjoy the fitness center. A non-profit foundation was formed to raise the funds and renovate and restore this art deco theater. Some of the most popular types of these activities include: Movie Theaters, Theaters, History Museums and Bowling. Former Dickinson Mall Stadium 7, Showplex Cinemas Mall Stadium 7 is located at Conestoga Mall and is often referred to as AMC Classic Grand Island 7. You get to learn about several past stories when you visit the theatre. They also offer a selection of bullet "seconds" for reloading at prices well under retail - and I took advantage of some of that, too. . It is cool, the seats are comfortable, the floor is carpeted, the sound system is great and of course, there is a huge screen. It is a must-visit if you love old theatres and old-fashioned buildings. In addition, Stuhr Museum features a gift shop where you can purchase distinct souvenirs. You can enjoy different exciting shows like talent shows and concerts, including fun rides and games with delicious meals during the fair. Jackrabbit Run Golf Course is a premier 18-hole golf course that has become a popular destination in Nebraska. Here are the best Nebraska vacation ideas. Pieces by Claude Monet and Edgar Degas are also of note, including one of two plaster versions in existence of Degas Little Dancer sculpture. There is also a garden available for a quiet stroll or just to enjoy the greenery. Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and maintaining the Platte Rivers Big Bend areas biological, hydrological, and physical features. St. Marys Cathedral encourages people from different sectors of life, skin color, gender, tribe, and so on to visit the church. Artists are encouraged to work communally in order to facilitate creative growth and experimentation. The Grand Theatre was previously known as the Lydia theater. South Sioux City Marriott Riverfront has a tranquil setting and magnificent views of the Missouri River. Top inexpensive family attractions near me: Florida Keys, IN, Healdsburg CA, Madison, Water parks in TX, Cocoa Beach, CA, Harpers Ferry, Durham. Amazing renovation for the city to be proud of. Several renovations in the past decades have added substantial expansions onto the museum. Located in Aurora, less than 30 minutes driving from Grand Island, Edgerton Explorit Center is a great museum in the heart of Nebraska featuring many neat science exhibits. Address: 2800 N Shady Bend Road Grand Island, NE 68801, United States. Overall, this is a very educational and fun experience for the entire family to enjoy. In addition, there are different restaurants where you can stop for some delicious dishes. The Heartland Public Shooting Park consists of a full Archery 3D range with a meeting space that can accommodate up to sixty persons. Valentine's Day is just right around the corner and in Grand Island there are many options for celebrating, whether as a couple or group of friends there is no shortage of fun and romantic things to do in Grand Island.Find the perfect getaway, parties or romantic dinner with your special someone on this Valentine's Day in Grand Island. Afternooners restaurant is a nicely designed joint where people can meet with friends and have a nice meal. (402-341-2500). 2. The seats are very comfortable with plenty of legroom. Prairie Pride Brewing Co. features a taproom of more than 1,000 square feet, offering a comfortable and warm environment. Bellevue covers a relatively small area of 16.02 square miles and has an estimated population of 53,000. The city of Lincoln is home to the University of Nebraska, which was established in 1867 and is one of the biggest employers in the area. This is because, besides bowling, they also offer a toddler area with climbing, toys, and blocks. Guests may choose from a lighter continental breakfast or a home cooked breakfast. 34 places sorted by traveler favorites 1. Suppose you want to integrate into the local community of Grand Island. What is there to do with kids? Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Stuhr Museum features an ancient village known as Railroad Town, which is regarded as a living history designed to illustrate a prairie village from the 1890s. Expert opinion: Where should I go for fun that is worth visiting? Eagle Scout Park. The best way to begin your expedition in Grand Island is by visiting Stolley Park, a 34-acre park that is open to all. Guests are offered a wide variety of options to choose from; there is absolutely no kind of drink you need that you wont get here. Find out which one of the below is your couples utopia: 1. Their bullet engineering and manufacturing is top-notch. The Crane Trust gives great opportunities to fit anyones budget so you can enjoy the cranes while also supporting an organization designated to help these unique birds. Rooms include private baths, a 42 HD TV, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary amenities. Island Oasis Water Park is the best place to spend the day, especially on hot summer days when you want to chill. So if youre looking for a fun and exciting family event, be sure to check out the Nebraska State Fair! The Park features a greenhouse and the Kids Kingdom, specifically for children featuring play equipment for them to enjoy. (402-614-7509). and craftsmen and the cinnamon rolls are a nice treat at the end of the tour. Address; 3773 Sky Park Rd # 5, Grand Island, NE 68801, United States. 1.2 Exploring The Crane Trust Nature And Visitor Center. Featuring a well-kept old-style auditorium with a retro feeling, the theater counts with the latest technology. You can take the entire family to go camping on the margins of the river, go swimming and tubing, or even fishing. Railroad Town is a great living history pioneer town with a working mill shop, blacksmith, and millinery shop. Jackrabbit Run Golf Course is also known for being a venue for many golf outings, junior camps, and leagues for people of all ages. Our hours change with the weather and the season. Situated in Douglas County, of which it is the county seat, Omaha is the biggest city in the state of Nebraska. At the time of his death, George Joslyn was the richest man in Nebraska. The Asian Collection presents a 4,000-year overview of Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Indian, and Tibetan art, including a carved red lacquer screen preserved from the Kang-xi period. If you have any curiosities about Bigfoot, she is a great source! During the 2020 census, the city was said to have a population of fifty-three thousand, one hundred and thirty-one persons. A non-profit foundation was formed to raise the funds and renovate and restore this art deco theater. Middle Loup River Ranch Guest House in Thedford is the perfect weekend relaxation retreat, complete with two bedrooms, one with a queen bed and one with two twin beds. You can access an extensive database of profiles belonging to local Grand Island singles: A unique intelligent algorithm makes its magic to match single men and single women, and hence dating in Grand Island, NE is no more a problem. There is a bar menu at the restaurant and a room service option for those who wish to eat in the comfort of their rooms. Just in town, there are several museums, two malls, several sports centers, and a zoo that guests can enjoy (+1 402-513-5500). A common room provides guests with cable TV, wireless internet, books and magazines, a desk, and games. The new carpet is an exact replica of the original carpet woven specifically for this project by Mohawk. The Grand Theater is a historic movie theater that is available to rent for public meetings, birthday parties, or weddings. Another incredible attraction that should be on your list of best places to visit in Grand Island, NE, and a must-visit for adventurous-minded people is Eagle Scout Park. The visitors center itself is incredible and very well done. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. The rooms feature oriental rugs and comfortable bedding. Wander the complex of buildings to discover collections of Native American and Old West memorabilia, teepee replicas, bison that lived and grazed on the land, train cars from the 1800s and more. To the east of Nebraska is Iowa, check out our guides on things to do in Ames, things to do in Cedar Falls and things to do in Council Bluffsfor a memorable trip. With both indoor and outdoor shooting facilities, they have a great set-up with a ton of ranges and lots of different activities. Discover the 38 most romantic things to do in Grand Rapids, MI - including date ideas and other romantic activities for couples, ranked by 13,643 user reviews! Grand Island has an estimated population of 51,000 and is the main city of the Grand Island metropolitan area, which also includes Merric, Howard, and Hamilton Counties. Anniversaries Babymoon Honeymoon Destination Weddings You get to experience the true force of gravity when riding one of the high-speed slides. The Magnolia Hotel Omaha welcomes both families and couples to enjoy the comfort of their rooms. Grande Island is the county seat of Hall country in the state of Nebraska, United States. Everyone is welcome to visit at any time. . They host a wide variety of entertainment such as live concerts and local bands debuts. Located on the east side of Grand Island, this family-owned bowling center offers a variety of bowling activities, such as traditional 10-pin bowling, candlepin bowling, and glow-in-the-dark cosmic bowling. All of the rooms are designed with luxury in mind and provide private baths, Wi-Fi, pillow top mattresses, HD TVs, refrigerators, and coffee makers. With an amazing story behind it, be sure to check out the Fonner Rotunda and the Miller brothers sculpture in front. With a state of the art digital projection and sound system placed within an authentic classic movie theater atmosphere, Grand Theater is located in a local historical landmark. There is a hard-surfaced fitness trail of 1.05 miles encompassing the park, perfect for bicycling, jogging, and walking. The American Collection includes colonial portraits and landscapes by artists such as James Peale, Mather Brown, Thomas Cole, and Homer Dodge Martin, as well as holdings of early American furniture, sculpture, and decorative arts. The elegant furnishings offer comfort as well as luxury so guests can feel at home. We stayed for the two nights at Crane Trust in order to watch the crane migration in November. It was amazing plus, the staff was very helpful and attentive. Currently, it is rated as one of the major religious centers on Grand Island. Williams Flower Company. The Wine Bar is located in the Grand Old House, offering a homey and classic background where you can have a glass of wine. It is the second biggest city in the state and one of only two cities (with the other being Omaha) to have a population exceeding 100,000. This Fair has been taking place for over one hundred and fifty years, displaying the remarkable culture of Nebraska. The Nebraska State Fair is a huge event that takes place in Grand Island, Nebraska every year. TNative New Englanders, the Joslyns moved to Omaha in 1880, where George became president and general manager of the Western Newspaper Union, the largest newspaper service organization in the world at the time, operating plants and offices in 32 prominent cities. Highly rated couples activities in Grand Island: The top romantic things to do. A living room with a TV, DVD, and VHS player along with a library of movies and an assortment of puzzles, books, and board games are available to sit back and enjoy. The live meet involves recreational shows, family activities, craft shows, giveaways, special races, and more. The 390 acre preserve includes half of a mile of riverfront as well. The museum has a lot of history of the plains with exhibits that are specific to Aurora and the surrounding communities. Kinkaider's full service restaurant offers creative menu items in a unique space, formerly used as a theater, paired with their own beers. 1.1 Watching Films At The Rivoli 3 Movie Theatre. Whether you're a shooter or not, this is a great tour. Guests are welcome to use the fitness center in the hotel. Skate Island also features a snack bar selling all kinds of food and drinks, arcade games, and friendly staff. Showcasing theories and interesting banter, Bigfoot Crossroads of America Museum presents many interesting and detailed stories about this curious legend. A homemade breakfast is served in the dining room with treats such as Granola, Orange Pecan French Toast, and Peach Enchiladas. We take your behavior, interests, and preferences . Omaha covers a total area of 130.58 square miles and has an estimated population of 466,000, with over 975,000 in the surrounding metropolitan area. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Located in Omaha, Nebraska, the Joslyn Art Museum is the premiere fine arts museum in the state of Nebraska and its only arts institution with an extensive permanent collection. Largest Retail Center in Central Nebraska. It was amazing plus, the staff was very helpful and attentive. The fair has a long history dating back to 1868 and features many unique attractions and activities. The restaurant offers mouthwatering dishes and an eclectic mix of the rich history of Grand Island. Situated in Hall County, of which it is the county seat, Grand Island is the fourth biggest city in Nebraska. Address: 9325 S Alda Rd Exit 305 Towards Alda, Grand Island, NE 68883-9565, United States. With a 30,000 sq ft arena and 33,000 sq ft concourse, Heartland Events Center at Fonner Park can accommodates all kinds of events. It is housed in a charming, beautiful building that illustrates the actual definition of an architectural relic. Grand Island has 1 large indoor mall, multiple strip malls and plazas, a thriving Downtown with many unique shops, and small commercial outlets. 45 Best & Fun Things to Do in Kansas City (MO), 33 Best & Fun Things to Do in Raleigh (NC), 33 Best & Fun Things to Do in Indianapolis (Indiana), 32 Best & Fun Things to Do in Ensenada (Mexico), 23 Best & Fun Things to Do in Prattville (AL), 25 Best & Fun Things to Do in Huntsville (TX), 15 Best Restaurants in Winter Springs, FL.