Trace the path of America’s first transcontinental highway across the heartland of Nebraska on this 450-mile journey through history. The Lincoln Highway Scenic and Historic Byway follows US 30 from the Wyoming border near Bushnell to the Missouri River in Blair, offering travelers an authentic slice of the Great Plains.

Along this National Scenic Byway, you’ll encounter rolling prairies, the dramatic bluffs of the North Platte River Valley, and charming small towns that evoke the golden age of American road travel. Stop in North Platte to visit the Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, explore the fascinating Bailey Yard—the world’s largest rail yard—or pause in Grand Island to discover the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer.

Historic roadside architecture dots the route: vintage motor courts, classic diners, and original Lincoln Highway markers remind travelers of the adventurous motorists who first crossed the nation by automobile in the early 1900s. The wide-open skies and endless horizons create unforgettable sunrises and sunsets.

Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall offers ideal weather, with golden autumn providing spectacular colors.

Allow: 2-3 days to fully appreciate the historic sites, small-town hospitality, and sweeping prairie landscapes that define Nebraska’s pioneering spirit.

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