What is Nebraska Known for? Discover Nebraska’s Famous Facts, Foods, and Landmarks

A true representation of the Great Plains, Nebraska is home to rolling hills, dramatic rock formations, and cities giving you a glimpse into the Wild West past. Whether you’re a long-time Nebraskan or are considering relocating to the state, you may be wondering – what is Nebraska known for?

From hidden gems to iconic landmarks, and beloved foods, Nebraska is famous for so much. Read on to find out why Nebraska is such a great place to live, whether you’re buying a home in Omaha, renting an apartment in Lincoln, or considering moving to the state.

Job opportunities and the economy in Nebraska

Nebraska’s economy is primarily driven by agriculture, with farming and livestock production playing a significant role in the state’s workforce. Additionally, manufacturing is a prominent industry, particularly in areas like food processing, machinery manufacturing, and transportation equipment production. 

Major corporations such as Union Pacific Railroad and ConAgra Brands, a global food conglomerate, are key players in Nebraska’s job market. Both are headquartered in Omaha, they provide employment opportunities and contribute to the state’s economy.

Nebraska’s top five employers

1. Berkshire Hathaway

2. Medical Solutions

3. Union Pacific

4. Loup Logistics

5. Kiewit

5 unique tourist attractions

Nebraska is famous for countless attractions, like museums, historic neighborhoods, art installations, and natural wonders.

1. Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium: With its world-class exhibits like the Desert Dome and the Lied Jungle, the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha offers an immersive wildlife experience for visitors. Built in 1894, the zoo is recognized for its conservation efforts, often ranking in the world’s top five zoos.

2. Old Market District, Omaha: In the heart of downtown Omaha, the Old Market District charms visitors with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and diverse array of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Dating back to the 19th century, this neighborhood was once the epicenter for Omaha’s residents with produce vendors, manufacturing centers, and hotels.

3. Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum: Aviation enthusiasts flock to this museum near Ashland to explore its extensive collection of aircraft and exhibits highlighting the history of the Strategic Air Command.

4. Carhenge: Located near the city of Alliance, Carhenge is a replica of the iconic Stonehenge. Utilizing vintage automobiles instead of stones, this is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique slice of Nebraska.

5. The Durham Museum: Celebrating Omaha’s Western heritage, the Durham Museum has plenty of unique exhibits, photo archives, and galleries. Housed in the former Omaha Union Station, this Art Deco building showcases Nebraska’s unique architecture.

Did you know? One of Omaha’s neighborhoods, Aksarben Village, is Nebraska spelled backward. The name originated from the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben, a philanthropic organization that owned a horse racing track in Omaha.  

>>Read: 10 Pros and Cons of Living in Nebraska

6 regional foods from Nebraska

With Nebraska’s rich agricultural industry, it’s no surprise that there are regional foods the state is known for.

1. Runza: One of the most popular foods Nebraska is known for is runza, a beloved comfort food. Runza is a savory pastry filled with seasoned ground beef, cabbage, and onions.

2. Omaha steak: The Omaha steak showcases Nebraska’s beef production, renowned for its quality and flavor.

3. Cornhusker salad: Other popular dishes include the cornhusker salad which combines fresh corn, tomatoes, green peppers, and onions with a vinegar-based dressing.

4. Dorothy Lynch dressing: Made and bottled in Nebraska, it’s a sweet and tangy condiment made with tomato paste, vinegar, and spices. Locals use this dressing as a versatile topping for salads, sandwiches, and even as a dip for pizza.

5. Kolaches: Brought to Nebraska by Czech immigrants, this sweet pastry is filled with cream cheese or fruit. The village of Verdigre is known as the “Kolach Capital of the World,” and hosts a celebration each year called “Kolach Days.”

6. Kool-Aid: This familiar powdered drink was invented in 1927 in Hastings. The city also celebrates the drink every year at Kool-Aid Days.

5 popular year-round events

Nebraska hosts major events attracting residents from around the state and beyond.

1. College World Series: Hosted each June in Omaha, the College World Series is a popular event in collegiate baseball, drawing fans from across the country to witness the top teams vie for the national championship at Charles Schwab Field Omaha.

2. Nebraska State Fair: Held in Grand Island during August and September, the Nebraska State Fair is a cherished tradition showcasing the state’s agricultural heritage, entertainment, and culinary delights. From livestock shows to concerts and carnival rides, the fair offers something for everyone to enjoy each summer.

3. Sandhill Crane Migration: Each spring, hundreds of thousands of sandhill cranes converge on Nebraska’s Platte River Valley during their migration north, creating one of the most spectacular wildlife phenomena in North America. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts flock to the area for a chance to witness this awe-inspiring spectacle.

4. Omaha River City Rodeo: Celebrating Omaha’s western heritage, the Omaha River City Rodeo draws participants and spectators every September. With parades, live music, and activities, this Omaha tradition gives you a chance to experience the excitement of the Wild West in the heart of the city.

5. Nebraska Balloon & Wine Festival: Held in Omaha during August, this festival offers attendees the chance to enjoy breathtaking balloon launches and wine tastings from local vineyards. The festival also has live music and delicious food.

6 beautiful places to see in Nebraska

Nebraska’s landscape is well-known for its vast expanses of prairie – think rolling plains, wide horizons, and sweeping grasslands.

1. Scotts Bluff National Monument: A historic landmark along the Oregon Trail, rising abruptly from the plains with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

2. Chimney Rock National Historic Site: Home to Chimney Rock, a natural rock formation that served as a prominent landmark for pioneers journeying westward on the Oregon Trail.

3. Platte River: About 310 miles long, the Platte River is known for its yearly sandhill crane migration.

4. Nebraska Sandhills: The Sandhills are grass-covered sand dunes, located in the High Plains region. They’re a unique landmark with hundreds of native plants and migratory birds.

5. Niobara River: This 76-mile river flows through lush forests and rugged canyons and is great for kayaking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing.

6. Missouri River Bluffs: Most popular is the Manitou Bluffs known for its cliffs offering breathtaking views of the Missouri River.

Did you know? Arbor Day originated in Nebraska City. This holiday is dedicated to the preservation and planting of trees. 

>>Read: 6 Beautiful Lakes in Nebraska to Live on

4 popular Nebraska phrases

1. “Go Big Red” isn’t just a slogan but a rallying cry for the University of Nebraska Cornhuskers, showcasing the state’s passion for college football.

2. “Nebraska Nice” embodies the friendly and hospitable demeanor often found in Nebraskans, where people are known for their kindness and willingness to lend a hand.

3. “Corn-fed” refers to the state’s agricultural heritage.

4. “Nebraska wind” is a way to describe wind gusts that sweep across the plains.

FAQs about Nebraska

Why is Nebraska called the “Cornhusker State?”

Nebraska gets its nickname from the University of Nebraska’s athletic teams, the “Cornhuskers.” However, the name “cornhusker” originates from the state’s abundance of corn and the process of husking corn by hand. 

What are Nebraska’s biggest cities?

Nebraska has two major cities – Omaha and Lincoln. The next most populous cities in Nebraska include Bellevue, Grand Island, Kearney, Fremont, Hastings, and Norfolk. 

What is the weather like in Nebraska?

You’ll experience all four seasons in Nebraska, with cold winters, mild spring and autumn temperatures, and warm summers. Nebraska isn’t particularly humid during the summer, but the state can be prone to tornadoes. Winter can bring snow in the northern part of the state, but varies across the rest of the area. 

Does Nebraska have any professional sports teams?

Nebraska doesn’t have professional sports teams in the “Big Four” – NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL. They have a strong commitment to college sports. 

• University of Nebraska-Lincoln is known for its football team, the Cornhuskers.
• Creighton University is widely known for the Bluejays basketball team. 
• University of Nebraska Omaha Mavericks are known for several sports, including basketball, soccer, and hockey.