Sandhills Nebraska

Stretching 272 miles along Nebraska Highway 2, the Sandhills Nebraska Scenic Byway is a captivating journey through one of America’s most underrated landscapes. From the railroad town of Alliance to Grand Island, this scenic drive cuts through remote countryside, rolling sand dunes, and rich cultural history. Whether you're into wide-open spaces, ranching life, or regional art and wine, this route offers a little something for every traveler looking to slow down and soak in the scenery.

Recommended For

This scenic highway is perfect for:

Road trippers—craving solitude, sky, and sweeping prairie views
Wine and culture seekers—interested in local vineyards and museums
History and photography fans—drawn to homesteader stories and rare photo archives
Outdoor adventurers—exploring trails, forests, and hidden art studios

Scenic Highlights

Drive through dramatic sandhills, rolling farmland, and winding rivers
See wetlands and marshes teeming with birdlife
Pass through the country’s largest hand-planted forest near Halsey

Local Flavors

Stop at Cedar Hills Vineyard in the South Loup River Valley near Ravenna
Sample their blackberry or strawberry sangria for a refreshing local twist

History & Culture Stops

Custer County Historical Museum in Broken Bow features vintage photos by Solomon Butcher
Visit Dobby’s Frontier Town in Alliance—a re-creation of an Old West village
End your journey in Grand Island at the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer, with:
- An authentic Pawnee Earth Lodge
- A Mormon Trail handcart experience
- A preserved 1890s railroad town and Henry Fonda’s birth home

Outdoor Experiences

Explore the Nebraska National Forest near Halsey for picnic spots and scenic trails
Stop at Double R Ranch near Mullen for a true ranching experience
Visit Verde Guest Ranch near Hyannis to be a cowboy for a day

Arts & Pottery

Discover Dunning’s Sandhills Pottery—known for creative local ceramics
Learn about pottery-making and purchase handmade souvenirs
Explore regional artwork at the Thedford Art Gallery in Thedford

Plan Your Visit

Route: Nebraska Highway 2, from Alliance to Grand Island (272 miles)
Website: visitnebraska.com