Sandhills Nebraska is an expansive stretch of the Nebraska Highway 2 that spans a total of two hundred and seventy-two miles. This stretch of highway travels from the railroad town of Alliance all the way to Grand Island through the dramatic and impressive Sandhills. This route is known for being one of the country’s ten most scenic routes thanks to its beautiful and diverse scenery.

  • What scenery can visitors expect along the Sandhills Nebraska stretch of the highway?
    • The stunning scenery includes dramatic sandhills, expansive farmland, remote countryside, winding rivers, wetlands, and marshes.
    • The area also features the country’s largest hand-planted forest.
  • Where can visitors enjoy wine along the Sandhills route?
    • Wine lovers can enjoy a refreshing glass at the Cedar Hills Vineyard in the South Loup River Valley near Ravenna.
    • Visitors should be sure to sample the blackberry or strawberry sangria.
  • What historical or photographic attractions are available?
    • History and photography enthusiasts can visit the Custer County Historical Museum in Broken Bow.
    • Visitors can view original photographs taken by Solomon Butcher, a famed photographer of the Sandhills region.
  • What can visitors experience in Grand Island?
    • In Grand Island, visitors can explore the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer.
    • The museum features a Pawnee Earth Lodge, a chance to push a handcart along the Mormon Trail, and an 1890s railroad town.
    • Visitors can also see the birth home of Henry Fonda, an Oscar-winning actor.
  • What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in the Nebraska National Forest?
    • Located near Halsey, the Nebraska National Forest offers picnic spots and trails with stunning scenery.
  • Where can visitors learn about pottery?
    • Visitors can explore Dunning’s Sandhills Pottery to see creative pottery artwork.
    • The studio offers a chance to learn about the pottery-making process and purchase unique souvenirs.
    • More locally created artwork can be found at the Thedford Art Gallery in Thedford.
  • Where can visitors experience ranching in the Sandhills?
    • Visitors can head to the Double R Ranch near Mullen for a real ranching experience.
    • Another option is the Verde Guest Ranch near Hyannis, where guests can be a cowboy for a day at a working cattle ranch.
  • Where can visitors experience Old West history?
    • Dobby’s Frontier Town in Alliance is a re-creation of an Old Western town.
    • The town features a jail, mercantile, homesteader’s cabin, and more.

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