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We want to thank the Museum of American Speed for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own. 

Autos Hit the Road

In 1886, Carl Benz debuted his Benz Patent-Motorwagen, which is widely regarded as the birth of the car. Not surprisingly, one of the first arranged races took place the next year. These early gasoline-powered vehicles were much slower than today’s, but people also faced unpaved road courses. I can almost imagine the bumpy rides they faced, as they flew down the course at speeds of up to 10 mph. In 1896, the first gas vehicle sped down the streets of Detroit at 20 miles per hour, dodging people and wagons. Before long, many others would join the field of automobile manufacturing, and cars would be found all across the country. As vehicle technology improved, vehicles were built for the purposes of consumer usage and racing. A brand’s ability to win major races would help sell its cars to the American public.

The Early Days of Racing

While European racing was performed on closed road courses, in America the preference was large oval tracks. These were designed to make viewing easier for spectators, propelling the sport’s popularity. Taking a page from bicycle and motorcycle racing, some tracks were constructed with wooden floors. This provided a smooth, fast surface. As America’s love affair with racing grew, a variety of racing styles appeared. Each category had its own specific rules and vehicle specifications. As soon as new rules were developed, you can bet that racing teams pushed the limits. As we toured the museum, it was intriguing to see how simple the motors of these early machines look in comparison to today.

Hot Rodding

While big-name teams were dropping huge amounts of money into track racing, Americans were looking for less expensive ways to get involved. After World War II, veterans found sport in racing down decommissioned aircraft landing strips. These long straightaways were perfect for short races and would become known as Drag Racing. The rules were simple; be the first to cross the finish line. While the distances would vary, 1/4 mile became a common length for many drag races. For those wanting to learn more about the early players in this sport, there is tons of information available. We didn’t have time to read it all, so you’ll want to block off at least a half day to explore this museum.

Drag Racing Icons

While veterans careened down airstrips, teenagers were racing on rural roads. America’s youth loved their cars and looked for ways to display their mechanical prowess. “Souped-up” autos would vie for bragging rights in mad-dash competitions. Once again, the 1/4-mile was a popular distance, as it was often the unit of measure for a rural block. It’s crazy to think that many of these hot rods could reach nearly 100 mph in that short distance. By the 1950s, drag strips were being built to provide a safe space for spectators to observe these matchups. It’s safe to say that America’s love affair with racing was growing at a record pace. The feeling of the wind on your face and the thrill of speed was becoming addictive.

Cars Permeate American Life

After automobiles first came on the scene, it wouldn’t take long for this new form of transportation to permeate American life. Pedal cars began appearing in the 1890s and were fashioned after actual vehicles seen on the roads. The expense of these models limited their usage to primarily wealthy families. The Great Depression only made them more out of reach for the average family. After WWII, the costs had balanced out with the growing family incomes. A resurgence of popularity blossomed and soon a myriad of styles flooded the market. I remember getting a pedal car for a birthday and falling head over heels in love with my “car”. If you have fond memories of these childhood toys, you will love visiting this museum.

Childhood Memories

As I grew older, the move was made from toys to models. I can still remember the hours spent piecing together these intricate copies. The Red Baron was always one of my most cherished funny cars and little did I know that there was an actual full-size version. You can imagine my delight when this bad boy popped into view. Sure enough, sitting right next to it is the Boothill Express, which was another favorite of mine. I’m not sure what Crystal thought about all of these funny cars, but I know that she loves the torque of a fast motor as much as I do.

Racing Royalty

As we continued through the museum, we were impressed with the sheer volume of vehicles that they have assembled. Whether you are a fan of Open Wheel, Indy, Model T, or Land Speed vehicles, you’ll find plenty of each. Each gallery holds something new and before long our heads were reeling. We never realized how many variations could be made from the Flathead Ford engine. The museum staff has included cutaway versions to help educate visitors on the intricacies of each design. It was easy to follow the progression of power as we moved forward in time.

Museum Memorial

The Museum of American Speed is a family endeavor. Begun by Bill and Joyce Smith, their four sons were happy to be involved. The racing bug bit Bill at a young age and he would end up a formidable opponent for other racers. During his life, he would steer sprint, AIS Indy, Pikes Peak, and Bonneville autos to victory. The family’s collections took decades to assemble and they proudly share them with the public. When they lost their son Clay, a memorial was designed with his collection of around 600 lunch boxes. Moving through the 3 floors of galleries, we quickly realized that this family is serious about collecting. In fact, during our visit, they were in the midst of constructing a new exhibit space. When completed, it will double their current space.

America’s Love Affair with Racing

Our visit was in the 3-hour range and we could have easily doubled it. The Museum of American Speed is a labor of love from a family with deep roots in the racing world. We spent much of our time imagining the thrill of tooling down a racetrack in one of the countless vehicles. To say that this is one of the most extensive collections we have seen would be an understatement. This place has to be seen to be truly appreciated. It is clear that America’s love affair with racing is alive and kicking as much today as at any time in history.

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We want to thank Lincoln CVB and Honest Abe’s for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own. 

Cut to the Point

When I was researching Lincoln eateries, this one popped up more than once. Seeing a burger joint getting rave reviews intrigued me. After a little deeper dive, it was decided that Honest Abe’s Burgers needed to be added to our list. After all, it checked all of the boxes that we look for in a meal stop. Their downtown location is near the Nebraska History Museum, so it was easy to fit it into our schedule. After a busy morning at the farmers market and museum, our appetites were revved up and ready to be satisfied.

Bird’s Eye View

Stepping through the front door, we were greeted by a slew of Abe images. This happens to be my all-time favorite president, so I have to admit to being overjoyed. Crystal could see the glee in me but tempered it with a reminder that we needed to eat something. After spending considerable time exploring the menu online, it was time to put our research to work. I had tried to imagine how some of the interesting flavor combinations would taste. As Abe would say, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” Time to get to work and decide which burgers we would order.

Honest Abe’s Burgers

Since we were in a category two burger joint, we wanted to sample something unique. Our first choice was the 1809. To make this sammie, they load up a traditional burger patty on a bed of pickled apples. Then they top this with loads of bacon, melted gouda cheese, and smoky honey mayo. Served with a heaping mound of Herb Seasoned Freedom Fries, this meal demanded recognition. Biting into this Honest Abe’s Burger brought a mouthful of zest and smoky goodness into play. Crystal and I have an unwritten agreement to share our plates so that we can each sample the flavors. There are times I finish my half and have become addicted to the flavor combination. This was one of those times.

Food with Attitude

For our second choice, we decided to step even farther down the zany flavor path. A burger with a name like Hammer of Thor certainly captures your attention. Read the ingredients and tell us if you’d try it. Start with another one of their delectable beef burger patties. Top it with griddled Brussel Sprouts, chipotle cream cheese, pepper jack cheese, and bacon mayo. It was far from normal and had just enough crazy to make it to our table. A side of some Freedom Tots added a potato variation. After wrapping up my half of the 1809, it was time to test this eccentric combination. The layers of flavors quickly ended my time of mourning, as this burger brings the whole house full of tastes. Well played, Abe.

The Good Life

We’ll be the first to admit that we haven’t spent enough time exploring Nebraska. This was our first time in Lincoln and we were finding it to be a flavorful experience. Honest Abe’s Burgers was a good example of the interesting approach that many of the local restaurants have taken with their menus. With a plethora of dining choices scattered around downtown, we knew that it would take multiple visits to sample even the tip of the iceberg. Fortunately, we were finding that our pre-visit picks were spot-on for great tastes. All of our research was making this another successful excursion. As Old Abe said, “Prepare for the chance that could come someday.”

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First People

While Nebraska territory’s history began in 1854, the lands were populated long before European explorers arrived. In prehistoric times, tribes like the Arikara and Pawnee called these lands home. The Arapahoe resided in western Nebraska for over 1000 years. The Cheyenne and Commanche lived more of a nomadic lifestyle and moved throughout the eastern side of the territory. During the 17th Century, the Omaha tribe migrated from the east, as more European settlers landed in the eastern portion of North America. Over a dozen indigenous tribes have called Nebraska territory home throughout history.

Hard Choices

Through our journeys, we have heard many stories about the relocation and elimination of indigenous people. Nebraska territory has its own stories to tell and one that captured our attention was that of Red Cloud. In the late 1800s, the Oglala Lakota leader would stand firm against the U.S. Army in a series of conflicts. One of these involved an 81-man detachment that was sent out to squash a war party. Using a decoy with an injured horse, (It was Crazy Horse who acted as a decoy.) he led the Army into an ambush by more than 2000 Native American forces. The results would be total antihalation of the Army troops. While the battle included multiple indigenous tribes, it would be labeled Red Cloud’s War by the U.S. Army. An investigation by the government showed that the hostilities had been brought on by the encroachment of settlers into Native American lands.

Temporary Exhibit

The Nebraska History Museum contains many other interesting stories, such as that of Red Cloud. While each one has its own merits, I was especially interested in the temporary exhibit on Women’s Suffrage in Nebraska. The third floor of the museum is a dedicated space for rotating exhibits. We like these types of installations, as they create an atmosphere of constantly changing displays. That means that the next time we visit, we will have something new to see, as well as permanent exhibits.

Fighting for Rights

History tells us that the 19th Amendment became law in 1920, but did you know that the Suffrage movement actually began around 1848? That means that for over 70 years, the fight for women’s right to vote was battled out across the growing nation. In that same period of time, 18 new states were added to our flag. In Nebraska, the fight for the right to vote began before the territory achieved statehood. After winning the ability to vote in local school board elections, in 1869, women set their sights on even bigger wins. A Nebraska referendum, in 1882, failed to pass by male voters.

Winning the Vote

This setback created a momentary silence in the Nebraska suffrage movement. During this same time period, many were fighting for Prohibition, which tended to take focus away from the voting rights issue. Instead of giving up, they decided to go after another smaller victory. The Nebraska Woman Suffrage Association fought for the right to vote for city officials. They would find this battle would force them to clash with religious leaders, as well as liquor interests. Once again, male voters squashed their attempt. Finally, in 1919, Nebraska legislators voted unanimously to ratify the 19th Amendment, which ensures women the right to vote.

White Man’s World

While that was a huge victory, it still left people prohibited from the voting booth. In 1868, the 14th Amendment secured voting rights for all males, “regardless of race, color, or previous condition of servitude”. This sounded promising, but the reality was that many states found devious ways to prevent black males from voting. When the right for women to vote was finally a law, the restrictions that black males found were also levied against black women. Indigenous people also faced restrictions when it came to voting rights. The rights for all to vote would not be complete until the mid-1960s.

Visiting Nebraska History Museum

The stories that we discover during our travels are the fuel that makes us desire to see more of the world around us. Each state, city, and town is filled with unique tales from the past and present. Our visits to capital cities are like the icing on the cake when it comes to learning a state’s history. Lincoln is no exception and the Nebraska History Museum is a good resource for getting an overview of how they got to where they are today. By including interactive displays within their exhibits, they make learning fun. How well do you know your state’s history?

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Historic Home

Our short jaunt from Kansas City had landed us in Brownville, Nebraska. This town of 140 residents has an extremely large number of historic sites. We joined Steve Woerth on his morning rounds of opening several museums. The Carson House is one that has been preserved in much the same fashion as it would have been in the late 1800s. The colorful Victorian styling made a picture-perfect setting for a morning excursion. The town’s founder, Richard Brown, had the original home constructed for his personal home. Due to a growing dislike by the town’s residents, he would sell it to banker John Carson prior to departing for Texas.

Well Preserved

Mr. Carson was one of the first bankers in Nebraska Territory. He, and his family, took up residence in the house in 1864. Entering the home, we found the interior to be a direct reflection of the outside. A few modern conveniences have been added, but for the most part, the home is in the same condition as it would have been for its past residents. Looking at the study, we could imagine the owners sitting beside the fire discussing the family’s budget or talking about current events around town.

Elegant Entertaining

This parlor would have certainly been reserved for adult use only. Imagine being on the guestlist for an afternoon tea party or an evening soiree. We are sure it would have been the talk of the town since this was the home of one of the most influential families in Brownville. By the time the Carson family had taken up residence, the silenced footsteps of the original owner were just a memory. They set about making the space a real home by adding on additional spaces for the family to expand.

Guided Tour

On a normal day, Steve Woerth would unlock the door and make sure the lights were on. The home would be open for self-tours by visitors from all over the Midwest. Brownville has a uniquely attractive appeal due to its numerous historic sites and homes. On this particular Saturday, he spent time showing us around the house. He shared his historical background on Brownville, which helped us piece together how the city developed. He helped us trace the silenced footsteps of the town’s past residents.

Trouble Brewing

As he led us into the formal dining room, we immediately knew that this would have been the site of many family dinners. I spent considerable time with my grandparents, during my youth. Seeing the layout of this room, I knew that the children likely received a fair share of sideways glances. It’s hard to imagine the number of times a scolding accompanied them. At least, that is what I remember from my childhood.

Different Times

We followed Steve upstairs to the bedrooms. The children’s room looked like a picture out of a museum. The beautifully hand-carved bed frames bespoke of the time period. The historical staff has done a great job at keeping the house as close to the original, as possible. They even remembered to include a chamber pot, which is a foreign idea to kids these days. Of course, it would beat heading out to the outhouse on a cold winter morning.

Startling Discovery

Exploring these types of attractions is interesting to us. While I enjoy learning all of the histories that are associated with the various time periods, Crystal loves the personal stories. Throughout our travels, we have had many chances to tour homes from the mid-1800s. Each of them brings a unique view, although few have so many period pieces like this one. It does remind us of one we viewed in New Orleans, but here we found a startling discovery. In a downstairs bathroom, Steve pointed out the lead tub that was used by the family. While I have not researched the health effects of such a device, it certainly seemed ominous.

Silenced Footsteps

As we wrapped up our tour, we looked back on our visit to this living time capsule. By preserving the home and contents, the Brownville Historical Society has made it possible for future generations to remember days gone by. Steve told us that they will often give tours to school-age children, which allows for some hands-on education. We wonder how many of them knew what the chamber pots were used for.

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First Impressions

The town of Brownville had escaped our discovery for years. Even as we were rolling up I-29 toward Omaha, we never seemed to spot their exit. Once we finally had it, I was able to do some research. What I discovered was a village filled with history and charm. We made our plans for a visit, but COVID put a halt to them. When the spring of 2021 arrived, we felt that it was time. Knowing the town had already gone through the vaccinations helped add a layer of safety. Rolling into town, we found Main Street to be a great place to begin our exploring.

Fueling Discovery

After meeting up with Steve Worth, our guide for the day, we decided that lunch would be needed. Not only would it offer us small-town tastes, but we could lay out the plan for the rest of our visit. Right in the heart of Main Street is The Lyceum. Housed in one of the many historic buildings in Brownville, this local eatery serves up simple dishes made with care. The three of us decided to make this a quick meal, so sandwiches were our choices. Dining at The Lyceum, you can feel the history in the very foundation of the building. It always amazes us when we find that the past has been so carefully preserved.

Small Town Tastes

With our hunger managed, it was time to enact our plans. The first step was to investigate some of the historic sites and museums found in Brownville, Nebraska. Being that the real tourism season doesn’t kick in until mid-may, we felt like we almost had the town to ourselves. With so many of the stops being concentrated in just a few square blocks, we decided to begin our excursion on foot. Later, we would drive around town as Steve pointed out some of the historic homes that make up the village.

Quaint Shops

After or walk through history, it was time to check out some of the boutique-style shops that dot the main road. Once again, we found ourselves in awe of the historic buildings that they have preserved and repurposed for today’s use. Just seeing it from the outside, we could imagine an old hotel and saloon serving customers just arriving on a nearby riverboat. Stepping indoors, we found that they have created a space filled with all of the conveniences of the modern age.

Local Life

Although the time for our morning coffee had passed, we still popped in the local coffee shop for a look-see. We were ecstatic to discover that it doubles as an ice cream shop. A steady stream of locals was buying up cups of java and scoops of creamy delight. This gave us an opportunity to chat with some of the regulars and learn more about their hometown. While time limitations prevented us from getting ice cream, for now, you know we made a mental note of their closing time.

Sweet Discovery

Continuing on our walk, we came to another row of small local businesses. The name Saltwater Taffy intrigued us, as did the promising sign outside. Popping in for a look, we found it to be another boutique shop for Crystal to peruse. While she checked out all of the goodies, I examined the aromatic candies that lined one wall. The two of us were really enjoying the small-town tastes that we found at every turn.

Rural Setting

After exploring the other nearby downtown stores, we bid our farewell to our guide. He directed us down the road to Whiskey Run Creek Winery. The 100-year old barn that the winery operates out of is not native to Brownville. It was moved here to add immediate charm to the operation. It certainly does the trick. Approaching the building, it looks like something out of a postcard of yesteryear.

Something for Later

We couldn’t wait to see it up close. Inside, we found other visitors sampling the various wines produced at Whiskey Run. We took our turn at sampling and picked a bottle of our favorite to enjoy during a summer picnic. Before leaving, we had to take in the view of the manmade creek that flows from the hillside. This would be a perfect setting for an evening of wine and relaxing on their deck.

Getting Our Just Desserts

Our time in Brownville was drawing to a close, but we hadn’t forgotten about Gospel Ice Cream. We hightailed it back downtown, but missed closing time by a couple of minutes. The owner caught sight of us and opened back up for us to get our cones. (One of the many good reasons to love small towns!) In fact, he even asked us if we would like to meet his dog Gospel, for whom the shop is named. You know we just had to and we even got a selfie to memorialize the event. We were so happy they saw us because we were loving our cones, but it appears that Gospel was wishing he had one for himself. Oh well, we are sure he gets plenty of love and treats, as well.

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Wagons West

For a town of around 140 people, Brownville is just dripping with historic sites. During a visit to Council Grove, Kansas, we were sure no place could have a higher per capita concentration of historic stops. Little did we realize there was a spot, just two hours north of our hometown, where the residents were embracing the past was just as much vigor. We met up with Steve Woerth, from the Brownville Historical Society, for a whirlwind tour of the town. To gain a good background, we have to travel back to the mid-1800s. Nebraska was only a territory and was considered the edge of the frontier. Right along Main Street, we spotted the Didier Cabin which has been reconstructed by the historical society. This was the first home in Brownville, but soon the wagons would begin arriving from the east. Being situated along the Missouri River made this town perfect for riverboat travel.

Nebraska’s Land Office

Brownville had the distinction of being the site of Nebraska Territory’s only land office during the implementation of the Homesteader Act of 1862. After President Lincoln signed this into law, it opened the floodgates for western migration. Those wanting to make land claims in Nebraska had to travel to the land office in Brownville to file their paperwork. For a nominal fee, homesteaders would receive 160 acres to settle. Of course, they had to live on the land for five straight years to gain complete ownership. As Steve told us the story of the first stakeclaimers, we could only imagine the hardships they faced out here on the wide-open prairie.

A Historic Assembly

We love finding exhibits that share a region’s rich history. During a stop at the Sage Museum, Steve introduced us to a display about the 1898 Indian Congress that took place in nearby Omaha. We had never heard of this assembly that included over 500 members from 35 different tribes. By 1898, there were many believing that this would be the last assembly of many different Indian nations. A large encampment was assembled to display life in the various Indian villages. The original idea was to help showcase the art, culture, and industries of the native peoples. During the expo, photographer Frank Rinehart took hundreds of portraits of the various Native Indian participants.

Life on the Border

Since Brownville lay on the eastern edge of Nebraska territory, it found itself on the border of the Civil War. To the south, Kansas-Missouri hostilities flared up in the Border War. As Kansas politicians debated the slavery issue, those in Nebraska waited with cautious apprehension. A cannon was procured to protect the western shoreline of the Missouri River from potential invaders. Although it was not needed, they still use it each year for local events. Talk about embracing the past for the good of a community.

Embracing the Past

When we first entered the downtown strip, we couldn’t help but notice a retro-designed Ford repair shop. Now that we were on our guided tour, we found out that this is the Chitwood Wheel Museum. The museum is housed in this old shop and they have meticulously restored the outside to replicate the original paint job. Inside we found an old Tin Lizzy just waiting for restoration. This is also the home of the Civil War-era cannon, carriages, and a collection of unusual farm implements.

River Economy

The Missouri River has always played a key role in Brownville’s history. In the early days, it brought the riverboats that supplied the territory with merchandise for the homesteaders. It was used to ferry immigrants westward for the expansion of our country. The river even served as a pathway to relocate Native Indians from Minnesota to the south. In more recent years, commercial fishing was a lucrative market in this region. The abundance of catfish drew throngs of sports fishers to Brownville. Many locals would cast their nets for a daily catch. Unfortunately, lawmakers chose to alter the regulations and caused the extinction of this industry.

Soak in Brownville’s History

Our excursion to Brownville, Nebraska opened our eyes to a village that is embracing the past as they builds its future. All of these historic sites are open to the public and FREE to visitors. A day trip to this quaint village is like a trip back in time to simpler days. The vast majority of the stops are within easy walking distance of each other. Of course, you will also want to drive around the area to check out a large number of historic homes in the community. This village is a great reminder of why we need to get off of the interstates and immerse ourselves in the stories of the towns that dot the landscape of America.

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Artful Travel to Omaha

Walking up to the museum is quite a sight. The art deco design is amplified by the use of Georgia Pink marble for the exterior. It makes an impressive statement to visitors and locals alike. Opened in 1931, we found that the decorative panels on the outside pay homage to the native Indians who roamed these lands prior to the arrival of Europeans. Before heading inside, we wanted to enjoy a stroll through the outdoor sculpture garden.

Reminders of Home

Located on a little over an acre of space, the sculpture garden offers visitors some leisure time. It is also a great place to fill some time while you wait for your timed entry to arrive. This is obviously a COVID protocol and we are confident that there will be a time in the future when guests can drop by at any time the museum is open. As we explored this area, we came upon some familiar artists. Magdalena Abakanowicz’s Single was immediately recognizable, as we had made a recent visit to the Nelson-Atkins Art Museum in our hometown. Nearby, we spotted another piece that we found recognizable. Auguste Rodin is most noted for The Thinker, a copy is in Kansas City, but he has many more beautiful works. Our artful travel had brought us in front of this one in Omaha.

Artful Travel to Omaha

The time had come for our entry into the Joslyn so we made our way to the entrance. Once inside, we found the art deco design permeated the interior. This grand hall exudes the period and reminded us of many of the buildings and spaces in Tulsa, Oklahoma. We could hardly wait to explore more of the spaces.

Open Spaces

By using a timed entry approach, the Joslyn Art Museum has made it possible for guests to enjoy a socially distanced experience. In each gallery, we found plenty of space to view the pieces without being in close proximity to strangers. The artwork is spaced out in a fashion that also lends itself to semi-seclusion. With people just beginning to venture out, this type of precaution helps make artful travel safer.

European Influence

On this trip, our daughter Amanda had joined us for the day. While we enjoy traveling throughout North America, Amanda has a love for Europe. During her many visits to that region, she has developed a passion for European artists. I’ll say that I can enjoy these pieces, but like most, I have my own preferences. While the other two took in the artwork, I focused on my task of capturing images for the blog and our Instagram feed.

American Artists

Entering one gallery, I found myself instantly recognizing some pieces on the wall. While the specific images weren’t immediately familiar, the style of the artists was obvious. The works of Thomas Hart Benton are easily spotted and we have seen them served up in a wide variety of locations. Each one holds me in awe, as I take in the colorful images. Just as recognizable are the works of Grant Wood. This Iowa artist captures rural life in a way that evokes nostalgia.

Fashion Favorites

As much as Amanda likes European works, Crystal also has her favorites. It’s a sure bet that anything associated with fashion will capture her attention. When she spotted this work by Edgar Degas, her focus was on the fabric portion more than the bronze work. That is one of the great things about art. Everyone finds their own details that engross them and no one’s choice is wrong. Art is meant to be appreciated for all of its little details.

Forgotten Art

When we arrived in the wing that held the Native American works, it was time for me to see my favorites. My artful travel had been made with the anticipation of spotting some amazing beadwork. I can easily say I was not disappointed. Spotting this amazing case brought joy to my heart. I see art as a moment in time captured by the artist. Native American artwork will usually include some historical significance. This piece was dripping with history and I was enjoying every moment of it.

Old Meets New

While many of the pieces of native American beadwork are old, the art form has not died. The jacket was made in the mid-1800s and the beadwork looks as fresh as the day it was created. In contrast, the sneakers are obviously from a more recent time period, but nonetheless impressive. It is reassuring to see that there are still native artists keeping this skill alive.

In the Eye of the Beholder

Just down the hall, I spotted a large piece from an artist my age. Roxanne Swentzell shares the birth year with me but obviously has a great deal more artistic talent. I loved this piece that captures the playful spirit. It felt so alive that the pieces seemed to only be paused in a moment of frivolity.

Important Reminders

While the Joslyn Art Museum has an impressive collection of permanent galleries, they also feature a rotating exhibit. During our visit, it was a large piece by Wendy Red Star. It included a massive collection of photographic pieces featuring Native Americans. Most were labeled with the name of the people in the photos. It was very impressive to think about the number of hours required to assemble such a collection. The dedication showed in the quality of the piece. With daylight burning, we found our time in Omaha drawing to an end. I knew that the ride home would be filled with recollections of a day full of artful travel.

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Breakfast Inspiration

What started as a 2019 concept in Lincoln, blossomed into a second location here in Sandhill Crane Country. When I was researching dining options, this one stood out from the crowd as a go-to place to sample. The combination of positivity and Instagram-worthy plates certainly helped push it to the top. There are a few other things that separate Good Evans from the pack. First, they roast their coffee beans. This may not sound like a big deal, but to people who thrive off of their daily ration, it is HUGE. Second, the menu is designed by the husband and wife team, Travis and Sara Evans, who have a knack for bringing breakfast inspiration to the table. These two have successfully launched other local restaurants.

Choosing Something Sweet

Our visit fell on the morning of Labor Day, so we were happy to find Good Evans open. Since we arrived near opening time, the crowd was still pretty thin. Those that were in attendance were clearly locals, who perked their eyes up at a person with a camera. Oh well, nothing I’m not used to these days. As I captured images, Crystal perused the menu and sipped her coffee. By the time I returned, she had already made her decision, which was the Sweet Potato Pancakes. This is a dish that she first sampled at a local Kansas City restaurant, and now she is hooked on it. The Good Evans version is topped with whipped butter, and candied pecans, and drizzled with caramel sauce. What a pretty plate.

…Or Savory

I was looking for something a little more hearty to help carry us through our morning visit to The Archway Museum. It didn’t take but a moment for me to spot the benedicts section of the menu. When I spotted one named Nebraska Bene, it captured my attention. The standard beginnings of an English Muffin base get some interesting additions. They pile on the braised short rib, poached eggs, roasted tomato, wilted spinach, and a zesty herb cheese spread. Coat all of this goodness with house-crafted Hollandaise sauce and drizzle it with a balsamic glaze. It was a flavor explosion in my mouth. To make it even better, this dish comes with some of the crispest hash browns we have found. I was feeling breakfast inspiration.

Breakfast Inspiration on the Road

While the food certainly took the spotlight, we also have to give kudos for the wonderful décor at Good Evans. Throughout the space, it has an upbeat theme and a bright feel. The restaurant staff was extremely welcoming and we even had an opportunity to meet the manager, Doc Ali. As has happened on many occasions, we found some commonality. Until recently, he had been living in our hometown of Kansas City, so we were able to relate to many of the same haunts. It seems like wherever we roam, we find that people are the best reason for visiting new destinations. How many of you have had the same discovery?

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We want to thank The Archway for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Head West

The Archway is a modern museum dedicated to telling the story of the Platte River’s path through Nebraska. While the portion they show begins with westward bound settlers, this route has much more history. For thousands of years, a variety of indigenous people have lived or traveled along the Platte River. As the buffalo migrated along the river, so did the Native Indian tribes who hunted them. While the Platte River is a temporary home for migrating species, it does not have an abundance of fur-bearing animals. This meant that fur trappers left it unspoiled and undeveloped. 

Fort Kearney

By the mid-1800s traffic along the Platte River had increased significantly. Along this path the Oregon, California, and Mormon trails converged. Being about 1/6th of the way to their destination, this site seemed ripe for a restocking point. The original settlement, called Dobytown, would relocate closer to the fort and adopt it’s name. Westward bound travelers could restock supplies, trade livestock, and send letters back east to family and friends. It would be one of their last ties to civilization until they reached their destinations.

Westward Bound or Bust

One of the most famous routes was the Oregon Trail. Spanning more than 2,000 miles, this westward bound route ran from Independence, Missouri, and Omaha, Nebraska to the western seaboard. It is estimated that somewhere around 400,000 travelers passed along a portion of this pathway. We have had the opportunity to visit other museums that share the stories of these early pioneers. One of the earliest notable parties along the Oregon Trail was “The Great Migration of 1843”. Somewhere between 700 to 1000 emigrants ended up creating the route that would be used by others.

Education Made Easy

The Archway is certainly one of the most unique museums that we have visited. Constructed as a bridge over Interstate 80, this 1500 ton structure suspends visitors above the flowing traffic below. Visitors to The Archway will find an audio-visual experience that immerses them into the story of Westward Expansion. Handheld devices allow guests to hear details about events and circumstances that affected the growing nation. Placards placed around the museum trigger each interesting tidbit that flows together to tell the complete story.

Trails West

As we had discovered, the Platte River Trail would eventually split into three significant paths. The Archway does a great job of detailing the various destinations that each group of adventurers were seeking. The California Gold Rush created a need for a quick route to the mining fields. Crossing the wide and shallow Platte River was less dangerous than some of the other potential routes. While the silty water was not preferred for drinking, it could pass if needed and by allowing the silt to settle. Mormons looking to escape persecution would follow a similar path on their journey to Utah.

The Harsh Realities

Travel along the trails was fraught with peril and death became an ever-present companion. With so many camping in the same spots along the trails, infestations of cholera became commonplace. Since this disease is so easy to infect and spread, it soon passed farther down the trail. The death rate for those contracting the disease would often run between 60 and 90 percent. Soon, the trail would be dotted with markers of those lost along the way. In later years, new emigrants would find a continuous line of litter along the trails. Keepsakes and unnecessary items became burdens during the westward bound journey, and would soon be left to decay in the scorching sun.

Mass Migrations

After a few years, the citizens along the coast had grown to sizeable numbers. The long process of getting mail to the west coast called for a solution. This problem was addressed with the creation of the Pony Express. The goal was to cover the 1800 miles, from St. Joseph, Missouri to Sacramento, California, in only ten days. While the operation would be a success, the company would not be awarded the government contract. Eventually, the telegraph lines would be strung across the continent and remove the need for fast mail service. By the 1860s, the first transcontinental railroad would provide a new way for emigrants to complete their westward bound trips.

Automobiles Take the Lead

Our trip through The Archway led us upstairs to the 1900s. The invention of the automobile had revolutionized travel. People were no longer required to plan their trips by where the railroads ventured. The freedom of the open roads would push the nation to open up the lands that had been difficult to reach in the past. One of the earliest highways, to cross the continent, was the Lincoln Highway. Covering nearly 3400 miles, it connected New York City with San Francisco. The nation was once again on the move.

Early Hazards

Westward bound travelers wouldn’t find beautifully paved roads in the early days. Many trips might involve mud-filled paths in Iowa or flooded roads throughout the Midwest. Traversing the drifting sands in Utah would cause many radiators to overheat. These early explorers would be required to set out with plenty of supplies and spare parts, if they wanted to make a successful journey.

Roadside Stops

As we explored the exhibits, it made us think about auto travel in those early days. The press had suggested that it would take 20 to 30 days to complete a cross-country excursion. Gas stations would have been less commonplace, so it was advisable to fill up at every opportunity. The advancements being made during this period opened up exploring for more Americans. While many people in the 1800s had rarely traveled far from home, the automobile gave new-found freedom to wander and roam. It wouldn’t take long for savvy entrepreneurs to seize on the opportunity to  create businesses geared toward travelers.

America’s Interstates

As road improvements continued, it paved the way for a new style of family vacations. Hitting the open road became the new adventure. Fantastic destinations, that had previously only been dreamed of, were now easily within reach. By the end of the World War II, automobile culture had permeated the entire fabric of American life. In the 1950s, the number of registered cars would more than double. The introduction of the interstate system allowed travel that was uninterrupted by stoplights. America was on the move and I-80 was one of the major arteries of this new system.

Taking a Break From the Road

The Archway had definitely surpassed our imagination. Seeing this structure, as you approach along the interstate, it is hard to imagine the amount of displays they have stuffed inside. Now that we had seen it firsthand, it was a story we just had to tell. After thanking the staff for their hospitality, we headed outside to check out the rest of the campus. Walking and biking trails follow the bends of the Platte River, which runs next to the museum. We strolled along the path to check out the sculptures that have been assembled. There is also a sod house that visitors can check out. This ended up being a fantastic break from the road.

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We want to thank the Stuhr Museum for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

The Artifacts

The Stuhr Museum is broken into a collection of sites sitting on around 200 acres of land. We started our visit at the main museum building, which guests come to after entering the grounds. Inside is a series of galleries that hold artifacts from days gone by. Many of these are easily recognizable from the visits we have made to other prairie museums. As we wandered the museum, we could picture the pioneers of long ago using many of the pieces in their daily lives.

A Different Mindset

It’s easy to forget just how physically demanding life was in the 1800s. These days we have so many conveniences and machines to do much of the menial tasks. Spotting this photo of a mail carrier reminded us that there are still some labors that take a physical toll on the body. Of course, they do have trucks that get them closer to their final destination.

Visiting the Rotunda

After wrapping up in the main building, we moved across the parking lot to the Gus Fonner Memorial Rotunda. Inside we found a collection of artifacts from the western life. In the middle of the rotunda is a bronze statue that depicts a life-sized Sioux Indian family. The artist did a good job of capturing the wonder in the facial expression of the boy, who is watching his father fashion an arrow.

Life in Town

The galleries in the rotunda spin-off in spokes from the center. Each tells a portion of the tale that made up prairie life in 1890. We perused various displays on cowboy and Native Indian life.  There are also pieces that give a little insight into life in the towns that dotted the landscape, including this bar-room scene complete with a roulette table.

Earliest Settlers

We could see time was passing quicker than we desired, so we made the decision to move along. The Stuhr Museum grounds are laid out along a circular drive, so we hopped in our car for a tour. Along the route, we spotted a country church, log cabin settlement, ranch, and this Pawnee earth lodge. The Pawnee Indians had the largest population of any indigenous people in Nebraska. They have the lodge designed so that visitors can enter and see how it would have been set up for the residents to occupy.

Prairie Life in 1890

The road led us to Railroad Town, which was the main purpose of our visit. This is where history comes to life, as the town is occupied by character actors. We parked our car and assembled our gear to begin our exploring. Passing through the entrance transported us back to a time that Crystal and I have read a lot about. While my readings have focused on historical events and lifestyles, Crystal is more drawn to Little House on the Prairie type books. This kind of fits the way we focus on subjects during our visits.

Heading to Town

Heading into Railroad Town reminded us of the walk we found at Old Cowtown in Wichita, Kansas. The collection of buildings is laid out in a grid similar to what may have been found in any Midwest town. This would certainly be appropriate for prairie life in the 1890s. In the distance we could see other visitors exploring the various structures, so we hurried to join in the fun. A series of boardwalks would have served to keep people out of the muddy roads after a soaking rain.

1890s Shopping

Railroad Town is made up of businesses that would be commonplace at the turn of the century. While not every building was occupied by a tenant, each had a display for visitors to view. Stepping into the general store, we were greeted by the clerk. She walked us through the merchandise that would have been considered necessities in those days. She also carried a few trinkets and sweets in her inventory for those special moments. After all, who could pass up a pretty piece of candy?

Put a Lid On It

Passing down the boardwalk, we soon came to the millinery. These days hats are not nearly as commonplace, but prairie life in 1890 would have been different. Ladies and gentlemen would want a proper chapeau to complete their attire. We listened as our hostess instructed us on the proper technique to fashion a new hat. She should know, since she created all of these beauties herself.

Exploring Prairie Life in 1890

We continued our explorations of Railroad Town taking time to peek into every building. In the unoccupied businesses we found the tools of the trade for barbers, shoe makers, and other professions that would have been required to support prairie life in 1890. In the distance, we could hear the familiar ringing of hammer to anvil, and knew that the blacksmith was hard at work. Even though this was the last regular season day for the museums characters, they weren’t slacking on their duties.

Bank Robbers?

As we came to the end of a boardwalk, we noticed that the bank was open for business. With all of the appropriate safety measures in place, we wondered how they would feel about customers in masks. After all, I’m sure that masked visitors in those days signaled the start of a bank robbery. No fears about that this time, since we found that the bank teller was also masked up. So who’s robbing whom?

Tools of the Trade

With time running short, we made one more stop along our route. At the tinsmiths shop we found a gentleman hard at work designing a mold for a new cookie cutter. He was more than happy to take a break and explain the importance of this profession in prairie life. As he walked us through the steps of creating a new design, it made me realize just how manual every step of business was in those days. Each duty and task depended upon another to get it complete. The homemaker needed a biscuit cutter to make her fluffy treats, and this would be supplied by the tinsmith. We spent a few extra minutes watching him at his craft.

Embracing Prairie Life in 1890

Our four hour visit seemed to fly by and soon the road was calling us back. Having this opportunity to explore the Stuhr Museum supplied us with plenty of memories and lots of conversation topics for our upcoming drive. This museum focuses on education and uses plenty of interaction to get the points across. The main season is during the summer, when character actors are more prevalent. They also have engaging presentations during the weekends around the holidays. The museum grounds are open year round, so you can still see the many artifacts no matter the season. How would you have handled prairie life in 1890?

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Welcome to Grand Island

Grand Island lies along the I-80 path, as it crosses Nebraska. This city of almost 50,000 residents is home to the Stuhr Museum of the Pioneer Prairie. This was the draw that brought us to the city, but we knew that we would need sustenance to carry us through a visit. Being from a NASCAR city with its own unique dining experience, the sight of a race car on the roof certainly caught our eye. Since we were already stopped, we decided to check it out.

The King of NASCAR

Stepping into Thunder Road Grill was like immersing yourself in race day. Everywhere you look there are signs and artifacts associated with racing. We quickly learned to look up, as well as around. Spotting the iconic “43” of Richard Petty sent chills up my spine. After all, he wasn’t crowned The King of NASCAR without good reason. He was the first driver to win the NASCAR Cup Championship seven times, which is an accomplishment only achieved by two others. Seven seemed to be his lucky number, as that is also how many Daytona 500 wins he amassed. That is only fitting, since his father, Lee Petty, was the first-ever Daytona 500 winner.

Heads Up

After finding a seat, I had to do some more exploring. I’m sure Crystal gets a little tired of me wandering off, but at least she had some fresh coffee to sip on. With my camera in hand, I headed out to explore this space. In a separate area, I discovered a video game room that was the perfect setting for attaching a car to the ceiling. Whoever designed this place certainly wanted to take it to another level of fun.

Starting Our Engines

My explorations were interrupted by our meal being delivered. My appetite overtook my curiosity, so I sat down to refill my tank. After the nearly five-hour car ride, the smell of brunch was starting our engines. Crystal had ordered the Stuffed Biscuits & Gravy, which has a mixture of breakfast classics. After stuffing two buttermilk biscuits with eggs, cheddar cheese, and bacon, they ladle on a heaping helping of sausage gravy. This made my Pancakes, Eggs & More look rather tame. Oh well, the important thing was we needed to refuel for the day’s activity. The way we scarfed down our meals, you would think we had just crossed the entire prairie.

Unique Perspectives

While we dined, we took an opportunity to check out our surroundings. The designers of this space made sure to incorporate the artifacts to best engage with customers. Sure there are plenty of pieces hanging static on the walls, but they added a few extra twists. How about dining under a motorcycle crashing through a plate-glass window? Or setting up a family-sized seating arrangement underneath a classic hot rod? This is the kind of “out of the box” design that draws the customers into the scene.

Pit Stop Perfection

After we finished our meal, I took a few moments to do a little more scouting. These are the quiet moments when Crystal likes to savor her last sips of coffee. As I looked around the space, I noticed that they had included pieces with local interest. Mounted on the wall opposite of Petty’s car was a local stock car. It was a reminder that the birth and development of new race car drivers happen on these smaller venues, which often include dirt tracks. With many of these large sporting events in a state of flux right now, this place was able to offer a NASCAR fix for those needing to start their engines.

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Our itinerary will usually have us heading out after an early breakfast on a Friday morning. The drive up is a fairly normal landscape for the Midwest, and stops along the way are limited to quick rest stops, if needed. Once we hit town our first stop is usually in the Old Market area. Here you will find a multitude of restaurant options. The Twisted Fork is a funky little eatery that serves up standard fare with a contemporary spin. For those looking for a more traditional meal, Old Market Spaghetti Works dishes up Italian plates at reasonable prices.

After refueling our energy, it is time to do a little retail therapy. This area is packed with an eclectic collection of boutiques, art galleries, antique stores, and collectibles shops. We love to wander through the Old Market Passageway looking at what is available. If your sweet tooth gets to you there is a nice little candy store nearby, as well as a cupcake shop. Quite often we can spend a considerable part of the day in this part of town, and before long it is time to make our way to our hotel.

We have stayed at a variety of lodging options in Omaha, but our favorite place is definitely the Magnolia Hotel. Since our kids are grown, we find this boutique hotel, which is on the National Historic Registry, to be a great couple get-away. It is located just up the street from the Old Market and offers a free shuttle (think Cadillac Escalade). This helps to have to get your car from the valet. They have a restaurant and bar on-site, and each evening they offer FREE milk and cookies to their guests. We love this special treat! The hotel offers special packages that include various amenities, so if you are interested in is worth signing up for their emails.

Saturday morning we start our day with a good breakfast at the hotel, when it is included in the package. If not, we will usually grab a bite at one of the local bakeries or coffee houses. Now it is off to the Henry Doorly Zoo for a day of animal watching. This has to be our favorite zoological park in the Midwest, and their exhibits are impressive. We always grab our lunch at the Treetops Restaurant, which offers a good view of the rainforest exhibit while you eat for an affordable price. They also feature an aquarium, butterfly house, desert dome (can be kind of toasty in the summer), and a world-class primate area.

As the afternoon wears on, we notice the animals starting to slow down. Soon they all seem ready for their day to end, and it is our signal to start heading toward the gate. If it is early enough, we will have time to make a stop at the Durham Museum. Here we can see the history of Omaha, and find some interesting selfie opportunities.

We head back to the hotel to freshen up, and then have the valet drive us down to the Old Market area. With so many restaurant options, we never struggle to find something delicious. Afterward, we may choose a stroll in Heartland of America Park. Once we’ve walked off dinner it is time to head back to the hotel for our nightly cookie break. Mmm…they even have flavoring to add to your milk.

Sunday morning may be spent lounging around the hotel since it’s hard to say goodbye to this place. Soon we know that we need to start our return trip. Fortunately, there is another stop we can make before leaving Nebraska. Just about a half-hour away, in Ashland, you will find the Strategic Air Command Museum. We can spend a few hours here, but soon our stomachs are asking for lunch. As we head down the road we take comfort in knowing that we will be home before dinnertime. For our next visit, we will need to add different attractions and restaurants to our itinerary, but that will have to wait for now.

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The interior of the station is as grand as one would expect from the heyday of train travel. The station area has been preserved, and throughout the area statues have been added to memorialize the travelers of days gone by. Just past this area you will find a soda shop and candy store. Here visitors can fuel up before heading downstairs to view the exhibits.

Once downstairs you will find a history lesson on transportation methods in Omaha. There are a number of train cars that guests can wander through to see just how comfortable this form of travel became at the pinnacle of its use. Among the cars on display are a Pullman car, lounge car, and a caboose. Nearby you will find a hands-on exhibit that showcases the use of steam engines for helping with Westward Expansion. Our adult kids, and their parents as well, enjoyed the model train display, which mimics a 1950’s layout.

Of course, Omaha was on the edge of the frontier at one point, so they also highlight some of the earlier modes of transport. These would not have been nearly as luxurious or comfortable for long trips.

Additional exhibits focus on the history of Omaha, and some of the key businesses that helped drive its’ growth. Among these are Bekins Moving & Storage, a replica of the original 1915 Buffett Grocery Store, and Kimmel Orchard, complete with an apple tree.

Of course, with all of this walking. sometimes you just need a rest stop, and photo opportunity with a new found friend.

The Durham Museum also hosts traveling exhibits. They recently showcased an exhibit on Moonshining, which was widespread in the Midwest during the Prohibition era. The exhibit allowed visitors to explore a speakeasy, complete with dance floor, bar, and bandstand. Guests could also join gangsters in a lineup for photo opportunities. Beginning in May 2017, the museum will host an exhibit on spy-craft, where you can test your skills of observation. Exhibits will allow visitors to crack a safe, find hidden bugs, and use night vision. It sounds like it will be a blast for kids and adults alike. The museum is certainly family friendly, and it is best to carve off a couple of hours to explore it in depth. We hope you get to enjoy it soon and be sure to share your experiences with all of us.

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Open 9:00 to 5:00 daily, except holidays, visitors are welcomed by a few aircraft on display as you drive up the entrance. As you park you will notice the four rockets lining the walkway toward the entrance. These were each developed to assist in space exploration, satellite delivery or national defense. As you proceed past them you see the large glass entrance to the museum.

The 300,000 square foot facility has a glass atrium entrance, where guests will view a Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird. The Blackbird, which was built in the mid-1960’s, is still considered the world’s fastest airplane. The maximum speed is still classified information, but the cruising speed is listed at 1,320 mph. The plane is constructed largely of titanium, and has a special skin to resist the high heat of supersonic speeds.

The museum features two hangers, which are filled with an assortment of aircraft. Bombers, fighters, helicopters, and support aircraft fill the spaces, and offer visitors an up close view of these amazing machines. The museum also participates with other national museums in an exchange program. This allows them to offer traveling exhibits, which focus on assorted topics.

The museum offers educational programs for children including camps, workshops, overnight stays, scout programs, and science fairs. It also offers a venue to host birthday parties, which would be a special delight for a space enamored child. A snack bar is available for visitors to quench their thirst or stave off hunger. Near the end of your stay be sure to make a stop at the gift shop, and pick up a special token to remember your visit. Admission is $12.00 for adults, and $6.00 for kids age 4 to 12. Parking is free. Now wouldn’t it be great if they let you go for a ride in the aircraft of your choice?

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Make It Obvious

A larger than life placard stands in the parking lot, and helps guide potential visitors to the site. It is an appropriate memorial, as Buffalo Bill lived in North Platte for many years. This “tourist trap” location is loaded with potential photo opportunities, inside and out. After miles and miles of rolling grasslands, just about any structure grabs your attention. To the east, we had passed under the Archway Museum, that straddles I-80. Since spotting that attraction, we had sparsely seen any more. This tourist stop was just enough to get us to pull over.

Be Amused

From the parking lot, one can spot statues of buffalo and bear, as well as wagons, cannons, and other assorted items from bygone times. All of these displays are designed for one purpose, to get you into their store. After deciding to pull over, we weren’t about to pass up taking a peek inside. Besides, bathroom breaks are precious when making long-distance road trips. Upon entering the Fort Cody Trading Post shop, you will be awestruck by the large collection of oddities.

Over the Top

Here you will find many pieces associated with Buffalo Bill, and his days as host of his Wild West Show. There are a couple of glass cases that hold dioramas of the show. This 20,000 piece display is animated, with a show running every half hour. The Old West Museum also features; cowboy gear, Native American crafts, guns, and other assorted memorabilia. Once inside, we found a wide array of products for sale. Jewelry, apparel, books, knives, food stuffs, and a wide range of novelty items are just some of the things available. Since we like to collect memories from our travels, Fort Cody Trading Post ended up being a good stopping point. If you happen by this roadside attraction, you should stop in for a viewing of this unique, and quirky attraction. It also gives you an opportunity to stretch your legs, and will fuel you with plenty of conversational material for the road ahead.

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The Animals of the African Grasslands Exhibit

The most recent addition to this zoo is the $73 million African Grasslands exhibit. This 28-acre section is the single largest project in the zoo’s history. It opened this Summer, and the animals were still getting used to their surroundings. The day we went the weather was perfect, which meant that the activity level was fairly high.

Talk to the Animals

Meerkats and small African deer stand guard at the entrance to the new exhibit. This area can be missed if you aren’t paying close attention. Of course, kids usually have a habit of spotting these curious creatures. The giraffes are one of the first animals you encounter in the new open savanna-style exhibits. There were four outside the day we went, with a few more being held indoors. The staff is on hand to explain the exhibits, as well as answer any questions that guests may have.

Curious Residents

There is a feeding station where you can buy branches of leaves to feed the giraffes. They were quite skittish the day we went, but after a bit, they did wander closer. They were ready to eat until the train happened along. the staff explained that the giraffes had previously been in an area separate from the commotion, so they were still getting accustomed to the noise. It was still nice to get a close-up view of these amazing creatures.

Adapting to the New Enclosure

The train snakes its way all around the African exhibit, so many of the animals were a little on edge. The staff assured us that this will fade quickly, and soon they will go about their daily activities completely unnerved. The next area we encountered was the elephant enclosure. Unfortunately, they kept their distance from the crowd, so we didn’t get good views. I am glad I took our camera that has good zoom features. Staff explained that some of the elephants were recent additions to the zoo.

Hidden Gems

The rhinos are positioned on a hilltop just above the plains, so they are viewed a little from below. There are spots where they can be seen at eye level, but the feeding station is elevated, and that is where they were spending their time during our visit. Although they are on a hill, they are still in view.

Signs of Fall

As I already said, the weather was perfect, but the signs of Fall were already making their presence seen. The landscaping in this new section is very nice if still a little young. They have a wonderful selection of trees, shrubs, and grasses that will be quite dramatic when fully grown. The landscape will look even more beautiful as it matures. Continuing the journey towards the back of the park, we came upon a lagoon. Here there were plenty of places to feed the fish and ducks that occupy the water. In the middle of the lagoon, they have an island dedicated to holding the gibbons. These creatures are certainly entertaining to watch, as they swing, wrestle, and play high above the ground. It would be easy to spend an entire day watching them at play.

Lazy Day

After crossing one of the two bridges you will find yourself in the big cat area. Here you will find the cheetahs, which were sleeping in a log, and the lions. The lion exhibit is a take on a safari camp with places for guests to have an interesting interactive experience. One of the most fascinating is a wall of glass for panoramic views. There is even a section that has a truck divided in half by the glass. Guests can sit in the cab, while lions can climb in the bed of the truck. of course the day we were there the lions chose to spend their time surveying their land from a hilltop. The new exhibit mimics a safari camp.

After getting to the back end of the park, we chose to ride the aerial tram back toward the entrance. We thought this would give us an interesting perspective on what we had already seen. This ride costs $3.00 per adult for a one-way ride. The Skyfari ride runs from across the park. Gaining a new perspective of our surroundings. It certainly provided a better perspective of the layout of the new exhibit. This area will certainly require a return visit next year to see if the animals are better adapted to their new homes. Overall we were quite pleased with this new addition, but we have only scratched the surface of this wonderful zoo. What are some of your favorite exhibits at the Henry Doorly Zoo?

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