You can find pretty much anything, pleasing to all ages and tastes. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs, such as hands-on activities and interactive exhibits. Most people think of farmland, and that's about it. Family Fun in Omaha Your local resource for family-friendly activities and events in Omaha. They also offer a variety of packages for birthday parties, corporate events, and other special occasions. The best bait to use on the Platte River is worms and nightcrawlers, but you can also try your hand at fly fishing. Living history, inviting parks, racing horses, migrating cranes . In 1857, 35 German settlers reached this area. The Mormon Island State Recreation Area sounds like an ideal spot for fishing and boating, can't wait to catch some fresh fish for dinner! 2023 There are also plenty of trails for hikers and bikers to explore, as well as a boat ramp for those looking to take a leisurely cruise down the river. With its rich history, a wide array of activities, and natural beauty, it is a must-visit destination for any nature enthusiast. WebThese lists and articles explore the little things that add up to a grand life in Grand Island, Nebraska. Grand Island They write new content and verify and edit content received from contributors. For those who want to take a break from the beautiful scenery, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. These lists and articles explore the little things that add up to a grand life in Grand Island, Nebraska. Grand Island Known as the home of the Nebraska State Fair, Fonner horse racing, and great sandhill crane watching in late winter, Grand Island offers more than seasonal attractions. In 2010 Grand Island became the home of the Nebraska State Fair. Stuhr Museum Every museum tells a story, but Stuhr Museum's 200 acres puts you in the story with living history and notable architecture. Whether youre visiting for a romantic evening stroll or a leisurely afternoon exploring the area, the Skywalk will provide an unforgettable experience. With its wide selection of stores, unique items and friendly service, you're sure to find the perfect item. 27 Best & Fun Things to Do in Grand Island (NE) Published on: December 1, 2022 by Tourist Checklist. Fun The airfield still operates as Grand Islands airport in 2022. 27 Best & Fun Things to Do in Grand Island (NE) Published on: December 1, 2022 by Tourist Checklist. You dont need to go to Vegas to be bad. The Grand Island Community Theatre is a great place to experience the wonders of live theatre. The museum also offers a variety of special events throughout the year. Located near the Platte River, this restaurant offers the best in local, fresh ingredients and a menu that is constantly changing. Grand Island History. WebOur city was named for an island on the Platte River, an island in the middle of what was then called The Great American Desert. PAWNEE Grasslands stretched out to the horizon in every direction surrounding the place that would become Grand Island, Nebraska. He writes magazine, newspaper, and online articles as well as offering ghostwriting services. Interesting Facts About Grand Island WebAll (46) Movie Theaters (7) Theaters (4) History Museums (4) Specialty Museums (3) Family Fun Center (2) Water Parks (2) Horse Races (2) Children's Museums (2) Bowling (1) River (1) Gift Shops (1) Historic Homes (1) Monuments (1) WebGrand Island is a city in and the county seat of Hall County, Nebraska, United States. Inc. 1873. These dams changed the flow of water in such a way that La Grand Isle is no longer, however other large islands including Mormon Island and Shoemaker Island took its place in the braided river system. And 50 years later, Interstate 80. Web2103 Stolley Park Road West, Grand Island, NE Playground Equipment: The park offers numerous playground areas with equipment for all children.Fitness Trail: There is a hard surfaced drive throu Read More You wont be disappointed. RAIL TRAVELS GOLDEN AGE WebThese lists and articles explore the little things that add up to a grand life in Grand Island, Nebraska. The Platte River of Grand Island, Nebraska is a great place to go fishing. For those looking for a more traditional movie experience, the theater also offers a variety of current movies for viewing. Grand Island has been given the All-America City Award four times (1955, 1967, 1981, and 1982) by the National Civic League. Yes, there is plenty of shopping to do in Grand Island NE such as the Edgewood Shopping Center, the Grand Island Mall, and the Grand Central Mall. Riverside Park is a great place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with family and friends, says park ranger Barry Johnson. Through the course of the evening, the city was ravaged by seven tornadoes, the worst of which was rated F4 on the Fujita Scale. Central Nebraska Regional Airport is located in Grand Island. The Nebraska State Fair of Grand Island also has a few more unique attractions. . American Community Survey, 2017, U.S. Census Bureau. Grand Island A coffeehouse and wine bar, the eclectically designed dessert restaurant features three types of cake: double-layered chocolate, almond rainbow pound, and classic carrot cake squares. The Grand Theatre, a movie theater in downtown Grand Island, is an art deco building that traces its history to the Lincoln Highway. The citys population would more than double over the next 50 years to 19,000 in 1940. With plenty of trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds, the park is the perfect place to spend the day with family and friends. From carnival rides and games to livestock shows and carnival food, the fair has it all. Located at an auto repair shop, Freds Flying Circus is free to the public and can be visited during business hours. The park even offers educational lectures and presentations from wildlife experts that provide visitors with invaluable insight into the wildlife around them. The Skywalk is especially impressive at night, when the stars and moonlight illuminate the landscape and create a beautiful night sky. The citys name comes from an island in the nearby Platte River called La Grande le (French: Big Island) by 18th-century French fur traders. Tornado Hill is a local landmark created as a direct result of the tornadoes. The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page. There are nature trails with interpretive signs explaining the different species of plants and animals that inhabit the area. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions. The Wild Animal Park of Grand Island, Nebraska is a great place to get close to nature. There are also plenty of live music and entertainment performances throughout the day to keep everyone entertained. With its natural wildlife and stunning views, its sure to make for a memorable experience. The Grand Island metropolitan area has an official population of 83,472 residents. Things to Do in Grand Island Grande Island is the county seat of Hall country in the state of Nebraska, United States. If youre looking for a unique dining experience, the Grand Island Grill is definitely worth checking out. For visitors who like to shop, the fair has a variety of vendors selling handmade goods, jewelry, and other items. If youre looking for a place to spend a quiet afternoon, the Grand Island Public Library is the perfect spot. . Things to Do with Kids in Grand Island The Nebraska State Fair of Grand Island is an excellent way to have fun and explore the beauty of Nebraska. The restaurant also offers a variety of catering services, so you can bring the Grand Island Grill experience to your own party or event. The fair takes place in the summer, so visitors can enjoy the nice weather and sunshine while they explore the fairgrounds. The Riverside Cinema of Grand Island, Nebraska, is a popular spot for movie-goers looking for a little extra out of their movie-going experience. Grand Island is a family-friendly destination with the Stuhr Living History Museum, Island Oasis Water Park, and for viewing the Sandhill Cranes migration each Spring. The Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer is an incredible place to explore the history of the American Midwest. What You'll Learn These include movie marathons, trivia nights, and special screenings. The museum is located on the grounds of the historic Stuhr Ranch, which was established in the late 1800s by the Stuhr family. While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies. Whether youre a student, a researcher, or just someone looking for a good read, the library has something for everyone. While you cant play the slots, you can definitely walk away a winner with your dinner choices. Grand Island History A lot of homesteading that went on was either speculation or European immigrants who had no way to become landowners in their home countries. Fun Facts About Nebraska TRANSCONTINENTAL RAILROAD No matter what you're looking for, Downtown Grand Island has something to offer everyone. All Rights Reserved. The ordinance plant employed more than 4,200 people at its peak, and operated until 1960. Fun Facts About Nebraska Grand Island is home to the last remaining paved road along the Seedling Mile, the second paved road established for the original stretch of U.S. Highway 30, also known as the Lincoln Highway. There are also plenty of food vendors offering a selection of delicious treats. Starting in the 1840s, the California and Mormon trails guided hundreds of thousands of people in wagon trains on the same route that would come to be known as the Great Platte River Road. Grand Island, Nebraska So come explore the many attractions Grand Island has to offer and make some wonderful memories along the way. Private Schools, Homeland Infrastructure Foundation. Youll feel like youre in South Florida during your visit to Wave Pizza Company and Bonzai Beach Club. No matter what youre looking for, youre sure to find something to enjoy at the Grand Island Public Library. Nearly 800,000 birds passed through. Its a way to bond with family and friends and make lasting memories. Living history, inviting parks, racing horses, migrating cranes . Prepare to buy a home. When planning your visit to the Grand Island Community Theatre, there are a few tips you should keep in mind. Grand Island, Nebraska With plenty of amenities and activities to choose from, the park is sure to make for a memorable visit. WebAll (46) Movie Theaters (7) Theaters (4) History Museums (4) Specialty Museums (3) Family Fun Center (2) Water Parks (2) Horse Races (2) Children's Museums (2) Bowling (1) River (1) Gift Shops (1) Historic Homes (1) Monuments (1) Are you an official in the Grand Island government or quasi-government agency such as the chamber of commerce, visitors bureau or economic development council? During the 2020 census, the city was said to have a population of fifty-three thousand, one hundred and thirty-one persons. The city was then incorporated in 1872. It is a very beautiful rural area around the Platte River -- and birds settle there for the night. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 28.55 square miles (73.94km2), of which, 28.41 square miles (73.58km2) is land and 0.14 square miles (0.36km2) is water. You can find pretty much anything, pleasing to all ages and tastes. Located a few miles outside Grand Island, Moonlight Ridge Vineyard is a family-owned winery open Fridays and Saturdays from spring through fall. Check it out. There were five deaths as a result of the tornadoes. Plus, the librarys website has a great selection of e-books and audio books that can be downloaded for free. The Transcontinental Railroad was completed in 1869, cementing Grand Islands identity as a railroad town. https://hifld-geoplatform.opendata.arcgis.com/datasets/hospitals, https://hifld-geoplatform.opendata.arcgis.com/datasets/private-schools, https://www.imls.gov/research-evaluation/data-collection/public-libraries-survey, https://hifld-geoplatform.opendata.arcgis.com/datasets/public-schools, https://www.unitedstateszipcodes.org/zip-code-database/, information page for government officials, Population % with Bachelor Degree or Higher, Median Earnings Without High School Qualification, Other(often includes Hispanic and African American), Temp ranges are avg daily min and max for the month, Precipitation is rainfall (and rainfall equiv of snowfall). For anyone looking to make a night of it, the theater also offers a concession stand with snacks and drinks. As the Railside district continues to grow, downtown Grand Island has proven to be a fun area to browse and shop. WebSee All Activities & Interests History and Culture Outdoor Activities Food and Drink Sightseeing Seasonal Travel National Parks State Parks Hotels and Resorts Wildlife Beaches Shopping Festivals and Special Events Theme Parks Photography Reading See All Types of Travel Group Travel Road Trips RVing Camping Rail Cruises and Sailing Wellness Travel It covers three-fourths of an acre We want to inspire you to explore new destinations, discover new experiences and savor the journey. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or a day trip, here are 14 fun things to do in Grand Island that are sure to make your trip a memorable one. https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/acs/. Additionally, the river is home to a wide variety of wildlife, making it a great place to watch and observe the natural beauty of the area. Things to Do in Grand Island Visitors can take a trip through the animal barns to see all of the different breeds of animals that are exhibited. U.S. Route 30 runs eastwest through the center of Grand Island. Fast forward to the automobile in the early 1900s. The Chocolate Bar also offers a variety of tea as well as cocktails. Enjoy your trip! So why not come and explore the beauty of the Grand Island Skywalk today? Visitors can also ride the museum's vintage train car to tour the grounds. Grand Island Over the next nine years, the settlers had to overcome many hardships, including blizzards and conflicts with Native Americans. The population was 53,131 at the 2020 census. Annual events include the Central Nebraska Ethnic Festival (July) and Husker Harvest Days, an agricultural show (September). Grand Island, Nebraska Facts for Kids Interesting It is a very beautiful rural area around the Platte River -- and birds settle there for the night. Do we have deep ties to the land, the prairies, and the river around us? The river is full of a variety of fish, from bass and catfish to walleye and pike. Grand Island is home to the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center, which is the sole agency responsible for training law enforcement officers throughout the state, as well as the home of the Southern Power District serving southern Nebraska. With plenty of benches, tables, and grills, visitors have plenty of space to enjoy a meal outdoors. You may question if its a museum youre visiting or a mansion when you walk into the main building, highlighted by its dual-sided white staircase with water fountains at the base. Whether youre a beginner or an experienced bowler, youll find something fun and challenging at this bowling center. When you visit the Grand Island Grill, you can also explore the area. There are many sites around Kearney and Grand Island Nebraska. The Skywalk offers visitors a 360-degree view of the area, with the Platte and Missouri Rivers on the east and west sides respectively. In 1857, 35 German settlers reached this area. Be sure to arrive early for the best seating and read the playbill for helpful information about the show. Plus, the library hosts regular book clubs and other events to help readers connect with one another. NIGHT OF THE TWISTERS The Wild Animal Park of Grand Island also offers visitors a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with the animals. At least not when it comes to your diet. The serene atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. And don't forget to take advantage of the beautiful hiking trails at the Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center - it's the perfect way to immerse yourself in nature. Wow, I had no idea there were so many fun things to do in Grand Island, NE! Interesting Facts About Grand Island The Skywalk is the perfect spot for a romantic evening stroll or a leisurely afternoon exploring the area. WebThis spring (2019) it was very cold so the bird migration was later -- but bigger. The tours provide a comprehensive look at the museum and its many exhibits. Prepare to buy a home. The Nebraska State Fair of Grand Island is one of the most popular and exciting events in the state. Before the movie, be sure to take in the stunning views of the Platte River and the surrounding landscape. WebThings to Do in Grand Island, Nebraska: See Tripadvisor's 9,445 traveler reviews and photos of Grand Island tourist attractions. Thank you for highlighting these amazing attractions in Grand Island! At Island Bowl & Fun Center, bowling is more than just a game. A great location for viewing during crane season, the Crane Trust Nature And Visitor Center is a perfect spot to enjoy the outdoors year-round. When you step into Island Bowl & Fun Center, you are immediately transported to an old-school bowling alley. The citys name comes from an island in the nearby Platte River called La Grande le (French: Big Island) by 18th-century French fur traders. Locals will tell you that no trip to Grand Island is complete without a stop at The Chocolate Bar. WAGON TRAINS This store has been around for over 25 years and offers a variety of antiques and collectibles. These prairies had been populated by the Pawnee Indians for hundreds of years, living in communities of earth lodges while farming they cultivated 10 varieties of corn and hunting buffalo. Most people think of farmland, and that's about it. Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the Skywalk, or they can explore the nearby nature trails. Located on the east side of Grand Island, this family-owned bowling center offers a variety of bowling activities, such as traditional 10-pin bowling, candlepin bowling, and glow-in-the-dark cosmic bowling. The theatre has comfortable seating and plenty of legroom, but the best seats go quickly. WebSee All Activities & Interests History and Culture Outdoor Activities Food and Drink Sightseeing Seasonal Travel National Parks State Parks Hotels and Resorts Wildlife Beaches Shopping Festivals and Special Events Theme Parks Photography Reading See All Types of Travel Group Travel Road Trips RVing Camping Rail Cruises and Sailing Wellness Travel Taking place in Grand Island, Nebraska, this fair is the perfect way to spend an unforgettable summer day. Grand Island is the principal city of the Grand Island metropolitan area, which consists of Hall, Merrick, Howard and Hamilton counties. A book, Night of the Twisters, by Ivy Ruckman, and movie were based on this event. It is home to a variety of bird species, including the American white pelican, sandhill crane, and mallard. Grand Island, Nebraska Facts for Kids Located about two hours west of Omaha along Interstate 80, Grand Island will be thrilled to have you visit. WebThis spring (2019) it was very cold so the bird migration was later -- but bigger. A German settlement was established near the river in 1857, but it was moved to the present site, a few miles north, in 1866, in order to be on the Union Pacific Railroad, which was subsequently crossed by what is now the Burlington Northern Santa Fe line. In addition to all the fishing and outdoor activities, the Platte River also offers a unique experience. Grand Island was known as La Grand Isle by French traders. U.S. Route 281 is the main northsouth route in the city, running through the city's west edge south to Hastings, and north to O'Neill. Web2103 Stolley Park Road West, Grand Island, NE Playground Equipment: The park offers numerous playground areas with equipment for all children.Fitness Trail: There is a hard surfaced drive throu Read More The Nebraska State Fair of Grand Island is a great way to have fun and explore the area. One of the main attractions is the Pioneer Farm, which is a re-created farm from the 1800s. Grand Island, Nebraska, in Hall county, is 88 miles W of Lincoln, Nebraska and 127 miles W of Omaha, Nebraska. One can also visit parks like Abbot Park, Augustine Park, the Grand Island Heritage Zoo and Ashley Park while in Grand Island. The Crane Mead Wildlife Area stretches across 10,000 acres of grasslands, wetlands, and riparian habitats. Grand Island On the tours, you will be able to pet the animals, feed them, and even take pictures with them. Grand Island, city, seat of Hall county, south-central Nebraska, U.S., about 90 miles (145 km) west of Lincoln. Watching the wildlife is a great way to pass the time and get a glimpse of the natural beauty of the river. The museum is also a great place to take a break and relax, as there is a picnic area with benches and a playground. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the annual Pioneer Days celebration, which features storytelling, music, and live demonstrations. Grand Island, Nebraska facts for kids Total 29.89 sq mi (77.41 km 2) Land 29.69 sq mi (76.89 km 2) Water 0.20 sq mi (0.51 km 2) Elevation 1,860 ft (567 m) Population ( 2020) Total 53,131 Density 1,726.86/sq mi (666.75/km 2) Time zone UTC6 ( No matter what type of movie experience youre looking for, the Riverside Cinema of Grand Island, Nebraska, has something for you. Having been a manager of people, he is intrigued by people's leadership qualities and practices. We have reviews of the best places to see in Grand Island. From adrenaline-pumping activities to tranquil outdoor experiences, Grand Island has something for everyone. Along with that, I'm looking forward to checking out the art exhibits and events at the Gallery 9. Yes, there are many outdoor activities to do in Grand Island NE such as fishing, camping, biking, and golfing at Riverside Country Club. Family Fun in Omaha Your local resource for family-friendly activities and events in Omaha. 405520N 982129W / 40.922316N 98.357996W / 40.922316; -98.357996. It is open year-round and offers a variety of exhibits, activities, and events that are sure to interest everyone. Also, be sure to read the playbill before the show. Pawnee peoples were living in the area when the first Europeans arrived in the late 1700s. This original settlement of log homes struggled with hardships common to pioneers. The theatre offers a wide range of plays, musicals and special events to delight audiences of all ages. The Homestead Act of 1862 also began to bring settlers to the area with the promise of free land. There are many sites around Kearney and Grand Island Nebraska. So if you are looking for a great place to go fishing and experience the outdoors, the Platte River is the perfect place. It is the largest inland island in the world. In 1868 the railroad reached the area, bringing increased trade and business. The Skywalk is a perfect place for visitors to enjoy the breathtaking views of Grand Island and the surrounding area. Among the events held at the park, Nebraska State Fair is the most popular one. From funnel cakes to corn dogs to barbecue, visitors wont be disappointed. The racial makeup of the city was 80.0% White, 2.1% African American, 1.0% Native American, 1.2% Asian, 0.2% Pacific Islander, 13.1% from other races, and 2.4% from two or more races.