Nebraska's Under-The-Radar City Is A Fun Omaha Day Trip With A River Trail, Local Art, And A Vibrant Downtown

Most people picture lonely prairies and swaying cornfields when they think of Nebraska, but the Cornhusker State is packed with all kinds of adventure. While the state's biggest metropolis, Omaha, tends to steal the spotlight with its offerings of family amusements like zoos, immersive museums, and botanical gardens, there are plenty of small-town gems worth visiting that don't get nearly as much attention. One riverfront haven called Norfolk landed on Joy Organics' list of "150 Best Places in America to Escape the Rat Race," ranking highest out of the four Nebraska towns included. Around two hours by car from Omaha, Norfolk makes for an easy day trip filled with artsy entertainment and countryside scenery.

Unlike its counterpart in Virginia, this Midwestern locale is pronounced "nor-fork," an homage to the North Fork Elkhorn River flowing along the town's eastern edge. The main artery of the Elkhorn River cuts across Norfolk's southern boundary, offering kayakers the chance to jump in the water for a serene paddle session. Nature fiends can also follow the Cowboy Trail for a pleasant riverside trek. Tranquil parks near lakes beckon anglers to spend the day fishing, while open green spaces are perfect for family picnics.

Travelers seeking small-town shopping sprees and sightseeing strolls should head to the River Point Creative District. Snap photos with colorful wall murals, or hunt down all the public installations that form the Norfolk Area Sculpture Walk. Rotating exhibitions of contemporary works can also be viewed at the Norfolk Art Center. Tourists can amble along the downtown thoroughfare, where shady trees, historic brick architecture, and vibrant storefronts add a dose of charm. Pop into the local boutiques and thrift stores for unique souvenirs, then refuel at the scattering of cafes and eateries within the district.

The best part of traveling to a new destination is exploring its city center, and Norfolk has plenty to offer on this front. The main drag running east to west through the River Point Creative District is Norfolk Avenue, with smaller streets and alleys branching out north to south. As you meander through, keep an eye out for the larger-than-life murals that reveal themselves across the walls of hidden alleyways. Don't miss a photo opportunity in front of the gargantuan mural of Johnny Carson, the famous late-night host and proud Norfolk resident.

Adding even more vibrancy to Norfolk Avenue are the many artworks dotting the sidewalks. As part of the Sculpture Walk Across Nebraska initiative, certain installations are swapped out, which means there's always something new to see if you visit again. Among the permanent sculptures on view are an adorable shaggy hound titled "Rocky II" and an arrangement of giant tulips made from hammered metal sheets. Visitors can even take a guided walking tour to tick off all of Norfolk's quirky sculptures while stopping at local eateries for sustenance.

Aside from art installations, downtown Norfolk offers myriad other activities and events. Stop by during the summer months to see the streets come alive with musical performances as part of the annual River Point Concert Series. Mingle with locals and sample refreshments amidst the merry atmosphere. If you're a fiend for organic fruits and vegetables, then Tuesdays (June through September) and Saturdays (May through October) are when the crowds head to the Norfolk Farmers Market. Stock up on everything from fresh produce to handcrafted souvenirs. If you'd like to continue exploring the surrounding area, drive a bit over an hour northwest to Niobrara, a little town with unique outdoor beauty.

While downtown Norfolk distracts artsy sightseers, the outskirts of town are where outdoor enthusiasts can step into the Nebraskan countryside. Skirting the edge of the Elkhorn River south of town is the Cowboy Trail, a rail-to-trail route with 187 miles already open between Norfolk and Valentine. Once completed, it will span around 321 miles and reach all the way to Chadron, a historic Midwest town where you can get a taste of the American frontier. Both paved and gravel paths follow what was once a Chicago and North Western Railway route. Hikers and mountain bikers can access the trail at Ta-Ha-Zouka Park, spending the day amidst untouched wilderness.

Along the way, you'll encounter grassy slopes and the sprawling wildflower meadows of the Great Plains stretching across the horizon. Eventually, you'll reach a metal truss bridge extending over the Elkhorn and offering a picturesque viewpoint of the wetland scenery below. Tufty sandbanks emerging from the water and dense groves of trees framing the riverbanks create a tranquil backdrop.

Meanwhile, less outdoorsy travelers who still want to bask in peaceful landscapes should head to Johnson Park, not far from downtown and tucked along the smaller North Fork waterway. Paved footpaths clinging to the banks mean pedestrians can enjoy leisurely riverfront strolls. There's even a miniature version of the truss bridge, brightly illuminated at nighttime. Flat, rocky ledges along the water's edge invite visitors to sit and enjoy the calming view. A few minutes away is North Fork Whitewater Park, where tubers and kayakers can zoom down gentle rapids for a fun-filled day on the water. For more outdoor exploration in Nebraska's wilderness, head to the Niobrara National Scenic River, considered one of the quietest places on Earth, around three hours northwest.