There are so many museums all across Nebraska that it would take years to visit them all. If you have to narrow down the possibilities, the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum in Ashland is one that you should definitely make a special effort to see at least once.

The Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum started its life as an outdoor display at Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue. In 1998, the collection was moved indoors to a large facility in Ashland.

The museum has gone through a few name changes in its time, but it is currently known as the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum. The name reflects its dedication to preserving the history of the Strategic Air Command at Offutt while providing the opportunity for the public to learn about aviation history, space travel, and science.

One of the first things you'll notice when you walk into the huge glass atrium is the SR-71A "Blackbird" suspended above. It's an impressive sight, to say the least.

There are two hangars full of aircraft from many eras. Some are displayed suspended from the ceiling...

Others are on the ground...

And a few even let you step inside to experience what it was like to pilot these massive machines. The controls are completely mind-boggling. Can you imagine keeping track of all of these functions?

Many of the aircraft on display are rare and historic and provide a unique look into military history. Placards give the history of each aircraft, some with fascinating stories of their former lives.

It would be hard to overstate the sense of awe and wonder that comes with being this close to these history-making machines.

The entire facility encompasses 300,000 square feet. In addition to the two massive aircraft hangars, there is a 200-seat theater, an aircraft restoration gallery, a traveling exhibit area, and a children's interactive gallery. A snack bar provides a place to sit down, have a little nosh, and relax before you get back to the displays.

The exhibit space is full of a different side of military history and space travel. The displays tell the human stories behind the wars and provide an interesting context for the rest of the museum.

Whether you're interested in military history, aviation, space travel, or science, the SAC Museum is the perfect place for a family outing. It's educational, but it's also full of amazing sights that will keep the whole family interested.

It's best to plan for a stay of at least several hours. You'll need plenty of time to wander through all of the aircraft and the exhibits.

The museum has had flight simulators for quite a while (pictured below), but in 2016 they added two state-of-the-art simulators that offer thrilling 360-degree pitch and roll motion. HD-3D projection and a five speaker surround sound system add to the realism of the ride. Riders can choose between 27 different ride programs.

After you've seen and experienced all of the thrilling displays in the museum, make a stop by the gift shop on the way out. From souvenirs to science kits to astronaut ice cream, you'll find plenty of things to commemorate your visit.

Address: 28210 West Park Highway, Ashland, NE 68003. Admission is $12 for adults, $11 for military and seniors, $6 for children 4-12, and free for kids under 4. Flight simulator rides range from $9 to $13 (in addition to the cost of admission) depending on membership status and the type of ride you select. The museum is open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., 7 days a week.

See the museum's website for more information about the permanent and temporary exhibits, along with information on booking a tour or renting space for a birthday party or other event.