11 Amazing Nebraska Secrets You Never Knew Existed

Nebraska is just full of fun secrets. It's such a big state that people in one part can go an entire lifetime without knowing about the fun things hiding in another part. Those who live near these "secrets" will be familiar with them, but if you live far away these may come as a total surprise.

1. The Nebraska Baseball Hall of Fame, Beatrice

This unique museum is dedicated to the significant contributions that Nebraskans have made to the sport of baseball. Not only players, but umpires, managers, and those involved in the business side of the game are honored here.
In the Aunt Mary's Restaurant Building,

111 So. 8th St.

Beatrice, NE 68310

2. Glass Bottom Boat Ride at Fort Kearney Museum, Kearney

The only glass bottom boat ride in Nebraska takes you out on a lake where you can see huge catfish, tiny freshwater jellyfish, and a variety of other wildlife below the surface.131 Central AveKearney, NE 68847

3. Nebraska's Little Grand Canyon, Wauneta

The canyon just outside of Wauneta isn't as deep or wide as the better-known Grand Canyon, but it's impressive nonetheless. A highway pull-off lets you park and gaze out over the spectacular scenery.Route 6 just outside of Wauneta

4. Happy Jack Chalk Mine, Scotia

Take a tour of the only underground diatomic mine in the United States that's open to the public...and Nebraska's only underground tour. The historical significance of the mine makes it a fascinating place to explore, and the beautiful scenery around it makes it the perfect place to spend an afternoon.NE-11Scotia, NE 68875

5. Legacy of the Plains Museum, Gering

This museum right on the Oregon Trail boasts a huge collection of various pioneer artifacts, antique farm implements, an 80-acre working farm, and historic farmstead buildings. It's definitely worth a stop for history lovers.2930 Old Oregon TrailGering, NE 69341

6. Living Memorial Gardens, Sidney

Located in the Sidney Legion Park, this peaceful spot is dedicated to the people of Sidney who played a role in American History. The park also contains a Christmas Box Angel, which is usually placed to commemorate those who lost a child too soon. This angel, however, honors all people who died too soon.Just south of downtown Sidney

7. Long Pine State Recreation Area, Brown County

This is one of the lesser-known recreation areas, meaning that you'll have less competition for fishing spots along the scenic Long Pine Creek. You can camp here (primitive camping only) and enjoy the short one-mile scenic hiking trail.Northwest of Long Pine, NE

8. Mayhew Cabin and John Brown's Cave, Nebraska City

As Nebraska's only confirmed stop on the Underground Railroad, this attraction is of particular historical significance. See an example of an underground hiding spot where escaped slaves might have hidden while fleeing to freedom.2012 4th CorsoNebraska City, NE 68410

9. Museum of American Speed, Lincoln

Lincoln is home to several unique museums, but the Museum of American Speed is just so chock full of so many types of memorabilia that it deserves a mention. For anyone who loves cars, history, and the history of cars, it's a must-visit.599 Oakcreek DrLincoln, NE 68528

10. Champion Mill State Historic Park, Champion

This historic water powered mill doesn't work anymore, but the mill pond still offers peaceful fishing, and the surrounding area has plenty of great spots to sit and have a nice picnic.Champion is a very small town. If you can find it, you can find the mill.

11. Pony Express Station and Museum, Gothenburg

This sweet little park features preserved buildings and artifacts from the days of the Pony Express. Historical guides can even teach you about the history of the Pony Express, and you can mail a postcard from an actual Pony Express saddlebag.1500 Lake Ave, GothenburgNE 69138

These are only a few of the hundreds of hidden gems just waiting out there in Nebraska to be explored. For more amazing hidden gems (and one that's also included here), check out this list.