Summer is such a great time to get out and explore Nebraska, and there's never a shortage of awesome things to do. Pack up the family and embark on these day trips to create summer memories that will last a lifetime! Here are some of the best day trips in Nebraska for a warm summer day (some of which might just be fun year-round):

1. Cool off underground at Happy Jack Chalk Mine in Scotia.

Wouldn't it feel great to get out of this summer heat and walk around in a cool cave? You'll learn a little about nature and history, too!

2. Visit this little zoo in Monroe.

Tired of the bigger zoos in Omaha and Lincoln? Head out to Horn T Zoo for a more hands-on experience with an impressive collection of animals. The keepers are exceptionally knowledgeable and always happy to chat about the animals.

3. Take a trip to this little-known park in Omaha known as Freedom Park.

A lot of people have no idea this interesting park exists on the banks of the Missouri near Eppley Airfield. It features a decent collection of retired US military vehicles, both aquatic and land-based.

4. Go on one of Nebraska's most beautiful hikes near Valentine.

You'll find so many natural wonders at Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, but this hike to the impressive Fort Falls will be a highlight of your visit. Wear sturdy shoes, and bring lots of drinking water whenever you go on an outdoor adventure in the summer.

5. Go on the Midwest's only glass-bottom boat ride in Kearney.

This unique experience is a hidden gem in central Nebraska. Climb aboard and watch in awe as fish follow along underneath the boat during the ride. Don't forget to visit the fascinating Fort Kearney Museum while you're there!

6. Indulge your fascination with trains at Bailey Yard in North Platte.

Bailey Yard is the world's largest railroad classification yard, which may not mean a lot to you if you don't know much about trains - but it's impossible not to be impressed by this sight. The Golden Spike Tower has some great information on railroad history - and it's air conditioned, which is a pretty big draw when it's a thousand degrees outside.

7. Visit with the "villagers" in Nebraska's quirkiest town.

You might notice that some of the people in Taylor seem a little wooden. They're actually the creations of a local artist who places them around the town to draw in visitors. Wander the town to see if you can spot them all.

8. Check out this "town" that's made of antiques near North Platte.

Grain Bin Antique Town is one of the most unusual places to go antique shopping in Nebraska. Each individual bin is an antique itself, and they are all filled with fantastic antiques, collectibles, and other treasures just waiting to be discovered.

9. Learn new things and cool off at this discovery park in Scottsbluff.

Riverside Discovery Center is just packed full of fun and informative displays that the whole family will enjoy. And when the summer heat gets to be a little too much, you can cool off in the awesome splash pad.

10. Dig into history at Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park in Royal.

The bones that you see at this active archaeological dig have lain in place for 10-12 million years - just think of how amazing that is as you're going around the walkway viewing the bones and the educational signs on the walls. Bonus side trip: stop by Green Gables of Pleasant Valley on your way there or back for some unique shopping and some of the best pie in Nebraska.

11. Have a meal at this incredibly scenic winery near St. Paul.

Miletta Vista Winery has some of the most stunning views in central Nebraska, and the food there is absolutely unbeatable. A delicious meal, fabulous local wine, and a breathtaking view? That sounds like our kind of day trip.

12. Get a brand new perspective on the Missouri River on this riverboat in Brownville.

The Spirit of Brownville has been impressing passengers for decades with its lovely views of the banks of the Missouri. Take a dinner cruise and enjoy a delicious meal while you take in the sights. This is definitely one of the best day trips in Nebraska, and everyone should experience it at least once.Explore more of The Spirit of Brownville in this video from Channel 8 Eyewitness News:

13. Zip through the air or climb into the trees at this tree adventure near Fontanelle.

Camp Fontanelle is a summer camp for kids, but it also offers adventures for groups if you make advance reservations. There's a lot to do at this camp that has nothing to do with camping!

14. Climb a 50-foot-tall treehouse in Nebraska City.

The Tree Adventure trail at Arbor Day Farm in Nebraska City is a great summer trip for any nature lover. See the beauty of the trees, the bounty of the farm, and the cool learning centers in the treehouse. The views from the top are stunning!

15. Go tubing in Nebraska on one of our "lazy rivers."

While this list of six great tubing rivers doesn't include every tubing spot in Nebraska, they're a great place to start for a fantastic summer adventure. What's better than spending a summer day on the water?

With so many great Nebraska day trips all around the state, there's really no excuse to be bored this summer. Which ones have you already gone on and which do you plan to go on? What are your picks for the best day trips in Nebraska? What destinations would YOU put on a list of the best day trips in Nebraska? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!