The Best Places to Visit on a Road Trip from Austin, Texas to Lincoln, Nebraska

Are you planning on embarking on an exciting road trip from Austin, Texas to Lincoln, Nebraska? If so, get ready to explore some of the most incredible sights and attractions that the Midwest has to offer. This long drive is around 950 miles, a journey that will take you approximately 15 hours. However, breaking up the trip by stopping off at some of the area's most beautiful attractions will make it a memorable experience.

To help you plan your trip, we've put together a list of the top places you should visit when traveling from Austin, Texas to Lincoln, Nebraska.

1. Ozark National Forest

Ozark National Forest is one of the best places to experience nature in the United States. The forest is home to huge mountains, scenic rivers, and rolling hills that create an awe-inspiring landscape. Located in Arkansas, this destination is about six hours away from Austin, Texas. It's the perfect place to break up your long drive and explore a new part of the country.

The park covers a vast area of more than 1 million acres, featuring an array of outdoor recreational activities. Hiking, camping, fishing, swimming, and canoeing are just a few examples of the exciting opportunities that await you in Ozark National Forest.

2. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Collinsville, IL. The site is around 11 hours away from Austin, Texas, and is well worth a visit. These ancient mounds were built by indigenous people over a thousand years ago and were used for religious and political purposes.

Visitors can explore the interpretive center and see cave drawings, artifacts, and exhibitions that depict the history and culture of the people who built the mounds. There are also well-preserved walking trails that will allow you to wander around these fascinating mounds and learn more about their significance.

3. Lake McConaughy

Located in Ogallala, Nebraska, Lake McConaughy is a stunningly beautiful destination that's perfect for a refreshing getaway from a long drive. The lake offers a wide range of activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming. It's an ideal place to relax and enjoy the local scenery.

With more than 100 miles of shoreline, you'll have plenty of room to swim, boat, or just laze around with a good book on the beach. In the summer months, the lake can be crowded with tourists, so it's best to get there early in the day to avoid the lines.

4. The Pony Express National Museum

The Pony Express is a legendary part of American history, and you can experience it firsthand by visiting the Pony Express National Museum in St. Joseph, Missouri. Here you'll learn about the history of the Pony Express and how it revolutionized the mail delivery system in America.

The museum has a wide range of interactive exhibits and displays indoors that showcase the equipment, uniforms, and tools used by the Pony Express riders. Additionally, there are art exhibitions and historical documents that will transport you back to the days of the Pony Express when frontier was the rule of the land.

5. Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum

The Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone who is interested in aviation or military history. Located in Ashland, Nebraska, this museum features countless planes, rockets, and missiles that document the fascinating history of flight and space exploration.

Here you can marvel at some of the most iconic planes in American history, including the B-52 Stratofortress and the SR-71 Blackbird. You can also explore an exhibit on International Space Station, a glimpse of futuristic space travel. For aviation enthusiasts, this museum is an absolute treat.

Conclusion

From scenic parks to historical landmarks, these are just some of the incredible destinations you'll encounter when traveling from Austin, Texas to Lincoln, Nebraska. While this drive can take a long time, it's worth it to experience the incredible sights and sounds of America's heartland. Take these recommendations along for the ride, and you'll have an unforgettable adventure.