Nebraska is a state of natural beauty, and its urban areas are no exception. Although Nebraska can be known for its wide open spaces, the state also offers a number of parks and gardens, providing city dwellers with a place to escape the hustle and bustle. Here are some of Nebraska’s best urban parks and gardens to explore.
Heartland of America Park – Omaha
Located in the heart of downtown Omaha, Heartland of America Park covers 31 acres and features a stunning 300-foot fountain and a tranquil lake. Visitors can rent paddle boats and bikes, take a stroll or picnic at one of the many shaded areas while enjoying a peaceful environment. Heartland of America Park is perfect for families, couples, or anyone who needs a break from the city.
Lauritzen Gardens – Omaha
Lauritzen Gardens is a botanical garden, situated on a 100-acre site that offers visitors a chance to discover an array of outdoor settings. It features a Victorian garden with a picturesque gazebo and fountain, an English perennial border, arboretum and a tropical conservatory. There are also many paved paths perfect for walking, and the “Energy Garden” doubles as a community garden that offers locals the opportunity to grow their own produce.
Antelope Park – Lincoln
Antelope Park in the south of Lincoln offers more than 100 acres of grass and trees, with the city’s numerous amenities only a short drive away. The park also has two playgrounds, a sizable rose garden, a recreation center, and two trails with great views of the park.
Pioneers Park Nature Center – Lincoln
The Pioneers Park Nature Center is a beautiful oasis located just a few miles outside of downtown Lincoln and contains nine miles of trails along with the visitors’ center. The park features beautiful gardens, forests, native prairies, and a variety of animals. There is also a fun children’s area complete with an interactive display, allowing its youngest visitors to learn more about nature.
Elmwood Park – Omaha
Elmwood Park has been a favorite destination for Omaha residents since the early 1900s. It is home to an eight-acre pond, picnic areas, playgrounds, tennis courts, baseball diamonds, and a frisbee golf course. Elmwood Park is known for its lush greenery, tall shade trees, and historic gazebo.
Sunken Gardens – Lincoln
Sunken Gardens in Lincoln are a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city and are home to more than 30,000 annual flowers and plants. This lovely park is a great place to read, relax or take an afternoon stroll. The gardens are crafted around an old limestone quarry creating a unique and picturesque setting.
Gene Leahy Mall – Omaha
The Gene Leahy Mall, a short walk from Heartland of America Park, offers an urban getaway in the middle of the city. The park spans 10 acres and offers trails at multiple levels, a large pond with waterfalls, and plenty of green space perfect for relaxing. In the winter, the park turns the small hill into a sledding hill, snowmen, and ice-skating rinks.
First Plymouth Congregational Church – Lincoln
First Plymouth Congregational Church features a lovely, tranquil and beautifully landscaped garden. The gardens are open to the public, and visitors can wander around the grounds admiring the many sculptures and manicured plants.
Conclusion
Nebraska is the perfect destination for those who want a unique blend of urban and natural environments. Its parks and gardens offer stunning landscapes and provide the perfect getaway from the busy city life. So, if you’re in the area, be sure to check out Nebraska’s best urban parks and gardens for a lovely afternoon.