A true representation of the Great Plains, Nebraska is home to gentle hills, dramatic rock formations, and urban home. You may wonder if you have been a Nebraskan for many years or are considering relocating to the nation – what is Nebraska known for?
From hidden gems to iconic landmarks and beloved foods, Nebraska is extremely well known. This Redfin article will cover why Nebraska is the perfect place to live, whether you’re looking to buy a house in Omaha, rent an apartment in Lincoln, or move to the state.
Employment Opportunities and the Economy in Nebraska
Nebraska’s economy is driven primarily by agriculture, with agriculture and livestock production playing a key role in the state’s workforce. Furthermore, manufacturing is a well-known industry, particularly in the fields of food processing, machinery manufacturing, and transportation equipment production.
Key players such as the Union Pacific Railroad and the global food conglomerate Conagra Brand are key players in the Nebraska job market. Both are headquartered in Omaha, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the state’s economy.
Top 5 Nebraska employers
1. Berkshire Hathaway
2. Medical Solutions
3. Union Pacific
4. Lure Logistics
5. Kiewit
5 unique attractions
Nebraska is renowned for its countless attractions, including museums, historic neighborhoods, art installations and natural wonders.
1. Henry Doorey Zoo and Aquarium: World-class exhibits such as the Desert Dome and the Jungle of Lies, and Henry Doorey Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha will provide visitors with an immersive wildlife experience. Built in 1894, the zoo is recognized for its conservation efforts and is often ranked among the top five zoos in the world.
2. Omaha’s Old Market District: The old market district in the heart of downtown Omaha attracts visitors with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, diverse shops, restaurants and art galleries. The neighborhood dates back to the 19th century, once the epicenter of Omaha residents, with agricultural vendors, manufacturing centers and hotels.
3. Strategic Aviation Command & Aerospace Museum: Aviation enthusiasts will gather at this museum near Ashland to explore an extensive collection of aircraft and exhibit highlighting the history of the Strategic Aviation Command.
4. Carhenge: Located near the city of Alliance, Carhenge is a replica of the iconic Stonehenge. Using vintage cars instead of stones, this is a must-see for anyone looking for a unique Nebraska slice.
5. Durham Museum: Celebrating Omaha’s Western Heritage, the Durham Museum is home to a wealth of unique exhibits, photo archives and galleries. Located at the former Omaha Union Station, this Art Deco Building presents the unique architecture of Nebraska.
Did you know? One of Omaha’s neighbours, the village of Aksarben, is spelled backwards by Nebraska. The name came from Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben, a charity that owned horse racing tracks in Omaha.
>>Read: Pros and Cons of 10 Nebraska People
Six Regional Foods in Nebraska
It is no surprise that Nebraska’s rich agricultural industry has food from the region where the state is known.
1. Runza: One of Nebraska’s most popular foods is Runza, a beloved and comfortable food. Lanza is a delicious pastry filled with seasoned ground beef, cabbage and onions.
2. Omaha Steak: Omaha Steak introduces Nebraska beef production, renowned for its quality and flavor.
3. Corn Husker Salad: Other popular dishes include Corn Husker Salad, which combines fresh corn, tomatoes, green peppers and onions with a vinegar-based dressing.
4. Dorothy Lynch Dressing: Made in Nebraska and bottled. This is a sweet, tangy seasoning made with tomato paste, vinegar and spices. Locals use this dressing as a versatile topping for salads, sandwiches and even pizza dips.
5. Korash: Bringed to Nebraska by Czech immigrants, this sweet pastry is full of cream cheese or fruit. The village of Verdigre is known as the “Colach Capital of the World” and holds a celebration every year called “Colach Days.”
6. Kool-Aid: This familiar powdered drink was invented in 1927 at Hastings. The city also celebrates drinks every year during the Kool-Aid era.
5 Popular Annual Events
Nebraska hosts major events that attract residents from within the state and beyond.
1. College World Series: The College World Series, held every June in Omaha, is a popular event in college baseball, attracting fans from around the country and witnessing the top teams of the national championships at Charles Schwabfield Omaha.
2. Nebraska State Public: The Nebraska State Fair, held on Grand Island in August and September, is an important tradition that marks the state’s agricultural heritage, entertainment and culinary delights. From livestock shows to concerts and carnival rides, the fair offers something everyone can enjoy every summer.
3. Sandhill Crane Movement: Every spring, hundreds of thousands of Sandhill Cranes converge in Nebraska’s Platte River Valley during their northward travels, creating one of North America’s most spectacular wildlife phenomena. Birdwatchers and nature lovers gather in the area for the opportunity to witness this adoring sight.
4. Omaha River Rodeo: Celebrating Omaha’s Western heritage, the Omaha River Rodeo depicts participants and audiences each September. With parades, live music and activities, this Omaha tradition gives you the opportunity to experience the excitement of Wild West in the heart of the city.
5. Nebraska Balloon & Wine Festival: Hosted in Omaha during August, the festival offers attendees the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking balloon firing and wine tasting from local vineyards. The festival also offers live music and delicious food.
Six Beautiful Places to See in Nebraska
The Nebraska landscape is famous for its vast expanse of grasslands.
1. Scottsbluff National Monument: Suddenly ascends from the plains with stunning views of the surrounding landscape along the Oregon Trail.
2. Chimney Rock National Historical Site: Home to Chimney Rock, a natural rock formation that served as a prominent landmark for pioneers traveling westward on the Oregon Trail.
3. Platte River: The Platte River, which is approximately 310 miles long, is known for its annual sandhill crane travel.
4. Nebraska Sandhills: Sandhill is a grassy dune in a highland area. They are a unique landmark with hundreds of native plants and migratory birds.
5. Niobara River: This 76-mile river flows through lush forests and rugged canyons, making it perfect for kayaking, canoeing and watching wildlife.
6. Missouri River Bloom: Most popular is Manitou Bluff, known for its cliffs that offer breathtaking views of the Missouri River.
Did you know? Arbor Day began in Nebraska City. This holiday is dedicated to preserving and planting trees.
>>Read: Six Beautiful Lakes of Nebraska Live
Four Popular Nebras Caphrases
1. “Go Big Red” is not just a slogan, but the rallying cry for the University of Nebraska Cornhuskers to showcase the state’s passion for college football.
2. “Nebraska Nice” embodies the friendly and kind attitude that is common in Nebraskans. There, people are known for their kindness and willingness to lend a hand.
3. “Maize breeding” refers to the state’s agricultural heritage.
4. “Nebraska Style” is a way to explain gusts of wind that cleans the plains.
Nebraska FAQ
Why is Nebraska called “Cornhusker State”?
Nebraska receives the nickname from the University of Nebraska athletic team, Cornhusker. However, the name “cornhusker” comes from the state’s richness of corn and the process of covering corn with the hand.
What is Nebraska’s biggest city?
Nebraska has two major cities, Omaha and Lincoln. Nebraska’s next most populous cities include Bellevue, Grand Island, Kearney, Fremont, Hastings and Norfolk.
What’s the weather like in Nebraska?
With cold winters, mild spring and autumn temperatures, and warm summers, you can experience all four seasons of Nebraska. Nebraska is particularly humid during the summer, but the state can be prone to tornadoes. Winters can bring snow to the northern part of the state, but it varies in the rest of the region.
Does Nebraska have a professional sports team?
Nebraska does not have professional sports teams in the NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL “Big Four.” They have a strong commitment to university sports.
University of Nebraska Lincoln is known for its Cornhuskers, a soccer team. Clayton University is widely known for its Blue Jays basketball team. The University of Nebraska Omahammer Verix is known for several sports, including basketball, soccer and hockey.
