Discover Nebraska’s important role in westward expansion at The Archway. The museum, which was known as the Great Platte River Road Archway until 2013, honors the brave 19th-century pioneers who pushed America’s boundaries.
Drive along I-80, just east of Kearney, Nebraska. You can’t miss the monument, which stretches 310 feet (95 meters) north and south, crossing both directions of the highway. The museum is housed inside the covered bridge spanning the road.
Step inside the sweeping log arch to the two-story escalator, where you’ll be greeted by statues of early explorers Lewis and Clark. Pick up a headset at the front desk and begin a self-guided audio tour through Nebraska’s history.
Be transported back to American pioneers’ discovery of Nebraska. Thunderstorm sound effects and a video of a buffalo stampede set the scene. Continue along to settlers and Native Americans interacting. Watch a Pony Express rider deliver mail across the country. Witness the building of the transcontinental railroad.
Crossing back on the second level, experience Nebraska’s 20th-century transportation role. Discover the rise of car travel. Check out a classic 1961 Cadillac convertible. Stop in the drive-in movie theater, which plays a short educational film about the rise of the American highway system. Use radar guns to track speed of motorists beneath you.
Outside, race against the clock in the TrailBlaze Maze. Navigate a twisting labyrinth that takes you around four towers and more twisting turns than you can count.
Get a souvenir to remember your visit in the Platte River Trader Gift Shop, which proudly sells Nebraska-made products. Purchase a postcard or a shirt bearing the iconic arch. Before you restart your travels, sit down for a snack or light lunch in the eating area.
Visit The Archway any day. Note that it opens later on Sundays. Purchase your admission ticket at the entry gate. Seniors and children have a reduced entry fee.
Allow an hour to see all the sights and hear all the sounds of The Archway. The site includes a Nebraska Tourist Information Center, so stop here for any local information you might need along your journey.
