Surrounded by vast expanses of undulating verdant terrain, this charming city makes a great base to explore the glorious nature reserves of eastern Nebraska.
The large parks that make up the region around Ashland have a great range of activities, from a safari and an aerospace museum to paddle boats and an ice-skating rink. Spy eagles and hawks soaring above the marshes and grasslands and enjoy a radio-controlled indoor air show.
Among the region’s highlights is Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, a little east of the city. Walk around the two lakes and visit its aquatic center and marina. Go skating on the ice in winter and paddle a boat or go fishing on the water in summer.
Hike or ride horseback along the many trails running through this park. The recreation area has other interesting features, including the Kountze Theater, a mini-golf center and a driving range.
Between the city and the park lies the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum. Watch the exciting indoor air show with radio-controlled models and admire the aircraft collection. Bring your kids to participate in activities and learn from the informative displays.
Trek east along the forested banks of the Platte River on the northern side of Eugene T. Mahoney State Park. The river is 310 miles (500 kilometers) long and feeds the Missouri River at the Iowa border.
Travel southeast of the park and the aerospace museum to reach the Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari. Drive along the safari routes that run beside prairies and wetlands. Get a close-up look at the bears, wolves and eagles in this vast park. Back in Ashland, stroll along tree-lined avenues and explore the historic center.
Find the city in the southwestern outskirts of Omaha in eastern Nebraska. Fly to Eppley Airfield in Omaha and drive for about 50 minutes to reach this city. Travel to other nearby locations, such as Cedar Creek and Lincoln.
Ashland offers ideal and practical lodging options for your trips to eastern Nebraska’s wonderful parks.
