Scottsbluff, NE

Travel Guide
Scottsbluff showing a sunset, tranquil scenes and mountains
Visit Scottsbluff to walk along historic pioneer trails and experience the spectacular natural scenery of western Nebraska.

Outdoor adventures, remarkable scenery and pioneer history await in Scottsbluff. The city sits on the north banks of the North Platte River in the Nebraska panhandle. It takes its name from Scotts Bluff National Monument, a striking set of rocks looming over the south side of the river. During the mid-1800s, the monument was used as a landmark on three famous pioneer trails: the Oregon Trail, the California Trail and the Pony Express Trail.

Many of Scottsbluff’s attractions are outside the city center. The city has limited public transportation so getting around is easiest via car. 

Explore the trails and marvel at the rock formations of Scotts Bluff National Monument. Check out the prairie wagons and then walk along the Oregon Trail Pathway, which follows part of the original Oregon Trail. Hike along the Saddle Rock Trail to lookouts that offer sweeping views of the city and river. Enjoy uninterrupted views of the 4,659-foot-tall (1,420-meter) rocks from the Prairie View Trail.

Visit the monument’s Oregon Trail Museum to learn about the region’s pioneer, geological and paleontological history. Browse the museum’s gallery dedicated to the paintings of William Henry Jackson. At the nearby Legacy of the Plains Museum you can see a working farmstead and hear stories of the Nebraska prairie. 

Go to Riverside Discovery Center for family fun. Spot over 175 native and exotic animals, including big cats, monkeys and snakes. Let your kids enjoy playing in the water jets and fountains of the center’s Splash Pad area. 

Discover outdoor recreation opportunities within a 30-minute drive from Scottsbluff. Go swimming, fishing, sailing and Jet-Skiing at Lake Minature State Recreation Area and see the state’s only lighthouse. Spot migrating water birds, coyotes and raccoons in North Platte National Wildlife Reserve. The scenic trails in Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area are great for hiking and biking. Visit in the winter when snow-covered peaks present a calm and picturesque wonderland.

Scottsbluff is about a 3-hour drive north of Denver, Colorado. A convenient way to get here is by car, which allows the chance to enjoy scenic drives through Nebraska’s rugged landscapes.

Hampton Inn & Suites Scottsbluff Conference Center
Hampton Inn & Suites Scottsbluff Conference Center
2.5 out of 5
301 W Highway 26, Scottsbluff, NE
The price is ¥15,187 per night from Apr 14 to Apr 15
¥15,187
per night
Apr 14 - Apr 15
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Scottsbluff. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (566 reviews)
"Everything was great. I just didnt like that there was a constant towel shortage. Everything was wonderful besides that."

Reviewed on Mar 24, 2024

Hampton Inn & Suites Scottsbluff Conference Center
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Scottsbluff
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Scottsbluff
2.5 out of 5
902 Winter Creek Drive, Scottsbluff, NE
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is ¥18,009 per night from Mar 31 to Apr 1
¥18,009
per night
Mar 31 - Apr 1
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Scottsbluff. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
9/10 Wonderful! (539 reviews)
"Very safe location and enjoyable stay. Beautiful and clean hotel!"

Reviewed on Mar 27, 2024

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Scottsbluff
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Scottsbluff-Gering, an IHG Hotel
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Scottsbluff-Gering, an IHG Hotel
2.5 out of 5
1821 Frontage Rd, Scottsbluff, NE
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is ¥17,307 per night from Mar 31 to Apr 1
¥17,307
per night
Mar 31 - Apr 1
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Scottsbluff. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
9/10 Wonderful! (538 reviews)
"Great place to stay"

Reviewed on Mar 17, 2024

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Scottsbluff-Gering, an IHG Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Stunning view of Chimney Rock
Stunning view of Chimney Rock
Bayard
Stay at this cottage in Bayard. Enjoy free WiFi, onsite parking, and a patio. Popular attraction Chimney Rock National Historic Site is located nearby. Discover ...
9/10 Wonderful! (19 reviews)
Comfortable stay
"Clean comfortable stay. Easy check in and out would stay here again."

Reviewed on Dec 19, 2023

Stunning view of Chimney Rock
Tasteful four-bedroom, three-bathroom home in Scottsbluff is ready for you!
Tasteful four-bedroom, three-bathroom home in Scottsbluff is ready for you!
Scottsbluff
Stay at this vacation home in Scottsbluff. Enjoy WiFi, barbecue grills, and 3 bathrooms. Popular attractions Central Park and West Nebraska Arts Center are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (4 reviews)
Great Stay!
"Our family of six was very comfortable in this house. It was super clean, the beds were comfy, and the TV worked great. Take advantage of the parking in the back if you have two vehicles!"

Reviewed on Mar 3, 2024

Tasteful four-bedroom, three-bathroom home in Scottsbluff is ready for you!
River View Ranch is Scottsbluff's Premiere
River View Ranch is Scottsbluff's Premiere
Scottsbluff
Stay at this vacation home in Mitchell. Enjoy free WiFi, onsite parking, and barbecue grills. Popular attractions Scotts Bluff National Monument and Riverside ...
River View Ranch is Scottsbluff's Premiere
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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