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28 Sep 2025
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South Dakota to Nebraska Trip Itinerary

South Dakota to Nebraska Road Adventure: Trip Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey from South Dakota to Nebraska, exploring a diverse array of attractions along the way. Start your adventure in Sioux Falls, SD, where you can marvel at the cascading waters of Falls Park and enjoy lively arts, dining, and urban energy. As you journey south, immerse yourself in nature at the Lewis & Clark Recreation Area, offering tranquil views of the Missouri River and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation like hiking, boating, and camping.

Continue into Nebraska with a visit to Ponca State Park, a haven for nature lovers boasting lush woodlands, scenic vistas, and abundant wildlife. Venture onward to Omaha, where you’ll experience the city’s dynamic fusion of culture and entertainment, including the world-class Henry Doorly Zoo and the historic Old Market district. Conclude your trip in Lincoln, the state’s vibrant capital, where you’ll discover iconic landmarks, fascinating museums, and a spirited collegiate atmosphere. This itinerary balances natural wonders with urban excitement, making for a rich and memorable travel experience across the Heartland.


Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Sioux Falls, SD

    Sioux Falls offers vibrant downtown attractions, scenic waterfalls at Falls Park, and a lively arts and dining scene, making it a great starting point for your journey.
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  • Trip Point Pin2

    Lewis & Clark Recreation Area, SD

    This area provides beautiful views of the Missouri River, opportunities for boating, hiking, and camping, and a chance to experience the outdoors where Lewis and Clark once explored.
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    Ponca State Park, NE

    Ponca State Park is known for its lush woodlands, scenic overlooks along the Missouri River, diverse wildlife, and extensive trail systems for hiking, biking, and nature observation.
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  • Omaha offers a mix of cultural attractions such as the renowned Henry Doorly Zoo, beautiful riverfront parks, and a lively Old Market district filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
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  • Trip Point Pin5

    Lincoln, NE

    Lincoln, the state capital, features the impressive Nebraska State Capitol, vibrant arts and music scenes, unique museums, and the University of Nebraska's energetic campus atmosphere.
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Restaurants

  • Restaurant Icon

    The Falls Overlook Café

    3.3
    $$$$

    The Falls Overlook Café

    Located in a renovated 1908 hydroelectric plant at Falls Park, this café offers unique views of the waterfalls and a menu featuring local flavors.
    3.3
    $$$$
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    Meridian Corner

    4.6
    $$$$

    Meridian Corner

    Known for its quirky rural setting at the intersection of two historic highways near the Lewis & Clark Recreation Area, this roadside eatery offers Midwestern classics.
    4.6
    $$$$
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    The Outlaw Pizza Company

    4.7

    The Outlaw Pizza Company

    A western-themed pizzeria in Ponca serving everything from classic pies to creative and unusual specialty pizzas in a fun, quirky decor.
    4.7
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    Upstream Brewing Company

    4.1
    $$$$

    Upstream Brewing Company

    Set in Omaha's historic Old Market, this brewery features unique house-brewed beers and creative pub fare in a restored firehouse.
    4.1
    $$$$
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    The Green Gateau

    4.5
    $$$$

    The Green Gateau

    This charming, European-inspired bistro in Lincoln offers inventive cuisine and an eclectic atmosphere, blending vintage elegance with culinary creativity.
    4.5
    $$$$
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Hotels

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    The Hotel on Phillips

    4.6

    The Hotel on Phillips

    A boutique hotel set in a historic former bank building in downtown Sioux Falls, featuring luxurious rooms with original architecture.
    4.6
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    Lewis & Clark Resort

    4.5

    Lewis & Clark Resort

    Located by the river near Yankton, this resort offers unique cabin stays with beautiful lake views and easy access to the recreation area.
    4.5
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    Ponca State Park Mini Lodges

    4.7

    Ponca State Park Mini Lodges

    Stay in modern, eco-friendly mini lodges nestled in nature with trails and activities right outside your door.
    4.7
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    Hotel Deco

    4.1

    Hotel Deco

    Omaha’s only luxury art deco hotel, offering stylish rooms in a historic 1930s skyscraper with modern amenities.
    4.1
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    Graduate Lincoln

    6.3

    Graduate Lincoln

    A quirky, collegiate-themed hotel in downtown Lincoln, with playful decor and a welcoming atmosphere close to the university.
    6.3
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Eslabon Armado (16+ Companion)

    Eslabon Armado (16+ Companion)

    The event will take place at The Ranchito in South Sioux City.
    Map IconThe Ranchito in South Sioux City (20.54 mi)
    Calendar Icon6 Oct 2025
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    Halestorm & Lindsey Stirling

    Halestorm & Lindsey Stirling

    The event will take place at Tyson Events Center in Sioux City.
    Map IconTyson Events Center in Sioux City (23.91 mi)
    Calendar Icon1 Oct 2025
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    Parker McCollum Tour

    Parker McCollum Tour

    One dollar of every Parker McCollum ticket sold will be donated to The Ruger Fund. Platinum Ticket Disclaimer: Platinum Tickets are tickets that are dynamically priced up and down based on demand. Platinum Tickets are not part of VIP packages ? they ...
    Map IconTyson Events Center in Sioux City (23.91 mi)
    Calendar Icon11 Oct 2025
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    MercyMe Live 2025

    MercyMe Live 2025

    The event will take place at Tyson Events Center in Sioux City.
    Map IconTyson Events Center in Sioux City (23.91 mi)
    Calendar Icon20 Oct 2025
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    Gabriel Iglesias: The 1976 Tour

    Gabriel Iglesias: The 1976 Tour

    Adult Content
    Map IconTyson Events Center in Sioux City (23.91 mi)
    Calendar Icon25 Oct 2025
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    ZACH WILLIAMS CROWDER MATT MAHER

    ZACH WILLIAMS CROWDER MATT MAHER

    Zach Williams, Crowder, Matt Maher Awakening Events / Awakening Foundation shows are required to follow local health and venue requirements.   Changes in local health guidelines or venue policies are not grounds for a refund.  Artist lineup subject t...
    Map IconTyson Events Center in Sioux City (23.91 mi)
    Calendar Icon8 Nov 2025
    Picture for ZACH WILLIAMS CROWDER MATT MAHER
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    Hairball

    Hairball

    The event will take place at Tyson Events Center in Sioux City.
    Map IconTyson Events Center in Sioux City (23.91 mi)
    Calendar Icon16 Nov 2025
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    I'm taking a trip next month and plan to take about 10 days to go from Boise, Idaho to Kansas City. I have my stops listed so far, but I'm open to

    Trip Advice - South Dakota and Nebraska

    I'm taking a trip next month and plan to take about 10 days to go from Boise, Idaho to Kansas City. I have my stops listed so far, but I'm open to

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    I have a goal of hitting up all 50 states and Im still need to hit up North Dakota, South Dakota and Nebraska. I dont exactly want to spend a lot

    Suggestions for a ND/SD/NE road trip?

    I have a goal of hitting up all 50 states and Im still need to hit up North Dakota, South Dakota and Nebraska. I dont exactly want to spend a lot

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    This has probably been posted 500 times before but... Bf and I are planning a road trip from MN to SD in July, planning on doing it for about a week

    South Dakota Road Trip Ideas?

    This has probably been posted 500 times before but... Bf and I are planning a road trip from MN to SD in July, planning on doing it for about a week

    /r/SouthDakota
  • Reddit Icon

    Hey all just wanted some suggestions on a loose itinerary for a trip to badlands, wind cave, Custer, and other parts of that area. My wife and I are

    South Dakota itinerary

    Hey all just wanted some suggestions on a loose itinerary for a trip to badlands, wind cave, Custer, and other parts of that area. My wife and I are

    /r/NationalPark
  • Reddit Icon

    Hi there Sodaks, I'm planning a South Dakota road trip for my family. I've been there 2x, but it's been 25 years for me. I'm bringing family who've

    South Dakota Road Trip Recommendations?

    Hi there Sodaks, I'm planning a South Dakota road trip for my family. I've been there 2x, but it's been 25 years for me. I'm bringing family who've

    /r/SouthDakota

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    A relaxed road trip classic perfect for open highways and blue skies.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    Celebrates the joy of travel and adventure, setting the perfect tone for your journey.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Don McLean - American Pie

    Don McLean - American Pie

    A timeless anthem about exploring the vastness of the country, great for cross-state drives.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    An upbeat, energetic song that captures the freedom of being on the road.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Roger Miller - King Of The Road

    Roger Miller - King Of The Road

    A classic tune about wanderlust and enjoying the journey, making it ideal for travelers.
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    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    A heartwarming song about finding a sense of belonging, fitting for a trip through the Heartland.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Allman Brothers Band - Ramblin' Man

    Allman Brothers Band - Ramblin' Man

    Embodies the spirit of adventure, perfect for a moving road-trip soundtrack.
    Listen on Spotify
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    The Chicks - Wide Open Spaces

    The Chicks - Wide Open Spaces

    Echoes the expansive landscapes you’ll encounter on this route and the freedom they inspire.
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    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Uplifting rhythms make it ideal for new adventures and scenic drives.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Fleetwood Mac - Go Your Own Way - 2004 Remaster

    Fleetwood Mac - Go Your Own Way - 2004 Remaster

    Encourages embracing your journey, with energetic vibes for the road.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Fleetwood Mac - Go Your Own Way - 2004 Remaster