Grand Island
Grand Island
Visiting Nebraska’s third-largest city will take you both to the heart of some of the state’s biggest events and to one of the most awe-inspiring natural phenomena on the planet. Lucky for you, it’s all in one place.
Festivals & Flocks
Nestled in the middle of the state, Grand Island is host to the annual Nebraska State Fair, so make sure your summer plans include this fun opportunity to delve into Nebraska’s agricultural heritage. Join the crowd for Hear Grand Island, a free, all-summer concert series downtown. Or, take in the most unique annual tradition: The Sandhill Crane Migration. Each March, nearly a million sandhill cranes flock to Nebraska’s Central Flyway, and the area is a fantastic spot to view the awe-inspiring gathering.
Old & New
The city marks the convergence of old and new for visitors. Fonner Park is a longtime favorite and hosts thoroughbred racing and other events throughout the year. Stuhr Museum showcases the history of the Platte River Valley and includes a living history Railroad Town, a re-created 1890s community. And the Railside BID fuses the historic downtown with the newest entertainment and businesses.
Family Fun
Grand Island is a fantastic place to pack up the family and visit. Raising Nebraska gives an interactive exhibition of Nebraska’s agriculture. Stolley Park features an arboretum, wading pool and Kid’s Kingdom. The Happy Brush is a paint-your-own studio that folks of any artistic ability are bound to enjoy. Here in the summer? Island Oasis Water Park is a splashy paradise to help everyone cool off.
Fabulous Food
Coney Island Lunch Room has served up Coney dogs for nearly 100 years. The Farmer’s Daughter Cafe is a well-known staple for breakfast and lunch. Wave Pizza Co. gives off an unexpected beach bungalow vibe along with its tasty pizza. Kiko’s Cantina dishes up authentic Mexican food in a colorful and fun ambience. For dessert or coffee, make sure to stop at The Chocolate Bar for a sweet treat to cap your day.
Trip Ideas
Visit Grand Island
Grand Island Visitor Center
201 West 3rd Street
Grand Island, NE 68801
United States
Find Everything You Need in Grand Island
105 N Walnut St.
Grand Island, NE
United States
Ready for your morning coffee and a hearty breakfast? From breakfast sandwiches to omelets to French toast, The Farmer’s Daughter Café has everything you need to jump start your day.
9325 S Alda Rd.
Wood River, NE
United States
Sandhill crane season, peaking in March, impresses with viewing tours at Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center near Grand Island.
501 East Fonner Park Rd. Suite 100
Grand Island, NE
United States
At Raising Nebraska, learn about the state’s agricultural heritage—and future— through hands-on, interactive exhibits.
940 Allen Dr.
Grand Island, NE
United States
You have to try “America’s Best Philly” at PepperJax Grill. The Philly, along with other fresh grilled specialties, make PepperJax Grill a must.
3133 W. US Hwy. 34
Grand Island, NE
United States
History buffs will be pleased, and kids and adults alike will enjoy opportunities to get hands-on at Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer. Wander the complex of buildings to discover collections of Native American and Old West memorabilia, teepee replicas, bison that lived and grazed on the land, train cars from the 1800s and more.
3335 West Wood River Rd.
Grand Island, NE
United States
With brick oven pizzas, beer, wings and burgers, you’ll be racing over for some grub at Thunder Road Grill. This racing-themed restaurant is perfect for groups and families.
859 Allen Dr.
Grand Island, NE
United States
Book a room at Candlewood Suites – Grand Island. This hotel is located in the heart of the city and features excellent amenities such as an indoor pool, a gym, a business center and a basketball court. The guest rooms are also equipped with full kitchens and the hotel is pet friendly.
Header Photo: Courtesy of Visit Grand Island