South Loop Scenic Shot
National Scenic Byway
Sandhills Journey
272 miles / State 2 from Grand Island to Alliance
World-class natural wonders await along this rural route. Sand dunes and the Nebraska National Forest rise from the plains. In spring, migrating sandhill cranes fill the sky. By night, the stars put on an incredible show.
Click the pins to discover 4 must-sees along this byway
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Carnegie Arts Center
Carnegie Arts Center

Create woodblock decorations, join a painting party or see what artists are exhibiting at the Carnegie Arts Center in Alliance. The center repurposes the town’s original library, which opened in 1912.

Victoria Springs State Recreation Area
Victoria Springs State Recreation Area

Victoria Springs State Recreation Area marks the location of mineral springs near the community of Anselmo. Fish, paddleboat and picnic, then camp or rent a cabin to extend your exploration.

Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway Visitor Center
Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway Visitor Center

Located in a pretty red barn in Broken Bow, the Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway Visitor Center invites road-trippers. Learn from exhibits inside and out, or chat with the friendly staff for area info.

Nebraska stargazing
Stargazing

Especially during a new moon, stop and look up at the night sky along the byway’s vast stretches of open road—Nebraska promises some of the best stargazing anywhere in the world.

Sandhills Journey National Scenic Byway

Route Directions

From Grand Island: 
33 miles west on NE-2 to Ravenna   •  49 miles west on NE-2 to Broken Bow 
41 miles west on NE-2 to Dunning   •  11 miles west on NE-2 to Halsey 
17 miles west on NE-2 to Thedford  •  25 miles west on NE-2 to Mullen 
39 miles west on NE-2 to Hyannis  •  59 miles west on NE-2 to Alliance

For more information

Small-Town Stop: Broken Bow

A small town with deep roots in agriculture, Broken Bow offers a quiet place to relax and recharge along your Sandhills journey. 

DO Those curious about the past can dig deep into photos, a homesteader’s index and more at Custer County Historical Museum.

SHOP Shop Ortello Dale for home décor and gifts with a rustic-chic vibe.

EAT Pop into Kinkaider Brewing Co. for beer on tap and a crave-able food menu.

STAY Enjoy Western charm with modern conveniences at the historic Arrow Hotel.

For more information on the Sandhills Journey National Scenic Byway check out this trip idea

Ortello Dale
So many beautiful scenes to be seen
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