Missouri River, NE

Pit Stops of Note

Next stop, Brownville. But first, a few noteworthy sidetrips along the way:

Just 10 miles south of Omaha, Fontenelle Forest and Nature Center provides a tranquil retreat for visitors of all ages. Take a walk on Fontenelle's one-mile boardwalk, or some of its 16 miles of footpaths. The center hosts family exhibits, live animal displays, year-round nature programs, and guided hikes by park employees.

In Nebraska City, 40 miles south of Fontenelle, visit John Brown's Cave, the humble cabin that hid runaway slaves on their way to freedom along the Underground Railroad. Arbor Lodge is another great historical site. You can tour the former home of Julius Sterling Morton (of Morton Salt fame), who created Arbor Day, but make it quick -- kids will get bored fast.