Ferns may seem like quiet, leafy plants, but their life cycle and adaptations are full of scientific wonder. This virtual program explores the different types of ferns found in Nebraska, how they reproduce through spores instead of seeds, and the roles they play in local ecosystems. You’ll learn how ferns survive in diverse habitats, their […]
Explore biomimicry and learn how humans take design inspiration from nature. With assistance from our partners from Nebraska Wildlife Rehab, use learned strategies to design space capsules and safely land an "astronaut." Teams will get hands-on with engineering challenges and meet a live animal ambassador to see nature’s tricks up close! This is a free […]
The North Platte Hatchery is open to the public and tours may be scheduled during normal working hours. Hatchery information is on display at the hatch house. The North Platte Fish Hatchery opened in 1943. The facility utilizes the adjacent Nebraska Public Power District irrigation canal to feed 43 earthen ponds, water that ultimately is […]
Flowing across the heart of the Great Plains, the Platte River has long been a source of life, movement, and inspiration. Wings Over the Platte celebrates the landscapes, waterways, and wildlife that define this region through the vision of artists connected to the Platte River Valley. From sweeping prairie horizons and ever-changing skies to intimate studies of […]
Visit The Hall of History Museum at Boys Town, and explore their science stations. Make your own comic books, design your own superhero outfit, learn about pottery, make a molding of a butterfly or dinosaur - to take home, and take a peek into microscopes and guess how much your brain weighs. Plus, don't forget […]
Step inside a thriving urban farm and explore the fascinating world of microgreens, sustainable agriculture, and innovative growing techniques at this exciting Nebraska Science Festival event at Barn Girls Farms! During this open house, participants will learn how tiny seeds transform into nutrient-packed microgreens, learn about urban farming, and see firsthand how fresh food can […]
Experience the natural wonder of the sharp-tailed grouse mating dance from a grouse viewing blind at Niobrara State Park! This sunrise ritual is an ancient and glorious display from one of Nebraska’s most famous grassland birds. Reservations Reserve the viewing blind (free of charge) any time between March 1 and May 1, with peak viewing […]
Doors open 20 minutes prior to the start of a show. Planetarium shows generally include a tour of the current night sky, a view of the constellations, and a full-dome video. All shows last about 45 minutes. April Shows: Friday, April 3 7 p.m. Planetarium show - Living Worlds Whether earthly or alien, all life […]
Flowing across the heart of the Great Plains, the Platte River has long been a source of life, movement, and inspiration. Wings Over the Platte celebrates the landscapes, waterways, and wildlife that define this region through the vision of artists connected to the Platte River Valley. From sweeping prairie horizons and ever-changing skies to intimate studies of […]
eCreamery staff will conduct an informative presentation on the “Science of Ice Cream and Dry Ice.” Students will be given a small tour of the facility, a lesson on how ice cream is made, a brief history of ice cream, and the differences in density and composition between gelato, sorbet and ice cream. During the […]
Join Fontenelle Forest for their new program learning what happens in the forest as the seasons change – Little Learners: Seasonal Science! You'll discuss what animals do as the seasons change, and explore science stations focused on winter, spring, or fall. Plus, you'll go on a hike looking for snowflakes, spring shoots, or falling leaves, […]
National Weather Service meteorologists, in collaboration with local emergency management officials, will offer several in-person severe storm spotter training courses in the spring of 2026 to build your skills in spotting and reporting severe weather! These training sessions are free and open to the public, and all ages are welcome (but age 10 and up will probably get the most out […]
