There are some fantastic museums in the Midwest, including major art museums in cities like Chicago, Madison, and Minneapolis/St. Paul. However, there are also plenty of smaller, hidden-gem museums across the Midwest, including fascinating museums like the Museum of American Speed in Lincoln, Nebraska. The Museum of American Speed is the perfect place for history buffs and car enthusiasts. You’ll walk through exhibit after exhibit of rare cars, racing memorabilia, and artifacts celebrating America’s love for motorsports.
Lincoln is a bustling city in Nebraska, perhaps best known as home to the University of Nebraska. The city boasts a lively atmosphere full of great restaurants, parks, outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, local shops, and a heaping dose of Midwest Charm. It’s the home of the State Capital and the always-popular Sunken Gardens – but more importantly, Lincoln offers a little bit of something for everyone. There’s no doubt that this lively college town has earned its reputation as one of the best cities in the Midwest.
This winter happens to be a wonderful time to visit Lincoln, as the town comes to live with holiday markets, cozy downtown experiences, and opportunities to see some of the best museums in Nebraska. From the Sheldon Museum of Art and the Nebraska History Museum to the impactful Museum of American Speed, there’s no shortage of things to do in Lincoln, Nebraska. When you’re not browsing exhibits, you’re out enjoying exceptional meals at local restaurants, listening to a budding live music scene, or exploring the winter wonderland on a pair of skis or snowshoes.
When you’ve had enough adventure for the day, put your feet up and relax at the only accommodations in the city with welcoming, personalized hospitality. Whether for romantic getaways, cozy accommodations, or friendly & safe places to stay, local Bed and Breakfasts in Nebraska offer the perfect retreat. From historic homes with modern touches to cozy, boutique-style inns, you’ll enjoy plenty of warm and friendly Midwest hospitality, often a delicious and freshly made breakfast in the morning, and plenty of tips and tricks on making the most of your trip. There’s nothing better than partnering with the Midwest Association of Independent Inns for your Midwest lodging. Book your stay at our local Inns and boutique hotels today!
Visit the Museum of American Speed in Nebraska
With so many fantastic things to do in Lincoln, Nebraska, choosing a place to start might be challenging. However, that choice is probably easy for history buffs and car enthusiasts! There’s perhaps no better destination than the Museum of American Speed. This fascinating museum in Nebraska is a must-visit for anyone passionate about automotive history and innovation.
The Museum of American Speed was founded in 1992 by “Speedy” Bill and Joyce Smith. It was created to preserve and celebrate the rich history of American automotive culture. The Smiths, who also founded Speedway Motors, saw a need to keep the stories of racing and automotive ingenuity alive for future generations. Over the years, the Museum of American Speed has grown into one of the country’s most comprehensive collections of racing and automotive memorabilia, making it a standout among museums in the Midwest.
The Museum of American Speed is housed in an impressive 150,000-square-foot space on the Speedway Motor campus in Lincoln. The museum houses an incredibly diverse collection, including an array of vintage race cars, classic hot rods, and one-of-a-kind vehicles that helped shape the world of motorsports. The exhibits are carefully curated to showcase the evolution of speed, from early 20th-century race cars to modern-day performance machines. In addition to the vehicles themselves, you’ll find engines, rare parts, and memorabilia that tell the story of racing legends and the technological advancements that pushed the limits of what cars could do on the track.
Beyond the cars, the Museum of American Speed also features exhibits dedicated to toys, pedal cars, and even motorcycles, offering something for enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you’re a lifelong racing fan or simply curious about the engineering and artistry behind these machines, the Museum of American Speed promises a fascinating afternoon.
More Great Museums in Nebraska
Beyond the Museum of American Speed, Nebraska is home to various museums that showcase the state’s rich history, art, and culture. Whether you’re interested in fine art, pioneer life, or science, there are plenty of options to explore. From the vibrant art scene in Lincoln and Omaha to small-town museums that highlight Nebraska’s diverse past and present, we hope you take the time to visit at least a few more of these fascinating museums in Nebraska.
- Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum
- Durham Museum
- Sheldon Museum of Art
- Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer
- Chimney Rock National Historic Site
- The Archway
Nebraska isn’t the only Midwestern state offering an impressive slate of museums. Read about some of the best museums in the Midwest!
Stay at Welcoming Bed and Breakfast in Nebraska
If you’re looking for the perfect combination of comfort and charm in your Midwest lodging, look no further than the Midwest Association of Independent Inns. Not only does our association list some of the best Bed and Breakfasts in Nebraska, but we also serve as your personal travel resource to the best of the Midwest. From hidden gems like Nebraska’s Museum of American Speed to some of the most exquisite and award-winning restaurants in the Midwest, we’re thrilled to introduce couples, solo travelers, and families to the top experiences in states as diverse as Wisconsin, Minnesota, Nebraska, Iowa, and Illinois.
Like all our Midwest lodging partners, our Bed and Breakfasts in Nebraska offer the weary traveler exceptional hospitality and seamlessly blend the state’s historic character with modern amenities, ensuring a relaxing and memorable stay. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or an extended family vacation, these inns and boutique hotels are ideal for local flavor and personalized experiences.
One of the best things about our Midwest lodging is the diversity you’ll find among member properties. Even when located in the same town, you’ll find a distinct atmosphere at each of our Inns, Bed and Breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Our member properties range from luxurious accommodations to quaint countryside retreats. Prior to becoming a member of the Midwest Association of Independent Inns, these properties are carefully selected for their high standards in both comfort and service. They’re also fully licensed and inspected, ensuring a travel experience that is second to none.
Beyond being safe, clean, and comfortable places to stay in the Midwest, you’ll find that every travel experience involving one of our Midwest Bed and Breaksts is filled with thoughtful details, from gourmet breakfasts to cozy, well-appointed rooms. Even with all these small details that set the perfect stage for your getaways, what truly sets these properties apart is their dedication to offering an authentic local experience. Staying at a Nebraska Bed and Breakfast through this organization means immersing you in the best of what Nebraska offers. Book your getaway to Nebraska today!
