Day Trips from Lincoln
← All Lincoln day tripsDay Trips from Lincoln: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Lincoln, NE. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Lincoln
Scenic Overlook
Weston, MO 64098
Just 2 hrs 49 min from Lincoln, rated 4.9 stars by 126 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Flint Hills National Scenic Byway
Council Grove, KS 66846
Just 2 hrs 58 min from Lincoln, rated 4.9 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Missouri River Overlook
Missouri Valley, IA 51555
Just 1 hr 22 min from Lincoln, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Waubonsie State Park Scenic Overlook
IA 51640, USA
Just 1 hr 8 min from Lincoln, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic View Point
NE 68355, USA
Just 1 hr 43 min from Lincoln, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Murray Hill Scenic Overlook
Little Sioux, IA 51545
Just 1 hr 35 min from Lincoln, rated 4.8 stars by 122 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Konza Prairie Kansas Valley lookout point
Manhattan, KS 66502
Just 2 hrs 27 min from Lincoln, rated 4.8 stars by 374 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Loess Hills Scenic Overlook
Oak Ave, Moorhead
Just 1 hr 48 min from Lincoln, rated 4.8 stars by 127 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
Decatur, NE 68020
Just 1 hr 46 min from Lincoln, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Bluemont Scenic Overlook
Manhattan, KS 66502
Just 2 hrs 20 min from Lincoln, rated 4.6 stars by 269 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Blackbird Scenic Overlook
NE 68020, USA
Just 1 hr 46 min from Lincoln, rated 4.6 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook Tower (Loveland Overlook)
Honey Creek, IA 51542
Just 1 hr 21 min from Lincoln, rated 4.5 stars by 296 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Lincoln
What are the best scenic drives near Lincoln, NE?
The best scenic drives near Lincoln include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Lincoln?
Most scenic drives near Lincoln range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Lincoln?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Lincoln, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Lincoln?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
Don't know where to go?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
Surprise me