While Nebraska is landlocked, its residents and visitors alike may find themselves planning a trip to nearby Lake Erie, which borders the states of Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York in the Great Lakes region. Located approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes east of Lincoln, Nebraska, by car, Lake Erie attracts millions of visitors every year with its diverse attractions and activities.

One of the most notable attractions on Lake Erie is the Put-in-Bay, a village on South Bass Island in Ohio. Known for its vibrant nightlife, Put-in-Bay boasts an array of restaurants, bars, and hotels that cater to both families and party-goers alike. Visitors can enjoy water sports on the lake during the day, and then unwind with live music at one of the many bars in the evening. Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial, located on the same island, is also worth a visit to learn about the region's rich history and significance in the War of 1812.

For those interested in outdoor pursuits, Lake Erie offers numerous opportunities for fishing, boating, and birdwatching. The Maumee Bay State Park in Oregon, Ohio, is an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts to explore. The park's lakefront location and scenic wetlands provide a habitat for a variety of species, including waterfowl, herons, and raptors. The nearby town of Cleveland, located in northeastern Ohio, also offers many accommodations and attractions for visitors to explore, such as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

On the Michigan side of the lake, visitors can explore the charming town of St. Joseph, with its picturesque pier and beautiful beaches along the lake. St. Joseph is also known for its wine country, with several wineries offering wine tastings and tours. A scenic ferry ride to Pelee Island in Ontario, Canada, is another popular activity for those visiting the area. For thrill-seekers, the Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky, Ohio, is home to numerous roller coasters and water rides, offering an adrenaline-packed experience for visitors of all ages.

Accommodations around Lake Erie range from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to luxury resorts, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. Visitors can opt for historic hotels like the Hotel Victory in Put-in-Bay, or modern properties like the Lake Erie Shores and Islands Resort in Marblehead, Ohio. Several state parks around the lake also offer camping and RV sites for those who prefer the great outdoors.

As a premier destination for lake activities and attractions in the Midwest, Lake Erie is a must-visit for anyone traveling from Nebraska or neighboring states. Whether it's history, nature, or entertainment that interests you, Lake Erie offers something for everyone, making it an ideal getaway from the Cornhusker State.

While researching Lake Erie, one discovers a few other nearby attractions. A notable diversion to the immediate west would be Hocking Hills State Park in Logan, Ohio. The many additional attractions, such as Old Man's Cave and scenic Ash Cave, would extend one's drive only an hour and a half. Each of those tourist attractions boast the water-carved landscapes that many have grown to associate with the nearby lake.

The scenic Lake Erie shoreline also offers various public beaches for those interested in swimming, sunbathing, or picnicking. Some notable beaches include the Presque Isle State Park in Erie, Pennsylvania, and the Geneva State Park in Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio.