The Great Plains Museum, located in Lincoln, Nebraska, is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region. As travelers embark on the scenic byways that crisscross the state, a visit to this museum provides a deeper understanding of the history that underlies the rolling hills and vast prairies. The museum is situated near the University of Nebraska State Museum, allowing visitors to explore multiple historical institutions during their stay in the city.

As part of the Trails and Byways network, the Great Plains Museum serves as a crucial resource for those seeking to comprehend the intricate tapestry of the region's past. The museum features an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that delve into the stories of Native American tribes, early settlers, and the development of the area's unique agricultural practices. For instance, the exhibits on the history of the Ogallala aquifer and its impact on irrigation in the region highlight the innovative solutions developed by Nebraskan farmers to overcome the challenges of the arid Great Plains.

One notable exhibit at the museum is the reconstructed earthlodge dwelling of the Omaha people, offering a striking example of the complex societies that flourished in the region prior to European contact. Similarly, the museum's collection of antique farming equipment provides a glimpse into the evolution of agricultural practices over the past century. Visitors can explore the restored 19th-century sod house and farmstead, giving them an immersive understanding of life on the Great Plains during the time of homesteading.

As part of the Nebraska State Historical Society, the Great Plains Museum is linked to a network of local historical societies and museums that operate across the state. This affiliation enables the Great Plains Museum to share its expertise and resources with communities throughout Nebraska, contributing to the preservation and celebration of the region's unique cultural heritage.

In addition to its physical exhibits, the Great Plains Museum offers a range of educational programs, workshops, and lectures, catering to diverse audiences, from schoolchildren to researchers. By engaging with experts in the fields of history, anthropology, and environmental studies, visitors can gain a far more nuanced understanding of the complexities and challenges faced by the people who have shaped the Great Plains over centuries.

Byway travelers passing through the Great Plains can visit the museum to expand their appreciation for the region's intricate history and ecology. Furthermore, visitors to the museum can access a wealth of information on regional trails and byways, including the Pioneer's Trail and the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, allowing them to explore the Great Plains through multiple routes and perspectives.

Within the broader context of regional museums, the Great Plains Museum joins other institutions such as the Plains Indian Museum in Cody, Wyoming, and the Center for Plains Indian Research and Native Art at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, to create a network of historical knowledge that weaves together the diverse narratives of the Great Plains.

Located in the heart of Nebraska's state capital, the Great Plains Museum serves as a vital gateway to a comprehensive understanding of the region's complex history, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the sights, stories, and experiences that define the American heartland.