Our a return trip from Breckenridge, Colorado we went the direct route down Interstate 80 (rather than the scenic route we took out – see Roadtrip through Nebraska Sandhills for details on that trip).
We did take our time on the 8 hour journey, stopping near Breckenridge at an outlet mall for some shopping, and then staying overnight in Ogallala Nebraska. On our last stretch we decided to stop at The Archway in Kearney Nebraska.
The Archway expands over the interstate and is a museum covering the pioneer days (travelling by stage coach) to more recent times (travelling by car).
Ben and I have been to quite a few museums, but this one has become one of our favorites. The displays were amazing, and the information was delivered as stories rather than just facts using an audio guide.
When you first enter the museum you take an escalator upstairs. During the escalator ride you are transported back in time to begin your Oregon Trail journey.
At the top of the escalator is the first exhibit that details the journeys across the United States (Oregon Trail, Mormon Trail, etc.). While looking at the display the “sky” turns dark and there is a small storm that passes.
Continuing through the museum you find more displays sharing experiences from journal entries of people that took the trails hoping to find a better life at the end. It includes stories from the different expeditions, the perspective of the Native Americans, families looking for opportunities, men seeking gold, the Pony Express, and the introduction of the railroad.
At the end of the museum it you get to the automobile and the Lincoln Highway. It showcases details of travels exploring the US by car, the stops along the way, drive-in movies, and highway diners. This transitions into today and the interstate below.
We were there for a few hours looking and listening to all of the displays. Well worth a stop if you are driving across Nebraska.