Two observation towers at Platte River State Park offer views of the Platte River basin, complemented by a scenic waterfall. In Cass County, these river views meet opportunities for wildlife watching, trails for a range of recreational activities, and a rich regional history.
Water Views and Wildlife Watching
At Platte River State Park, Crawdad Creek invites visitors to observe aquatic life. At this interactive water feature, children can catch minnows, tadpoles, crayfish, and frogs. This makes nature watching a hands-on activity by the water, while the observation towers look out over the Platte River basin.
The Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari Park offers a different kind of wildlife encounter: its four-mile drive-through route is designed as a North American wildlife experience. The park is also home to breeding programs for cheetahs and Amur tigers and offers behind-the-scenes insights into conservation.
The Missouri River and Platte River form the boundaries of the Schilling Wildlife Management Area. Around 25 acres of water provide habitat for waterfowl. Possible activities include fishing, nature watching, wildlife photography, and hiking; visitors can also see where the Platte River meets the Missouri River. Keep seasonal conditions for public access in mind when planning your visit.
Trails, Lakes, and Riverbanks
Cass County lies halfway between Omaha and Lincoln, along the banks of two historic rivers. Louisville State Recreation Area combines hiking and picnicking with swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating; it also provides canoe access to the Platte River. The five sandpit lakes are a popular destination for anglers, with bass, catfish, sunfish, crappie, and walleye.
The Platte River Connection Trail has a distinctive centerpiece: the 1,714-foot Lied Platte River Bridge. This converted Rock Island Railroad trestle bridge offers views of the water. The MoPac East, by contrast, provides year-round recreational opportunities for hikers, joggers, cyclists, horseback riders, cross-country skiers, and wildlife watchers. The options range from activities on the water to different uses of the MoPac East, without forming a single, unified route.
Parks with a Range of Activities
Eugene T. Mahoney State Park brings together activities for different interests: it has an indoor playground open year-round, a 42-foot-high Venture Climb wall, and an ice skating pavilion in winter. The Family Aquatic Center features water slides, a zero-entry wave pool, and a splash playground. Note the seasonal closure notice for 2026 and check whether the center will be open on your planned visit date.
The park is also home to the James Family Conservatory and Nature Center. There, you can find live animal exhibits, interactive nature activities, tropical plants, and a working greenhouse. The combination of plant life, animal exhibits, and hands-on activities adds a natural history perspective to the park’s play and sports offerings.
Museums, History, and Theater
The Cass County Historical Society Museum in Plattsmouth tells the story of the county since 1854. Topics include the heyday of steamboat travel on the Missouri River, pioneer life, the arrival of the railroad, and the importance of agricultural production. The Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum, by contrast, focuses on aircraft and artifacts used by the Strategic Air Command during the Cold War. The museum offers public tours daily: at 11:00 a.m. Monday through Friday and at 1:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Check the times before your visit. Hands-on STEM camp experiences are also offered; specific camp programs may change.
In Weeping Water, the Heritage House Museum Complex displays artifacts of Indigenous peoples and memorabilia from the town’s early history. The complex includes the Fate House, the oldest Congregational Church parsonage in the state. The Lofte Community Theatre also adds to the cultural scene: it presents four theater productions each year from June through October.
The Bess Streeter Aldrich House is a 1922 Prairie mansion and was the home of Bess Streeter Aldrich. In Greenwood, the Greenwood Depot Museum is the oldest railroad museum in Cass County, exhibiting a variety of historic objects. The Cass County Fair is part of Weeping Water’s tradition and history. Admission, entertainment, and activities are free.
Local Food and Drink
In rural Cass County, Slattery Vintage Estates brings together tastings, food, and crafts. The tasting room features more than 70 varieties of wine and beer. An outdoor kitchen makes wood-fired pizza, and the gift shop offers products by local artisans.
Explore more destinations: Eagle, Scotts Bluff County, Saunders County, Webster County, Dodge County, Dawson County, Sherman County, Valley County.
For the main travel overview: Nebraska.
