Hotels in Kearney, NE

Perched along the Great Platte River Road National Scenic Byway, Kearney is a small town that offers majestic wide-open spaces amid the backdrop of the heartland. You can easily see and experience all of it when you stay at Kearney hotels.

The Great Platte River Road Archway Monument is a must-see while in Kearney. Spanning an incredible 1,600 feet long and 30 feet high, this massive structure takes visitors back in time to explore the history and culture of America’s westward expansion across the Great Plains between 1840 and 1870. Inside the monument you’ll find interactive exhibits that showcase how people lived during this era, as well as how the road changed over time. There’s also a simulated thunderstorm exhibit that will make you feel like you just stepped outside into a raging storm.

Once you've finished exploring the Great Platte River Road Archway Monument, head downtown to The Bricks District for some great shopping. This historic district boasts numerous shops offering everything from antiques to handmade jewelry to vintage clothing.

While downtown, don’t miss Kearney’s vibrant mural scene. From agriculture to industry, nature scenes to festival celebrations, each mural depicts different facets of life in Kearney that range from its history as an agricultural hub to its thriving small business community. Easily accessible from Kearney hotels, one mural shows four farmers standing in front of their barns, while another features two entrepreneurs discussing their latest venture over coffee. Other murals depict scenes from local festivals, railroad tracks running through town, and more—all created by talented local artists who have put their own personal spin on these images that paint an interesting picture of life in this city.

Kearney is perhaps best known as “the sandhill crane capital of the world." Every year between March and April, hundreds of thousands of sandhill cranes migrate through town on their way north from their wintering grounds in southern Texas and Mexico. There are several viewing spots throughout town where visitors can watch these magnificent birds take flight—from Yanney Park near downtown all the way up to Buffalo County Historical Society near Miller Lake State Wildlife Management Area about 20 miles away from town. Just remember not to disturb them while they rest!

If you need a respite from the tourist crowds, there are several beautiful parks located around town including Yanney Park and Fort Kearny State Historical Park. Yanney Park offers walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and lake fishing access while Fort Kearny State Historical Park features camping sites with electric hookups as well as historic buildings from the 1800s.

Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or just want to explore majestic outdoor vistas, consider coming to Kearney. With its rich history, bustling downtown shopping district, and incredible natural wildlife spectacle, there’s something here for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip; it’s all within reach when you book your stay from the best hotels in Kearney.

Don’t forget to check out our hotels nearby in Hastings, Grand Island, and Columbus.