About Kearney

You could say that Kearney's gone to the birds: The town's claim to fame is as the self-proclaimed Sandhill Crane Capital of the World. Travel to this Nebraska town between March and February, and you'll find the Platte River covered by these giant birds, some up to 4 feet tall. Go from bird watching to stepping back in time—put on some comfy shoes and explore monuments dating back to the pioneer days. Kearney is eager to share its natural and historic treasures with you and your family.

Kearney Rain, Snow and Sun

Bring lightweight clothing if you come to Kearney during the summer. From June through August you might see the thermometer climb into the high 80s. Fall brings cooler temps and crisp nights, triggering the leaves to put on their colorful show. If you’re looking for snow, your best bet is to arrive between December and March, when the monthly average is roughly 6 inches. Spring brings rain. May is the wettest month, with rain averaging 4 inches. The abundance of flowers more than makes up for getting a bit wet. Spring is also baby time—head to the backcountry and you may catch a glimpse of a fawn with its mother.

Step Back in Time, Kearney Style

Love old cars? The Kearney Cabela's building houses more than 150 vintage vehicles, some dating back to the early 1900s. Check out Fort Kearny State Historical Park, home to the original fort built to protect people migrating along the Overland Trail. Follow the path of the Oregon Trail when you explore the Great Platte River Road Archway, which spans Interstate 80.

If you're bringing the kids, take them to the hands-on, interactive Kid Zone-Kearney Area Children's Museum to keep them entertained. Join a National Audubon Society guided field trip during March and early April, the height of the Sandhill crane nesting season. Settle in behind one of society's photo blinds for a close-up view of the action.

Kearney Cranes

Kearney is a working town, with the manufacturing industry accounting for 16 percent of the economy. The University of Nebraska at Kearney and Good Samaritan Hospital contribute to education and health industry numbers. Tourism is also important to the economy, especially anything to do with the Sandhill cranes. Kearney gets national attention every year when more than 500,000 of the birds fly in from parts unknown. If you get the chance to see this migration firsthand, take it.

Kearney Transportation

The easiest way to get to and around Kearney is by car. Motor down Interstate 80 and you'll find just two exits into town. If you prefer to fly, Great Lakes Aviation offers a commuter service from Denver International Airport into Kearney Municipal Airport, located northeast of town. If you're flying in from elsewhere, the two closest major airports are Kansas City International and Des Moines International, both roughly a four-hour drive from Kearney. Greyhound also has a small station on West Talmadge Road in Kearney.

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