Northeast

Looking for things to do in Northeast Nebraska? You’re in luck — this region packs in a surprising amount of fun, flavor, and fresh air. Northeast Nebraskans can explore the past at Neligh Mill, the only mill in Nebraska with its original equipment still in operation. Or stroll through downtown Fremont, named the Most Charming Downtown in Nebraska by USA Today, and explore its boutiques, antique shops, eateries, and art galleries.

Outdoor lovers will find thousands of acres of recreational bliss. Spend the day at a scenic State Park like Ponca or Niobrara, or hop on an airboat tour on the Platte River. History buffs will love Blackbird Scenic Overlook and the Lewis and Clark Scenic Byway.

You’ll also not want to miss lively community events like the Dodge County Fair and Norfolk’s CaribFest and Pridefest. Cool off at Pawnee Plunge Water Park in Columbus or dive into local flavors at local hot spots like Black Cow Fat Pig in Norfolk. Northeast Nebraska also offers an abundance of history museums and historic sites like Attucks Theatre in Norfolk — the oldest remaining theater in the nation designed, built, and operated by African Americans.

Northeast Nebraska strikes the perfect balance between small-town ease and everyday opportunity. The region is home to a collection of micropolitans (cities with populations between 10,000 and 50,000), each offering a unique mix of charm, community, and convenience. Towns like Columbus and Norfolk were even named among World Atlas’ 10 Best Places to Live in Nebraska, thanks to their high quality of life and affordability.

Families thrive here, with a refreshingly low cost of living and housing costs that are some of the most affordable in the nation. You’ll also find top-performing K–12 schools such as Crofton, Pender Public Schools, Oakland-Craig, and North Bend Central. And in the Norfolk area, education doesn’t stop after high school with institutions like Northeast Community College and Wayne State College offering career-ready programs and small class sizes that support real learning and real opportunity.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to put down roots, Northeast Nebraska makes it easy to live well.

With over 10,000 businesses employing more than 100,000 people, Northeast Nebraska is rich in opportunity across a range of industries.

Manufacturing and food processing are major economic drivers here. Companies like ContiTech in Norfolk and Wholestone Farms in Fremont anchor the region’s industrial strength, employing hundreds and even thousands. Valmont Industries, a global leader in precision agriculture, supports over 1,500 jobs near Fremont, while Associated Wholesale Grocers keeps the supply chain moving with 400+ employees in its distribution operations.

There’s also strong demand in education, healthcare, and logistics — sectors that support both regional growth and community well-being. Whether you’re looking to build something, teach others, or keep the world connected, jobs in Northeast Nebraska make it easy to find your place and build a future.