Weather
& Climate

From March through May, spring breathes new life into Nebraska’s diverse landscapes, with average temperature highs around 61°F and lows near 35°F. May brings the most rain and thunderstorms, but it also brings growth and adventure.

Stretch your legs and enjoy the outdoors with a hike through the mixed grass prairie at Scotts Bluff National Monument in western Nebraska. Feel the cool breeze from the summit as you look over the North Platte River Valley, where antelope roam. Or watch more than 300,000 sandhill cranes gather in North Platte, preparing for nesting season — a bucket-list sight for any nature lover.

Wildflowers burst into bloom at Fort Robinson State Park, blanketing the ground in color. And for a different kind of spring escape, tee off at Sand Hills Golf Club in Mullen — ranked one of the top ten courses in the nation.

With fresh air, mild temps, and breathtaking views, spring in the state of Nebraska is made for exploration.

Nebraska summers bring mostly dry days, brilliant blue skies, and cool breezes from the Rocky Mountains. Enjoy comfortable summer temperatures averaging in the mid-80s during the day and mid-60s at night.

Take the family to meet giraffes at Lincoln Children’s Zoo or spot exotic animals at Riverside Discovery Center in Scottsbluff. Walk in the footsteps of pioneers at Chimney Rock State Historic Site and explore the rugged trails of nearby Chimney Rock State Park.

Celebrate the season at some of Nebraska’s most iconic summer events. NEBRASKAland Days in North Platte is the official state celebration of The Good Life, offering performances by chart-topping artists. Look up as hot air balloons rise over Gering at Old West Balloon Fest, or marvel at the stars during the Nebraska Star Party in Valentine. The Nebraska State Fair offers a full dose of summer fun with food, rides, concerts, and competitions.

Ready to cool off? Jump on in —  the water and weather in Lake McConaughy, Nebraska is fine. Or if you’re ready to relax, float down the Elkhorn River in a livestock tank or sit back and watch the kids splash the afternoon away at water parks from Omaha to Grand Island.

From starry skies to splashy days, summer months in the Cornhusker State is all about soaking up the sunshine and making memories that stick like sunscreen.

As temperatures cool and Nebraska’s landscapes transform into a kaleidoscope of yellows, oranges, and reds, autumn becomes the perfect season to stay outdoors.

Meander through fields of golden prairie grasses or enjoy cool-weather strolls in parks bursting with fall color. Celebrate the season at Vala’s Pumpkin Patch (one of the largest in the U.S.) with hayrides, live shows, and 50+ food booths. Pick apples at Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard or stock up on fresh-baked pies and cider. Norfolk’s Oktoberfest and Nebraska City’s Applejack Festival also offer plenty of seasonal fun.

For spine-tingling thrills, brave Crete’s Terror on 12th, the state’s longest-running charity haunted house. Wander glowing lantern trails at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo during Ghouls & Glow. Or experience seasonal activities from the frightful to the family-friendly at Roca Berry Farm.

With crisp air, vibrant scenery, and festive family fun, fall in Nebraska is a season that enchants the senses and brings communities together.

Think winter in Nebraska means staying inside? Think again. With average highs in the mid-30s and average annual snowfall between 20 and 40 inches, the Cornhusker State turns into a snow-dusted playground.

Lace up your boots and explore one of Nebraska’s 70+ state recreation areas, where frozen bridges and snow-covered cottages paint a peaceful, storybook scene. Looking for thrills? Carve the slopes at Mt. Crescent Ski Resort in eastern Nebraska, go tobogganing at Mahoney State Park, or take a spin at outdoor ice rinks in Lincoln, Omaha, or Hastings.

Want something a little cozier? Sip cider at Christmas at the Cody’s in North Platte or feel the holiday magic glow at Arbor Day Lodge in Nebraska City. Nebraska also offers over 400 public waters for ice fishing from Valentine National Wildlife Refuge to Box Butte Reservoir to Willow Creek State Recreation Area.

From powdered hills to icy ponds, winter weather conditions in Nebraska make it easy to see why so many Nebraskans stay active during the colder months.