University of Nebraska State Museum

University of Nebraska State Museum is in Morrill Hall at 14th and Vine sts. Three floors of exhibits focus on the cultural diversity, biodiversity and paleontology of Nebraska. The museum houses one of the world's best collections of elephant fossils, including one of the world's largest mammoth skeletons.

Other highlights include the Jurassic Dinosaur Gallery, the First Peoples of the Plains Gallery, the Hall of Nebraska Wildlife, the Toren Gallery of Ancient Life, the Explore Evolution Gallery and the Mesozoic Gallery with its Nebraskan fossils. Bizarre Beasts showcases some of the strangest creatures ever to inhabit the Earth. The African Heritages Collection contains jewelry, sculpture and costumes. Other galleries display ancient weapons, rocks and minerals.

The Discovery Center offers hands-on learning activities for visitors of all ages, including a simulated fossil dig. The Mueller Planetarium presents fun and educational shows. The 360-degree virtual environment created by the projection system makes viewers feel like they are part of the show.

Time: Allow 3 hours minimum.