Visit Nebraska Week is May 12-20

LINCOLN, NEB. (May 7, 2007)—Whether it’s sampling the fruit of the vine at a high-class winery followed by a stay at a homegrown bed and breakfast, taking a gander at gorillas while visiting one of the nation’s highest ranked zoos or trekking down one of Mother Nature’s most picturesque rivers in a big metal tank, Nebraska will surprise you.

“With gas prices reaching new highs and summer vacations becoming shorter and jam-packed, in-state travel makes more sense for busy families,” said Christian Hornbaker, director of the Nebraska Department of Economic Development’s Division of Travel and Tourism. “Nebraska has much to offer to its residents and visitors alike.”

Visit Nebraska Week gives state residents and visitors the opportunity not only to explore what the state has to offer but also to understand the importance of tourism: it’s a major U.S. industry and also contributes to the country’s cultural and social fabric. The week takes place at the same time as National Tourism Week, an annual event organized by the Travel Industry of America.

Visit Nebraska week brings attention to both new and well-established Nebraska tourist attractions. Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo, ranked as the number one zoo by Reader’s Digest, offers a host of familiar activities as well as some new ones, including the remodeled Mutual of Omaha Exploration Station.

Nebraska is home to more than 20 wineries, including the James Arthur Vineyard, in Raymond, which plays host to a Renaissance Festival each year. Nebraska also has a growing number of bed and breakfasts, which, when paired with a visit to a winery, makes a perfect weekend jaunt. 

The state also offers the truly unique activity. There’s the annual Junk Jaunt, a yard sale that stretches for more than 250 miles; the Wayne, Nebraska Chicken Show; and the annual Nebraska Star Party near Valentine, just to name a few.

In fact, travelers in Nebraska spent more than $3 billion in 2006 and tourism businesses enhance local economies by creating more than 40,000 jobs across the state. Nebraska is the most economical state to travel in, according to a AAA survey, with the average family of four spending less than $200 per day of vacation.

For more information on Nebraska tourism, visit our newly redesigned Web site at www.visitnebraska.org, where you can plan road trips, learn more about the state’s lodging facilities, attractions and events and check out virtual maps and a newly expanded photo gallery.

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Sarah Baker at 800-228-4307, 402-471-3797, or email: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it