Nebraska is the Great Plains heartland of America, a vast state of sweeping prairies, towering sand dunes, and the legendary Oregon Trail. From the cosmopolitan culture of Omaha's Old Market to the state capitol in Lincoln, the dramatic Chimney Rock on the western horizon, and the wild Sandhills that shelter migrating cranes, Nebraska rewards curious travelers with genuine frontier spirit and uncrowded natural grandeur.
Nebraska is a safe state for domestic and international visitors. Crime rates are low outside parts of inner-city Omaha and North Omaha. The primary natural hazards are severe thunderstorms and tornadoes (April-June), winter blizzards (December-February), and extreme summer heat in western Nebraska.
Current safety advisory
Low Risk
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance) in separate locations.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
Use registered taxis or rideshare apps. Avoid unmarked vehicles offering rides.
Trust your instincts — if a situation feels wrong, remove yourself from it.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
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- Tap Water
- Info
- Safe to drink throughout Nebraska; municipal water systems meet all federal safety standards
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- Hospitals
- Info
- Nebraska Medicine (402-552-2000), 4400 Emile St, Omaha — Level I Trauma Center. Bryan Medical Center (402-481-1111), 1600 S 48th St, Lincoln
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- Pharmacies
- Info
- CVS, Walgreens, and Hy-Vee pharmacies statewide; most open 8am-9pm; 24-hour CVS at 5020 Dodge St, Omaha
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- Sun and Heat
- Info
- Western Nebraska can reach 105°F (40°C) in July-August; carry water and sunscreen for any outdoor activity
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- West Nile Virus
- Info
- Mosquito-borne; use DEET repellent near rivers and lakes June-September
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- Tick-Borne Illness
- Info
- Use insect repellent and check for ticks after hiking in tall grass and wooded areas; Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever present in Nebraska
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
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