Strings & Things

“Strings and Things” performs a variety of musical styles including bluegrass, gospel, classical, Irish, renaissance, wedding, world music, traditional American dance and holiday music. They have performed for countless conventions, parties, banquets, barn dance, hoedowns, hayrack rides, county fairs, festivals, museums, schools, churches, etc. They also specialize in audience participation with items including washtub bass, washboard, musical spoons and clog dancing puppets.

Bandages & Bonesaws: A Modern Look at Civil War Medicine

Many new medical technologies were used during the Civil War in an effort to both save lives on the battlefield and give wounded soldiers a better chance at recovery afterwards.
Come hear one of our local physicians, retired U.S. Army Colonel Dr. Dean Thomson, discuss the medical advancements made during America’s bloodiest conflict.

Bandages & Bonesaws: A Modern Look at Civil War Medicine

Many new medical technologies were used during the Civil War in an effort to both save lives on the battlefield and give wounded soldiers a better chance at recovery afterwards.
Come hear one of our local physicians, retired U.S. Army Colonel Dr. Dean Thomson, discuss the medical advancements made during America’s bloodiest conflict.

All Dolled Up: 100 Years of Victorian Dolls

Come see a rare display of Victorian and vintage dolls and furniture at Wildwood Historic Center. Dolls on display span 100 years from the early 1870’s to the 1970’s, including our Dolly Madison doll and Mrs. Beasley from the popular TV show “Family Affair” in the 1960’s. We have baby dolls from the 20’s – 50’s as well as several foreign dolls from Japan, Vietnam, and Korea. We have over 30 dolls and strollers, chairs, beds, a sleigh and a tea table with a tea set! We also are having a doll giveaway. There are 4 wedding themed dolls from the 1940’s that we will be having a drawing for.

Four lucky people will win a treasure. Enter to win your very own doll!
Must be 18 or over to win.

You are invited to come relive your childhood with us as you tour our beautifully decorated Victorian home.

KHN Exhibition: Neurofibromatosis: A Portrait of Nebraska, Rachel Mindrup

Rachel Mindrup is an assistant professor of drawing and painting and the Richard L. Deming, MD Endowed Chair in Medical Humanities at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. Her current painting practice is about the study of the figure and portraiture in art and its relation to medicine, healing, and identity. Her son, Henry’s diagnosis, has been the motivation behind her series of portraits, “Many Faces of Neurofibromatosis (NF).” Through this series of paintings, Mindrup is the conduit, transforming genetic complications into something secondary and portraying the individual personalities first. Using social media as a connection, Mindrup hopes to raise funds, educate, and ideally find a cure for NF. The select portraits displayed at KHN all represent Nebraskans living with NF.

The KHN Gallery is open to the public Monday – Friday 10 am – 5 pm & by appointment. For appointments call 402-874-9600.

Native American Artifact Show

The Missouri River Basin Lewis & Clark Visitor Center is hosting its annual Native American Artifact Show on Saturday, March 7, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

This year’s show will feature authentic Native American artifacts from a number of private and public collections. Visitors will be able to see some of the finest examples of spear points, arrowheads, tools, and pottery in the Midwest. Kids can enjoy hands-on activities like making clay pottery and corn husk dolls!

Special presentation at 1:00 pm!!
Nancy Gillis presents “The Voice of Native American Women

This presentation is a compilation of excerpts from primary documents in which Native American women’s comments, pleas and advice have been recorded, from the earliest records of negotiations with the colonists to contemporary women, including professionals, artists and activists. In a series of readings, interspersed with background material, it explores the way native women have spoken out in political, social and spiritual settings in humor, pathos, anger and celebration, passing their legacy to the next generation.

Nancy S. Gillis is the former Executive Director of the John Neihardt State Historic Site and the Neihardt Foundation’s Institute for Vision and Learning. Nancy joined the Foundation as Assistant Director in May 1997 and retired in 2014, joining its Board of Directors, and speaks to schools and civic groups on Neihardt’s work and a variety of related topics. Since 1992 she has served as faculty at Wayne State College, Northeast Community College, Nebraska Indian Community College, and Little Priest Tribal College teaching Native American History and Cultures, U.S. History, World History, Anthropology and Sociology.

Of Cherokee and Choctaw heritage, Gillis moved to Nebraska in 1987 to work with the Winnebago people for the Reformed Church in America and has served as their delegate to its Native American Council and the Commission for Race and Ethnicity.

This FREE event is sponsored in part by Humanities Nebraska.

Hayrack Ride, Storytelling & S’mores

Weekends this fall through Lied Lodge & Conference Center – the entire family will enjoy a mash-up of Arbor Day Farm’s most beloved fall season activities: hayrack rides, storytelling & s’mores!

On Friday and Saturday evenings at 6:30 p.m., Sept. 27 thru Nov. 9, climb aboard a hayrack at the Lied Lodge lobby. Travel to Arbor Day Farm’s Morton Oak tree, where you’ll sip hot chocolate and apple cider, enjoy a hot dog, make s’mores, and listen to tales from a storyteller, before returning to Lied Lodge.

Tickets are $15.00+ tax for adults; $10+ tax for children, age 4-12. Children 3 and under are free but must sit on parent’s lap. Seating is limited on the hayrack, and this activity often sells out. To reserve your seat, please call Lied Lodge at 402-873-8733.

Want to make it a getaway? The Hayrack Ride, Storytelling & S’mores Package includes an overnight stay at Lied Lodge plus up to four (4) tickets for the hayrack ride activity; availability is limited, so please call to reserve: 402-873-8733.

Scavenger Hunt Weekend at Tree Adventure

THE HUNT IS ON! See what you can discover at an Arbor Day Farm Scavenger Hunt! Tune into nature and test your observation skills as you track down each item on your list. The hunts are designed for a variety of ages and interests, making them a great challenge for everyone in the family. Prizes await each sleuth!

The event is free with your Tree Adventure admission. For more information, call Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure at 402-873-8717.

Wine, Cheese & A Walk Among the Trees at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Start with a glass of Arbor Day Farm wine, and snack on assorted cheeses; then head out to the wooded trails for a casual stroll-and-learn with local bee expert, Jim Webster.

Event includes two tickets to the Tree Adventure, four wine tastes (cider for the kids), and two souvenir wine glasses. Reservations recommended. Call 402-873-8717.

…or…Choose the Wine, Cheese, & A Walk Among the Trees Getaway, which includes two tickets to the Tree Adventure for this special activity, an overnight stay at Lied Lodge, and breakfast for two in the Timber Dining Room. Reserve your package today online or by calling 1-800-546-5433.

Wine, Cheese, & a Walk Among the Trees at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Start with a glass of Arbor Day Farm wine, and snack on assorted cheeses; then head out to the wooded trails for a casual stroll-and-learn with one of Arbor Day Farm’s tree experts.

Event includes two tickets to the Tree Adventure, four wine tastes (cider for the kids), and two souvenir wine glasses. Reservations recommended. Call 402-873-8717.

…or…Choose the Wine, Cheese, & A Walk Among the Trees Getaway, which includes two tickets to the Tree Adventure for this special activity, an overnight stay at Lied Lodge, and breakfast for two in the Timber Dining Room. Reserve your package today online or by calling 1-800-546-5433.

Sunset & S’mores at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Climb aboard for a guided, Sunset Discovery Ride as you journey through the orchards and vineyards at Arbor Day Farm. Following the ride, gather ’round for a twilight bonfire complete with make-your-own s’mores.

The Discovery Ride departs at 7:00 p.m. with the bonfire and s’mores following the ride. Cost includes your Tree Adventure admission, your ticket for the Discovery Ride, the bonfire, make-your-own s’mores, and bottled water.

Reservations are required and minimum of 10 participants by 5:00pm for the Sunset & S’mores activity; please call the Tree Adventure at 402-873-8717 to reserve your seat.

Sunset & S’mores at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Climb aboard for a guided, Sunset Discovery Ride as you journey through the orchards and vineyards at Arbor Day Farm. Following the ride, gather ’round for a twilight bonfire complete with make-your-own s’mores.

The Discovery Ride departs at 7:00 p.m. with the bonfire and s’mores following the ride. Cost includes your Tree Adventure admission, your ticket for the Discovery Ride, the bonfire, make-your-own s’mores, and bottled water.

Reservations are required and minimum of 10 participants by 5:00pm for the Sunset & S’mores activity; please call the Tree Adventure at 402-873-8717 to reserve your seat.

Sunset & S’mores at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Climb aboard for a guided, Sunset Discovery Ride as you journey through the orchards and vineyards at Arbor Day Farm. Following the ride, gather ’round for a twilight bonfire complete with make-your-own s’mores.

The Discovery Ride departs at 7:00 p.m. with the bonfire and s’mores following the ride. Cost includes your Tree Adventure admission, your ticket for the Discovery Ride, the bonfire, make-your-own s’mores, and bottled water.

Reservations are required and minimum of 10 participants by 5:00pm for the Sunset & S’mores activity; please call the Tree Adventure at 402-873-8717 to reserve your seat.

Sunset & S’mores at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Climb aboard for a guided, Sunset Discovery Ride as you journey through the orchards and vineyards at Arbor Day Farm. Following the ride, gather ’round for a twilight bonfire complete with make-your-own s’mores.

The Discovery Ride departs at 7:00 p.m. with the bonfire and s’mores following the ride. Cost includes your Tree Adventure admission, your ticket for the Discovery Ride, the bonfire, make-your-own s’mores, and bottled water.

Reservations are required and minimum of 10 participants by 5:00pm for the Sunset & S’mores activity; please call the Tree Adventure at 402-873-8717 to reserve your seat.

Sunset & S’mores at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Climb aboard for a guided, Sunset Discovery Ride as you journey through the orchards and vineyards at Arbor Day Farm. Following the ride, gather ’round for a twilight bonfire complete with make-your-own s’mores.

The Discovery Ride departs at 8:00 p.m. with the bonfire and s’mores following the ride. Cost includes your Tree Adventure admission, your ticket for the Discovery Ride, the bonfire, make-your-own s’mores, and bottled water.

Reservations are required and minimum of 10 participants by 5:00pm for the Sunset & S’mores activity; please call the Tree Adventure at 402-873-8717 to reserve your seat.

Sunset & S’mores at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Climb aboard for a guided, Sunset Discovery Ride as you journey through the orchards and vineyards at Arbor Day Farm. Following the ride, gather ’round for a twilight bonfire complete with make-your-own s’mores.

The Discovery Ride departs at 8:00 p.m. with the bonfire and s’mores following the ride. Cost includes your Tree Adventure admission, your ticket for the Discovery Ride, the bonfire, make-your-own s’mores, and bottled water.

Reservations are required and minimum of 10 participants by 5:00pm for the Sunset & S’mores activity; please call the Tree Adventure at 402-873-8717 to reserve your seat.

Sunset & S’mores at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Climb aboard for a guided, Sunset Discovery Ride as you journey through the orchards and vineyards at Arbor Day Farm. Following the ride, gather ’round for a twilight bonfire complete with make-your-own s’mores.

The Discovery Ride departs at 8:00 p.m. with the bonfire and s’mores following the ride. Cost includes your Tree Adventure admission, your ticket for the Discovery Ride, the bonfire, make-your-own s’mores, and bottled water.

Reservations are required and minimum of 10 participants by 5:00pm for the Sunset & S’mores activity; please call the Tree Adventure at 402-873-8717 to reserve your seat.

Sunset & S’mores at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Climb aboard for a guided, Sunset Discovery Ride as you journey through the orchards and vineyards at Arbor Day Farm. Following the ride, gather ’round for a twilight bonfire complete with make-your-own s’mores.

The Discovery Ride departs at 8:00 p.m. with the bonfire and s’mores following the ride. Cost includes your Tree Adventure admission, your ticket for the Discovery Ride, the bonfire, make-your-own s’mores, and bottled water.

Reservations are required and minimum of 10 participants by 5:00pm for the Sunset & S’mores activity; please call the Tree Adventure at 402-873-8717 to reserve your seat.

Sunset & S’mores at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Climb aboard for a guided, Sunset Discovery Ride as you journey through the orchards and vineyards at Arbor Day Farm. Following the ride, gather ’round for a twilight bonfire complete with make-your-own s’mores.

The Discovery Ride departs at 8:00 p.m. with the bonfire and s’mores following the ride. Cost includes your Tree Adventure admission, your ticket for the Discovery Ride, the bonfire, make-your-own s’mores, and bottled water.

Reservations are required and minimum of 10 participants by 5:00pm for the Sunset & S’mores activity; please call the Tree Adventure at 402-873-8717 to reserve your seat.

Sunset & S’mores at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Climb aboard for a guided, Sunset Discovery Ride as you journey through the orchards and vineyards at Arbor Day Farm. Following the ride, gather ’round for a twilight bonfire complete with make-your-own s’mores.

The Discovery Ride departs at 8:00 p.m. with the bonfire and s’mores following the ride. Cost includes your Tree Adventure admission, your ticket for the Discovery Ride, the bonfire, make-your-own s’mores, and bottled water.

Reservations are required and minimum of 10 participants by 5:00pm for the Sunset & S’mores activity; please call the Tree Adventure at 402-873-8717 to reserve your seat.

Sunset & S’mores at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Climb aboard for a guided, Sunset Discovery Ride as you journey through the orchards and vineyards at Arbor Day Farm. Following the ride, gather ’round for a twilight bonfire complete with make-your-own s’mores.

The Discovery Ride departs at 8:00 p.m. with the bonfire and s’mores following the ride. Cost includes your Tree Adventure admission, your ticket for the Discovery Ride, the bonfire, make-your-own s’mores, and bottled water.

Reservations are required and minimum of 10 participants by 5:00pm for the Sunset & S’mores activity; please call the Tree Adventure at 402-873-8717 to reserve your seat.

Sunset & S’mores at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Climb aboard for a guided, Sunset Discovery Ride as you journey through the orchards and vineyards at Arbor Day Farm. Following the ride, gather ’round for a twilight bonfire complete with make-your-own s’mores.

The Discovery Ride departs at 8:00 p.m. with the bonfire and s’mores following the ride. Cost includes your Tree Adventure admission, your ticket for the Discovery Ride, the bonfire, make-your-own s’mores, and bottled water.

Reservations are required and minimum of 10 participants by 5:00pm for the Sunset & S’mores activity; please call the Tree Adventure at 402-873-8717 to reserve your seat.

Sunset & S’mores at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Climb aboard for a guided, Sunset Discovery Ride as you journey through the orchards and vineyards at Arbor Day Farm. Following the ride, gather ’round for a twilight bonfire complete with make-your-own s’mores.

The Discovery Ride departs at 8:00 p.m. with the bonfire and s’mores following the ride. Cost includes your Tree Adventure admission, your ticket for the Discovery Ride, the bonfire, make-your-own s’mores, and bottled water.

Reservations are required and minimum of 10 participants by 5:00pm for the Sunset & S’mores activity; please call the Tree Adventure at 402-873-8717 to reserve your seat.

Sunset & S’mores at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Climb aboard for a guided, Sunset Discovery Ride as you journey through the orchards and vineyards at Arbor Day Farm. Following the ride, gather ’round for a twilight bonfire complete with make-your-own s’mores.

The Discovery Ride departs at 8:00 p.m. with the bonfire and s’mores following the ride. Cost includes your Tree Adventure admission, your ticket for the Discovery Ride, the bonfire, make-your-own s’mores, and bottled water.

Reservations are required and minimum of 10 participants by 5:00pm for the Sunset & S’mores activity; please call the Tree Adventure at 402-873-8717 to reserve your seat.

Arbor Day Weekend Celebration at Arbor Day Farm

We’ve made a few changes to our Arbor Day Weekend lineup. The steady rainfall is great for the trees, but it calls for a slight adjustment to our scheduled outdoor activities.

Enjoy these fun activities this weekend:

At the Tree Adventure:

  • Make a Woodland Critter craft
  • Learn “What Comes From a Tree”
  • See “Trees Up Close and Personal”
  • Uncover the world of “Pelts and Skulls”
  • Talk to a Master Gardener
  • Tree Adventure admission: $8 adults; $6 youth (age 3-12). Includes a tree seedling to plant at home.

At the Apple House Market and Pie Garden:
Sip Arbor Day Farm’s newest wine varieties while you shop for jams, jellies, salsa, honey, pies, and other tasty treats. Enjoy an apple slushee and light lunch.

 At Lied Lodge:
Relax, retreat, and gather together at the all-new Lied Lodge. Fully-updated guest rooms, indoor pool, award-winning restaurant, and on-site spa. For availability and reservations, call 800-546-5433.

 Arbor Lodge State Historical Park is open for visitors, too. Take an inspiring, up-close look at the life and legacy of J. Sterling Morton, the founder of Arbor Day. See more than 200 varieties of lilacs during guided tours at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

 At the Morton Mansion:

  • Explore the 52-room mansion and learn about the history of Arbor Day and spring planting on the Morton farm
  • Enjoy parlor entertainment and fresh flowers throughout the mansion
  • Mansion admission: $8 adults; $6 youth (age 3-12)

Enjoy the full Arbor Day Farm experience with the All-Access Day Pass

  • Morton Mansion, Tree Adventure, and the Apple House Market are open Saturday 9 a.m.–5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
  • Admission: $15 adults; $11 youth (age 3-12)

International Mud Day at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Did you know getting outside and playing in the mud is not only fun, but it’s also beneficial?!

Get your hands dirty and play in the mud to celebrate International Mud Day on Saturday, June 24, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Tree Adventure. Make mud paintings and sculptures, squish your toes in the mud, and investigate different types of soil (a change of clothes is recommended).

Activity is included with regular Tree Adventure Admission. Questions? Call 402-873-8717.

Get Outdoors Day at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Celebrate National Get Outdoors Day with a visit to the Tree Adventure at Arbor Day Farm on Saturday, June 10 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Take part in a variety of activities including:

  • Scavenger hunt
  • Agility activities
  • Tree climbing
  • Face painting
  • Wood chuck game
  • Cooking on a stick
  • Craft making

Activity is included with regular Tree Adventure Admission. Questions? Call 402-873-8717.

Buzz About Bees at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Discover the wonderful world of bees and how much we rely on them!

On Saturday, May 27, from 11am to 3pm, at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure, participate in a variety of activities and see our demonstration hive up close. Bee experts will be on hand to help us learn about this very important little bug.

Free with Tree Adventure admission. No reservations required. Questions? Call 402-873-8717 for information.

Wine, Cheese, and a Walk Among the Trees at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Start with a glass of Arbor Day Farm wine, and snack on assorted cheeses; then head out to the wooded trails for a casual stroll-and-learn with one of Arbor Day Farm’s tree experts.

Event includes two tickets to the Tree Adventure, four wine tastes (cider for the kids), and two souvenir wine glasses. Reservations recommended. Call 402-873-8717.

…or…Choose the Wine, Cheese, & A Walk Among the Trees Getaway, which includes two tickets to the Tree Adventure for this special activity, an overnight stay at Lied Lodge, and breakfast for two in the Timber Dining Room. Reserve your package today online or by calling 1-800-546-5433.

Easter Weekend at Lied Lodge and Arbor Day Farm

Bring the entire family to Lied Lodge and Arbor Day Farm for a one-of-a-kind Easter weekend getaway.

The Easter Family Fun Package includes an overnight stay at Lied Lodge on Saturday, March 31, plus four tickets to Arbor Day Farm’s Tree Adventure attraction – featuring chicks, bunnies, lambs, and a seek-and-find egg hunt. Call today for your reservation: 800-546-5433 or reserve it online now.

At Lied Lodge’s Timber Dining Room:
Enjoy a scrumptious Easter Sunday Brunch and live piano music at Lied Lodge’s Timber Dining Room, served 11am-2pm. View the Easter Brunch menu, then call 402-873-8740 to make your dining room reservation.

At the Tree Adventure:
Embark on a springtime stroll through the woods and take in a leisurely seek-and-find egg hunt. Children will enjoy chicks, bunnies, and lambs at the Tree Adventure. Easter activities included with regular Tree Adventure admission. The Tree Adventure is open Easter Saturday, 9am–5pm; Easter Sunday, 12pm–4pm. Call 402-873-8717 for more information.

At the Apple House Market:
Sip Arbor Day Farm wines and shop for flavorful jams, jellies, salsas, and more. The Pie Garden Cafe is also open for apple pie and other tasty treats. Open Easter Saturday, 9am-5pm; Easter Sunday, 12pm-4pm.

At Arbor Lodge State Historical Park:
Get a close-up look at the life and legacy of J. Sterling Morton, the founder of Arbor Day. The mansion is open for self-guided tours; admission is $8/adults; $6/youth (age 3-12). Arbor Lodge mansion is open Easter Saturday, 9am–5pm; Easter Sunday, 12pm–4pm.

Owl Prowl at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Looking for the perfect cure for cabin fever? Get some fresh air and stretch your legs at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure with the Owl Prowl – your chance to learn about this feathered creature. Our Nature Interpreters guide you along the Tree House trail and teach the calls of the wild. See what the owl had for lunch and make a craft to take home. Comes free with Tree Adventure admission.

This activity is available Saturdays, February 3 and 10 from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Questions? Call 402-873-8717.

Buzz About Bees at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Discover the wonderful world of bees and how much we rely on them!

On Saturday, August 20, from 11am to 3pm, at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure, participate in a variety of activities and see our demonstration hive up close. Bee experts will be on hand to help us learn about this very important little bug.

Free with Tree Adventure admission. No reservations required. Questions? Call 402-873-8717 for information.

Marvelous Maples at the Tree Adventure

Join us at Arbor Day Farm on March 5, at 1pm for our all new event – Marvelous Maples.

Discover the process of maple tree tapping! Learn how these marvelous trees work and taste the sweet results; includes tree activity and take home craft. Fun for all ages.

Advanced registration required. All activities are included with regular Tree Adventure Admission. Questions? Please call 402-873-8717.

Marvelous Maples at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Now’s your chance to experience Marvelous Maples – back by popular demand. Explore marvelous maple trees and discover how maple syrup is made. Taste sap right from the tree along with various types of maple syrup complete with a campfire and fun tree craft. Advanced registration is required.

Cost is $15 per person and includes Tree Adventure admission. Call 402-873-8717 to register or for more information.

Marvelous Maples at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

Now’s your chance to experience Marvelous Maples – back by popular demand. Explore marvelous maple trees and discover how maple syrup is made. Taste sap right from the tree along with various types of maple syrup complete with a campfire and fun tree craft.

Available Saturdays, February 24 through March 10. Advanced registration is required.

Cost is $15 per person and includes Tree Adventure admission. Call 402-873-8717 to register or for more information.