**Top 5 Cities to Film in Nebraska**
Nebraska is a hidden gem for filmmakers. The state offers wide-open spaces, charming small towns, and vibrant cityscapes. From its rolling plains to its historic architecture, Nebraska has diverse locations that can fit many types of films. Filmmakers often look for places that offer both beauty and uniqueness, and Nebraska delivers just that. Movieinsure.com is a proud provider of short term film production insurance and annual film production insurance for the state of Nebraska. In this article, we’ll explore the top five cities to film in Nebraska.
1. **Omaha**
Omaha is the largest city in Nebraska, and it is a fantastic place to film. The city offers a mix of modern and historic architecture, making it a versatile location for various films. Downtown Omaha has tall buildings, busy streets, and beautiful parks, perfect for films that need a bustling urban setting.
The Old Market District in Omaha is a favorite spot for filmmakers. It is filled with cobblestone streets, old warehouses, and charming shops. The district gives off a vintage, nostalgic vibe that is great for period films or scenes set in historic times. At the same time, Omaha’s modern areas can provide a contemporary and polished backdrop for any production.
The Missouri River runs along the eastern edge of Omaha, offering stunning waterfront views. Filmmakers can capture the river’s peaceful flow or use the riverfront parks for outdoor scenes. With its mix of modern cityscapes, historic charm, and natural beauty, Omaha is a top destination for filming in Nebraska.
2. **Lincoln**
As the state capital, Lincoln has a lot to offer filmmakers. The city has a blend of government buildings, university campuses, and residential neighborhoods. The Nebraska State Capitol building is one of the most iconic landmarks in the state, with its towering structure and grand design. It’s perfect for political dramas or any film that needs a powerful, symbolic backdrop.
Lincoln is also home to the University of Nebraska, which offers filmmakers access to a wide range of locations. The campus is filled with classic brick buildings, green lawns, and tree-lined paths. It’s a great spot for films set in a school or university setting. The youthful energy of the city also gives it a lively and modern feel.
In addition, Lincoln has many parks and outdoor spaces that can be used for filming. Pioneers Park Nature Center, for example, offers wide open fields, forests, and wildlife. These natural settings are perfect for films that need a peaceful or rugged outdoor backdrop. Lincoln’s combination of government landmarks, university charm, and outdoor beauty makes it an excellent choice for filmmakers.
3. **Grand Island**
Grand Island is a smaller city, but it offers plenty of unique and picturesque locations for filmmakers. The city has a mix of agricultural landscapes, small-town charm, and historic sites. For films that need rural settings, Grand Island is an ideal location.
One of the city’s standout features is the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer. This museum is a living history site that recreates a 19th-century prairie town. The historic buildings, old-fashioned streets, and period costumes provide an authentic backdrop for Westerns or historical films. It’s like stepping back in time, making it perfect for movies set in the past.
Grand Island is also known for its connection to agriculture. The surrounding farmland offers filmmakers wide-open fields, barns, and farmhouses. This rural setting is great for films that focus on small-town life, farming, or nature. The combination of history and rural beauty makes Grand Island a top city for filming in Nebraska.
4. **Kearney**
Kearney is another smaller city in Nebraska, but it has a rich history and a welcoming feel. The city is known for its cultural attractions and scenic surroundings, making it a great place for filmmakers. Kearney’s downtown area has old brick buildings, local shops, and tree-lined streets, creating a classic small-town atmosphere. It’s perfect for films that focus on community life or personal stories.
One of Kearney’s highlights is the Archway, a massive monument that stretches over Interstate 80. This unique structure tells the story of America’s westward expansion and can provide a striking and symbolic backdrop for films. Whether you’re filming a historical documentary or a modern road trip movie, the Archway adds a special touch to the scene.
Kearney is also close to the Platte River, a popular location for birdwatching and outdoor recreation. During certain times of the year, the river attracts thousands of sandhill cranes, creating a spectacular sight. The peaceful river and stunning wildlife offer filmmakers a beautiful natural setting for outdoor scenes. Kearney’s mix of history, nature, and small-town charm make it a great place to film.
5. **North Platte**
North Platte is a city with a strong connection to the Old West, and it’s a fantastic place for filmmakers looking for a bit of history. The city is famous for being the home of Buffalo Bill Cody, a legendary figure of the American West. Buffalo Bill’s Ranch State Historical Park, located in North Platte, gives filmmakers access to historic buildings, wagons, and wide-open plains. It’s the perfect place to film a Western or any movie set in the frontier days.
The city also has a railroad heritage, with the Union Pacific Railroad being a major part of its history. Bailey Yard, the world’s largest railroad classification yard, is located in North Platte. The sprawling rail yards and tracks can provide a gritty, industrial backdrop for films about transportation or the working class.
In addition to its historical sites, North Platte has beautiful natural surroundings. The nearby Lake Maloney and the North Platte River offer peaceful water settings and wide-open spaces. Whether you’re filming a Western, a historical drama, or a nature documentary, North Platte has everything you need. Its connection to the Old West and its natural beauty make it one of Nebraska’s top filming destinations.
In conclusion, Nebraska is a state filled with diverse and beautiful locations for filmmakers. Each of the cities mentioned in this article offers something unique for film production. Omaha’s mix of modern architecture and historic charm makes it a versatile location for various genres. Lincoln, with its government landmarks and university setting, provides a perfect blend of history and youthful energy.
Grand Island offers filmmakers access to rural landscapes and living history at the Stuhr Museum, making it ideal for Westerns or historical films. Kearney’s small-town charm and cultural attractions, like the Archway and Platte River, give filmmakers plenty of variety. And North Platte, with its strong connection to the Old West and the railroad, is a fantastic location for films about history and adventure.
Whether you’re working on a big-budget movie or an independent film, Nebraska’s cities and landscapes offer the perfect settings. From the bustling streets of Omaha to the quiet plains of North Platte, Nebraska has something for every filmmaker. The state’s mix of urban environments, small-town charm, and natural beauty makes it a top destination for the film industry.
