Top 10 Must-Visit Movie Locations in Nebraska: Explore the Scenes of Your Favorite Films

From Prairie Panoramas to Cityscapes: Nebraska's Unmissable Movie Locations

Nebraska's cinematic appeal lies in its unpretentious beauty and authentic Americana vibe. From the urban centers of Omaha and Lincoln to the wide-open spaces of the prairie and the quaint charm of small towns, Nebraska offers a diverse range of settings that resonate with filmmakers seeking genuine American landscapes.  Let’s journey through ten of the most compelling movie locations that make Nebraska a hidden gem for film tourism:

1. Nebraska (2013): Plainview and Across the State - The Heart of the Heartland

Alexander Payne's Oscar-nominated masterpiece, Nebraska, is practically a love letter to the state itself.  Filmed entirely in black and white and on location across Nebraska, the movie captures the state's stark beauty and poignant simplicity.  The fictional town of Hawthorne in the film is largely inspired by and filmed in Plainview, Nebraska.  Fans can drive through Plainview and recognize the small-town atmosphere and the main street that features prominently.  Beyond Plainview, Nebraska filmed extensively in locations like Norfolk, Lincoln, and Laurel, showcasing the diverse landscapes and towns that define the state.  A road trip following the path of Nebraska is a true immersion into the heart of the state.

2. About Schmidt (2002): Omaha and Denver - A Journey Begins in the City

Another Alexander Payne gem, About Schmidt, starring Jack Nicholson, begins in Omaha, Nebraska, before embarking on a cross-country road trip.  While much of the film unfolds outside Nebraska, key early scenes establish Schmidt's life in Omaha.  Recognizable Omaha locations include the Woodmen Tower, the Joslyn Art Museum (exterior shots), and the Westroads Mall area.  While these locations may not be the central focus of the film, they provide a tangible starting point for Schmidt's journey and offer a glimpse of Omaha's urban landscape.

3. Terms of Endearment (1983): Lincoln - Suburban Life in the Midwest

While Terms of Endearment is largely set in Texas, some pivotal early scenes depicting Aurora Greenway (Shirley MacLaine) and her family's life take place in Lincoln, Nebraska.  Specific residential streets in Lincoln's Country Club District were used to portray Aurora's suburban home. While these are private residences, driving through the charming, tree-lined streets of the Country Club District evokes the suburban American setting depicted in this iconic film.

4. Election (1999): Omaha High Schools - Teenage Politics in Action

Alexander Payne’s satirical comedy Election perfectly captures the intensity of high school politics, and much of it was filmed in Omaha high schools.  Burke High School and Creighton Preparatory School were both used as filming locations, doubling as the fictional Carver High School.  While these are active schools and interior access might be limited, driving by the exteriors and imagining the chaotic student election unfolding within their walls offers a fun connection to the film.

5. Citizen Ruth (1996): Omaha - Independent Film Grit in the City

Alexander Payne's directorial debut, Citizen Ruth, a darkly comedic take on abortion politics, is set and filmed entirely in Omaha.  The film showcases various Omaha neighborhoods and locations, lending it a distinct local flavor.  Keep an eye out for recognizable Omaha streetscapes and local businesses as you rewatch Citizen Ruth and consider exploring the city to find locations that resonate with the film's gritty independent spirit.

6. The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007): Crete and Ashland - Old West Charm

Parts of this revisionist Western, The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford, starring Brad Pitt, were filmed in Crete and Ashland, Nebraska.  These towns, with their historic architecture and preserved Main Streets, offered authentic backdrops for the late 19th-century setting of the film.  Explore the historic downtown areas of Crete and Ashland and imagine the Western scenes unfolding against their preserved facades.

7. Up in the Air (2009): Omaha Eppley Airfield - Travel and Transition in the Heartland

While Up in the Air is a film about constant travel, Omaha's Eppley Airfield makes a brief but recognizable appearance.  As George Clooney's character, Ryan Bingham, is based in Omaha, the airport serves as his home base and a symbol of his transient lifestyle.  Flying into or out of Omaha Eppley Airfield and recognizing its features from the film can add a subtle cinematic touch to your travel experience.

8. To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar (1995): Various Small Towns - Road Trip Through Rural Nebraska

This feel-good road trip comedy, To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar, sees its characters passing through various small towns across America, including locations in Nebraska. While specific Nebraska towns aren't heavily emphasized, the film captures the vibe of small-town America, which is readily found throughout Nebraska. Driving through Nebraska's charming small towns and imagining the film's colorful characters passing through can enhance your exploration.

9. Boys Don't Cry (1999): Falls City - Small Town Shadows

While primarily filmed in Texas and Greenville, TX to be exact, Boys Don't Cry, which tells a tragic story set in Nebraska, was partially filmed in Falls City, Nebraska. This southeastern Nebraska town offered a setting that resonated with the movie's small-town American feel. Though not prominently featured, understanding Falls City's connection adds depth to the film's Nebraska roots.

10. Nebraska Landscapes: Drive the Scenic Byways - Your Own Cinematic Journey

Beyond specific town locations, Nebraska itself is a movie location.  The vast prairies, golden wheat fields, and dramatic skies that define the state are inherently cinematic.  Take a drive along Nebraska's scenic byways, such as the Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway or the Outlaw Trail Scenic Byway, and experience the breathtaking landscapes that have drawn filmmakers to the state.  Create your own movie montage as you cruise through Nebraska's unforgettable scenery.

Lights, Camera, Nebraska: Plan Your Film Location Adventure!

Exploring Nebraska's movie locations is a chance to discover a different side of the Cornhusker State, one framed by the lens of cinema. It's an opportunity to connect with your favorite films on a tangible level and appreciate the understated beauty that Nebraska brings to the silver screen.  So, grab your popcorn, your road map, and your inner movie buff, and get ready to explore the cinematic secrets of Nebraska – you might just find yourself starring in your own Nebraska movie moment!