Before school starts have a Capitol adventure

With school starting in just a couple weeks, families may be looking for one last adventure before everyone gets busy with school preparation. The Nebraska Tourism Commission is sponsoring the Nebraska Passport Program, the Capitol is one stop on the state-wide tour which runs through the end of September. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Great Parks Pursuit includes the Capitol as a stop. While the Capitol may not be a state park, the building houses some of the amazing animals which can be seen at Nebraska’s State Parks. The Capitol’s Rotunda floor features mosaics of some of the prehistoric creatures unearthed at Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park and on display in the visitor’s center and Rhino Barn. The Capitol’s 2nd floor Vestibule ceiling features 28 circular mosaics of native Nebraskan animals, including a buffalo/ bison which can be found at Fort Robinson State Park. Many Nebraska state parks are home to skunks, possums, rabbits, coyotes and other creatures featured in the mosaics. Test your knowledge of ungulates and identify the three featured in the mosaics. Which is the White Tailed Deer, our state mammal? Which is the elk or pronghorn? Try to imagine a time when bears and wolves roamed the state. The cougar or puma included reminds us, even without mountains, Nebraska is home to mountain lions. The Capitol also provides an opportunity to go birding. Using the Bird Watching guide, families can explore the Capitol and look for birds along the way. Expect to see many eagles and our state bird the Western Meadowlark.  And for those students eager to get back to school and their studies, the Nebraska Department of Education’s Virtual Capitol Tour provides an opportunity to learn more about Nebraska History via the Nebraska State Capitol.
With only three weeks to go, the Capitol can be included in a last chance for summer fun.