Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center — Attraction in Wood River

I have often driven past, this was my first time stopping as I made the drive down 80 to points East. I have 3 homeschooled children and would highly recommend this stop as fun and educational for families homeschooled or not! We refilled water, had a nice clean bathroom stop, made origami cranes, saw an educational film- that makes me likely to add this to Our Epic Road Trip as a Mar/Apr stop to see the migration full swing! We.found treasures in the gift shop and had some lovely conversation with the volunteers/staff. Picked up some coloring sheets and activities for 3 girls to do in the backseat when Nebraska seemed to get to be too "long" for them 😉! And the art, photos, taxidermy... just beautiful! Definitely recommend- do plan for a bit of time, they have hiking trails to...

I could not wait to rate this location! Absolutely the best crane viewing experience ever! The blind is fully enclosed. Plexiglass covers the viewing area until it is time to see the birds. There are small openings that can be opened when the time is right. Fantastic guides. Very knowledgeable staff. Plus, the best cinnamon rolls and hot coffee offered up, for a small fee, after you have experienced the cranes taking off from the river.

Tons of info for the taking. Take the map for the self-guided tour. The cranes and snow geese are everywhere in the surrounding fields. It is the best location for learning about the crane migration and for witnessing the birds and their beautiful mating habits and singing.

Wish I could give them 10 stars. It is a must-do...

I have rented a blind from them twice now and am hoping to do so again in 2020. The visitor's center is incredible - very well done. Their overnight blinds are in a great location on the south side of the river with multiple options that give you the ability to get some great images without the birds having any clue you are among them.

You should definitely make time to see the crane migration at least once in your life. It's unforgettable seeing thousands of birds coming into roost for the night or leaving in the morning, to say nothing of their courting antics which are as silly as they are complex. The Crane Trust gives great opportunities to fit anyone's budget so you can enjoy the cranes while also supporting an organization designated to help...