Great place to visit, especially if you are here during Sandhill Crane Migration. Lots of interesting and informative exhibits, nice gift shop, walking trails, etc. Parking Lot, building, restrooms and such are very accessible. The volunteers are extremely helpful and are obviously very devoted to the cranes, other birds, and the natural environment here. I spoke with Cyndi, warm and enthusiastic, who made my visit here even more special. There are blinds here that you can reserve and ideally can give you an excellent viewing opportunity at dawn and dusk to see the cranes. You have to make reservations for these a LONG time in advance, we hadn't done that so we went to a different viewing area for the dusk return-to-the-river. Our GPS took us on a really roundabout route - absurdly so, really. Which honestly was not a problem, as it routed us on rounds along the cornfields and that's where the cranes are during the day. But if you are in a hurry to get here you might want to see what route your GPS has planned for you. read more

Rowe Sanctuary - This poem brought tears to my eyes - Parks Near Me - Gibbon, Nebraska

Came screaming down I-80 with purpose and propulsion this past summer, putting another 8500 miles on the old odometer. Somewhere in Nebraska, the kids were getting antsy in the back seat, and we needed a place to stretch our legs and eat a little lunch anyway. A poor cell signal revealed we were relatively close to Rowe Sanctuary, and after a couple of wrong turns and the acceptance that things on roads out here are always farther than they look on maps, we found it. Evidently, this place is quite a zoo when the beautiful sand hill cranes migrate through here in early spring (March-April). Really no one here during our visit in July, but enough natural beauty in the restored Platte river habitat, framed by some promising cumulonimbus clouds (we love summer thunderstorms... we don't get much of that in SoCal.) We walked a bit on a trail towards a marshy looking area that was pretty dry considering, then found a shady spot on a bench to eat a picnic lunch. As a card carrying member of the Audubon society, I always appreciate seeing little places like this designed to protect our natural resources. read more

We visited the Iain Nicolson Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary to finally get a chance to see the Sandhill Crane Migration. The mission of the sanctuary is to conserve and restore the Platte River eco-system with a focus on cranes and other wild life and their habitats for the benefit of humanity and the earth's biological diversity. The sanctuary is located along one of North America's most important bird migration routes known as the Central Flyway. The Platte River is essential habitat for the survival of many bird species included the endangered Whooping Crane, Least Tern, and the Piping Plover. Over 80% of the world's Sandhill Crane population rests and feeds at the sanctuary each Spring for 4 to 6 weeks in preparation for their journey north to the crane's nesting grounds. The sanctuary is extremely busy during Sandhill migration and if you are interested in going; reservations are a must. Once there, you will be welcomed by one of the volunteer guides, see a short film explaining the history and background of the sanctuary as well as expected behavior in order not to scare the birds. Best times was viewing are either early morning and late evening when they come back to the river to roost from a day of feeding. There are a number of "blinds" where groups can observe and photograph the birds without disturbing them. Got some great photos of thousands of birds coming in to roost for the night. Also got to see 4 bald eagles and 7 deer while in the blind as well as an endangered Whooping Crane. There is a gift shop within the main building where you can get your crane fix. The sanctuary is located only 20 minutes away from Kearney where you can find plenty of lodging options. Well worth the trip for all ages, BUT be sure and check the weather and be prepared to layer accordingly. The blinds are NOT heated and sitting/standing still for a couple hours can get pretty chilly. read more

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The hubs and I spent our 9 wedding anniversary weekend here in Kearney watching the great Sandhill Crane migration. I called at the beginning of January to secure a spot on a morning photo blind tour and a general afternoon tour. The sanctuary is a peaceful dirt road drive past farm land. The buildings are low and obscure and the staff is exceedingly friendly. I showed up wearing a bright orange jacket and o was very nicely lent a more color appropriate jacket by a staff member so I wouldn't scare off the birds. We were fortunate to be able to try out the newest bird blind right on the river. It was a lovely quiet walk in the dark to the blind and then we waited. The birds were full of noise and we eagerly awaited the sunlight coming up. We saw three big lift offs and it was beyond impressive. What an amazing experience that we were so lucky to see. read more

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My wife and I drove 3 1/2 hours from the Omaha area to get to this place (which was recommended over the phone by their staff as a place accessible for people with disabilities (e.g. I walk with a cane). When we arrived: - Since we got to the Gibbon area a little early we pulled off at a bird watching area near the sanctuary and saw quite a few cranes flying from the Platte into the fields to feed on corn, etc. We loved the graceful flight of these birds and all the sounds they were making. - Since the place advertises that it opens at 9 am, we went to the gate to enter, only to be told/find: a) We couldn't enter until all the people who paid for tours (ranging from $50 to $250) had FIRST left the sanctuary. The man at the gate couldn't tell us when this might occur, so we left, not wanting to wait some INDEFINITE period of time. b) That the trails aren't really that handicapped accessible, even though earlier over the phone we were told this is a handicap accessible location to view the cranes. c) The sanctuary is under construction (even though earlier over the phone we were given no indication that this place was under construction), making for no buildings that were currently open. We ended up parking on the road at several locations to get SOME view of the birds and to take a few photos. During one of these stops a lady who drove up from Missouri with her handicapped mother (8 hour trip for them) were very upset with the situation, as were we. We didn't feel like paying $50+ dollars/person to be part of a tour to see the cranes. If you go, you're better off just finding your own viewing pull over locations, in our opinion. I would recommend this place, ONLY if you want to spend the money for one of their tours, and ONLY if you're physically capable of walking distances over uneven terrain. The last statement is only an assumption, based on what we were told at the gate we couldn't enter through, even after opening time. read more

We came early this year to avoid crowds what a magical time. Thousands of snow geese were still there. We spent hours watching in the fields. Got to go to the blinds one evening . it was farther than I remembered. I just have one lung and my friend has some side effects from her chemo. We made it. Enjoyed our time watching and listening. Came time to go, Tom and Jan arranged for a golf cart to get us back. So much kindness! The visitors center is always a wrath of information. That you thank you, thank you! Gynia Crane-really, that is my last name... read more

Just do it pictures don't do it justice wonderful experience support the birds support the Audubon society be a fine American

The Rowe Sanctuary, its employees, and many volunteers have created a mystical environment full of wonder, enchantment, and engaging experiences. Just knowing they exist is good for the soul. Participating in a blind is magical. My most recent morning blind included a full moon slowly descending as a gorgeous sunrise emerged, all to the cheerful warbling of the cranes. Then, cranes filled the sky as they left the Platt River for nearby corn fields. This massive migration is only possible due to the enormous efforts to make the River suitable and safe for the cranes. Highly recommend. read more

Rowe Sanctuary - Cranes rising from Platt River - Parks Near Me - Gibbon, Nebraska

This is an updated review. A few weeks ago my husband and I rented one of the private blinds. Seeing the cranes come in was amazing! Going to sleep with them cooing right next too us was phenomenal. Wow. What an amazing opportunity. Every person we met was very nice. The gentlemen that dropped us off in the evening and picked us up in the morning were helpful and professional. read more

We visited Rowe Sanctuary in mid-March to witness the sandhill crane migration. Several months prior to our visit, we made reservations to view the cranes from a blind that sits right on the Platte River bank. The east blind has large windows for viewing and photographing. Our guide, Lish, was well-informed and helpful. In addition to seeing thousands of cranes, first "staging" in nearby fields, then settling at dark on the river, we also saw over 30 Bald Eagles, both juvenile and adult. We were concerned the eagles' presence wound prohibit the arrival of the crsnes, but that did not happen. This migration is a natural spectacle that is well worth seeing. We also saw thousands of snow geese, in fields and in the air. Rowe Sanctuary does a fine job of organizing tours and fulfilling its missions of conservation and education. read more

I have visited Rowe a handful of times now and always had a good experience. Granted there are a couple of things out of our control...the weather and the cranes being at the top of the list. Conditions in Nebraska in the spring can vary greatly. I've seen blizzards, flooding, sunny days in the 70's and north winds that felt pretty harsh. But the birds make up for all of it. You will see cranes...lots and lots of cranes most everywhere...but especially on the river, morning and evening, around Rowe. The guides are terrific...newly built public blinds are top notch, with warming rooms now available for those cold days. And you get to witness first hand, one of the greatest wildlife migrations in the world. It's hard to beat that if you're a bird or nature lover. read more

A very cool place to check out during Sandhill Crane viewing season, very easy to get to Exit 285 on I-80, the other yelpers nailed it way better than I can. read more

Rowe Sanctuary - Parks Near Me - Gibbon, Nebraska

Even pre-peak sand hill crane season, this Audobon center is worth a stop. Nice short walk on a dirt path to a blind on the Platte river and a good visitor's center. Best times to view cranes on the river are dawn and dusk, the rest of the time they seem to hang out in random fields and fly around in pairs or swirls of free-forming flocks. What struck me is the sound they make, kind of a cooing or purring that surrounds you even when you can't see them. read more

Very cool and hidden away museum and bird watching sanctuary. I went there with someone from NTV to give a talk to a group of women from the local university about new media and it's integration with broadcast news. It was a very nice facility and then women that run it were super nice. If you like bird watching, I would recommend you visit this little hidden gem. read more

We just returned home, from the Rowe Sanctuary, and recommend it to all ages and all people. We visited the blinds in the morning and evening both. We had a good morning view, but were limited to viewing by fog. The evening viewing was spectacular. Not only did we have thousands of sandhills cranes, but where treated to 3 whooping cranes, bald eagles, and deer, as well. We made our reservations in January. The cost is small compared to the value in comparison to other events around the country. The sanctuary, the location, the blinds, the guides, and the cranes are worth seeing. The sanctuary is open all year, and well worth the visit anytime. Don't forget the young people, because this is an event for all ages. read more

I have been to the Rowe Sanctuary several times, and spending the night on a photo blind never disappoints. Seemingly every time it is different, with weather, crane behavior, light, etc. making a big difference. The staff is very friendly and helpful, and there is no better way to experience the magnitude of the sand hill crane migration than in a blind right by the river. read more

Great coaching on how best to view the sandhill cranes. Had a great experience. Enjoyed the volunteers and other birders

So grateful thoughtful, dedicated and generous people have preserved this space for the cranes. The opportunity to view the migration is pure joy. The staff and volunteers are diligent guardians and welcoming guides! read more

I have a mixed review. Viewing the crane migration was amazing, a once in a lifetime experience. So, A+ for the cranes!!! The staff at Rowe Sanctuary was a huge disappointment. There were two of us. We rented the "overnight photography" blind. We drove through horrible weather conditions (over 150 traffic accidents). Very slick roads. Barely arrived on time. So, we were quite relieved to arrive onsite on time. We immediately informed the staff that we were there for the overnight blind. The woman that was at the front desk (I can't say that she greeted us) literally smirked with disgust and disdain upon glancing over us. I was so shocked at her arrogant behavior that I was speechless. My BFF has a photography degree from a prestigious art institute and has traveled all over the world as an animal/wildlife photographer, even won an Emmy, so I think she's qualified to take photos of the cranes. The staff made a huge deal of "if you leave the blind before the birds leave in the morning is grounds for immediate expulsion". Yet the staff drove up in the morning before the cranes and left and scared them all away, completely ruining our final photos opp. So, I guess it's ok for them to break all the rules. No one thanked us for coming, they hardly glanced up from their phones. Upon leaving we bought a few items from the gift store and the cashier did thank us for coming and supporting them. She was the only one with any manners. Upon driving home we passed the Crane Trust and stopped in. It was amazing. The staff was incredibly gracious and welcoming. We stayed quite a while visiting with the staff and looking around. Totally sold on the Crane Trust and will be visiting their facility next year, with my entire family. We bought some fabulous photos from the art gallery at the Crane Trust. Next time we will be staying in the photography blind at the Crane Trust. read more

This was our first time visiting the Rowe Sanctuary and it was well worth the visit. My wife and I had always wanted to view the Sandhill Crane migration and what a view. The only problem was the weather during our visit, but we still were very happy with our experience. The staff and guides were great and the facility was very nice. I would highly recommend to anyone that wants to view the Sandhill Crane migration to make a reservation through the Rowe Sanctuary. My wife and I are looking forward to doing this experience again and bringing our grandchildren. read more

Spent the evening at Rowe Sanctuary last night, in a beautiful new blind on the Platte River. From the moment I checked in at the Visitor Center, until our quiet walk back, it was an enchanting time. Of course, most of the credit goes to the Sandhill Cranes, but the video presentation and the guides were wonderful. Also, the new blinds are beautiful, and there is a warm room, in case you get really cold. This is an experience of a lifetime. Do not miss it. read more

This is a great place to witness the Sandhill Crane migration! The staff is great. When I called to make reservations I mentioned that I didn't have a monopod (required instead of a tripod for some blinds). The volunteer taking my reservation said no problem you can use mine! That was above and beyond. The guides who lead the tour were knowledgeable, helpful, and very courteous. The blind was situated in an excellent location with great views of the cranes. I would recommend this tour to anyone! read more

I totally recommend a visit to the Sanctuary during the Sandhill Crane migration. Unbelievable. The staff, both volunteers and otherwise, were fantastic. They were so helpful, knowledgeable and excited to have us there. It was a truly wonderful experience. I hope to go back and enjoy the birds and the Sanctuary. read more

I have stopped in a few years in a row. I can't say much for the actual tour, I have a young daughter (they typically recommend 12 and up) and they might waive her age, though there is no guarantee. They were happy to point out other areas to see the migration. The staff is helpful in plotting out other places to see the birds. Mind you, during the migration is seems chaotic because the handful of employees and volunteers are herding rabid cats through a laser maze. The evening viewing was not a fruitful as the morning view a few years ago. There were certainly lots of birds flying about. Cranes, geese, and various others here and there were flying about the area. They did not roost where we were but my patience was thin and the wind was strong on a cold day. I certainly appreciate the insights the staff provided, knowing that we weren't even potential customers at the time. Although, we did manage to get something in the gift shop. read more

Fantastic evening. All sorts of photo ops and it was a thrill just to be out there among the cranes. Hope to return next year.

The people were very knowledgeable and friendly. Their dedication to the sanctuary make the visit something everyone should experience. We were lucky to have great bird viewing. The Cane Cam on the web site is also worth checking out . read more

What a great place, friendly people, spectacular location, and WONDERFUL crane viewing experience. I sooo appreciate that the viewing opportunity was affordable - us "regular" people sure appreciate the chance to see sll this up close! read more

Very informative, educated and caring staff and volunteers. I have been looking forward to visiting Rowe Audubon for years, and it was very exciting to finally visit and see the crane migration. read more

If you're a bird nerd you must come to the Rowe center. Beautiful location on the Platte River with kind and knowledgeable staff who work hard to give you a wonderful experience. The Sandhill Crane migration passes through this area and it is one of the most amazing natural sights to see. read more

We attended both morning and evening blind viewings at the Rowe Sanctuary earlier this week after an 8 1/2-hour drive from Minnesota. It was one of the most joyous, exhilarating experiences of our long lives. We are already planning to go back next year. It is a completely unique phenomenon, and now that we have learned so much about the sand hill cranes (as well as seeing a whopping crane near Alda), are planning to go back to Rowe again next year, possibly as volunteers for a week. So exciting! We are still savoring our time with the cranes. We will savor continue to savor it until we see and hear them again next year. read more

Our visit to Rowe Sanctuary to see the Sandhill Crane experience was nothing short of amazing. After speaking to the staff before we signed up we decided to go to both the morning and evening viewings. This was great advice because they were very different experiences. As we approached our blind in the morning it was dark but there was a cacophony of sound. Then slowly, as the sun began to rise, the Cranes became clearer and clearer. There were thousands of them taking off for their day in the corn fields over the next couple of hours. In the evening we had more time before the "event" so our guides were able to provide our group with lots of very interesting information. When we got to the blind it was still light so we settled in. As dusk approached we started to see the Cranes appear in the distance. It's hard to describe the magic of the next couple of hours. There was a crescendo of sound that built up over time. The Cranes roosted closer and closer to our blind as the sun began to set. We were so lucky. The sunset was spectacular. I heard the experience was special, but I have to say I wasn't prepared for how wonderful it really was. I cannot recommend it enough. If you can, definitely sign up for both the morning and evening. read more