Nebraska’s cheap, in a good way: as a vacation spot

Nebraska has been named the second-least-expensive state for a vacation in 2008, according to a new survey from AAA. The survey looked at lodging and meal costs for two adults and two children in the 50 states and the District of Columbia. Nebraska had a combined daily cost of $159.65, less than a dollar above the least-expensive state, North Dakota.

The most-expensive state in the survey was Hawaii, at $792.76. In fact, all of the top five — Hawaii, Washington, D.C., New York, Nevada and Florida — are major vacation destinations.

Rose White, a spokeswoman for AAA Nebraska, said the states with higher vacation costs have popular attractions and a higher cost of living anyway. Sarah Baker, media relations coordinator for the Nebraska Division of Travel and Tourism, said Nebraska has a range of activities for couples and families. They include outdoor options such as camping and canoeing, and entertainment such as major concerts in Omaha.

Other activities and attractions, Baker said, such as bird-watching, bed and breakfasts and wineries, have grown in popularity. Dana Markel, director of the Omaha Convention and Visitors Bureau, said Omaha draws in people for events such as the College World Series, concerts and conventions. The city also draws leisure travelers with places such as the Henry Doorly Zoo, art galleries and the Old Market.