Homestead National Historical Park

Thousands of visitors stop to view the oldest restored tallgrass prairie in the National Park Service from the Heritage Center back patio.
The Homestead Act of 1862 transformed the world. Millions were invited to file claims including families, women, immigrants, and formerly enslaved people. Over 10 percent of the United States was homesteaded! The land, long inhabited by indigenous cultures, changed forever. Homesteaders created settlements and farms, drove industrial advancement, and built our nation chasing the American Dream.
Map showing location of park.
Prescribed burn planned at Homestead National Historical Park
Homestead National Historical Park plans to conduct a prescribed burn treating approximately 60 acres. The prescribed fire will occur on the first day in which favorable and safe conditions exist between now and May 1, 2026.
Black and white photo. Two individuals wearing living history clothes are backlit silhouettes next to a log cabin.
Applicants Sought for 2026 Artist-in-Residence Program at Homestead National Historical Park
BEATRICE, Neb. - Homestead National Historical Park’s 2026 Artist-in-Residence Program is open for applications for artists seeking inspiration from Homestead National Historical Park’s rich cultural and natural resources. All visual (painters, photographers, sculptures, etc.), performing (drama, dance, music, composition, etc.) and literary artists are welcome to apply.
Photo shows several decorated Christmas trees.
Winter Festival of Prairie Cultures Happening Now at Homestead National Historical Park
Beatrice, Neb. – Homestead National Historical Park is hosting its annual Winter Festival of Prairie Cultures now through January 3, 2026, at the Education and Heritage Centers. Special programs will be offered December 7, and December 14, 2025, at the Education Center.
A historic cabin stands next to a concrete path that leads to a plow shaped visitor center
Photo by NPS Photo/Hunter Hendricks
A historic one room schoolhouse
Photo by Homestead National Monument of America
The tallgrass prairie is yellow with goldenrod in full bloom.
Photo by
The Homestead Heritage Center on the tallgrass prairie
Photo by Mel Mann, artist in residence of Homestead National Monument of America
The tallgrass prairie spans to the Heritage Center on the horizon.
Photo by Mel Mann
The Homestead Education Center
Photo by Homestead National Monument of America
A homestead cabin at sunset
Photo by Homestead National Monument of America