One of the first things that strikes you about Nebraska is its scale – the river valleys, corn as far as the eye can see and the sense of a vast sky above you. Here at the core of America you’ll be able to experience the real USA.

It’s worth getting familiar with Nebraskan driving rules and regulations before you arrive – there can often be differences at local, state and federal levels. The major difference is that you’ll be driving on the right-hand side of the road in left-hand drive cars, overtaking on the left.

Speed limits vary, from 25mph in residential districts (and slower in some business and school areas) up to 60mph on state highways and 80mph on the interstate. Seatbelts are compulsory in the front of the vehicle, and children under six must be in a child safety seat.

The Interstate 80 or I-80 is the great Nebraskan road, cutting across the heart of the country on its way from Chicago to Sacramento on the far west coast. This is the Oregon Trail, and by driving it you’re following in the footsteps of those who once sought their fortune by passing along it.

There are six interstate roads in total, with the I-76 taking you south-west to Colorado and Denver, and the I-81 leading south to Kansas and north to South Dakota. Iowa lies to the east, Wyoming to the west and Missouri to the south-east. All are easily reachable on the extensive road system, meaning you can tick off the heart of the US in your Nebraska hire car.

Nebraska sprawls over some 77,000 square miles. Dotted with tiny towns and modern cities, there are also long stretches of glorious space, with cornfields, prairies, pretty valleys and ancient landscape that were once home to dinosaurs.

West of the Missouri

Omaha sits on the famed and grand Missouri River, with the Platte River also nearby, sprang up at their confluence. It’s a prosperous and modern city today, but one that also does a fine job of preserving its heritage. America’s size made spanning it of huge importance as it modernised in the 19^th century and the Union Pacific Railroad Museum captures the way in which train travel revolutionised the country commercially, socially and culturally.

Head downtown to the pretty Old Market area, where you’ll find great shops and places to dine in this arts and entertainment district. There’s a plethora of antique shops and art galleries, coffee and cupcakes in a place with real charm. The Henry Doorly Zoo is genuinely world class and is often awarded ‘best zoo in America’ status – as well as its vast desert, it’s also at the forefront of conservation efforts for both rare plants and animals.

Art-loving Lincoln

Lincoln sits south-west of Omaha and, thanks to its University, has the diversity and arts offerings you’d expect of a college town. The 400 feet tall State Capitol Buildings sits at the centre of it all and is worth touring, while the Sheldon Museum of Art is home to key pieces from Edward Hopper and Jackson Pollock.

The peerless Panhandle

The Panhandle (glance at a map of Nebraska and you’ll see where it gets its name) is in Nebraska’s north-west and has a character all its own. Here the sky seems truly endless, while dramatic canyons plunge, forests offer welcome shade and the quiet towns provide a welcome to strangers.

History both recent and ancient is yours for the discovery here. The Agate Fossil Beds are a national monument here in the high plains, and have been a rich source of discovery for scientists and palaeontologists.

Make time for Scotts Bluff, a soaring mountain formation that plays a key part in the collective memory of Americans. The Pony Express, California Trail and Oregon Trail all passed this point in the mid-19^th century, a landmark and waypoint for weary travellers (as was the stunning Chimney Rock). You can still see ruts from the carts that made their way along here.

The lowering skies, the amber waves of grain and corn, the quirky cities with their art scenes, cafes and restaurants, Nebraska is a truly great state. While it might not have the diversity of the coastal cities of the US, it remains incredibly friendly and welcoming, something sewn into the DNA of the locals ever since people passed through here either east or west in the formation of the USA. Car hire in Nebraska is absolutely essential to see it all for yourself.