- Admission
- Free (donations accepted)
- Hours
- Open daily from dawn to dusk
- Duration
- 30-45 minutes
- Parking
- Free on-site parking lot available
- Access
- Flat, unpaved dirt and gravel paths; wheelchair accessible but can be muddy or uneven depending on weather
This quirky replica of England's Stonehenge is constructed from 39 classic American cars painted gray and buried trunk-first in the Nebraska prairie. Created as a memorial by artist Jim Reinders, it perfectly captures the spirit of offbeat roadside Americana. The surrounding Car Art Reserve features even more whimsical automobile sculptures.
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Created in 1987 by Jim Reinders as a memorial to his father, Carhenge is a whimsical yet surprisingly faithful replica of England's Stonehenge. Located in the high plains of western Nebraska, the monument consists of 39 classic American cars painted slate gray to mimic the look of ancient standing stones.
Visitors will find the vehicles arranged in a circle measuring roughly 96 feet in diameter, with some buried trunk-first into the ground and others welded atop them to form arches. Beyond the main henge, the surrounding Car Art Reserve features additional sculpture work made from car parts, including a giant spawning salmon and a metal dinosaur.
This quirky installation beautifully captures the spirit of classic American roadside art, offering a fascinating juxtaposition of industrial decay and ancient design. It is free to visit and open year-round, drawing thousands of travelers who seek out the wonderfully unusual.
Ratings
attractionVisitor Tips
- ◆ Visit during the golden hour around sunrise or sunset, when the light casts dramatic shadows through the car arches and makes for incredible photographs.
- ◆ Check out the Pit Stop Gift Shop on-site during the summer season for souvenirs and local information.
- ◆ Combine your visit with other nearby Nebraska Panhandle landmarks, such as Toadstool Geologic Park or Chimney Rock.
- ◆ Allow about 30 to 45 minutes to fully explore the main circle and the surrounding Car Art Reserve sculptures.
Heads Up
- ◆ The site is highly exposed to the elements, so expect strong winds and prepare for extreme heat in the summer or freezing temperatures in the winter.
- ◆ Avoid climbing on the car structures as they can have sharp metal edges, rust, or hot surfaces during the summer.
- ◆ Watch your step in the surrounding grassy areas, as the ground can be uneven and is home to prairie pests.
Common questions
Is Carhenge open at night?
Yes, Carhenge is located in an open field with no gates and can be accessed 24 hours a day. There is no artificial lighting on the site, so visitors arriving after dark should bring a flashlight.
Can you bring dogs to Carhenge?
Yes, dogs are welcome at the attraction as long as they remain on a leash. Owners are expected to clean up after their pets.
Are there restrooms at Carhenge?
Restrooms are available inside the gift shop during the peak summer travel season, which typically runs from May through September. Outside of these months, portable toilets are provided near the parking lot.