Booking for 2024 will begin for Crane Trust members in September of 2023. To have an early opportunity at preferred dates, we encourage you to become a member.
VIP Crane Experience
2 Days/1 Night, Starting at $750/per Cottage Room (Includes up to 2 guests), All-Inclusive
Take your crane viewing experience to the next level by booking this premier experience! Guests from across the country gather for this exclusive opportunity to engage with fellow travelers and Crane Trust staff. VIP guests have an elevated experience while helping to support Crane Trust's mission and conservation work.
Enjoy accommodations in the Crane Trust’s Legacy Cottages and Suites with cozy rooms and private baths (see descriptions and images below). The Cottages (Hastings College, Lauritzen and Union Bank & Trust) each feature four fully-furnished private bedrooms / bathrooms with common area. The two Bay Family Suites each feature a king bed, large living area and deck overlooking a pond. This is a one-of-a-kind adventure on unique and vital Crane Trust lands.
Guests view the migration in our exclusive heated Pietrok Family blinds with experts who provide valuable insights into the science and the mystery of the crane migration and the Platte River ecosystem. The blinds are specially designed to provide spectacular vistas of the largest Sandhill Crane roost on the river, and provide guests with a comfortable and warm viewing experience.
The one-night VIP Experience includes delicious meals and beverages (beer and wine included) on our private lands away from the crowds. Crane Trust lodging can accommodate up to 28 people (2 to a room or suite), with each Legacy cottage housing up to 8 people.
What to Expect:
Day One
- 3:30pm check-in at the Nature & Visitor Center
- Social time, evening crane viewing, catered dinner, and Crane Trust program
- Rest in fully furnished private cottage rooms
Day Two
- Sunrise crane viewing, breakfast, and program
- 10:00am check-out
Requirements: Guests must be 18 or older and be capable of walking 1/2 mile across uneven grassland terrain without assistance.
VIP Crane Program Cancellation Policy
The VIP one-Night Crane Experience is a truly memorable way to spend time with friends, family, colleagues or clients while enjoying the natural wonder of the crane migration at the Crane Trust.
Interested in a 2-night stay? CLICK HERE for VIP Crane Safari information.
The Hastings College, Lauritzen, and Union Bank & Trust Cottages
The Hastings College, Lauritzen, and Union Bank & Trust Cottages were designed to provide a unique opportunity for guests wanting an immersion experience to witness the migration. The three cottages each have four bedrooms with either a queen bed or two twin beds, with private bathrooms. There is a kitchenette with dining table and television in the common area and a covered patio overlooking the vast historic prairie where our genetically-pure American bison roam.
The Bay Family Suites
The Bay Family Suites were designed for discerning guests looking to upgrade their experience. These beautiful, private, and luxurious accommodations come with two adjoining suites, each with a comfortable king size bed, television and views of the adjacent pond. There are dual sinks in the large bathroom with a spacious tiled shower. The kitchen has a dining area and the living room has two leather recliners and a television. Fire TV Stick and free wifi included.
