From the overlook, the broad Missouri River valley stretches out below, with Nebraska, Iowa, and South Dakota all visible from a single vantage point. That contrast is part of what makes Ponca such a memorable destination for people who assumed they already knew what Nebraska looked like. The right tower, also 25 feet tall, represents the modern era with species native to the Missouri River region, including blue herons and bison. The Missouri River Outdoor Expo brings together more than 100 free activities in a single weekend, drawing participants from across the area for a celebration of outdoor recreation and natural education. Timing a visit around the expo adds a social dimension to the park experience that a standard weekend trip does not provide.