7 Fairy-Tale Small Towns In Nebraska
Admitted to the Union in 1867, Nebraska forms a central component of the Midwestern United States. Home to a population of just over 2 million, what Nebraska may lack in size it compensates for with loads of natural beauty and fascinating American history. And while such major cities like Lincoln and Omaha always attract attention, Nebraska is also home to a number of equally captivating and charming smaller towns. From the home of “Arbor Day" to Old West vibes, these awesome communities in Nebraska are perfect ways to experience the state outside of the major urban centers. So get ready for a fairy tale holiday through an exploration of the Cornhusker State and its most charming towns!
Ogallala
Established in the 1860s, Ogallala is a fascinating historic center where a definite feeling of the Wild West continues to entice guests. With a modest population of just under 5,000 residents, Ogallala’s small-town ambience truly does create a sense of stepping into a “fairy tale” world. A number of late 19th century buildings color Front Street, which includes, of course, saloons. Stroll along the wooden boardwalks and gravel roads and marvel at the storefronts and local businesses - the sense of the Wild West is definitely real here. One may even feel as if they have walked onto a film set!
Meanwhile, with a climate known for its hot summers there is also plenty of outdoor fun to be had in Ogallala. Enjoy an afternoon at the nearby Ash Hollow State Historical Park to learn more about the area’s prehistoric and modern history in a stunning natural setting, while relaxing days await at the pretty reservoir Lake McConaughey. Here activities like fishing, boating, camping, and picnicking make it a splendid escape.
Valentine
Near the border with South Dakota, the lovely town of Valentine is also known as America’s "Heart City”. A charming community with just over 2,600 residents, Valentine was founded in 1882. Today, visitors can explore fascinating American history all while being surrounded by some of Nebraska’s best natural scenery. An informative outing awaits at the Cherry County Historical Society Museum. Learn about the historic growth of the American West and browse though a fine collection of preserved artifacts and other important items.
Additionally, outdoors lovers should be sure not to miss out on time spent at the Niobrara River where fun in the sun is always alive. Enjoy opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating, while additional chances to go camping, hiking, cycling, and horseback riding await in the stunning Sandhills region. Finish off the day with a delightfully tasty American meal at eateries like the Old Mill and browse through many other local shops. Being in Valentine will definitely warm the hearts of all who visit.
Nebraska City
Founded in 1855, 12 years before Nebraska became an official state, Nebraska City is often cited as being the state’s oldest non-Indigenous settlement. Today this seat of Otoe County, near the border with Iowa, is home to a modest population of just over 7,000, and remains an inviting destination to enjoy a slower pace of life. Known as the “Home of Arbor Day”, the first American event was held here in 1872, and Nebraska City continues to celebrate its tree heritage through a number of special attractions. These include the Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard where the chance to pick one’s own fruit is a truly delightful experience, and the Arbor Day Farm featuring vineyard tours, wine tastings, beautiful accommodations, and loads of stunning natural scenery. And with its hot summer temperatures, spending time outside in this sylvan wonderland is indeed a very cherished part of the Nebraska City experience.
Other attractions of note include the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Trails and Visitor Center and the Nebraska City Museum of Firefighting, each showcasing fascinating episodes of American history. Add in cute local businesses like The Keeping Room Boutique and Cafe and other small shops, and it's a safe bet that your first trip to Nebraska City will not be your last.
Ashland
For those looking for exciting outdoor adventures within the confines of a smaller and quieter community, Ashland is indeed the place to be. Founded in the 1870s and with a modern population of just over 3,000 inhabitants, it is definitely a great destination for holiday fun outside the major urban areas. Guests can enjoy such attractions as Eugene T. Mahoney State Park and its wonderful assortment of trails and activities, while a journey to the continent of Africa awaits at the very special Wildlife Safari Park!
Meanwhile for the more science-oriented visitor, be sure to not miss the Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum. Learn more about the vastness of outer space and phenomena like black holes, and get up close with space aircraft machinery in this interactive and unique museum experience. Local shops such as the Olde Farmhouse and restaurants like Ruhlman’s Steakhouse bring a feeling of classic Americana to Ashland that is tough to beat.
Minden
Established in large part by German settlers in the 1870s, today Minden is home to just over 3,000 inhabitants and it perfectly captures the essence of being in a fairy tale, especially for those who visit during the month of December. Lovingly known as “Nebraska’s Christmas City”, the town transforms into a holiday wonderland where pageants, decorations, and upwards of 12,000 festive lights bring the Christmas spirit to life. Enjoy events like the Light of the World Pageant which has been delighting the young and old for nearly 80 years.
But if in Minden outside of the Christmas season, the town is still a great place to enjoy a fine Nebraska vacation. Take in hot summer temperatures and a quiet natural ambience, while a stop at the famed Pioneer Village is an absolute must. Spanning some 28 buildings and hosting an expansive collection of more than 50,000 items, guests will be transported through the 19th and 20th centuries in the United States. Marvel at such exhibit items like steam carousels, 1800s tractors, flying machine prototype designs, and iconic Model T-Fords. And do not forget about the nearby Fort Kearny State Historical Park and Recreation Area, a former military post and safehaven for workers and travelers along the Oregon-Calefornia Trail. The park features an interpretive center, and reconstructed buildings like a blacksmith shop and stockade, as well as camping grounds near the Platte River. Those looking for encounters with the past in a beautifully natural outdoor setting will not be dissapointed!
McCook
The town of McCook is a lovely place to enjoy the beautiful outdoor attractions of Nebraska. Founded in the 1880s and home to nearly 7,500 residents, the town boasts activities like cycling, hiking, birdwatching, and swimming at the Red Willow Reservoir State Recreation Area. Additionally, you can visit the Heritage Hills Golf Course, where rolling green hills and pretty landscapes frame an exciting round on a course named to several Top 100 lists by Golf Digest. And for those who are searching for a true feeling of Midwestern life, McCook hosts a number of local farms, like Klooz Farm Market, offering fresh local produce and vegetables for sale at the weekly farmer's market, as well as u-pick offerings during the harvest season.
Finally for the history-minded guest, be sure to spend an afternoon at the Museum of the High Plains, showcasing everything from the Old West to the Second World War and the state’s historic growth. The museum is housed within the Carnegie Library (1905) designed in the Spanish Colonial style and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. And with friendly local eateries including Ed’s Place and the Coppermill Steakhouse, a tasty slice of Midwestern cuisine is never far away in this charming community.
Rushville
Just over 800 permanent residents call Rushville home, a calming and relaxing community that serves as the seat of Sheridan County in northwestern Nebraska. Incorporated in the 1880s, this quiet town is perfect for a sojourn away from the big cities, and the area’s natural beauty has delighted guests for years. Enjoy the stunning cliff and canyon vistas of Pine Ridge, where photogenic memories are guaranteed, while a scenic game awaits at Sand Ridge Golf Course. The 9-hole course spans some 80 acres and the licensed club house offers snacks and drinks to toast a great day on the links.
Furthermore enjoy some of Rushville’s historic character and explore buildings that are even listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These include the Armstrong House Museum which highlights the town’s past and the history of Nebraska, and the Sheridan County Courthouse, amongst others. And with a friendly Main Street full of local businesses like The Twisted Turtle Pub, it becomes clear what makes Rushville such an endearing place to enjoy an authentic sampling of Americana, Nebraska style.
Lovingly known as the “Cornhusker State”, Nebraska is a cannot-miss destination for all those who are travelling through the Midwestern USA. Though it remains relatively sparsely populated with just over 2 million inhabitants, the vast geographic beauty and historic intrigue of the state make it a wonderful place to enjoy an American holiday. Indeed, through a trip to its various and charming small towns, a quieter pace of life and stunning surroundings make for a nice contrast with the big cities like Omaha. Whether it is the history and nature at Ashland or the Arbor Day delights of Nebraska City, these towns are each idyllic in their own way. So come see Nebraska across a stopover in these special smaller towns, where charming Americana, intriguing history, and a fairy-tale ambience, will certainly create memories to last a lifetime.
