7 Nebraska Towns That Locals Love
An important part of the Midwestern United States, the beautiful “Cornhusker State” of Nebraska is a treasure just waiting to be discovered. While it is home to a relatively small population of just some two million inhabitants statewide, Nebraska is also home to abundant natural beauty, fascinating history, and plenty of unique Midwestern charm. Here, guests can find something truly special, and by spending time in some of the State’s lovely smaller towns (that even locals proudly boast about), an extraordinary holiday with genuine Americana will surely be encountered. So while cities like Omaha and Lincoln may be the best known, Nebraska’s towns are every bit as inviting and rich in attraction, where the young and old alike can find something to cherish for years to come!
McCook
The seat of Red Willow County near the border with Kansas, the town of McCook is a splendid destination to enjoy the unique beauty of Nebraska’s natural ambience. Home to a modest population of just under 7,500 inhabitants, this pretty community with a modern history dating to the 1880s invites guests with its hot summer and warm winter temperatures. Enjoy activities like hiking, biking, camping, picnicking, swimming, and even birdwatching at many local parks, including the Red Willow Reservoir State Recreation Area. And for the golf lover, visiting McCook would not be complete without a game at the beautiful Heritage Hills Golf Course, which has frequently been named amongst the best courses in the country by Golf Digest.
Meanwhile, amongst the cultural attractions in town, be sure to explore the Museum of the High Plains, which highlights everything from the days of the Old West to Nebraska’s role in the war effort during the Second World War. Add in special excursions like time spent at the Klooz Farm Market (where one can even pick their own fruit), an assortment of friendly local businesses like the Westview Plaza Shopping Center, and fun community events like July's Red Willow County Fair and the Fall Heritage Days, and McCook will certainly leave a most positive impression of welcoming small town Nebraska.
Ashland
Ashland is another fine place to enjoy the beauty of small-town Nebraska, and all who visit can expect a relaxing and quiet sojourn. Situated in east central Saunders County, just over 3,000 call the community home, where loads of special attractions are interesting for all ages. Visit the Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum, where learning about outer space, black holes, and the enduring mysteries of the Universe has never been more accessible. Marvel at the museum’s collection of space aircraft and other interactive exhibits in this most fascinating place. From ther,e enjoy some of Nebraska’s best natural settings at the Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, where breathtaking hiking and cycling trails, pretty campsites, and tons of photogenic moments await. And do not forget about the Wildlife Safari Park, which transports visitors to the heart of the African Savannah without boarding a plane!
Meanwhile, people of all ages can appreciate fun community events like the Trick or Treat on Silver Street and the Fall Art Walk in November. Finish the day with a fine meal at BW’s Pub & Grill, while the Olde Farmhouse Gift Shop is the perfect place to bring a piece of Nebraska home.
Ogallala
Visiting Ogallala is like stepping into the days of America’s Old Wild West, and indeed, all ages can have a delightful sense of time travel when exploring this delightful historic town. Founded in the 1860s and home to a modern population of nearly 5,000 inhabitants, guests and locals alike cherish Ogallala’s unique ambience where many 19th-century edifices continue to stand, particularly on Front Street. Explore old hotels, saloons, stables, and more on a stroll on the charming gravel roads and wooded boardwalks, which for many may even give the impression of being part of a film crew.
And for more immersion in history, be sure to spend time at the nearby Ash Hollow State Historical Park, which combines fascinating past stories with stunning natural scenery. Add in warm winters and hot summers, and the outdoors is always a welcome place to be in Ogallala, and the reservoir Lake McConaughey remains ever popular. Enjoy opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, and camping in this serene environment that serves as the perfect escape from the busyness of big city life. Finally, if visiting in the Fall, be sure to take in the fun of September's Summer Indian Rendezvous featuring live music, dancers, and other local Nebraska talents!
Nebraska City
Named as one of Nebraska’s oldest settler towns, Nebraska City was incorporated in the 1850s, and today, just over 7,200 call it home. Near the Iowa border, this seat of Otoe County is also lovingly known as the “Home of Arbor Day”, where the first event in the United States was held back in 1872. In modern times, Nebraska City continues to celebrate this unique arbor heritage, and a number of unique attractions continue to delight the young and old alike. Visit the Arbor Day Farm for breathtaking scenery and lush greenery, while vineyard tours and tastings against a stunning backdrop never go out of style. Then there is the Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard, where one can pick their own fresh fruit in addition to more beautiful scenery! And of course, take in the sights and sounds of the Fall AppleJack Festival.
And with hot summers and cool winters, the outdoors can be enjoyed throughout the year in Nebraska City, which truly shines as a sylvan wonder. Finally, for some other unique cultural experiences, consider a stop at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Trails and Visitor Center and the Nebraska City Museum of Firefighting. Finally, staying in a small town could not be complete without taking in the charming array of local shops and eateries, and Nebraska City proudly offers such fine businesses as Grams Place Restaurant and the Antique Shoppe, ready to create a most welcoming snapshot of midwestern Americana.
Kearney
Founded as a railroad hub in the 1840s, the historic town of Kearney remains a most charming community with something interesting to offer all ages. The seat of Buffalo County in south central Nebraska, just under 34,000 call Kearney home today, where the summers are hot and the winters are cool. And as a 19th-century town, there is no shortage of fascinating landmarks and museums to explore here, many of which are also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These include the Museum of Nebraska Art and the George W. Frank Mansion (1889), amongst others. At the former, marvel at more than 175 years' worth of art, all with connections to artists who were born or lived in the State of Nebraska.
From there, visit the pleasing campus of the University of Nebraska Kearney (1905) and enjoy a relaxing afternoon amidst a friendly ambience and beautiful scenery. Finally, stopping at the Great Platte River Road Archway Monument is a must, as it lovingly commemorates the state’s settlement history and growth along the titular Platte River. Add in tasty local eateries like Alley Rose and the Toasted Goat, and Kearney will definitely leave a great impression of what Nebraska is all about! The September Restaurant Week event even highlights the best eateries in town.
Rushville
Rushville is home to just over 800 inhabitants, but for what this pretty town may lack in size, it compensates for with loads of welcoming charm and natural beauty. Seat of Sheridan County in Nebraska’s northwest corner, Rushville was founded in the 1880s, and it remains an awesome place to enjoy a quiet weekend getaway away from the often busy pace of the big city. Enjoy warm summers and cool winters here, while the breathtaking views of the canyons and cliffs of the nearby Pine Ridge never disappoint. Meanwhile, for both the casual and ardent athlete, why not take to the fairways at the Sand Ridge Golf Course for some of the best golf in the State? Spanning some 80 acres, the beautiful greens and spacious surroundings create optimal conditions for the perfect game.
In addition, history enthusiasts can also appreciate Rushville by exploring several landmarks that are also a part of the National Register of Historic Places. Including the County Courthouse and the Armstrong House Museum, learn more about the history of the “Cornhusker State” and its important place in the nation since joining the Union in 1867. And with great summer events, including the Rushville Fun Days and the annual Car Show and Rod Race, the young and old can appreciate the town's welcoming ambience. Finish off one’s day by exploring the lovely local shops and eateries, including The Twisted Turtle Pub. Rushville will certainly earn a spot as one of Nebraska’s finest lesser-known treasures.
Minden
Affectionately named “Nebraska’s Christmas City,” Minden is a truly magical place to explore during the holiday season. Featuring thrilling displays of more than 12,000 lights, decorations galore, and fun family events like the Light of the World Pageant, the spirit of Christmas comes alive brilliantly in this wonderful town. Founded by German pioneers in the 1870s, just over 3,000 call Minden home today, and even outside Christmastime, it remains an attractive place to discover. Visit the nearby Fort Kearny State Historical Park and Recreation Area and enjoy time near the Platte River and its scenic camping grounds, while learning more about the settlers who paved the Oregon-California Trail.
And of course, if one is in Minden, one cannot overlook the very special Pioneer Village and its extraordinary collection of more than 50,000 historical items. With over 25 buildings of materials, visitors can travel through two centuries of United States history and explore the development of American society since the 1800s. Be wowed at preserved items such as Model T-Ford cars, tractor prototypes, steam carousels, and even designs for would-be flying machines!
Hidden Gems of Nebraska
Visiting the Midwestern United States could never be complete without stopping at the great State of Nebraska, which has abundant natural beauty and historic intrigue. Also known as the “Cornhusker State”, although major cities like Lincoln and Omaha may spring to mind first, there are also a number of smaller, yet equally captivating communities in Nebraska that even the locals would encourage you not to bypass. From the “Home of Arbor Day” in Nebraska City, “Nebraska’s Christmas City” in Minden, and the Wild West allure of Ogallala, these unique and beautiful Nebraska towns are truly awesome destinations to discover firsthand. Indeed, for a most special holiday filled with genuine Americana, Midwestern style, a vacation stop to these locally loved Nebraska towns will surely leave all ages with a smile!
