9 Best Lakeside Towns in Nebraska
Nebraska lake weekends come with big-water beach days at Lake McConaughy in Ogallala and sunset paddles on Glenn Cunningham Lake in Omaha. You’ll also get Lake Maloney near North Platte, camping at Sutherland Reservoir, and dark-sky stargazing over Merritt Reservoir in Valentine. Come along and plan your route: each town below leads with the best reasons to go, swimming beaches, boat ramps, and standout local eats. Pick a town or two and head to your lake-filled weekend.
Ogallala
With over 100 miles of shoreline and lots to see and do in town, it is no wonder that Ogallala tops nearly every list for the best lake towns in Nebraska. Lake McConaughy, aptly nicknamed “Big Mac” for its massive size, is perfect for swimming, boating, fishing, and camping. If cultural sites are more your style, check out Ogallala’s Front Street, where it feels like you’ve stepped back in time and into the Old West. If you’re visiting in July, don’t miss the Ogallala Round-Up Rodeo, which brings crowds from all over the Midwest for some frontier-feel family fun.
Omaha
Omaha, Nebraska, combines the beauty of the outdoors with the excitement of the city — and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the water. Just minutes from downtown, Glenn Cunningham Lake offers boating, kayaking, and scenic trails, while Zorinsky Lake Park and Standing Bear Lake provide peaceful spots for fishing and sunset walks within the metro area.
What's more, adults and children alike will love visiting one of the nation’s best zoos, Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Afterward, hop aboard a historic train car at The Durham Museum. If natural beauty is what you crave, make sure to check out Lauritzen Gardens, where you can immerse yourself in over 100 acres of botanical gardens.
Finally, Omaha has the most restaurants per capita of any city of comparable size, so end your day at one of Omaha’s many delicious eateries, like Johnny's Café, an iconic steakhouse that has been in operation for over a century.
North Platte
North Platte, situated along either side of the South Platte River, provides the perfect balance between outdoor recreation and rich culture. Just six miles south of town, Lake Maloney offers boating, fishing, swimming beaches, and lakeside camping, giving visitors even more ways to enjoy the water. Or, if window shopping is more your vibe, explore the Downtown Canteen District, where revitalized historic buildings house boutique shops and ice cream stores. This town was also home to legendary showman William “Buffalo Bill” Cody. In 1886, Cody established Scout’s Rest Ranch, now preserved as Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, where visitors can tour his restored mansion and explore exhibits honoring the famed entertainer.
Minatare
Minatare, Nebraska, is a small, lake town best known for its landlocked — and mock — lighthouse. Visitors can tour the unique Lake Minatare Lighthouse, designed to simulate an actual one, for great views of the lake and surrounding valley. Afterward, head to the Lake Minatare State Recreation Area for water skiing, sailing, fishing, and boating. Minatare is also a wonderful place to camp, and there are even electric hookup sites at Lake View or Butte View campgrounds if RVing is more your style. Animal lovers should keep an eye out for beautiful waterfowl and other wildlife. Minatare is part of the North Platte National Wildlife Refuge, making it a perfect location for birdwatching.
Lincoln
If you want a vacation spot that blends the culture of a major city with the beauty of a rural town, look no further than Lincoln, Nebraska. Holmes Lake serves as the city’s central hub, providing beautiful walking trails and water views right in town. For even more natural beauty, don’t miss the Sunken Gardens, a gorgeous botanical oasis that was created from a neighborhood dump back in the 1930s. End your day in the Historic Haymarket District, named for the original market square back in the 1800s where wagons, equipment, and hay were sold. Nowadays, the district’s restored warehouses are filled with delicious restaurants, fun nightspots, and boutique shopping.
Bridgeport
Bridgeport, Nebraska, is a perfect spot for anyone who enjoys outdoor recreation, lakeside relaxation, and historic attractions. Just outside town, Bridgeport Reservoir sits at the heart of Bridgeport State Recreation Area, spanning 78 acres of water within the 326-acre park and offering plenty of opportunities to fish, boat, swim, or camp minutes from downtown. Oregon Trail enthusiasts will appreciate visiting the iconic Courthouse and Jail Rocks, towering formations that once guided pioneers westward. For more frontier fun, stop by the Pioneer Trails Museum, which highlights the area’s rich trail history. With water recreation and historic landmarks side by side, Bridgeport offers a classic western Nebraska escape.
Valentine
Stargazers rejoice! Valentine is home to Merritt Reservoir and Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area, a stunning 3,000-acre lake and park that’s also a designated International Dark Sky site. In July, catch the annual Nebraska Star Party and enjoy one of the darkest skies in the US. The reservoir is a favorite for fishing, boating, and lakeside picnics.
For more outdoor fun, hike to Snake River Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in Nebraska. Rent a bike from Valentine Bike Share and enjoy almost 200 miles of biking along the Cowboy Trail. This path is part of the Rails-to-Trails project, which converts abandoned Chicago & North Western Railway lines into hiking and biking paths, and connects Valentine to neighboring Norfolk.
Sutherland
Sutherland may not seem like a lake town at first glance, but with over 3,000 acres of water located just south of town at the Sutherland Reservoir, there is plenty of opportunity to enjoy all kinds of water activities. Beyond the reservoir, the surrounding area is known for its excellent hunting, and kids will love the public pool and park in town, including the playground and softball complex. Looking for even more adventure? The Flat Rock Riders Vehicle Park boasts fifteen acres of dirt trails and motocross-style tracks. If you’re visiting in the summer, make sure to check out the annual Fourth of July rodeo, which draws a huge crowd and brings a festival-like atmosphere to town.
Fremont
For a good balance between outdoor activities and city life, look no further than Fremont, Nebraska. Just west of town, Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area offers a collection of scenic lakes perfect for boating, fishing, swimming, and lakeside picnics. Known as Eastern Nebraska's antique capital, Fremont is home to many boutiques, antique shops, and a burgeoning restaurant scene.
Stop in at Semo Pasta + Wine Restaurant for delicious European-inspired Nebraska cuisine, using fresh local ingredients and house-made pasta. Or, if you’re in the mood for adventure, book a ride on one of Woody’s Airboat Tours. Airboats are a fun and unique way to experience the beauty of the Platte River and maybe even catch a glimpse of the natural wildlife.
Experience Nebraskan Lake Life
These Nebraska towns all offer easy, public access to water and gorgeous natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn to boating, scenic trails, historic districts, or vibrant food scenes, each of these lakeside destinations provides ample opportunity to discover something new. If you’re craving adventure, or maybe just a bit of peace in nature, head to one of these lovely towns and enjoy all the perks of living near the water in beautiful Nebraska.
