The Best Small Town In Nebraska For A 3-Day Weekend

If you're looking for a destination for a long weekend that combines genuine hospitality, striking landscapes, and a slower pace of life, look no further than Valentine, Nebraska. Situated in the heart of the Sandhills, this small town provides a refreshing break from the usual tourist traps. Valentine isn't about flashy attractions or bustling city streets. It's a place where the wide-open spaces of the Great Plains meet the winding Niobrara River. This is a town for people who appreciate nature, history, and the simple pleasure of a well-made doughnut. Over the next three days, you'll find yourself paddling down a river, biking on a historic trail, and gazing up at a sky so full of stars you'll wonder if you've ever truly seen the night before. This itinerary is your guide to making the most of a long weekend in this remarkable corner of Nebraska.

First Things First...Where to Stay

Before you start your activities, you'll need a place to stay. Valentine has a few great options that cater to different preferences, from rustic lodges to classic motels.

For those seeking an upscale stay with fantastic amenities, The Prairie Club is an excellent choice. While known for its world-class golf courses, you don't have to be a golfer to appreciate what it provides. You can book a room in the main Lodge, which has a comfortable, refined feel, or opt for a private cabin for a more secluded setting. The on-site dining is a major perk, with a menu that showcases regional flavors.

If your style is more rustic and you want to be right in the middle of the Sandhills, Lord Ranch Resort is a wonderful, more economical option. This is the place to be if you want to connect with the local environment. The resort is smack dab in the thick of things, making it a great spot for fishing, hunting, and some of the best stargazing in the region. The cozy cabins supply a comfortable place to rest after a day spent outside. It’s a family-run operation that gives you a true sense of Sandhills hospitality.

For travelers who prefer a more traditional hotel stay, The Niobrara Lodge is located right in town. It’s a straightforward, no-frills motel that gives you a clean, comfortable, and convenient place to rest. Its central location means you're just a short walk or drive from local shops and restaurants, making it easy to get your bearings and start your day. It will do the trick for a weekend stay.

Day One: Doughnuts, Drifting, and Digging into History

Your first day in Valentine is all about getting acquainted with the town's local flavor and the majestic Niobrara River.

Start your morning like a local by heading to the Old Mill. This spot is a town institution, known for its incredible house-made doughnuts and pastries. Grab one for breakfast—you won't be disappointed. While you’re there, ask them to make you a sandwich to go. You’ll be glad you have it later in the day to fuel your activities. The Old Mill is more than just a bakery; it's a community hub where you can get a real feel for the town.

With your lunch packed, it's time to head to the water. Make your way to Brewers Canoers & Tubers, a family-run business that will get you set up for a trip down the Niobrara River. You can rent a canoe, kayak, or tube for a leisurely float. The Niobrara is a designated National River, and as you drift along, you'll see why. The river valley is filled with lush greenery, waterfalls cascading down mossy canyon walls, and plenty of wildlife. It's a relaxing way to spend a few hours, and that sandwich you packed will taste even better on a sandbar along the way.

After your river trip, it’s time to dry off and delve into some local history. Your first stop is the Cherry County Historical Society Museum. This museum is a treasure trove of information about the region's past, with displays devoted to early-day cattlemen, Fort Niobrara, and pioneer life. There's also an archival library where you can look through historic newspapers, giving you a deep appreciation for the people who shaped this area.

Just a short distance away is the Centennial Hall Museum. This building is a historical landmark in its own right; built in 1897, it’s the oldest standing high school building in Nebraska. Today, it houses a heritage museum filled with artifacts from the area's past. Don't forget to check out the thrift store located in the building as well—you might find a souvenir.

To round out your first day, head over to Bolo Beer Co. for refreshments and a bite to eat. This local brewery has a friendly, laid-back atmosphere and a good selection of craft beers. It's a great spot to relax and talk about your day. Their food menu has some tasty options that pair well with their brews, making it a satisfying end to a busy day.

Day Two: Trails, Waterfalls, and a Starry Night Sky

Day two is dedicated to further activity in the Sandhills, from a bike ride on a famous trail to some of the best stargazing in the country.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the Bunkhouse Restaurant & Lounge. This is a classic small-town diner that serves up big portions of American comfort food. It's the kind of place where the coffee is always flowing and the service is friendly. Fuel up here, because you have an active day ahead.

After breakfast, it’s time to hit the trail. Rent a bicycle from Valentine Bike Share and set out on the Cowboy Trail. This is one of the longest rail-to-trail conversions in the United States, stretching for nearly 200 miles across northern Nebraska. You don't have to ride the whole thing, of course. A few miles out of Valentine will take you over a breathtaking, high-trestle bridge that spans the Niobrara River, giving you a completely different perspective than the one you had from your canoe. The trail is relatively flat and well-maintained, making for a pleasant ride.

Next, it’s time to see one of the area’s most impressive natural sights: Snake River Falls. The Snake River is a tributary of the Niobrara, and these falls are the largest in Nebraska by volume. The roar of the water and the mist rising from the canyon below are powerful. There's an observation deck that gives you a great view. It’s a short drive from Valentine and well worth the trip to see this powerful display of nature.

As evening approaches, head back to the Old Mill and grab a pizza to go and drive out to Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area. Merritt Reservoir is known for two things: great fishing and unbelievable stargazing. The area has very little light pollution, which means on a clear night, the sky comes alive. As darkness falls, lay out a blanket, open your pizza box, and look up. The Milky Way stretches across the sky in a brilliant band, and you'll see more stars and constellations than you thought possible. The Nebraska Star Party is held here every summer (usually late July or early August) for a reason. It's a profound sight that will be a highlight of your trip.

Day Three: Bison Encounters and a Final Burger

Your final day in Valentine is a chance to learn more about the region's wildlife and natural history before heading home.

Get your morning started with a trip to Gritty Coffee Co. for your daily dose of caffeine. This local coffee shop serves up expertly made espresso drinks, coffee, and teas, giving you the energy you need for your last day of activities.

Your first major stop of the day is the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge. Established in 1912, this refuge is home to herds of bison and elk that roam freely across the rolling prairie. You can take a self-guided driving tour through the refuge, which allows you to see these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. There are also walking trails and a visitor center where you can learn more about the refuge's conservation efforts and the other species that live here.

For an even closer look at the iconic animal of the plains, book a tour with Golden Prairie Bison Tours. This is a private, educational tour that takes you across the Great Plains in a comfortable vehicle. Your guide will teach you about the area's diverse fauna, flora, and permaculture. You'll get to meet the bison and learn about their history, behavior, and the conservation efforts that brought them back from the brink of extinction.

For your final meal in Valentine, grab a burger at the Coachlight Cafe. This is another classic, unpretentious local eatery that serves up delicious, satisfying food. A simple burger and fries is the right way to cap off your trip before you get back on the road.

Still Have Time? Check Out These Spots

If you find yourself with extra time or want to swap out an activity, Valentine has even more to see. Smith Falls State Park is home to the state's tallest waterfall. The falls are accessible via a short walk and a bridge over the Niobrara River.

If you're a serious angler, you might want to spend more time fishing on Merritt Reservoir. The Merritt Trading Post can set you up with a guided outing to help you find the best spots for walleye, crappie, and catfish.

For a simple but memorable moment, go watch the sunset from the Bryan Bridge. This historic cantilever bridge crosses the Niobrara River just east of town and provides a fantastic vantage point as the sun goes down over the Sandhills.

And if you’re looking for a good book to read on your trip, stop by The Plains Trading Company. This local bookstore has a well-curated selection of regional authors and bestsellers.

A Weekend Well Spent

As you drive away from Valentine, with the taste of a good burger still lingering and the image of a star-filled sky fresh in your mind, you'll feel a sense of contentment. This isn't a place that shouts for your attention. Instead, it quietly reveals its wonders to those who take the time to look. From the gentle current of the Niobrara to the steadfast presence of the bison, Valentine is a town that is deeply connected to its environment and its history.

A weekend here is a reminder that there is a different kind of travel, one that is less about checking off a list and more about making a genuine connection with a place. You’ll leave with more than just photos; you’ll have a renewed appreciation for wide-open spaces and small-town hospitality. Valentine, Nebraska, might just be the best small town you've never been to—until now.