7 Most Charming River Towns In Nebraska
Affectionately known as "The Cornhusker State," the US State of Nebraska is a land full of beautiful rolling hills, vast grasslands, and fascinating history. On its eastern border, the state meets the mighty Missouri River, where charming and alluring towns dot the landscape.
Some great towns are placed close to the river's delightful banks, ready to offer fun, charm, and relaxation to all who visit. This article looks at the seven most charming river towns in Nebraska.
Brownville
With a population of just 128 residents, Brownville truly defines a sleepy town on the shores of the Missouri River. Brownville was founded in 1854 and was the largest settlement in the then Nebraska Territory. Today, visitors can enjoy a quaint and historic community with a charming Main Street and restored 19th-century houses open for tours.
One must explore the nearby Brownville Bridge, constructed in 1939 and added to the National Register of Historic Places, or take a tour of some nearby wineries. And with hot summers and mild winters, a sojourn in this little river town will create special memories.
Dakota City
Incorporated in 1856, a population of just under 2,000 inhabitants calls Dakota City home today. Some 160 miles north of Brownville, this town is also on the banks of the Missouri River. Visitors can enjoy great local restaurants, shops, and opportunities for walking and cycling at the water’s edge.
The site of several historic buildings, including the Emmanuel Lutheran Church (built in 1860), those in Dakota City will find themselves in the perfect example of small-town America. And with the beauty of the Missouri River nearby, a better chance to see this majestic waterway is always a great way to spend a day.
Decatur
Situated near the mouth of the upper Missouri River, Decatur was established as a trading post in the 1880s. Once a bustling center of commerce, today, this little town has a population of just under 500 residents. Though it is primarily a stop-over spot for those on their way to the cities of Omaha and Lincoln, Decatur maintains a charming atmosphere of typical small-town America.
With its tasty restaurants, cute souvenir shops, and views of the river, you can experience the best of Midwestern hospitality in the town of Decatur.
Nebraska City
Nebraska City may have "city" in its name but is indeed a charming small town with a population of under 8,000 citizens. Formally founded in the 1850s, the city is considered the oldest non-indigenous settlement in Nebraska. Located on the Missouri River's western shores, Nebraska City is known as the "Home of Arbor Day."
Visitors can enjoy tree-themed parks and other venues year-round. Try apple picking at the Kimmel Orchard and Vineyard or explore the Enchanted Arboretum Park. Meanwhile, history lovers can marvel at the Lewis and Clark Center by examining America's frontier past.
Kearney
The seat of Buffalo County, the town of Kearney, is located on the Platte River’s north side and boasts a sizeable population of around 30,000 residents. Home of the University of Nebraska at Kearney (founded in 1905), the town was formally established in the 1840s. It became an important center of trade and commerce with the arrival of the Union Pacific Railroad.
Today, visitors can still enjoy Kearney’s historical heritage and see several beautifully restored 19th-century buildings and landmarks, including the George W. Frank mansion (built in 1889). Meanwhile, a stop at the Great Platte River Road Archway Monument is a fascinating experience that details the history of Nebraska and settlement on the Platte River.
And, of course, art lovers definitely won't want to miss the Museum of Nebraska Art, which is dedicated to the talented artists who have lived and worked in the state.
Brady
The town of Brady was founded on the banks of the Platte River in 1889. The city is just a 70-minute drive from Kearney. With a population of just 420 people, this small community is mainly a gateway to cities such as North Platte and Cozad, but it still entices those who want to experience what a Midwestern town looks like.
Try some tasty local restaurants, browse quaint boutique shops, or just greet the friendly locals. Like many similar towns in America, Brady is a comfy spot where everybody knows your name. And of course, time spent near the Platte River is always a splendid activity, where walking, cycling, and boating are popular.
Rulo
Right along the Missouri River, Rulo is a small town that under 200 people call home. Located right on the border of the state of Missouri, this charming little town experiences hot summers and mild winters and is an excellent snapshot of what a small community is all about.
Though it may be primarily a stopover on a long road trip, visitors in Rulo will find great little restaurants and boutiques and friendly locals always ready to welcome passersby. Cross the historic Rulo Bridge, originally built in 1938 and renewed in 2014, or just enjoy a walk in the town’s core; Rulo is a nice little slice of Americana.
Nebraska is a beautiful Midwestern state where small-town charm can be found in abundance. Many quaint communities are situated along the majestic Missouri River and the state's other waterways, each with a fascinating history and welcoming atmosphere. From historic districts to fun on the water banks, these Nebraska river towns are a great way to get acquainted with rural America.
