8 Most Eccentric Towns in Nebraska
Admitted to the Union in 1867, the beautiful “Cornhusker State” of Nebraska forms an essential part of the American Midwest and it offers guests splendid opportunities to enjoy a unique holiday experience. While Nebraska has a sparse population of just over 2 million inhabitants, its rich culture and geographic splendor make it a wonderful destination to discover firsthand. Although cities like Omaha and Lincoln remain the most well-known, there are also many smaller and charming towns that showcase the very best of the “Cornhusker State” in more intimate settings. Here, all the features that make Nebraska such a unique place shine through while also illuminating the often sought-after features of Americana. From river towns to historic centres, these lovely, eccentric, and cute Nebraska towns will surely leave travellers of any age with positive memories, so wait no more and come see Nebraska!
Ogallala
Established in the 1860s, the historic town of Ogallala once served as a stop on the Pony Express mail route, and it continues to exude a special Old Wild West character. Home to a population of just under 5,000 residents, this seat of Keith County brings visitors back to the 19th century with a most charming sampling of cowboy culture. Visit the alluring Front Street, which features several late 1800s-style edifices and landmarks, which naturally include saloons. Stroll along the wooded boardwalks and gravel roads, the authenticity here is second to none and one might even get the feeling of having stepped onto a film set. Add in cute shops like the Tin Cactus and tasty meal offerings at The Driftwood restaurant, and a rustic encounter with Americana will surely never be far away.
Additionally, the outdoors lover can also appreciate Ogallala which is known for its hot summer and cool winter temperatures. Spend time along the scenic Lake Ogallala while picnicking, cycling, hiking, and plain relaxation are always on hand at the nearby Ash Hollow State Historical Park. One can even explore Nebraska’s past here by visiting the rock schoolhouse and the stunning Ash Hollow Cave Interpretive Center.
Valentine
The seat of Cherry County near the border with South Dakota, the lovely town of Valentine promotes itself as “America’s Heart City”. Home to just over 2,600 residents, Valentine can trace its modern history to the 1880s, and today, a welcoming and friendly ambience continues to delight guests. Visit the Cherry County Historical Society Museum for an insightful look into the growth of the American Midwest, while at the Centennial Museum a fascinating collection of stories and artifacts shed light on Nebraska’s place in the Union.
Meanwhile, spending time outdoors is always enticing in Valentine and afternoons along the pretty Niobrara River never disappoint. Enjoy scenic opportunities to go fishing, boating, and swimming in a hot summer climate while cycling, hiking, and camping adventures await in the Sandhills Region, covering some 19,000 square miles! Finish the day off with a meal at the Coachlight Café and then browse for authentic cowboy gear at Young’s Western Wear for an awesome feeling of Americana Nebraska style.
Kearney
Kearney is situated along the northern side of the Platte River in south central Nebraska, and today, it is the home to some 33,000 inhabitants. Seat of Buffalo County, the town was founded in the 1840s and it continues to be a charming college town perfect for a vacation stopover. Home to the campus of the University of Nebraska at Kearney (1905), the history-minded tourist can appreciate the community’s ambience. Admire an assortment 19th century landmarks and buildings in the downtown including the George W. Frank Mansion (1889) and others listed on the National Register of Historic Places. From there, spend an afternoon at the great Museum of Nebraska Art, which houses the State’s official art collection, ranging nearly 200 years.
Finally, be sure to stop by the very special Great Platte River Road Archway Monument. Constructed in the year 2000, this immersive and intriguing tourist experience highlights the historic settlement along the Platte River and the growth of Nebraska. Highlighting episodes like the Mormon and Oregan Trails, the Pony Express, and the Gold Rush, this is indeed a cannot miss destination for anyone in the vicinity of Kearney.
Minden
Lovingly named “Nebraska’s Christmas City”, Minden is undoubtedly one of the most charming and festive places in the entire “Cornhusker State”. Seat of Kearney County in southern Nebraska, the town was founded in the 1870s by German pioneers and today a modest population of just over 3,000 inhabitants call it home. Featuring hot summers and cool winters, there is a quaint natural allure in Minden, and guests can spend time at the calming Rowe Sanctuary, where the sights of migrating birds (especially cranes) are a true treat for all.
Meanwhile, the cultural character of Minden is hard to beat and those who visit during the Yuletide season will surely not be disappointed. Known for its various Christmastime festivities, including the “Light of the World Pageant”, the cute streets of Minden are filled with many decorations and lights (upwards of 12,000!) that really bring joy to the world, or at least this corner of Nebraska. And in closing, do not pass by the beloved Pioneer Village Museum and its expansive collection of over 50,000 historic items across a property of 29 buildings. From antique carousels, Model T Fords, and more the museum is truly one of the most immersive and totally awesome odes to American history around.
McCook
The seat of Red Willow County near the Kansas border, McCook is a lovely mid-sized town with a population of just under 7,500. Established in the 1880s, this charming place is a great destination to enjoy a slower pace of life in a climate that features mild winter and hot summer temperatures. Spend time in several pretty public park areas filled with scenic hiking and biking trails, picnic and campsites, swimming pools, and cute fishing ponds while a splendid golf game awaits at the Heritage Hills Golf Course.
From there, learn more about history at the Museum of the High Plains, which chronicles the growth of Nebraska and its settler past. Meanwhile, be sure to explore McCook’s assortment of historic landmarks that transport guests back to the 19th century. These include the George Norris House (1899) and the H.P. Sutton House (1905), amongst others listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Finally, end the day with a homestyle meal at Old Sarge’s Bar and the Copperhill Steakhouse and experience first-hand the friendly charm that has become a staple of small-town America.
Ashland
Situated in Saunders County in eastern Nebraska, the town of Ashland is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and a quieter pace of life. Founded in the 1870s, today, just over 3,000 residents call this pretty community home where something alluring awaits for all ages. Spend a day at the Eugene T. Mahoney State Park for awesome chances to go biking, hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, kayaking, and more can be enjoyed. From there, visit the Wildlife Safari Park and admire some of the best of North American species, including white-tailed deer and bison.
Finally, for the science-minded visitor, be sure to explore the Strategic Air and Space Museum and its amazing collection dedicated to the craft of space travel and astronomy. Learn about the Milky Way galaxy, black holes, and the construction of space shuttles in this most interactive and fascinating place. Finish off with a tasty meal treat at Parker’s Smokehouse and browse the shelves of the Olde Farmhouse Gift Shop, and it becomes clear to see what makes Ashland such an attractive example of the best of Nebraska.
Nebraska City
Seat of Otoe County near the border with Iowa, Nebraska City is recognized as the oldest non-indigenous settlement in the “Cornhusker State” with a foundational history dating to the 1850s. Today, just over 7,000 call this pleasant community home, which is also known as the “Home of Arbor Day”. Indeed, the first event was held in town back in 1872, and in modern times, one can still find numerous attractions and parks with tree themes. These include the Kimmel Orchard and Vineyard, offering guests the chance to pick their own fruit, the Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure, and the Enchanted Arboretum Park, where farming and agriculture are celebrated. One can even plant their own tree! And do not forget about the beautiful gardens of the Arbor Lodge State Historical Park that forms part of a 1923 Mansion listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Outside of its sylvan connection however, amongst the other museums of note in Nebraska include the Nebraska City Museum of Firefighting and the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. Add in friendly local businesses like the Spring Garden Restaurant and other cute gift shops, and spending time in Nebraska City will definitely leave one with a very special set of Nebraskan memories.
Dakota City
Also near the Iowa border, Dakota City serves as the seat of the same named County and was also established in the 1850s. Along the banks of the Missouri River, just over 2,000 residents call this charming place home where warm summers and cool winters are the norm. Spend time along the aforementioned River and enjoy scenic trails and picnic spots while hiking and biking are always popular. Meanwhile, exploring some of Dakota City’s historic landmarks is a great way to learn about the past and the early growth of Nebraska. These include the Emmanuel Lutheran Church (1860), the oldest structure of its kind dedicated to the Lutheran denomination in the State and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. And make sure to enjoy a wholly American meal at the Dagas on Broadway Sports Bar, while looking for the perfect Nebraska gift has never been easier at the Cornhusker Plaza Shopping Center.
When visiting the Midwestern United States, be sure not to overlook the wonderful “Cornhusker State” of Nebraska, a veritable treasure that all ages can delight in. In the state's small towns, the best of the Midwest is always on hand, and visitors will never be in short supply of awesome memories. From the Wild West ambience of Ogallala to the Arbor Day character of Nebraska City, these eccentric and totally charming towns are key reasons why the “Cornhusker State” has become an integral part of this region of the country. So wait no more and come see Nebraska through an exploration of these awesome communities, where fun, learning, and relaxation come together!
