Nebraska's Best Small Towns for a Weekend Escape
From hiking historic trails to walking among the infamous treetops responsible for creating Arbor Day, Nebraska truly has something to pique everyone’s interest. Between the various state parks and intriguing sites such as the Holy Family Shrine and The Archway, there is plenty to see and do in the Cornhusker State. Frequent travelers looking for historic landmarks and beautiful outdoor spaces thriving with wildlife and plants will find all that and more during a weekend trip to these ten small towns.
Ogallala
History buffs and nature lovers will easily find fun things to do in Ogallala, Nebraska. Begin the trip at Boot Hill Cemetary, visitors can explore cowboy gravesites and learn more about the town’s history. Next, head to Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area for an afternoon of fishing, swimming, hiking, bird watching, and admiring the sunset over the Kingsley Dam. While at the recreation area, visitors will also have access to Ogallala Lake, a body of water quite small in comparison to the massive Lake McConaughy. After all that outdoor adventure, head back into town and catch a family-friendly movie at the Prairie Theater. Those looking for a place to spend the night will find a long list of recognizable chain hotels in the area. For more unique accommodations, though, try the South Platte Cabins & Kennels, where lake views and cozy cabins make a charming home base for the weekend.
Gretna
For religious people and lovers of architecture, one of the main draws of Gretna, Nebraska, is the towering Holy Family Shrine. The unique building is truly something to marvel at, and while anyone can visit, it’s important to note that the photography rules are quite strict. After respectfully admiring the shrine, head to the Schramm Education Center to get up close and personal with various Nebraska aquatic animals. Then, those visiting Gretna in the fall will want to visit Vala’s Pumpkin Patch and Apple Orchard. Here, the whole family can enjoy a range of attractions, including rides, mazes, haunted houses, food vendors, pumpkin and apple picking, and barn animals. Gretna is also located just 10 miles from Ashland, Nebraska, where travelers will find all kinds of fun activities, including wandering through Eugene T. Mahoney State Park and admiring the stars at the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum. Speaking of admiring the stars, those looking for a place to stay will want to check out the Kimberly Creek Retreat in Ashland. Here, travelers can book a range of cozy cabins and dome-style yurts where they will surely be covered in a blanket of stars.
Hastings
Hasting, Nebraska, is a friendly small town, ideal for a weekend getaway with kids. The town’s claim to fame comes from being the birthplace of the popular drink brand Kool-Aid. Beyond that, families will enjoy plenty of fun and educational activities here. Start the trip off with a visit to Chautauqua Park where grassy fields, picnic areas, and 24 acres worth of playground equipment will keep visitors entertained for hours. The park also features a large pavilion and is the site of diverse local events, including concerts. After working up a sweat running around the park, take a dip in the nearby Aquacourt Pool. Here, visitors will find pools, water slides, a lazy river, diving boards, concessions, and more. For more education-based fun, check out the Hastings Museum and the Children's Museum of Central Nebraska. The Prarie Loft is another great place to have fun while learning. Here, people of all ages are encouraged to participate in nature and farm-based programs designed to “cultivate new and deeper connections to the land.” As for accommodations in town, travelers will find a range of hotels, including staples like Super8 and the Quality Inn.
Long Pine
Long Pine, Nebraska, has been a popular destination among travelers since the 1970s. Between picturesque outdoor spaces and a small but welcoming population, it is no surprise that Long Pine is often called a “hidden paradise.” While in town, be sure to check out the famous Cowboy Trail. An ideal spot for hiking and cycling, the Cowboy Trail is a long abandoned rail trail with old railroad relics and towering bridges along the way. The section of trail that runs through Long Pine features a 595-foot-long bridge that stands 145 feet over Long Pine Creek. Another worthwhile attraction along Long Pine Creek is the Long Pine State Recreation Area. Here, travelers can enjoy activities including archery, hiking, camping, fishing, and picnicking. While camping here makes for wonderful accommodations, it’s far from the only option. Not far from the state recreation area lies the Long Pine Paradise House, a beautiful home ideal for family vacationers.
Nebraska City
Calling all tree lovers! Known as the birthplace of Arbor Day, Nebraska City, Nebraska, is the perfect weekend destination for anyone who enjoys spending time in the great outdoors. Start the trip off right with a visit to Arbor Day Farm. Here, guests can enjoy various activities and amenities, including a tree-top adventure course, hiking trails, educational tractor rides, a spa, and an indoor pool. The farm also offers comfortable accommodations at the on-site Lied Lodge. Next, plan to spend a few hours exploring the Arbor Lodge State Historical Park. The lush green park offers a stunning backdrop for activities such as hiking, picnicking, and admiring the historic mansion/gift shop. For more hiking opportunities, head to the Lewis & Clark Visitors Center and walk on the same grounds that Lewis & Clark explored back in 1804. Finally, head back in time to the Industrial Revolution with a tour of the Kregal Windmill Factory Museum.
Kearney
Proudly dubbed ‘The Sandhill Crane Capitol of the World,’ Kearney, Nebraska, is a lovely destination with unique sites and fun things to do. Upon arrival, visitors will want to see one of the town's most iconic landmarks: The Archway. Meant to symbolize the journey of early pioneers, The Archway is a self-guided exhibit loaded with history and beauty. Next, stroll through Yanney Heritage Park, where trails, gardens, overlook towers, and swan boat rides await. On particularly hot days, venture indoors to enjoy an afternoon of bowling, go-karting, and mini golf at the Big Apple Fun Center. Finally, enjoy a little local history at the Rails and Trails Museum. Finding overnight accommodations in Kearney isn’t hard, with several chain hotels available, including a Ramada and a Holiday Inn.
Brownville
Just over 200 miles from Kearney, travelers will find the charming town of Brownville, Nebraska. Tucked away on the shores of the Missouri River, Brownville is an ideal weekend getaway for anyone hoping to soak up sparkling water views. Speaking of the river, the River Inn Resort is a floating hotel offering cozy guest rooms and some of the best scenery in town. Those looking for a memorable Brownville experience will want to stay at the Inn. After settling in, stop by the Captain Meriwether Lewis Dredge, a local museum highlighting historic exploration and Native American heritage. Next, do a little shopping at the Bird’s Nest Trading Post before taking in a play at the Brownville Village Theatre. Finally, take a short 15-mile drive to Indian Cave State Park, where visitors can explore the sandstone cave, hiking trails, and scenic lookout points.
Scottsbluff
Pack the camping gear and head to Scottsbluff, Nebraska, for a weekend filled with outdoor adventure. Camping enthusiasts can set up base camp at Riverside Campground, which has breathtaking views of the Scotts Bluff National Monument. After settling into camp, travelers can make their way to the National Monument, where activities, including hiking, scenic drives, picnicking, and ranger-led programs, are all on offer. Wildlife viewing and Geology/Paleontology programs are also available here. Those who can’t get enough wildlife viewing can head to Riverside Discovery Center, where visitors can admire a range of animals from chimpanzees to bobcats.
Valentine
Keep the wildlife love going in Valentine, Nebraska. Home to The Valentine National Wildlife Refuge, animal lovers will have no trouble spotting birds, fish, turtles, or coyotes while hiking through this scenic landscape. After exploring that refuge, head to the nearby Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge. While here, travelers can expect to see deer, bison, and various bird species. Fort Niobrara is also an excellent area for hiking and river floating. Not far from that refuge lies Smith Falls State Park, where outdoor lovers can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, waterfall viewing, swimming, and camping.
Chadron
A visit to Chadron, Nebraska, feels like a trip back in time. To start things off, check into the Olde Main Street Inn, self-described as a “bed and breakfast and saloon in a rustic country inn.” Next, plan to spend a day exploring Chadron State Park, where visitors can see the Milky Way on clear nights. The park also features hiking trails, swimming areas, an archery range, a disc golf course, a pickleball court, and various lodging options. Next, pay a visit to the Chadron Museum of the Fur Trade, which houses over 6,000 pieces and artifacts from the height of fur trading.
Between visiting the birthplace of Kool-Aid and walking some of the same grounds that Lewis & Clark did in 1804, Nebraska is a state filled with interesting history and unique things to do. Appealing to travelers of all kinds, Nebraska is ripe with opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and museum hopping. So, the next time you’re itching for a weekend getaway, don’t forget to visit these charming small towns in Nebraska.
