Heartwell Park, Hastings, Nebraska, facing north. Background houses on Lakeside Drive from left: 207, 209, 213, 225, and 303.

These Small Towns in Nebraska Come Alive in Fall

As the colorful transformation of fall sweeps across America, certain towns in Nebraska come alive with vibrant allure, seasonal festivals, outdoor activities, and other unique autumn events. Visitors are drawn to this region to partake in the season’s outdoor sports and activities in the towns of Ashland or Chardon and to enjoy the Wildlife Refuges in Valentine. Tourists can take in scenic views along the Missouri River from Brownville, Blair, or Nebraska City as the leaves change and the air grows crisper. Discover the hidden gems of Nebraska’s fall tourism landscape by visiting destinations that truly shine during this enchanting time of the year.

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Valentine 

Downtown Valentine, Nebraska: View of the west side of Main Street, looking towards the northwest from approximately 1st Street.
Downtown Valentine, Nebraska: The west side of Main Street, looking towards the northwest from approximately 1st Street.

Valentine, Nebraska, takes on a special appeal throughout the fall. Explore the stunning Niobrara River, known for its canyons, waterfalls, and water activities. Hike the Fort Falls Trails to view the 30-foot-tall waterfalls that flow year-round. The Fort Niobara National Wildlife Refuge provides an opportunity to discover diverse wildlife through hiking and wildlife watching. For those inclined to outdoor pursuits such as boating, fishing, horseback riding, and camping, a trip to the Merritt Reservoir or the Niobrara River Ranch and Campground is a must. Discover local history through exhibits and artifacts at the Cherry County Historical Society Museum to enjoy a gloomy fall day.

Brownville

Aerial view of Brownville, Nebraska
Aerial view of Brownville, Nebraska

The small town of Brownville, Nebraska, presents unique fall experiences with its proximity to natural beauty and seasonal festivities. Being situated along the Missouri River, Steamboat Trace Trail and the Brownville Bridge Park are prime spots for the fall foliage and waterfront views. The Brownville Village Theatre hosts seasonal concerts, plays, and productions for musical enthusiasts. Take part in fall festivities such as apple or pumpkin picking at the Arbor Day Farm. Visitors can take a stroll down the historic downtown area, which features well-preserved 19th-century buildings, shops, and art galleries such as Lyceum Hall and the Brownville Marketplace.

Chadron

Odd-numbered side of the 200 block of Main Street in Chadron, Nebraska.
Odd-numbered side of the 200 block of Main Street in Chadron, Nebraska.

In the northwestern part of Nebraska, you can find Chadron, Nebraska, a town known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, much of which are great locations for fall tourists. The town presents various parks for hiking, biking, horseback riding, jeep rides, historical tours, and camping at Chadron State Park, Fort Robinson State Park, Toadstool Geological Park, and Chadron Creek Trail. Participate in Chadron’s annual Harvest Moon Fall Festival at the Dawes County Fairgrounds for a day of celebrations. Attend various Chadron State College Activities such as concerts, lectures, and athletic events like football and basketball games.

Hastings

Hastings Naval Ammunition Depot in Nebraska, also known as NAD Hastings, was the largest naval munitions plant in the United States during World War II.
Hastings Naval Ammunition Depot in Nebraska, also known as NAD Hastings, was the largest naval munitions plant in the United States during World War II.

Hastings, Nebraska, is a small city in the American Midwest, with various outdoor entertainment available to visitors. Hastings Riverwalk follows the Little Blue River path, where you can enjoy fresh air and water views. Take a relaxing walk through the Hastings College Arboretum, a 100-acre natural area with diverse trees, shrubs, and wildlife. You can visit various local parks, including Pawnee Plunge Water Park, Hastings Skatepark, and Libs Park, for picnics, sports, swimming, and other outdoor activities.

Nebraska City

Memorial Building, located on north side of 1st Corso between 8th and 9th Streets in Nebraska City, Nebraska; seen from the southwest.
Memorial Building in Nebraska City, Nebraska, situated on the north side of 1st Corso between 8th and 9th Streets.

Nebraska City, Nebraska, provides plenty of opportunities to engage with the town’s natural beauty and recreation options. Discover the historical significance of Arbor Lodge while taking in the lush gardens and the peaceful environment. You can see bison, elk, and other native wildlife at the Wildlife Safari Park. Enjoy hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching at various parks and trails like Steinhart Park, Riverview State Recreation Area, Steamboat Trace Trail, and Tree City Trails. Take to the water and witness the fall foliage by embarking on a boating or canoeing adventure along the Missouri River. For a harvest experience, visit local orchards such as Kimmel Orchard to participate in apple picking.

Ashland

Downtown Ashland, Nebraska: A view of Silver Street looking towards the east.
Downtown Ashland, Nebraska: A view of Silver Street looking towards the east.

Enjoy nature and partake in various outdoor experiences by visiting Ashland, Nebraska. Visit Mahoney State Park, a sprawling green expanse with hiking trails, a vibrant aquatic center, and an observation tower to view the season’s transformation and surrounding landscape. Take advantage of local biking trails to experience the town and its surroundings on two wheels. Spend time by Lake Wanahoo, an ideal place to unwind through fishing, boating, and picnicking. For adventurous travelers, challenge yourself at the local skate park or Adventures Rope Park. The fall season is a great time to bring your binoculars and explore the region’s numerous wildlife-watching spots.

Blair

Downtown Blair, Nebraska: A view of the north side of Washington Street, looking northeast from approximately 18th Street.
Downtown Blair, Nebraska: A view of the north side of Washington Street, looking northeast from approximately 18th Street.

Blair, Nebraska, presents various opportunities to connect with nature during the fall. Situated along the Missouri River's banks, Blair offers boating, fishing, and birdwatching opportunities along its scenic bank. Take in waterfront views at the Blair Marina or the DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge. Skinny Bones Pumpkin Patch is known as a great way for family and friends to spend an autumn day with a corn maze, petting zoo, pumpkin picking, and a haunted house. Tourists can visit the Black Elk-Neihardt Park, featuring lovely green spaces, walking paths, and a tranquil atmosphere. Discover the Neale Woods Nature Center, a natural area with hiking trails, a diverse range of flora and fauna, and educational programs.

Wayne

Italianate building at 104 W. 2nd Street, Wayne, Nebraska, circa 1890. Notable within the Wayne Commercial Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places.
Italianate building at 104 W. 2nd Street, Wayne, Nebraska, circa 1890.

Wayne, Nebraska, provides a blend of outdoor adventures and experiences to participate in fall festivities. Spend time at Skyview Lake, a scenic spot for fishing, picnicking, and taking in the surroundings. Wayne is located along the Cowboy Recreation and Nature Trail, which is ideal for hiking or biking, offering beautiful views of the Nebraska countryside. Explore the Wayne State College Arboretum, which features a variety of trees and plants. If you’re interested in green spaces and gardening, visit the Ta-Ha-Zouka Park, Ponca State Park, or the Wayne Community Garden. Attend events, sporting games, and cultural performances hosted by Wayne State College, which can include art exhibitions, theatre productions, and sports matches.

Embrace Nebraska's Autumnal Charm

These eight small towns in Nebraska come alive with vibrant colors, cozy festivals, and a palpable sense of community spirit as the fall season unfolds. You’ll find that the season is a celebration of nature’s beauty and a reminder of the enduring warmth of small-town hospitality. Take advantage of the waterfront views with the various rivers and lakes surrounding these towns. Nebraska offers many parks and trails to explore the towns through hiking or biking. Discover autumn festivals that Nebraska presents with fairs, zoos, pumpkin patches, and apple orchards.

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Marc Beckstead October 24 2023 in Places

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