º£½ÇÉçÇø

Now that we're firmly into 2024, it is time to lay out the calendar and map out this year's vacation destinations. So what's it going to be? The mountains of Montana? The Great Lakes region? A coastal California getaway? No, I've got just the thing: how about a road trip through Nebraska? I'm serious. The heart of the country does not get enough love. Nothing will connect you more firmly to the roots of the nation than a tour of rural America. Nebraska is full of scenic river settlements and inventive/historic downtown districts. These are eight of the best small towns that "The Cornhusker State" has to offer.

Ogallala

sits on the Northern shore of the South Platte River, just South of Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area and the adjacent Ogallala Lake State Recreation Area. This means that visitors have access to the largest lake in Nebraska (affectionately known as "Big Mac'') and all of the campgrounds, beaches, trails, and golf courses along the 100 miles of combined shoreline – as well as boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities offered by the 30,00 acres of water. But summer isn't the only time to drop in on this Keith County laketown. When ice forms on the two bodies, eagles are attracted to the open waters created by the Kingsley Hydroplant. Here, immediately North of town, tourists can observe the iconic American birds from the comfort of a heated viewing platform (open weekends from December 30th until February 25th). 

York

York is a cozy little college town in Southeastern Nebraska, just 50 miles West of Lincoln. This seat of the namesake county encourages visitors to tap into the history of not only the town but of times and places far removed. It also packs a solid one-two punch of outdoor recreation. Get things started with a visit to the Wessels Living History Farm for a hands-on tutorial on the rural Nebraska way of life. Next, head over to the Clayton Museum of Ancient History, which will be of particular interest to Christian families or anyone curious about Rome and Mesopotamia. And to round out the trifecta of quirky, unrelated attractions, pop on over to Lee's Legendary Marbles & Collectibles for a severe dose of childhood nostalgia. Afterward, get out in that prairie sunshine by visiting the intentionally underdeveloped Overland Trail Recreation Area (only a couple of miles Southeast of town), or go for a dip in Recharge Lake – part of the Bruce L. Anderson Recreation Area (immediately West of U.S. Route 81). 

Valentine

Thanks to its position above the gorgeous Niobrara National Scenic River, Cherry County's small city of Valentine is as romantic as it sounds. Not only is Valentine's a scenic spot for couples to retreat to this year, but lovers of the outdoors will be whisked off their feet. Either demographic can kick off their visit with a crisscrossing walk over the various river bridges to bask in the full expanse of the valley. Take part of the 195-mile Cowboy Trail across the Niobrara River Bridge, and then duck down to the Bryan Bridge, or head to the Borman Bridge by cutting through the wildlife management area by the same name. Next, float into the 77,000-acre Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, which affords even more valley views, plus the chance to see hundreds of bison up close and personal (as well as deer, eagles, grassland birds, and prairie wildflowers). Cap it all off with a minor side trip to Smith Falls State Park, home of Nebraska's tallest waterfall (it's quite a beauty). 

Gering

A visit to Nebraska's Panhandle – to the modern-day city of Gering, is to walk in the footsteps of the bands of Native Americans, pioneers, Mormon settlers, fur traders, and soldiers who came before. Tucked just below the North Platte River, this Scotts Bluff County community is right beside two major historical attractions. The Legacy of the Plains Museum sits on the West side of town, right along the old Oregon Trail. It features not only indoor exhibits filled with artifacts from the early pioneering days but also a working 80-acre farm with antique tractors, antiquitous farmstead structures, and captivating views of what is the next prominent stop on this scenic trip down memory lane: Scotts Bluff National Monument. This 3,000-acre national park unit is the most popular and arguably most beautiful in the entire state. The eponymous geological site soars 800 feet above the North Platte River and has been an essential landmark for disparate migrating groups over the centuries. 

North Platte

The seat of Lincoln County is nestled between the North Platte and South Platte rivers – immediately West of their confluence. This railroad town is full of history and a wide range of attractions. For starters, North Platte is home to a famous American figure (hunter, soldier, and showman) "Buffalo Bill." A visit to the Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park Museum can be combined with the Lincoln County Historical Museum and even a show at the Wild West Arena or a creekside horseback ride at Dusty Trails (all within a stone's throw of each other on the West side of town). Changing gears, locomotive buffs will want to check out the railyard action from the Golden Spike Tower's observation areas, followed by a gander at the Cody Park Railroad Museum, where steam and diesel trains are on display at the restored depot. Follow this up with a shopping spree at the Grain Bin Antique Town – a collection of 20 historic grain bins surrounding a large red barn – all repurposed for a unique retail experience. Finally, if you can time your upcoming visit for the six-week sweet spot in the Spring, you will have a chance to witness the migration of 400,000 Sandhill Cranes, who like to feed in the North Platte River valley in preparation for their upcoming nesting period. 

Fremont

Forty miles Northwest of Omaha, on the North bank of the Platte River, is as adorable as it is exciting. Deemed the "Most Charming Downtown in the State of Nebraska," Fremont's historic strip is an antique hunter's dream come true. Also known as "Eastern Nebraska's Antique Capital," this Dodge County gem features seven relevant retailers spread across eight blocks – a significant enclave to pick up all kinds of distinct collectibles, classic books, furniture, and even military memorabilia. Immediately West of town, the Fremont State Recreation Area offers 20 sandpit lakes for all your water recreation needs. Bear in mind the Platte River is another excellent outlet for this. For something truly different, try joining a Woody's airboat tour. 

Norfolk

The small Northeastern Nebraska city of Norfolk is home to famous Late Night host Johnny Carson. But historical tidbits aside, this Madison County/Elkhorn River community has a lot to offer. Beeline for the River Point downtown district for all your dining, shopping, and entertainment needs. This colorful and revitalized section of town has converted its once-forgotten historical buildings into clubs, restaurants, independently-owned stores, delightful coffee shops, and enviable loft apartments. Vibrant street murals punch up the aesthetic even more. See how many you can spot during your downtown wander. Norfolk also has a ton of live music venues. Look for the green light icon and, as the local slogan says, you'll be sure to have a great night. 

Columbus

Columbus is in the center of the geographical triangle formed by all three of our Eastern Nebraska highlights. Roughly 50 miles South of Norfolk, 50 miles North of York, and 50 miles West of Fremont, on the Loup River (just West of its junction with the Platte River) and the Lincoln Highway Scenic and Historic Byway, this seat of Platte County awaits. Columbus is a fun-loving and family-friendly kind of place. There is a sizable water park, river-and-lakeside camping, multiple golf courses (and mini-putt), an antique fire truck museum, and lots of great grub and satisfying shopping outlets along the walkable downtown strip. Switching gears a little bit, a visit to the Andrew Jackson Higgins National Monument is also a must for amateur WWII historians and passionate patriots.

Embrace the Authentic Charm of Nebraska's Towns in 2024

It's easy to overlook Middle America for the glitz and glamor of the peripheral states, but that's why Nebraska is all about doing things differently and authentically. Even the official nickname (The Cornhusker State) demonstrates a sense of humor and a laid-back attitude. So, if you want to get in touch with these sides of your personality this year, and if you want to see the unexpected beauty of the grasslands/prairies, then turn your attention to these eight small Nebraska towns.