Nebraska State Fair
Lincoln, Nebraska
Aug 22 - September 1st, 2008
Nebraska has lots of wonderful communities to visit, explore, and learn about their local history and attractions.
City names are followed by the zip, county, and population in purple. The distance from Omaha is in black. Mileages shown are road miles from Omaha's downtown Post Office to the community downtown U.S. Post Office. Some mileages are approximate.
Addresses in blue (often in parenthesis) will open a map link in another browser.
The cities are listed alphabetically. To list cities based on distance from Omaha, click here.
Louisiana Territory
Click to enlarge
NebraskaAlliance (69301, Box Butte, Pop: 9,765) (397 miles) 
Alliance is in the butte area of western Nebraska. There are no major rivers nearby so how did this town ever get started? It is pretty there. Water is always an important necessity and the area is not totally void of water. There are several creeks in the area (Snake, Berre, Hemingford, and Box Butte). Alliance is slightly higher than the valleys to the north and the rolling hills making up the Sandhills to the east. Of the entire Sandhills, the largest number of lakes is right next to Alliance. As a result, it turns out to be the perfect place for a community to form to have access to offerings of the surrounding area. Roads lead directly north, northwest, southwest, and east, right through the middle of the Sandhills. Alliance is a wonderful door to the Sandhills and the northwestern communities of Nebraska.
While near Alliance, you must check out Carhenge, Nebraska's monument of ancient (70s) cars stuck in the ground by mysterious forces (serious farm equipment).
The Carnegie Arts Center (204 W. 4th St.
) displays fine arts of local and regional artists. Hours: 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. Tuesday to Saturday, 1 P.M. to 5 P.M. Sunday, closed holidays, Admission: Free; 308-762-4571.
The Knight Museum of the High Plains Heritage (908 Yellowstone Ave.) covers early pioneer life including Native Americans. Hours: Labor Day through April, Tuesday to Saturday 12 P.M. to 5 P.M., May through Labor Day,10 A.M. to 6 P.M., Sunday 1 to 5 P.M., Admission: Free; 308-762-2384 or 308-762-5400 ext 260.
Ashland (68003, Saunders, Pop: 2,168) (29 miles)
Ashland is 3 miles from Interstate 80 at exit 426. Several attractions are close by.
The Willow Point Art Gallery & Wildlife Museum has changing shows complimenting the wonderful resident displays that bring the outdoors indoors. Hours: 10 A.M. to 6 P.M., Monday through Saturday, 12 P.M. to 4 P.M. Sunday, 402-944-3613 800-861-4260
The Denman and Mary Mallory Kounze Memorial Theatre (Interst ate 80 and Exit 426, Ashland) puts on several different plays for summer performances through August. Admission: $6, adults, $4 children 12 and under, 402-483-1278
The Strategic Air and Space Museum (previously known as SAC Museum) is right next to the Interstate. (Interst ate 80 and Exit 426). A kid's dream and an adult's wonderland of aircraft exhibits featuring films and tour information. See the famous Blackbird (SR-71) up close, still the world speed record holder. Hours: 9 A.M. to 5 P.M., daily, closed major holidays, Admission: $6 adults (13 years of age and older), $5 seniors, $3 children, children under 5 free. Group tour rate are available. 402-827-3100
The Lee G. Simmons Conservation Center and Wildlife Safari (Interst ate 80 and Exit 426, Ashland) is part of the Omaha Zoo family. Several plains wildlife examples are on display, the most famous being buffalo in a drive through park. A concession stand, gift shop, and nature center are near the entrance. Hours: 9:30 A.M. to 5 P.M., April through October, Weekends November through March, Admission: $10 per car, $5 if member of zoo. 402-944-9453
Aurora (68818, Hamilton, Pop: 3,810) (125 miles)
Aurora is slightly north (3 miles) of Interstate-80 mileage marker 332, slightly east of Grand Island.
On June 22nd, 2003, a major rain and hailstorm passed through the community, with one hailstone measuring 6 1/2 inches in diameter. The hailstones reportedly left holes in roofs large enough to crawl through.*
The Egerton Explorit Center (208 16th St.) is a tribute to Nebraska's 'Doc' Eagerton, the pioneer of strobe-light photography. The center is open 11 A.M. to 2 P.M. Monday through Saturday, and 1 P.M. to 5 P.M. Sunday, Admission: adults, $5; senior citizens and AAA members, $4; students, $3.50; younger than 3 and members, free; 877-694-4032.
The Plainsman Museum (210 16th St.) covers early pioneer life. The museum is open 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. Monday through Saturday, and 1 P.M. to 5 P.M. Sunday, Admission: adults, $4; senior citizens, $3; students ages 5 through 16, $2; younger than 5, free; 402-694-6531.
Bancroft (68004, Cuming, Pop: 494) (89 miles)
Bancroft is on the border of the Omaha Indian Reservation at ts southwest corner along highway 51.
The John G. Neihardt State Historical Site covers Nebraska's Poet Laureate. Additionally, it has changing art exhibits. The site is open 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. Monday through Saturday, and 1:30 P.M. to 5 P.M. Sunday; 888-777-4667
Beatrice (68310, Gage, Pop: 12,357) (99 miles)
Beatrice is directly south of Lincoln. Built on the Big Blue River, Beatrice was settled first by fur trappers that came up from the Kansas City area on the Kansas River and then ventured off into the Big Blue River. The first Homestead Act claim was made near Beatrice by Daniel Freedman. Beatrice was named in January 1858*.
Sprangler Arlington Brugh was born near Beatrice in Filley. His family moved to Fremont for a few years but moved back to Beatrice where he got his school years education. He continued his education in Lincoln, at Doane College, and at Pomona College in southern California. When an MGM talent scout discovered Mr. Brugh, his name was changed to Robert Taylor, the actor that became known world wide.
Beatrice celebrates Homestead Days each year around the end of July or thereabouts. The celebration includes an art show, music, food booths, and historical reenactments of pioneer life. This is a fun time to enjoy Beatrice.
The celebration is tied in with the Homestead National Monument of America four miles west of Beatrice. The park is a great place to visit anytime of the year to learn about early pioneer life. It is also a great place to convert museum haters. Look it up here. The monument is open 8:30 A.M. to 5 P.M. Monday through Friday, and 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. Saturday and Sunday; 402-223-3514
The Gage County Historical Museum (Second and Court St.) has numerous exhibits, including some pertaining to Robert Taylor. Hours: Labor Day to Memorial Day, Monday to Friday 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. closed 1 hour at noon, Sunday 1:30 P.M. to 5 P.M., closed holidays except July 4th, Memorial Day to Labor Day, Tuesday to Saturday, 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. closed 1 hour at noon, Sunday 1:30 P.M. to 5 P.M., Admission: Donations, except for special exhibits. 402-228-1679
Bellevue (Zip*, Sarpy, Pop: 44,047) (12 miles)
Bellevue is Omaha's closest neighbor since it is hard to tell where one ends and the other begins. Bellevue is so special, it has its own page. Click here.
Big Springs (69122, Deuel, Pop: 505 (345 miles)
Big Springs is not very large in size and population but it is large in history. Big Springs is the last spot before heading down steep inclines into Colorado. This was more important in the days of the wagon trains that traveled west and needed to be let down by rope a little bit at a time.
The Ash Hollow State Park and Museum is nearby plus there is a great scenic overlook. The folks in Big Springs really cater to out-of-towners and are more than willing to accommodate your visit to the area. They do have a lot to show off in the area.
Big Springs
City Website
Blair (Zip*, Washington, Pop: 6,860) (26 miles)
To the north of Ft. Calhoun, is Blair, where a large number of contest entries end up (ever hear of J.D. Blair Company?). The community was not connected with the contest judging organization beforehand, only that the company looked for a location to process contest and sweepstakes entries and Blair was an easy choice to exclude from winning any prizes. Wouldn't it look suspicious if a local won?. They don't seem to be upset and aren't interested in entering contests anyway, they know the odds are high, and don't bother. Other than the contest/sweepstakes enterprise, Blair is a farming community with easy access to the Missouri. It is quite a ride by river, but a great place to visit no matter how you get there.
Blair had a great jump on other Nebraska cities along the Missouri when U.S. Highway 30 brought traffic along the first paved transcontinental highway back in 1915. The highway follows the Platte River for much of its way across the state.
The Cottonwood Marina on the Missouri River is probably the most popular river stopping places for boaters. Throughout the summer, the hotspot has concerts featuring everything from local talent to big-name draws. Go there on an empty stomach, otherwise you will hate yourself later.
DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge
(1434 316th Lane.)
Blair and Missouri Valley, Iowa claim DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, however Iowa gets true credit. The refuge is open for boating, hiking, and picnicking. The Visitor's Center has ongoing programs of education, some with guided tours. The steamboat Bertrand excavation has produced several artifacts on display at the visitor's center. 712-642-4121
Brownville (68321, Nemaha, Pop: 148) (72 miles)
Brownville is located along the Missouri River south of Omaha, halfway between Nebraska City and the southeast tip of the state. Brownville is easily accessible from Interstate 29 (in Iowa), just 10 miles west on U.S. Highway 136.
The town was formed in 1854 by Richard Brown. It was soon a booming town on the Missouri River. It was even expected to be the location of the new state capitol that would take over after Omaha's territorial capitol. Groundwork started, but due to the popularity of the railroad, river towns such as Brownville became less important. Lincoln, almost a beeline to the west got the honor instead. Brownville's popularity waned a bit but a few stayed and the history is still there.
The Meriwether Lewis Museum is located in Brownville and worth the drive alone. They camped here on July 15th, 1804 on their way up the Missouri River. You can visit the encampment site from the Missouri River.
Indian Cave State park is further south, just south of Nemaha about 32 miles away from Brownville.
Brownville has a winery shop at 702 Main Street. The production facility is located where the grapes are grown just south of town near Nemaha. The farm has some amazing things to see. To store the wine, they restored/rebuilt the beautiful brick lined 1866 underground caves that were originally used in the Brownville Brewery. They didn't stop there; they also restored the insides of the 100+ year old barn that sits across Whiskey Run Creek with cedar that covers the walls as it is worked around the beams and supports of the barn. What is most significant is that the barn was moved there from 18 miles away, then placed across the creek. You might think that all of the nails would work themselves out during the 6 hour trip, except the barn was constructed without any nails at all. The 10 ton, 40 foot long by 26 foot wide by 33 foot high barn was built near the end of War War I in the old tradition. It now is a great place to see some wonderful Nebraska wines, and you can even have a party in a cave. The Whiskey Run Creek Winery is open Monday through Saturday from 10 A.M. to 5 P.M. and closed on Sundays. You can call for special hours at 402-825-4601 or visit then on the web.
The Carson House at 3rd and Main is a fun visit. The house was built in 1860. One of the best times to visit the home is on Memorial Day because they have a tea at 2 P.M. You can visit the house between Memorial Day and the second week of October. Hours are open daily from June to August but starting in May you can visit on weekends between 1 and 5 P.M. You can visit outside these times by appointment by calling 402-825-6001. The tour is $3 for adults, and $2 for students. The Tourism Office a block away at 2nd and Main has a tour guide. You can also call toll-free at 877-559-6005.
Festival of the Book: The Wine, Writers, and Song Festival is held in Brownville on the next to last weekend of April. For 2004, the festival is on April 22nd through 24th. This is the time to celebrate World Book Day. The event will have storytelling, readings by local, and well known authors, music, food, and lots of displays. 402-825-4211
Sweet Corn Daze is held in Brownville on the next to last weekend of July. For 2005, the festival is on July 23rd through 24th. Celebrate Nebraska's best sweet corn roasted, boiled, or other ways. The event will have lots of food to go along with corn, plus music, and more. 402-825-6731
A Quilt Show is also a fun time for the second weekend in August. For 2005, the show is on August 13th and 14th. The quilts are locally made and are in competition so expect some pretty impressive quilts. 402-825-4651
Brownville has two big flea market events during the year; one near the end of spring and one for the start of fall. Late May (28th and 29th) and September (24th and 25th). Hours are 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. There are literally hundreds of dealers that show up for this event. 402-825-4131 or 877-559-6005
Also in the fall is the Old Time Autumn Celebration held on the first weekend of October. For 2005, the event is on October 8th and 9th.
On the Saturday before Halloween, Brownville has a Spook-a-Rama event. Only the brave go to this because it is veerrrry scccaaaarrrry! 402-825-6491
On the first Saturday of December, Brownville has a Christmas Tour of Homes. This is not a free event; you need tickets but there is known way to get tickets.
Brownville Village Theatre has plays during the summer months. Box Office Hours - 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. daily, beginning first Monday in June. The season opens the second Saturday in June. Call 402-825-4121 for reservations, or to contact by e-mail. You may also write: Brownville Village Theatre, P.O. Box 95, Brownville, NE 68321.
Brownville Village Theatre
Chadron (69337, Dawes, Pop: 5,588) (437 miles)
Chadron is in northwestern Nebraska, also set in beautiful country. Chadron was a popular fur trading post even before Nebraska became a state. A museum shows off the early tools of the trade along with some of their stories. The Chadron State park is popular with campers and fans of other outdoor activities.
South of town on state road 383 is the Chadron Creek Trading Post State Historical Marker. The Chadron Municipal Airport is on the west side of town for those that like to preview your vacation spot from the air first.
Dawes County Historical Museum Box 1319 - Chadron, NE 69337 (Highway 385, 5 miles south of Chadron) - 308-432-3843, Open: June 1st to October 1st
Fur Trade Museum 308-432-3843, Located on U.S. Highway 20 just 3 miles past Chadron, NE. and 26 miles east of Crawford - Open: 8 A.M.-5 P.M. Memorial Day through September
Trailside Museum 308-665-2929, Open: year round. Located at Fort Robinson State Park (3 miles west of Crawford)
Hudson-Meng Bison Bonebed 308-665-2929, Open: 9 A.M.-5 P.M. May 15th - September 6th Prices: Adults $4, Children $1, 6 & under Free - Located 10 miles Northwest of Crawford (4 miles north of Crawford on Highway 2 & 71, Turn west (left) onto Toadstool Road. Follow signs to Sand Creek Road. Turn left onto Sand Creek Road and drive 6 miles to the site)
Agate Fossil Beds National Monument 308-668-2211, Open on non-holidays, 8 A.M.-5 P.M. (6 P.M.) Prices: Individual: $3 (good for 7 days), Vehicle: $5 (good for 7 days), or an Annual Park Pass $15 - Located 26 miles west of Chadron on Highway 20. (Take Highway 20 to Harrison; Left (South) on Highway 29 for 22 miles; Left onto River Road; Proceed East three miles to Agate Fossil Beds).
Columbus (Zip*, Platte, Pop: 19,480) (85 miles)
Columbus is another one of the cities that got its start due to it being near the Platte River. The Loup River empties into the Platte at Columbus so Columbus is actually on the Loup River. The Platte River runs under the Loup River to where they join just east of downtown.
Columbus has many attractions to see. Their Columbus Days celebration is a time to get everyone out of the normal routine and relax, have some fun, enjoy the great food and festivities.
The Platte County Historical Society has made a commendable effort in preserving area history in museums, restored log cabins, and early homes in Columbus and throughout the county.
The Platte County Museum
(2916 16th St.) has several pioneer exhibits and artifacts. The museum is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Hours are 2 P.M. to 4:30 P.M. Other times are available by appointment.
Columbus honors one of its famous citizens at the Andrew Jackson Higgins National Memorial, which has a life-size replica of the Higgins boat, the boat that landed on shores with the front flipped down so soldiers could exit in a speedy fashion. Sand collected from beaches worldwide has been added to the memorial, which also pays tribute to our country's veterans.
Columbus is where the wonderful Dorothy Lynch Salad Dressing became a state-wide sensation following Dorothy's restaurant success in Saint Paul*. A unique sweet and spicy salad dressing similar to French dressing that started and set the standard for salad dressings that go beyond the norm. If you are visiting Nebraska, make sure you stop by a grocery store and take some home. This way, you will always be tied to Nebraska so you can get more*.
The Columbus Art Gallery
(2504 14th St.) has exhibits of art, sculpture, and pottery. The gallery is open 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. Monday through Friday, 5:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M. Thursday, and 1:30 P.M. to 4:30 P.M. Saturdays.
The Columbus Fairgrounds website has all the details of events and shows you will want to know about.
The Columbus Chamber of Commerce website lists several additional attractions.
Columbus
City of Columbus
Comstock (68828, Custer, Pop: 135) (261 miles)
Comstock is located in the middle of the state, and that is pretty much from any direction. It is north of Kearney. To get there, take state Highway 40, from Kearney to US 183 north, then head east on S21C seven miles to Comstock. Why would you be going there? For the largest Country Music festival in the Midwest.
The two-day Comstock Harvest Festival and the four-day Comstock Windmill Festival (Map) brings in national acts for one of the best festivals anywhere in the country. For 2002, you can see Alabama in Nebraska.
Comstock
Windmill Festival
Crawford (69339, Dawes, Pop: 1,115) (458 miles)
Crawford is in northwestern Nebraska, 21 miles southwest of Chadron, in the beautiful Pine Ridge area. Fort Robinson State Park is three miles to the west. The Black Hills of South Dakota is only 50 miles north. Besides being a popular hiking, camping, and outdoor activities location, Crawford is especially a popular spot for hunters and is known as the Big Game Capitol of Nebraska. Crawford was established in 1886 when the Fremont-Elkhorn Railroad needed a stopping spot for water. The historic Sidney-Deadwood Trail crosses through Crawford on its north-south path.
Crawford is also home to the Lover's Leap Winery. The area having sloping hills and gentle breezes make it an ideal spot to grow grapes in the old world tradition. Using American cultivars and French Hybrid grapes, their International Award Winning Wines are proof that Nebraska can produce wines on a level with any other state in the nation. Local artwork decorates their tasting room where you can experience a wide variety of grape wines and even wines made from honey. You can also check out their wines in their Sidney store next to Cabelas Sporting Goods. Anyone crossing the state or visiting Crawford should stop by to add a few bottles to their collection.
Some historical locations to visit are the German P.O.W. Historical Marker at Lake Crawford, and the Red Cloud Agency State Historical Marker, both southwest of town and in Fort Robinson State Park.
Crawford
Chamber of Commerce
Decatur (68020, Burt, Pop: 641) (95 miles)
Decatur, Nebraska is located midway between Omaha and South Sioux City on the Missouri River, near Highway 51. Decatur has one of the few bridges* crossing the Missouri River.
Dundee (Zip*, Douglas, Pop: part of Omaha) (4 miles)
Dundee was annexed into Omaha in 1917. It was the wealthy housing district of early Omaha so understandably, it was a prime choice for annexation. Many of Omaha's early founders, builders, business people, built their life's dream home in the area. It has maintained its dignity as a respectable community and one you surely want to visit. Dundee celebrates Dundee Days around the third week of September.
Some places you might want to check out in the Dundee area.
The Dundee Dinner Theatre is located at (5021 Underwood Ave.) Showtimes are 8 P.M. Thursdays through Saturday, Tickets are $13.50 to $24.95. 402-558-8535.
The Cornerstone Mansion built by Charles and Bertha Offutt* is located at (140 N. 39th St.). The mansion has been turned into an elaborate bed and breakfast. Of all the places you could possibly stay while visiting Omaha, this is the place that you will never forget about. The mansion is directly across the street from the Joslyn Castle, which was completed nine years later. You can call the folks at the Cornerstone Mansion at 402-558-7600.
The Joslyn Castle built by Sarah and George Joslyn* is located at (3902 Davenport Street.). The home certainly qualifies as a castle in appearance, though it was not originally built as a castle. It was built to be the final home of the family of George Joslyn, a successful newspaper business man, who made a fortune supplying "ready print" for other Midwestern newspapers. The home was damaged during the 1913 Easter Sunday tornado, however it was restored to its earlier grandeur. 
Florence (Zip*, Douglas, Pop: part of Omaha) (7 miles)
Florence is important because it was one of the earliest settlements west of the Missouri River. Especially important is the time that the Mormons stayed on an Indian reservation in the area. There is so much to tell about Florence, that it has its own page. More info.
Fremont (Zip*, Dodge, Pop: 24,429) (39 miles)
To the west, and slightly north of Omaha, and Elkhorn is Fremont. Fremont got its start due to it being next to the Platte River. The land is pretty much the same elevation for a good distance around the Platte River there making it easy for lakes to form. Fremont has lakes, dozens of them. We call them the Fremont Lakes. Since Fremont is not too far from Omaha, the lakes are a favorite recreational spot. When you get to Fremont, you are in the heart of farmland.
Fremont takes its name from General John C. Frémont (1813-1890), who as a Lieutenant explored the area between the Kansas River and the Platte River in 1842. He reported his frustration with navigating the Platte River and explained the Indian name of Nebraska, meaning Shallow River. The Secretary of War liked the sound of it and so Nebraska became the name of the territory, and eventually the state. In 1856, Gen., Frémont became the first Republican candidate formed when the Whig party broke up and the Democrat party split following the introduction of the Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854.
The John C. Fremont Days are celebrated in mid-July. The three-day celebration has a Rough Stock Rodeo, Living History Encampments, Heartland Auto Show, Food Courts, Craft Booths, Clowns, Music, and much more. Check the website for more information.
The Fremont Historic Visitor's Center (605 N. Broad St.) displays historic bits of area history. Hours: 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. Monday through Friday, 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. Saturday; 800-727-8323
The Dodge County Historical Society in the Louis E. May Historical Museum (1643 N. Nye Ave.) has lots of exhibits on area history. The society also puts on several events, especially coinciding with John C. Frémont Days in mid July, and including the Homesteaders Fair the first Sunday in October. Hours: 1:30 P.M. to 4:30 P.M. Wednesday through Sunday April to December, however the Museum is closed on Sundays during April, September, October, and November. Also closed January through March, and all holidays. 402-721-4515
The Fremont Area Art Association - Gallery 92 West (92 W. 6th St.) displays art in a wide range of areas. There is always something new on display. 402-721-7779 The Fremont Area Art Association partners with the Musbach Art Center at Midland Lutheran College Kimmel Gallery to help students learn about art production and art.
The Fremont Dinner Train (1835 N. Somers Ave.) has mystery theatre trips, wine tasting trips, and more. 402-727-8321 or 800-942-7245
The Fremont and Elkhorn Valley Railroad (1835 N. Somers Ave.) has sightseeing excursions from a different perspective through the Elkhorn River Valley to Nickerson and back, and to Hooper and back. 402-727-0615.
Fremont
and Dodge County
John Caldwell Calhoun
U.S. Vice President
Ft. Calhoun (68023, Washington, Pop: 648) (15 miles)
To the north of Omaha in Washington County is Ft. Calhoun, another important historical community. Ft. Calhoun is the area's third name.
Ft. Calhoun is where Lewis and Clark first met with the chiefs of the "Indian Territory" on their way to the Pacific Northwest. They met with the Oto/Otoe/Missouri Indians. The meeting place was dubbed Council Bluff (notice no s on the end), Council Bluffs, and Camp Councile Bluff. The area around Ft. Calhoun was called Council Bluff after the expedition. The Indian Agency there was called Council Bluffs Indian Agency. The agency was moved to the Bellevue area in 1823 and it too was called Council Bluffs. Later, the name was used to refer to the surrounding area on both sides of the Missouri. and even later adopted by the citizens of Kanesville following the exodus of the Mormon community.
Fort Atkinson, the first military barracks west of the Missouri was built in 1821* to help protect early settlers and fur traders. It is believed by some, and even documented*, that Ft. Atkinson occupied the same location as the initial council with local natives by Lewis and Clark. Ft. Atkinson was evacuated around 1827 or 1828 by Col. Leavenworth. Some time later the same barracks were again used by the U.S. Military. While Nebraska was still a territory, the barracks were commissioned Fort Calhoun (1858*) after John Caldwell Calhoun, who had passed away a few years earlier(1850). The name was adopted by the surrounding community as it sprang up.
The Fort Atkinson State Historical Park located in Fort Calhoun (7th and Madison St.) has a section dedicated to the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The center is open daily 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. (later, daylight permitting until 8 P.M.) 402-468-5611
There are some historic markers around the community to check out as well. Because Ft. Calhoun is so close, there is no reason a history buff in Omaha shouldn't make it there for this alone. Once there, you will see what a wonderful community Ft. Calhoun is.
The Washington County Historical Association preserves historical artifacts and history in several exhibits all around Washington County, including preservation of the town hall of the once thriving town known as Fontenelle. It is a good idea to read what they have done on their website or call them at 402-468-5740.
The nearby 3,200 acre Boyer-Chute National Wildlife Refuge was set aside to restore essential wildlife habitat. You can use the refuge for hiking, picnicking, bird watching, and fishing activities. 402-642-4121.
Genoa (68640, Nance, Pop: 1,082) (105 miles)
Genoa is located west of Columbus at the intersection of Highway 22 (from Columbus) and Highway 39. Genoa was settled by the Mormons on their way across Nebraska.*
The Genoa Historical Museum (402 Willard Avenue.) has exhibits on Mormon history and also a large collection of Pawnee exhibits. The museum is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Hours are 2 P.M. to 4:30 P.M. Other times are available by appointment.
The 1884 Genoa U.S. Indian School Museum (209 East Webster Avenue.) is listed on the National Historical Register. The museum has renovated several classrooms already to their original appearance. Several other period artifacts complete the displays. You can visit the museum by appointment.
Gering (69341, Scottsbluff, Pop: 7,946), See Scottsbluff
Gibbon (68840, Buffalo, Pop: 1,525) (174 miles)
Gibbon is four miles north of Interstate-80 exit 285, closer to Kearney than Grand Island.
The 1,150 acre Lillian Annette Rowe Santuary (44450 Elm Island Road) is operated by the National Audubon Society and you know what that means. The half a million sandhill cranes that pass through Nebraska in the spring love this spot. This is an excellent place to see the migration, plus learn a lot more from the experts. The santuary is open year round. From mid February to mid April, hours are 8 A.M. to 6 P.M.. Monday through Friday, and open every day from March 3rd through April 8th. The rest of the year, the hours are 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. Monday through Friday. The santuary visit is free but what you really want to do is break the spare $20 you have been carrying around and use $5 for some film, and $15 of it to pay for the privilege of using one of the blinds. You will get some unbelievable photos of the five foot bird at very close range. 308-468-5282
Grand Island (Zip*, Hall, Pop: 41,392) (149 miles)
Grand Island is our next larger neighbor to the west. A little far to be considered a close neighbor but a major Nebraska city. Grand Island is another one of the cities that got its start due to it being on the Platte River. On the Platte River? Isn't that excessive? How could it be on the river? Grand Island is named justifiably because it started as an island. A strip of land nearly three miles in width that stretched for over 40 miles and nearly 70 miles at low water times. The northern waterway was cut off eventually to prevent crop flooding. This gives the appearance that Grand Island is north of the Platte. It expanded away from the river's edge way beyond the original island's width.
The Nebraska City Cutoff, Ox Bow, and Mormon Trails passes through Grand Island. As the Mormons continued their trek west following closure of Winter Quarters near Omaha, other locations were used to camp for the winter. During the winter of 1884/85, the Mormons camped out near Grand Island. Mormon Island State Recreational Area in Grand Island is a tribute to the Mormons that camped nearby. The actual campsite is about 4 miles from the recreational area. More on Nebraska Trails.
Grand Island has an active community participating in the Arts. Like Omaha has its J. Does, Grand island has its cranes. The cranes are certainly appropriate for Grand Island as it is directly in the path of the rare Whooping Crane and the much more abundant Sandhill Crane migration as they travel north in the spring. If you haven't seen several hundred to over a thousand sandhill cranes at the same time, you are in for a rare experience. In all, more than 500,000 pass through the state; the Platte River is an important stopover for the birds. Grand Island is north of I-80, Hastings is south of I-80. I-80 runs almost parallel to the Platte River in the area between the Grand Island/Hastings exit (281) and Kearney. The stretch is right in the middle of the migration path so there are several spots that will allow for excellent viewing of this majestic sight. Don't plan on stopping on I-80, that is a for-sure ticket. Check out the many side roads and especially the nature centers as they provide a much better view anyway.
Crane Meadows Nature Center is located six miles west of Grand Island. You can view the sandhill crane migration (late February to early April) up close from blinds. There are several miles of hiking trails along the Platte River, plus you can walk across the Platte River without getting your feet wet! Of course the river is shallow with lots of sandbars in the middle but in this case you walk on a pedestrian bridge. The center is a great place to visit all year long but the springtime is so popular you will need to get reservations. (308) 382-1820
You will want to visit the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer in Grand island (3133 W. Highway 34). Grand Island is proud to be the birthplace of Henry Fonda. You can visit the birth home in a small community setting. Railroad Town has several examples of old railroad cars in a historical setting. Walk the grounds and talk to folks dressed up to play the part of our early settlers. Hours: 10 A.M. to 5 P.M. Saturday and Sunday, 308-385-5316.
The Prairie Winds Art Center (112 W. Third St.) has changing exhibits. The gallery is open 10 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. Monday through Saturday, 308-381-4001.
Visit Grand Island
Chamber of Commerce City Link e-mail
The Grand Island Independent
Crane Meadows
Nature Center
Hastings (Zip*, Adams, Pop: 22,837) (161 miles)
Hastings is south of Grand Island and south of Interstate 80. Hastings is Kool because one of its most known claims to fame is that Kool-Aid was invented there. Who didn't grow up on Kool-Aid?*
Hastings was the first in the state to have an IMAX Theater. Before Omaha had an IMAX Theater, Hastings was a worthwhile trip just to see the new IMAX releases, and especially for the IMAX Film Festivals. The Hastings Museum of Natural and Cultural History (1330 N. Burlington Ave.) is right next to the IMAX theater and has a great collection of early American artifacts. If you are near Hastings, the museum is a wonderful reason to visit. Of course, the IMAX might be showing a different film and you wouldn't want to miss that either since you are already there.
The Sachtleben Observatory at Hastings College three miles south of Hastings (900 E. 9th St.) (at the intersection of Wabash Ave and Highway 6) is a great place to see the night sky away from city lights all Free of charge.
Kearney (Zip*, Buffalo, Pop: 27,968) (186 miles)
Kearney is just west of Grand Island/Hastings. Kearney is another one of the cities that got its start due to it being next to the Platte River. Fort Kearny was re-built there to protect early settlers having been originally in Nebraska City. It would seem that the city is named after the fort, but notice that the city