The Other Side of the Cornhusker State: Exploring 17 of the Best Small Towns in Nebraska
Beyond Nebraska’s sprawling cornfields and big cities are charming small towns full of enchanting natural wonders, captivating history, and vibrant culture. From quaint downtowns lined with historic buildings to the picturesque landscapes that surround them, Nebraska’s small towns are welcoming and intriguing with a sense of timeless allure and genuine authenticity.
Brownville
On the banks of the Missouri River, visitors will discover a town bursting with charm and 19th-century history.
The Didier Log Cabin and the Brown-Carson House provide a glimpse into Brownville’s history and the Steamboat Trace Trail allows visitors to explore 21 miles of scenic riverfront. Round out your trip with a riverboat dinner cruise aboard the Spirit of Brownville for a fun experience on the river.
Red Cloud
Red Cloud is the home of famed author Willa Cather, whose works put her in the company of the likes of Faulkner and Hemingway. Fans of her work can visit her childhood home and can visit historic sites that figured in or inspired her writing, including the Miner House, the Red Cloud Opera House, and the Grace Episcopal Church.
Valentine
A visit to this Nebraska oasis is a must for any outdoor enthusiast seeking adventure.
A visit to Smith Falls State Park treats visitors to the site of cascading Smith Falls and the Niobrara National Scenic River is perfect for tubing and kayaking excursions. Visitors can discover unique ecosystems and wildlife inside the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge or follow the Cowboy Trail for nearly 200 miles on a bike or on foot.
Chadron
This historic High Plains town offers an experience that’s equal parts history and outdoor recreation. The Museum of the Fur Trade and the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center allow visitors a glimpse into the region’s heritage.
Chadron’s “outdoor side” presents multiple opportunities for outdoor recreation and Chadron State Park — Nebraska’s first state park — the Nebraska National Forest and the Pine Ridge National Recreation Area provide ample pace for horseback riding, biking, hunting, camping, and more.
Minden
A hub for pioneer history and Nebraska’s Christmas City? Minden has a reputation for both and visitors will be entertained, no matter their interests. Pioneer Village includes one of the nation’s best collections of pioneer artifacts with a collection of over 50,000 objects that covers every facet of pioneer life.
Minden is also Nebraska’s Christmas City, and the spectacular Christmas Lights on Kearney County Courthouse can be seen for miles each winter. The annual “Light of the World” pageant is another must-see event with thousands of bulbs illuminating the courthouse and town square.
Cozad
History buffs will enjoy a trip to this Central Nebraska town that houses both the 100th Meridian Museum and the Robert Henri Museum and Historical Walkway.
The 100th Meridian Museum offers visitors a chance to explore the significance and history of the 100th Meridian west, which runs through Conrad. The Henri Museum is a shrine to artist Robert Henri and his collection of works depicting urban life.
A marker in town signifies the intersection of the meridian, the Oregon Trail, the Pony Express, the Lincoln Highway, and the transcontinental railroad.
Aurora
The Gateway to the Butterfly Highway, the Rainwater Basin, and the Central Fly Way present something fun for all visitors.
Museum-goers can visit the Plainsman Museum, which provides a fascinating look at the region’s history with historic buildings, Native American and military artifacts, and more. Central Park Square presents a plethora of shopping opportunities and Gjerloff Prarie and Sherman Ranch provide ample space to explore stunning swaths of scenic and historic land.
Nebraska City
If you’re visiting Nebraska City, there are three names you need to know: Lewis, Clark, and Morton. Around Nebraska City, history enthusiasts can find several sites tracing Lewis and Clark’s route, and the Missouri River Basin Lewis and Clark Interpretive Trail and Visitor Center is a good place to start.
The city is also home to the Arbor Day Lodge State Historical Park, home of J. Sterling Morton, who founded Arbor Day. Visitors can tour the park and visit the Arbor Day Farm to marvel at a 50-foot treehouse and orchard-fresh apples.
Central City
Central City oozes small-town charm from its historic houses to its family-friendly activities. Summer visitors can cool off at the Central City Aquatic Center, which has splash pads, pools, and slides to ensure visitors of all ages have fun.
The Archer House showcases intricate Victorian-era architecture with engaging tours, and the Lone Tree Monument is a unique marker that pays homage to a large tree that once served as an important meeting place for Native Americans and an early pioneer landmark.
Wayne
Wayne boasts unique sites including a college, historic buildings, and a planetarium, but fans of quirky festivals won’t want to miss the annual summer Wayne Chicken Show. The event has been a local tradition since 1981 and features a National Cluck-Off, the Chicken Dance, food, music, and kids activities, making it the perfect festival for travelers who love small-town celebrations.
Falls City
Located smack in the center of America’s Heartland, Falls City is an easy drive from major metro areas, but there’s plenty in town for visitors to get out and stretch their legs.
The historic Grand Weaver Hotel makes for a great stay but is also prized for its historic charm. The Richardson County Museum also provides a link to the past with displays of historical artifacts. Visitors who want to get outside can enjoy Stanton Lake Park, which provides space for fishing, camping, walking, and a playground for kids.
St. Paul
Fans of America’s Pastime can soak up baseball history in this small town, which celebrates more than 100 players with Nebraska ties who’ve played in the big leagues — including Grover Cleveland Alexander, Wade Boggs, and Joba Chamberlain. — at the Museum of Nebraska Major League Baseball. St. Paul is also the final resting place of Alexander and a popular spot to visit.
Seward
Nebraska’s “Fourth of July City” pulls out all the stops for Independence Day with one of the biggest celebrations in the state.
Visitors of all ages can soak in the festive atmosphere as they enjoy a grand parade through downtown Seward, historical reenactments, flag ceremonies, craft and food vendors, and carnival games. The day culminates with a spectacular fireworks show with dazzling colors lighting the sky.
Ashland
Museums? Scenic parks? A drive-through safari? Ashland has it all in the heart of eastern Nebraska. The Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum invites travelers to explore the worlds of space and aviation with interactive displays and impressive exhibits. Mahoney State Park is an outdoor haven, offering mini golf, an aquatic center, and opportunities for hiking, fishing, and more.
Visitors looking for more outdoor fun can visit the Simmons Conservation Park & Wildlife Safari, experiencing a thrilling drive-through adventure where wolves, bison, elk, and other animals can be seen in their natural habitats.
Ogallala
Often called the “Gateway to the Northern Plains,” Ogallala was once a thriving cattle town that played a crucial role in the cattle drives that were a hallmark of the American West.
Visitors can gain a glimpse into that fascinating history at the Front Street Cowboy Museum — a replica of a frontier town that showcases the town’s history and features seasonal reenactments. Further glimpses of the Wild West at Boot Hill Cemetery with graves of cowboys, outlaws, and early settlers to the area.
Blair
A trip to Blair allows travelers to have the best of all worlds — historic sites, scenic riverfront views, and a closeness to nature near the Iowa border.
Along the Missouri River, visitors can discover the wonders of the DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge. Stretched across more than 8,300 acres, the Refuge contains diverse ecosystems, an array of colorful migratory birds, and even the remains of the Bertrand Steamboat — which sunk to the bottom of the river along with more than 200,000 artifacts.
Gering
Located near the Colorado border, Gering is the gateway to outdoor adventure, sitting just 40 miles from the Black Hills, and Colorado’s Front Range.
Gehring is also home to the Scotts Bluff National Monument where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of famous sandstone bluffs and the North Platte River Valley. The Legacy of the Plains Museum offers a deeper glimpse into this scenic region and its Native American and pioneer history.
Discover The Charm of Small Towns in Nebraska
Whether you seek quiet retreats into nature, fascinating history at well-traveled museums, or a sample of local flavors, Nebraska’s small towns captivate and charm every traveler who dares to venture off the beaten path and explore the lesser-known side of the Midwest.