Nebraska Official State Travel Guide - Nebraska 2026 Official State Travel Guide
Southwest
2025-11-18 06:43:09
Head west: It’s what the pioneers did. Now it’s your turn. Discover frontier lore, railroad history and wide-open spaces.
WHAT TO DO
For a one-of-a-kind antiquing experience, head to Grain Bin Antique Town just outside North Platte. Here, you’ll find repurposed grain bins filled with all sorts of antiques and collectibles. Browse the Petrified Wood Gallery in Ogallala. The collection showcases ancient woods and fossils, Native American artifacts and artwork. For more Native American history, visit Massacre Canyon Historical Monument near Trenton to see the 1873 battlegrounds of the Pawnee and Sioux nations. Hit the water for swimming, boating and fishing at Red Willow Reservoir State Recreation Area in McCook. Shop bath products and goods made with fresh lavender at Our Lavender Co. near Big Springs.
WHERE TO STAY
Lakeview Lodge in Stratton offers public hunting grounds and peaceful overnight stays. Rent an RV from Lake Mac RV Rentals in Lemoyne to maximize your time at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area. At The Balcony House Bed & Breakfast in Imperial, four of the five rooms offer a cozy enclosed porch.
WHERE TO EAT
At Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse & Lounge, a Paxton landmark, enjoy hearty fare surrounded by impressive taxidermy. Sample new favorites and housemade pie at Hillside Perk in Culbertson. Get classic Italian fare at Citta’ Deli in McCook. In Madrid, line up for fresh-baked cinnamon rolls at Madrid General Store. The Cedar Room in North Platte is an upscale dining experience specializing in succulent steaks and seafood.
WHERE TO DRINK
In Moorefield, there’s a unique spirit: Make an appointment to visit Lazy RW Distillery and sip straight and flavored whiskeys that start with Nebraska corn and family recipes. With live music, pool tables and a casual atmosphere, Ogallala’s Open Range Grill is the perfect joint to relax and unwind with your favorite beverage. Sip limited-release brews and munch on charcuterie boards in a former Ogallala library at Second Chapter Brewing. Pair specialty craft beer with food-truck favorites (generally Thursday through Sunday) at North Platte’s Peg Leg Brewing (open daily).
SOUTHWEST MUST-SEES
Nebraska’s Southwest region is where you’ll find lake adventures, cowboy history and the world’s largest rail classification yard. Follow this checklist for the ultimate Southwest Nebraska experience:
- Potter’s Pasture, Brady
- Golden Spike Tower, North Platte
- Boot Hill Cemetery, Ogallala
- Enders Reservoir State Recreation Area, Enders
- Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, North Platte
- Senator George Norris State Historic Site, McCook
- Lazy RW Distillery, Moorefield
- Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area, Ogallala
©Nebraska. View All Articles.
Southwest
https://digital.milespartnership.com/article/Southwest/5065719/855850/article.html