Nebraska Official State Travel Guide • The Official 2019 Not-At-All What You Thought State Travel Guide • Sandhills

Home to the Niobrara National Scenic River, this region’s visual landscape and ecological diversity create a natural getaway.

Bring your clubs and golf at The Prairie Club in Valentine, join a guided hunt led by Nebraska Outdoor Experience in Arthur or fish for rainbow trout at Keller Park State Recreation Area in Ainsworth. When you’re ready to explore indoors, uncover local history at the Seven Valleys Museum in Callaway and seek out the Taylor Villagers. These life-sized paintings represent the Taylor townsfolk of a bygone era, from lone cowboys to mothers in bustled dresses walking with their children.

Rent a rural cabin at Pine Valley Resort and ask about hunting and fishing in this richly forested area of Sargent. Hunters are also welcome at Comstock Premier Lodge nearby; anticipate rustic charm and the chance to hunt pheasant, red sheep, elk and other game. (The lodge welcomes all outside of hunting season.) Or, plan a stay with Calamus Outfitters in Burwell. By day, enjoy eco-tours through the Calamus River Valley; by night, gather for bonfires and stargazing outside of your cabin or lodge— perfect for a family reunion.

Carhops serve burgers, sundaes and the like at Frosty Drive-In in Valentine, so park and revel in the nostalgia. If you’re in Loup City, don’t pass up Loup City Diner’s all-American comfort food. Satisfy sweet and savory cravings at the Sweet Shoppe in St. Paul, serving breakfast, lunch and dessert. Go for nicely executed salads, sammies, burgers and dinner plates at Sandstone Grill in Burwell. In Bassett, let the Range Café feed you the way it has fed diners since mid-century cattlemen frequented the spot.

At Double T Bar in Halsey, order up a cold one and listen as locals swap stories. When it comes to wine, Nebraska boasts some of the nation’s most unique blends—born of necessity due to the grapes’ short growing season. See the vines and taste the wines at Niobrara Valley Vineyards in Nenzel and Miletta Vista Winery. This St. Paul winery features a restaurant serving lunch, dinner and award-winning Miletta wines such as the Prairie Rose blush.

1110 E. 4th St. / (402) 387-0500 A small restaurant with amazing food and great service! Owned by John Stec. Specializing in buffets, burgers and sandwiches.

homeagainflorist.com / 310 N. Main St. / (402) 382-3477 / Enjoy a cup of coffee while you browse our unique, one-of-a-kind home decor and gift items. While in, check out our fresh flowers for every occasion.

outdoornebraska.gov/kellerpark 12 mi. N. of US Hwy. 20 on US Hwy. 183 / (402) 684-2921 Located northeast of Ainsworth on Bone Creek, this is one of the few spots where anglers can pursue rainbow trout and warm water species. Nestled amid rugged tree-covered bluffs, the 196-acre area offers excellent angling, camping, hiking and wildlife-viewing.

kellerscustomembroidery.com 247 N. Main / (402) 382-3460 Shop area memorabilia. Middle of Nowhere apparel, Nebraska apparel, postcards and souvenirs. Candles, jewelry, purses, t-shirts, caps, jackets and sweatshirts.

redwhitemarket.com / 611 E. 4th St. / (402) 387-1450 / We are your local community connection for high-quality meat, foods, deli and bakery items with friendly service and great prices.

outdoornebraska.gov/victoria springs / 7 mi. E. of NE Hwy. 2 & S-21A / (308) 749-2235 / Peaceful setting with rustic cabins, fishing, paddleboats, camping, hiking. Open mid-Apr. - mid-Nov. Park permit required. Cabins open Memorial Day - third weekend in Nov. Camping year-round. Shower house open May - end of Sep. or early Oct. Camping/cabin reservations accepted.

N. Walnut / (308) 520-1102 When you step inside this restored one-room schoolhouse, you will see and feel what it must have been like back then. It’s the perfect stop for individuals or groups who love experiencing history, not just reading about it. Free to visit by appointment only.

arnoldexchange.com / 104 Arnold Ave. / (308) 848-3354 The Arnold Exchange offers breakfast and lunch specials plus other food options including sandwiches, pizza, salads and grab-and-go items. Open seven days a week; nicely sized dining. Check out our Facebook page for daily specials.

arnoldgolfcourse.weebly.com 1 mi. S. of Arnold on US Hwy. 40, 1/4 mi. E. / (308) 529-2665, (308) 848-2266 / This public, scenic nine-hole run crosses a small creek four times, contains many trees and spans approximately 75 acres. Plan a round during your next trip out West.

campnative.com/campgrounds/ usa/ne/arnold/arnold-motel-camp 307 Hillcrest / (308) 848-2223 Individual rooms, as well as camper hook-ups, tent spots, showers for truckers and restaurants nearby. Call directly or make reservations online.

arnoldne.org / 1 mi. S. of Jct. of NE Hwys. 40 & 92 / (308) 848-2228 / This park is located immediately south of Arnold; mature trees provide summer campers with cool shade. 10 acres of land and a 22-acre lake offer fishing, hiking, picnicking, electrical and water hook-ups, primitive camping, newly constructed shower house and large covered pavilion.

arnoldne.org / 302 W. Arnold Ave. / (308) 848-2462 / Free highspeed internet access. 11-room motel.

106 S. Walnut St. / (308) 529-1277 Specialty coffees and beverages, gourmet baked goods, home decor, unique furniture and jewelry are just some of the things you will find and experience in the unique shop.

N. Walnut / (308) 520-1102 This historical schoolhouse museum has a secret! In the basement of this piece of history is lodging with amenities and a separate entrance to a home away from home. With the bright, airy feeling of main-floor accommodations, it’s a private and inviting place to stay when you’re traveling.

hiddenvalleyoutfitter.com / 79747 Arnold River Rd. / (308) 848-3302 Situated in a scenic area along the South Loup River and between two lakes, Hidden Valley Campground has it all! Primitive and modern camping with showers and a pavilion. Fish, swim, paddleboat, canoe, kayak or just enjoy wildlife. Located seven miles southeast of Arnold, Nebraska.

hiddenvalleyoutfitter.com / 79975 Lower Powell Canyon Rd. / (308) 848-3302 / High-quality guided hunts on 55,000 acres of prime habitat. Hunting lodge available. Call for hunting season requests. Cory Peterson and Dan Blowers, owners. Offers primitive and modern campsites with electricity, water and sewer at the local park.

arnoldne.org / 209 W. Arnold Ave. / (308) 650-0532 / Family- friendly restaurant featuring home-cooked food such as chicken fried steak, prime rib, fried chicken, burgers, locally grown potatoes, salmon and fresh root beer. Daily specials available! Friday and Saturday nights, we offer prime rib or salmon with rice pilaf, salad bar and a French roll!

sorcrace.com / Main St. / (308) 848-2522 / The annual Sandhills Open Road Challenge is a 55-mile, rally-style, open-road race through the Nebraska Sandhills, Aug. 6 - 8. The SORC offers a daunting series of “S” curves, straights and 90-degree turns to challenge the most talented of drivers. Don’t miss this fast and furious event!

nebraskaoutdoorexperience .com/index.html / 10 Swanson Dr. / (308) 764-7090 / Nebraska Outdoor Experience offers guided hunts for whitetail and mule deer; eastern, rio and Merriam turkey; pheasants; Canada, greenhead and snow geese. We hunt the Rainwater Basin area, Platte River Valley and majestic Sandhills. For more information call owner/professional guide Jason Christensen.

calindaspotshop.com / 113 Main St. / (308) 458-8051 / Handmade pottery, watercolors, oil paintings, pastels and inks featuring landscapes of the Nebraska Sandhills with a Western flair. Painting and pottery workshops available along with custom matting and framing. Come in and experience “throwing a pot!” Open Mon. - Fri., 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., or by appt.

llnrd.org / 9 mi. S., 1 mi. E. on US Hwy. 281 / (308) 728-3221 / This 26-acre lake provides boating and fishing. Picnicking and primitive camping areas. Open year-round. Free.

bassettlodge.com / 205 Clark St. (402) 684-3379 / Historic charm; modern comfort; “1950s modernaire” hotel.

outdoornebraska.gov/longlake 2 miles E. of Johnstown NE, 22 miles S. on County Rd. / (402) 684- 2921 / Long Lake State Recreation Area is made up of 30 acres of rolling sandhills and a 50-acre natural sandhill lake. The area offers fishing, camping, picnicking and hunting access.

Sandhills Guest Ranch B&B 42852 W. North Loup Rd. / (308) 547-2460 / Lodging with homecooked meals and hospitality. Wideopen prairie; hunting for upland game and all wild birds. Bird- and wildlife-watching from 10-foot blind over wetland and North Loup River. Sandhills tours last about an hour. Darkest sky, beautiful sunrise and sunsets.

arrowhotel.com / 509 S. 9th Ave. (308) 872-6662 / We have 25 recently remodeled suites in our hotel. 22 of the rooms include full-size kitchens. We have several different room types to suit all your needs. We have a restaurant and pub in our lobby. We are pet-friendly and up to three kids stay for free with an adult.

bosselman.com / 1037 E. South E St. / (308) 872-6842 / Free wireless internet access.

brokenbow-ne.com / 424 S. 8th Ave. / (308) 872-5691 / Welcome to Broken Bow! This wonderful community is located in the “center of it all” on scenic Hwy. 2 along the Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway.

custercountymuseum.com / 445 S. 9th Ave. / (308) 872-2203 Artifacts depicting pioneer life from the 1880s - present including the preserved history of the Wescott, Gibbons and Bragg general store collection. Includes Historical Research Center and Solomon D. Butcher Gallery with a collection of Custer County family photos. Free admission; donations welcome.

kinkaiderbrewing.com / 43860 Paulsen Rd. / (308) 872-8348 Kinkaider Brewing Co. is a farm brewery founded by four Nebraska boys. Our fathers, grandfathers and great-grandfathers helped settle this land. Kinkaider emulates the pioneer spirit that first settled this wild stretch of land called the Sandhills over 100 years ago.

brokenbow-ne.com/ recreation#parks / 199 Memorial Dr. / (308) 872-2003 / Melham Park is sure to be fun for the entire family. It has many excellent amenities including: Olympic-sized, heated swimming pool; stocked 5-acre lake; sports fields; a picnic shelter; bike path; restrooms and a walking trail.

ortello-dale.shoptiques.com / 421 S. 9th Ave. / (308) 872-2727 Ortello Dale is your home-awayfrom- home store. We are a home decor and gift store specializing in unique, one-of-a-kind items surrounded by an atmosphere of heritage and family.

brokenbow.chamberofcommerce .me/brokenbow/mem_roundvalley 79918 Rd. 441 / (308) 870-3053 Russ and Lisa Rice welcome you to Round Valley Farmhouse! It is a country stay with modern amenities perfect for families, couples’ retreats or even business meetings. The fully renovated farmhouse has a new purpose as a lovely B&B. Three bedrooms, each with queen bed, allow room for up to six.

Allison Springs Cabin 46899 O’Conner Rd. / (308) 750- 0874 / Enjoy a stay in a cabin along the Loup River. Plenty of stargazing and a great view.

N. 8th St. / (308) 346-4509 Calamus Outfitters LLC calamusoutfitters.com / 83720 Valleyview Ave. / (308) 346-4697 Located in the beautiful Nebraska Sandhills, Calamus Outfitters is your vacation destination. Whether you are hosting a large family gathering or looking for a peaceful getaway for two, our lodging facilities should meet your needs. For more information please visit our website or give us a call.

outdoornebraska.gov/calamus 6 mi. NW of Burwell / (308) 346- 5666 / More than 5,000 acres for fishing, boating and swimming. Modern and primitive campgrounds, fish hatchery, fish-cleaning stations, boat ramps, docks and visitor center. Office, showers and dump station are open the last Fri. in Apr. - Sep. 15. Park open year-round. Park permit required. Camping fees.

outdoornebraska.gov/hatcheries 42254 Hatchery Rd., 6 mi. NW on NE Hwy. 96 / (308) 346-4226 Below the Virginia Smith Dam (Calamus Reservoir). Open weekdays, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Closed holidays and weekends. Group tours by appointment only (minimum of 10 people) during open hours. Free. No pets.

853 D St. / (308) 214-0920 / Quiet setting; minutes from the lake; two separate units with full kitchen and baths; room to park boats.

outdoornebraska.gov/forthartsuff 82034 Fort Ave. / (308) 346-4715 Restored 1870s Plains infantry fort. Grounds open daily May - Sep., 8 a.m. - sunset. Gift shop open weekends late May - Labor Day, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., or by appt. Park permit required. Admission: $2 ages 13 and up; $1 for 3 - 12; free admission for children under age 3.

1plus1ranch.com / 46849 833rd Rd. / (308) 346-5530 / Are you looking to work cattle, have solid time in the saddle and truly see what ranching is all about? Located in one of America’s unique landscapes, Rowse’s 1+1 Ranch is what you’re looking for. The 1+1 Ranch accommodates up to 10 adults at a time. Children not allowed.

sandhillssuites.com / 412 Grand Ave. / (308) 346-4964 / Built in the early 1900s, the Sandhills Suites offer modern hotel rooms and charming historic architecture.

102 N. Grand Ave. / (308) 870- 2107 / Seven Valleys Historical Society maintains four unique buildings including the first Courthouse of Custer County in Morgan Park and the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church on S. Needham. Antiques housed in two other buildings on Grand Ave. including military, medical and railroad displays.

thepawneeartscenter.org 106 S. Mill St. / (308) 226-8286 Experience a glimpse of the Pawnee culture. The Pawnee Arts Center features Native American artists and Native-themed art for all budgets. Open Thursdays (weather permitting) and by appt. Also open for speaker series and special events. Free; donations appreciated.

get-tanked.com / 82379 Ericson- Scotia Ave. / (308) 750-5974 Nebraska’s first and best tanking operation. Located on the upper Cedar River which is spring-fed. We supply a custom-made picnic table with each tank.

lakeericson.com / 49147 Pothast Rd. / (308) 728-3132 / At the Gateway to the Sandhills, Lake Ericson and the surrounding area offer the finest Sandhills beauty to be found. Lake Ericson offers lazy afternoon strolls, exciting fishing expeditions, waterfowl hunting and spectacular monitoring of bald eagles, blue herons and river otters.

halseyfrontierinn.com / 504 NE Hwy. 2 / (308) 533-2240 / Full hook-up spaces complete with restroom and shower facilities.

fs.usda.gov/detail/nebraska/ about-forest/districts/?cid= stelprdb5343058 / Hwy. 2 & Spur 86-B / (308) 533-2257 / Covering more than 90,000 acres, this is the largest hand-planted forest in the world and a favorite place for camping, hiking and picnicking. Open year-round for camping. Camping fees: $8 per night; $11 with electric; $75-$100 group site.

Main St. / (308) 533-2513 In 1885, surveyors designated a route through the Sandhills for a Burlington Railroad branch line. The rails reached this point on the Blaine-Thomas county line in 1887 and a town was laid out. It was named Halsey after Halsey E. Yates, the son of Burlington official Charles E. Yates.

hyannishotelinc.com / 102 Main Ave. / (308) 458-2344 The Hyannis Hotel is the original hotel in Hyannis. Prime rib is prepared on Saturday evenings and special occasions. A Mexican menu is prepared on Tuesday evenings. Daily lunch specials are served along with the traditional menu Mon. - Fri. Rooms with private baths are available.

Long Pine “Paradise House” 198 E. 5th St. / (402) 640-0816 Paradise House is a 1,500-SF, four-bedroom home located in the town of Long Pine and close to Hidden Paradise and Long Pine State Rec Area. Guests can go tubing, fishing, hunting (in season), hiking and view wildlife. Enjoy a full day of fun on the creek with all the amenities of home!

outdoornebraska.gov/longpine 1 mi. N., 1 mi. W. of US Hwy. 20 (402) 684-2921 / Scenic creek runs through canyons. Trout fishing, camping, hiking, archery and picnic shelters. Park permit required. Camping fees: $9 pads; $7 primitive. Walk-in activities only mid-Sep. - May 1, sunrise to sunset.

pinevalleyresortne.com / 87799 Pine Valley Rd. / (402) 760-0825 Fully furnished cabins with full kitchens; one with a whirlpool tub. Options for tubing, fishing and hunting. Outdoor pavilion for reunions and meetings available.

cityoflongpine.org / 875 Kyner Rd. / (402) 273-4483 / Cabins are completely equipped for housekeeping; located on trout stream in Pine Creek; hiking trails.

outdoornebraska.gov / 1 mi. W. of Loup City / (308) 745-0230 Middle Loup River access and 20-acre lake. Excellent location for fishing, camping, picnicking and swimming.

loupcity.com / 700 NE Hwy. 92 (308) 745-0164 / Great burgers and steaks. Refreshments. Motel, liquor store and large Subway in the same complex. Moderately priced menu.

loupcity.com / 700 NE Hwy. 92 (308) 745-0164 / Colony Inn Motel, Colony Bar & Grill, Spirit Shoppe and Subway all in one great location. Great burgers, steaks and your favorite beverages. Close to Sherman Lake and Bowman Park.

705 O St. / (308) 745-2021 Great home-style cooking and daily lunch specials. Sundays during the summer, we serve a breakfast buffet from 8 - 11 a.m. Come in for all your favorites including ruebens, PB&J sandwiches, ice cream floats, chicken fried steaks and more. Just enjoy the meal and let us take care of the dishes!

133 S. 7th St. / (308) 745-2109 We are an independently owned and operated full-service pharmacy with a wide selection of cards and gift items. Please stop in today . . . welcome to Loup City!

outdoornebraska.gov/sherman 79025 Sherman Dam Rd. / (308) 745-0230 / Reservoir offers nearly 5,000 acres of land and 3,000 acres of water for almost every type of outdoor activity. Office open Memorial Day - Labor Day: Mon. - Thu., 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Fri. - Sun. and holidays, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Labor Day - Memorial Day: Mon. - Fri., 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Park permit required. Camping fee: $6 per night.

700 NE Hwy. 92 / (308) 745-0190 Large dine-in area plus a drivethrough if you are in a hurry.

1/4 mi. S. / (402) 382-5646 Private park with minimal fee for usage. Primitive camping with easy access to the Niobrara River. A great and quiet place to have a picnic, enjoy the scenery and nature and play in the river. Call for reservations.

outdoornebraska.gov/bowring ranch / NE Hwy. 61, 1 1/2 mi. N., 2 mi. E. / (308) 684-3428 A preserved working cattle ranch features a ranch house, outbuildings and visitor center. Displays are devoted to Arthur and Eve Bowring. Open Memorial Day - Labor Day: Mon. - Tue. and Thu. - Sat., 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Sun., 1-4 p.m. Special events include Sod House Sunday and Christmas at the Bowring. Park permit required.

outdoornebraska.gov/ cottonwood / Cottonwood Lake Rd. / (308) 684-3428 Cottonwood Lake State Recreation Area includes a 60-acre Sandhills lake surrounded by 180 acres of rolling hills. The area is partially forested and offers power boating, fishing, birdwatching and picnicking. Its remote location makes it an excellent place to see the stars and get away from it all.

rrguestranch.com / 86091 Double R Dr. / (866) 217-2042, (308) 546- 2314 / A renowned vacation guest ranch in the Sandhills near Mullen and Valentine. Sportsmen hunt deer, pheasant, dove and grouse; fisherman catch pike, bass and perch; hikers climb high hills and trails. Horse boarding is available. A 1908 original sod house and oneroom schoolhouse are on site.

gliddencanoerental.com 507 SW 1st St. / (308) 546-2206 We have two tent campgrounds on the Middle Loup and Dismal Rivers and RV hook-ups at the motel. Tanking also available.

202 S. Washington Ave. (308) 546-2417 / Hondo Lanes is here for your bowling needs. We offer leagues, open bowling and children’s party bowling with bumpers. We are also here for parties. We have a fast-food kitchen facility.

mackesgrocery.com/index.shtml 104 NW 1st St. / (308) 546- 2261 / Our specialties include hot breakfast sandwiches and bakery rolls daily. We offer subs, wraps and chef salads to go. We offer a wide variety of fresh meats and homemade sausage. We offer free delivery to the elderly and shut-ins.

108 NW 1st St. / (308) 546- 2425 / The Mullen Arts Center is comprised of local artists and features various art exhibitions and adult/youth workshops each month.

nebraskahighway2.com Nebraska Hwy. 2 / (308) 258- 7069 / Travel Nebraska Hwy. 2 from Nebraska City to Crawford. There are 33 communities along Nebraska Hwy. 2 that welcome you to stop in and stay awhile.

nvvsandhills.com / 90256 State Spur 16F / (402) 823-4131 Niobrara Valley Vineyards is nestled in the Sandhills on Diamond Lazy J Ranch. Visit a working cattle ranch and tour our winery and vineyard. We offer a “Taste of the Sandhills” with our award-winning wines. Experience Western hospitality in our tasting room and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere.

The Newport Pool Hall is located in the small town of Newport, just off the main street and right off the Cowboy Trail. The pool hall is open to the public and relies on the honor system. Snacks are available; just leave the amount due for what you grab. Stop by and shoot some pool!

llnrd.org / 6 mi. S. of North Loup (308) 728-3221 / Davis Creek is a hidden gem in central Nebraska. Just 5 mi. off NE Hwy. 11 through North Loup, Davis Creek is open 24 hours and is great for water sports, camping, fishing and wildlife-viewing. The 1,100-acre lake includes walleye, crappie, yellow perch, channel catfish and bullhead.

loupvalleyveteransmemorial.org Hwy. 11 / (402) 990-2692 The Loup Valley Veterans Memorial has a wall dedicated to all those who have and are currently serving our country. Some bricks represent veterans as far back as the Revolutionary War. Veterans from every conflict since are remembered. Located on Hwy. 11 next to the North Loup Post Office.

mainstreetartgallery.com 414 1st St. / (308) 219-0382 Regional art work, collectibles and gifts housed in a historic building on Main Street. Expressions in oil, charcoal, acrylic, watercolor, clay, glass, textiles and metal. Awardwinning photos. Extended hours during local events. Also open by appointment.

E. Hwy. 70 / Anderson Island is located east of Ord on Hwy. 70 on the southeastern edge of the North Loup River. Anderson Island provides access for swimming, canoeing, tubing and birdwatching. Easily one of the most underrated places to relax in the area. For questions about Anderson Island, call the City of Ord.

1429 M St. / (308) 728-5922 We are a full-service independent pharmacy and Hallmark Gold Crown Store. Come visit our store and check out our Hallmark ornaments and cards as well as our fun and unique gift items.

ordnebraska.com / 24th & G Sts. (308) 728-5791 / Auble’s Pond is a majestic destination in Ord, Nebraska. A paved 2-mile hike/ bike trail circles the pond and the docks make it a perfect location for fishing. Auble’s Pond is located next to paved camper pads, a covered picnic space and the other amenities of Bussell Park.

ordnebraska.com / 24th & G Sts. / (308) 728-5791 / Includes playground, tennis courts and sand volleyball court. Located adjacent to baseball and softball fields, golf course, swimming pool and Auble’s Pond. Auble’s Pond features a paved hike/bike trail and is a great spot for fishing. RV hook-ups are available on a first-come, firstserved basis.

staycobblestone.com/ne/ord 127 Trotter Ave. / (308) 728- 5122 / Cobblestone Inn & Suites is conveniently located near everything Ord, Nebraska, has to offer! Start your day with our delicious complimentary breakfast buffet and unwind and rest peacefully in our cozy and spacious guest rooms. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff is available to help 24 hours a day.

ordnebraska.com / N. Hwy. 11 (308) 728-3913 / The Evelyn Sharp Airport, built in the 1950s, was named after Evelyn Sharp. Sharp was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal posthumously, recognizing her pioneering spirit in aviation. Today the airfield serves the need for agricultural purposes and is recognized as a historic attraction.

goldenhuskarts.org / 129 S. 16th St. / (308) 730-8133 The historical theater was built in 1928 and has housed live performances and films through the years. The Golden Husk strives to host a diverse selection of arts and cultural events including theatrical performances, concerts, operas, movies, speakers and community gatherings.

ordnebraska.com / 17th & O Sts. (308) 728-5791 / Kindergarten Park is a park perfect for children. Here you’ll find a skate park, playground equipment and basketball courts.

ordnebraska.com / North edge of Ord / (308) 728-7875 A spring-fed, sand-bottom river that runs through a basin covering nearly one-fifth of Nebraska. The river flows east of Ord and can be accessed at Anderson Island. The North Loup River serves as a water trail for canoeing, kayaking and more.

ordnebraska.com / 24th & J Sts. (308) 728-7779 / A great place to cool off during blistering summer days for people of any age. Operating late May - Aug.: Mon. - Sat., 1 - 5 p.m. and 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

rexanddeb.com / 47563 815th Rd. / (308) 728-3990 / An elegant lodge and a haven of peacefulness. Then there are the hot breakfasts! This bed-and-breakfast is on the North Loup River and only minutes away from Ord, Burwell, Calamus Lake, Sherman Reservoir and three golf courses.

scratchtownbrewingcompany.com 141 S. 16th St. / (308) 728-5050 Nestled in the scenic North Loup River Valley, Scratchtown Brewing Company brews and serves a variety of handcrafted local beer that prides itself on simplicity and Nebraska Sandhills water.

trottereventcenter-ord.com 127 Trotter Ave. / (308) 728-5307 It is our goal at Trotter Event Center to assist our customers in creating a unique and memorable event through creative planning and execution! From a simple business meeting to an elegant wedding, we can accommodate both small and large groups at a package that fits your visionary needs.

ordNebraska.com / 125 S. 15th St. / (308) 728-3700 / The historic Valley County Courthouse is the focal point of the downtown square. The green space provides an ideal atmosphere for community events and the architectural design, inside and out, is certainly noteworthy.

valleycountyfairgrounds.com 801 S St. / (308) 728-5071 The Valley County Fairgrounds is home to the Valley County Fair, Loup Valley Livestock Challenge and Valley County Home & Ag Expo. The outdoor arena offers space for various rodeo and 4H events throughout the year and the insulated indoor area provides a wonderful alternative in case of inclement weather.

1620 L St. / (308) 728-1449 We are a small espresso shop on the edge of the beautiful Sandhills. We serve coffee and espresso beverages made from beans roasted right here in Valley County. We also have tea, shakes and smoothies.

amishlifestylefurniture.com 306 W. Jesse St. / (308) 750-4460 We have dining room furniture, bedroom furniture, living room furniture, toys and other items in the store to purchase or we gladly special-order to meet our customers’ needs.

comstocklodge.com / 81785 Rd. 457 / (308) 527-4199 / This 8,500-SF lodge and bed-and-breakfast on the edge of the Sandhills offers nine private rooms (sleeps 32) with a full bath in each room. Calamus Reservoir is just 40 minutes from us.

nebraskantiques.com / 304 W. Jesse St. / (308) 527-3456 Every third Saturday of the month, a group of friendly store owners is eager to meet your every antique, collectible and furniture need in Sargent, Nebraska. If you are looking for a special item and experience, Sargent is the place to come. Enter as a stranger and leave as a friend.

thompsonstreasuresinc.com 100 N. Hwy. 183 / (308) 750-9435 Antiques and “uniques” from horse-drawn covered wagons to marbles. Specializing in primitive farm antiques: windmills, pumps, signs, tools, galvanized and horsedrawn equipment. We also have hand-tooled leather purses, vintage clothing, glassware, furniture and more.

happyjackchalkmine.org / 801231 NE Hwy. 11, 2 mi. S. of Jct. NE Hwys. 11 & 22 / (308) 245-3276 More than 6,000 feet of honeycombed caverns. Features the only publicly accessible chalk room and pillar mine in North America. Spectacular view of North Loup Valley, hiking and picnicking. Open daily Memorial Day - Labor Day, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., or by appt.

crazyrayztanks.com / 82228 499th Ave. / (308) 571-0990 / Tanking is perfect for anyone to enjoy, whether you are 2 or 92, whether you want to get out and appreciate all the beautiful scenery and nature the Cedar River has to offer or kick back and have a cold one (or 12) with friends and family.

sunnybrookcamp.com / 41508 River Rd. / (402) 376-1887 Newly remodeled cabin with full kitchen, dining and living area, shower and two bedrooms. Can sleep up to five (10 bunking together). Beautiful wildlife-viewing on the river’s edge. Adventurous 2- to 8-hour float trips; canoe, tube and kayak rentals; transportation included to put in upstream.

The Sawle Mill, Inc. sawlemill.com / 89748 US Hwy. 183 / (402) 497-3571 The Sawle Mill has been cutting and milling eastern red cedar since the 1970s. The nearby Niobrara River Valley is filled with pine and cedar. Products include: cedar closet liner, paneling, live-edged siding and table slabs, fireplace mantels, Swedish flitch, beveled lap siding, flooring and more.

122 S. Linden St. / (402) 770-8021 Fully furnished two-bedroom house with all the comforts of home. Available by night or week.

houseofmemories.org / 506 7th St. / (308) 754-9183 / If you like home-cooking, this is the place for you. All meals are created daily from scratch. Check out our weekly lunch menus on our website.

milettavistawinery.com / 1732 US Hwy. 281 / (308) 754-4416 Our scenic beauty takes second place to customer care, wines of unparalleled quality and foods prepared in culinary excellence.

nebraskabaseballmuseum.com 619 Howard Ave. / (308) 754-5558 Displays of Nebraska Baseball Hall of Famers (G.C. Alexander, “Wahoo” Sam Crawford, Dazzy Vance, Bob Gibson, Richie Ashburn, Bill Southworth, Wade Boggs) plus other Nebraska players. By donation.

605 Howard Ave. / (308) 754-4900 Great food. Breakfasts, lunches and more! Come see our extensive cookie jar collection. We feature a full bakery with everything from cookies to doughnuts to breads and lovely fresh-baked pies!

1 mi. S. on US Hwy. 83 / (308) 636-8900 / This challenging ninehole course boasts watered greens and fairways, tee boxes, sand traps, natural rough and varied elevations including a deep canyon. For more information contact Gary Johnsen. TAYLOR

bootlegbrewers.com / 45145 829th Rd. / (308) 942-3440 Bootleg Brewers is a Sandhills oasis located on a working ranch near the Calamus Lake. Onsite we have a brewery, steakhouse and cabins nestled on our 40-acre beer garden.

creeksideatcalamuswest.com 45538 Hwy. 96 / (308) 346-4644 We are a full-service stop for all of your camping, hunting, fishing and relaxation needs. We have an RV campsite with electricity and water. Our convenience store sells liquor, snacks, ice, grocery and fishing supplies. We also have a bar and grill. Visit us while you enjoy the lake and river!

308 3rd St. / (308) 942-3400 The Lazy D Restaurant and Lounge is located in the heart of Taylor, Nebraska, at the crossroads of Hwy. 183 and Hwy. 91. We are open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner in the restaurant and serve a late-night menu on weekends in the lounge.

taylornebraska.com / 203 3rd St. / (308) 942-6195 / Memorial dedicated to the military men and women of the U.S. who served their country. Open year-round.

taylornebraska.com/#! arboretum/cgd2 / Hwys. 91 & 183 / The Taylor Community Arboretum is spread across the community. It includes the town square, tourist park, library, visitor center, Pavillion Hotel and Loup County Museum complex. The arboretum features Taylor’s famous arboricultural connection: the Taylor Juniper (Juniperus Virginiana - Taylor).

Hwy. 91 & 5th St. / (308) 942- 6136 / Restroom facilities available at city park just one block east. Calamus Dam only 15 minutes away.

taylornebraska.com / Hwy. 183 & 91 / (308) 214-0847 Taylor “Villagers” are life-sized paintings that “Capture The Spirit Of Our Past.” The first Villager appeared in 2003 and now there are approximately 100 throughout the community of Taylor and Loup County.

taylornebraska.com / Jct. of NE Hwys. 91 & 183 / (308) 346-4697 Stop in for area information, brochures and free ice water. Open daily Memorial Day weekend - Nov., 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Main & Walnut / (308) 645-2489 Haumann Sisters’ historical marker and bronze statue on the Courthouse Square in Thedford. The marker and life-sized bronze statue portray the two Haumann sisters lost in the Sandhills in May 1891. The marker and statue can be viewed at all times, both day and night.

mlrrbb.info / 40203 NE Hwy. 2 (308) 645-2715 / Ranch house adjacent to Nebraska National Forest with 90,000 acres of public access areas to enjoy.

509 Court St. / (308) 645-2436 Our gallery is staffed by volunteers and though we try to keep regular hours, we may not be able to. Please call at least 24 hours in advance to assure the door will be open for you to see this amazing cultural oasis in our tiny village.

609 Court St. / (308) 645-2477, 308-645-2489 / Former Chester and Ida Paxton home on Nebraska Hwy. 2, 1 blk. W. of the art gallery. The museum depicts the history of the Sandhills region and relics used by its settlers. Open Memorial Day - Labor Day: Mon., Wed. and Fri., 10 a.m. - noon and 2 - 4 p.m., or by appt. Free.

brewerscanoers.com / 433 E. Hwy. 20 / (402) 376-2046 / Camp alongside, canoe, tube or kayak the beautiful Niobrara River. Reservations can be made on Brewers’ new online booking system. Visit our website: brewerscanoers.com.

brokenspokeboutique.com / 205 N. Main St. / (803) 422-1629 Broken Spoke provides stylish and affordable clothing and accessories to the quaint community of Valentine and its many annual tourists. They are happily shipping product across the country through their online store. Broken Spoke Boutique is a must-see destination when traveling through Valentine.

choicehotels.com/nebraska/ valentine/comfort-inn-hotels/ ne413 / 101 S. Main St. / (402) 376-3300 / This smoke-free Comfort Inn hotel is located near many popular attractions including the Prairie Club Golf Course, Rosebud Casino and Niobrara National Scenic River. The Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area and Smith Falls State Park are within minutes of this award-winning hotel.

grahamoutfitters.com / 603 C St. / (402) 376-3708 / Half-day to two-day trips with canoes, one- to two-person tubes, tandem and solo kayaks, car shuttles, riverside camping and full-service catered floats. Interpretive raft trips in the off-season.

outdoornebraska.gov/merritt reservoir / 28 mi. SW on NE Hwy. 97 / (402) 376-3320 / This sparkling reservoir, set in the midst of the Sandhills, blocks the Snake River. Nearly 3,000 acres of water. Park is open year-round; peak season is May - Sep. Park permit required. Camping fee: $14 electrical; $7 primitive. Handicapped-accessible showers, restrooms and boat dock.

618 W. C St. / The Neon Bar & Grill is located in the Raine Motel. We cook all of our own BBQ. Our steaks are aged and cooked to perfection, and we have the coldest beer in town.

niobrarariverlodge.com / 803 E. US Hwy. 20 / (402) 376-3000 Come be our guest at The Niobrara Lodge, the premier lodging facility in Valentine! No matter what adventure brings you to the area, you’ll find the centrally located Niobrara Lodge the perfect place to call home while you are here.

nps.gov/niob / 214 W. US Hwy. 20 (402) 376-1901 / Truly a national treasure, the Niobrara National Scenic River is home to outstanding river recreation and more. What makes this river special is its cliffs, rock formations, waterfalls, diverse wildlife, ancient fossils, high water quality and relatively consistent flow from the High Plains Aquifer.

theprairieclub.com / 88897 State Hwy. 97 / (888) 402-1101 This golf resort is located deep in the heartland along the rim of Snake River Canyon. Experience two championship 18-hole courses and a 10-hole par-three course.

rockyfordoutfitters.com / 12 mi. SE of Sparks / (402) 497-3479 One- or two-day river trips. Rocky Ford uses all Old Town canoes and kayaks. Camping, cabins and convenience store available.

Runza.com / 527 E. Hwy. 20 (402) 389-7434 / A Runza is a delicious blend of fresh ground beef, cabbage, onions and our secret spices.

outdoornebraska.gov/smithfalls 90159 Smith Falls Rd. / (402) 376- 1306 / Nebraska’s newest state park. A National Historic bridge across the Niobrara River provides access for visitors to walk to our state’s highest waterfall. The Jim MacAllister Nature Trail alerts hikers to diverse ecological systems in the valley that exist nowhere else in North America.

tradewindslodge.com / 1009 E. US Hwy. 20 / (402) 376-1600 Indoor area for cleaning fish and fowl; microwaves/refrigerators/ freezers available; hot country breakfast; high-speed wireless internet. Large, clean rooms.

2 Lake Shore Dr. / (402) 376- 2323 / Primitive camping along Minnechaduza Creek.

fws.gov/valentine / 20 mi. S. on US Hwy. 83 / (402) 376-1889 A Sandhills prairie with a collection of shallow lakes surrounded by marshes. The refuge provides a rich environment for all sorts of waterfowl and wildlife. Open daylight hours year-round. Free.

discountwesternwear.com / 143 N. Main St. / (800) 658-4398 A third-generation, family-owned and -operated business. Young’s Western Wear provides quality Western clothing and gear to a region where the cattle industry is the foundation of a small-town work ethic and first-rate cowboy craftsmanship.

Nebraska Official State Travel Guide - The Official 2019 Not-At-All What You Thought State Travel Guide

Sandhills

Issue List

Nebraska 2026 Official State Travel Guide

The Official 2025 Not-At-All What You Thought State Travel Guide

The Official 2021 Not-At-All What You Thought State Travel Guide

The Official 2020 Not-At-All What You Thought State Travel Guide

The Official 2019 Not-At-All What You Thought State Travel Guide