CENTRAL Big sunny skies and starry nights watch over the travelers of central Nebraska as they explore the wide-open lands of this largely natural area. Don’t miss the inspiring museums, award-winning golf courses and peaceful wide-open spaces, where birders flock to experience the sandhill crane migration each spring. CENTRAL WHAT TO DO Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park, Royal – See the fossils of animals entombed 12 million years ago by volcanic ash. Wessel’s Living History Farm, York – Relive farm life of the 1920s in 11 historic buildings. Nebraska State Fair, Grand Island – The state’s largest entertainment event, filled with attractions, concerts and fabulous foods. Classic Car Collection, Kearney – More than 200 beauties from the 1920s to modern times dawn this must-see collection. Happy Jack Peak and Chalk Mine, Scotia -The only publicly accessible chalk room and pillar mine in North America. The Praire Club, Valentine – One of the top public golf courses in the country, with dramatic views of the Sandhills. Red Willow Reservoir State Recreation Area, McCook – A water-lover's paradise, complete with swimming beach. Pals Brewing Company, North Platte. NEBRASKA LIFE MAGAZINE, AJ DAHM WHERE TO EAT... Sozo American Cuisine, Kearney – Seasonal menu filled with local ingredients at this modern American eatery. Odyssey, Hastings – Casual, innovative cuisine (try an udon bowl) in the heart of downtown Hastings. Pals Brewing Company, North Platte – House-crafted pizzas like the Twisted Buffalo pair nicely with the brewed-on-site seasonal beers. …AND DRINK Mac’s Creek Vineyards & Winery, Lexington – Try the wine cocktails and artisan cheeseboard at this scenic winery. Kinkaider Brewing Company, Broken Bow – This farm brewery uses ingredients from the farm on which it operates. Scratchtown Brewing Company, Ord – The perfect spot to catch a Husker game and enjoy some local hand-crafted brews. WHERE TO STAY Pine Valley Resort, Long Pine – Comfortable cabins tucked away in the whispering pines along Long Pine Creek. Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center, Kearney – Families love the 30-foot indoor water slides. Niobrara River Ranch Cabins, Valentine – An operating beef cattle ranch with camping and outdoor activities. STORIES FROM PASSPORT TRAVELERS: "The children had a great time uncovering fossils in the children’s area, re-creating skeletons and just having fun as they walked around Ashfall Fossil Beds." VisitNebraska.com 21
Nebraska Official State Travel Guide 2018 Nebraska Official State Travel Guide: Page 21
