LOUP RIVERS SCENIC BYWAY From far-stretching farmlands, red barns and silos to the nature-scapes of the Sandhills and Calamus River, this byway is a treat for photographers and those willing to just sit back, relax and take it all in. SMALL-TOWN STOP THE HAPPY JACK CHALK MINE, SCOTIA ORD Valley County’s Ord is home to all kinds of fun, from water parks and aquatic centers to a brewery and a performing arts theater. The area’s river access also makes it a great stop for water recreation. EAT From signature sandwiches to frozen treats and baked goods, Roy’s Place is a must-try local favorite. DO Head to Valley County Fairgrounds each summer for live music, tractor games, animal shows and a parade. DO Come relax on a sand-bottom river at Anderson Island . This serene stop features swimming, tubing, canoeing, bird watching and more. STAY Enjoy a cozy, quiet Victorian home-stay at Shepherd’s Inn Bed & Breakfast . 4 TREASURES IN CENTRAL NEBRASKA 1. The Calamus River flows gently to Calamus Reservoir State Recreation Area near Burwell. Stop into Calamus River Outfitters nearby to rent a kayak, canoe or tank and float the river Nebraska-style. 2. See the most complete historical fort in Nebraska: Fort Hartsuff State Historical Park near Elyria. Hartsuff became a fortress for the friendly Pawnee tribe and pioneers. 3. Enjoy a pint of craft beer at Ord’s award-winning Scratchtown Brewing Company , the Sandhills’ first brewery. Choose from varieties such as the Black Eye Imperial Porter and Snipe Hunter American-Style Barleywine. CALAMUS STATE RECREATION AREA, BURWELL 183 4. The Happy Jack Peak and Chalk Mine in Scotia is the only publicly accessible chalk room and pillar mine in North America. Explore more than 6,000 square feet of honeycomb caves inside. Miles 150 The Route State 11 and State 91 between Dunning and Wood River North Lou p R iv e 1 r 91 11 2 3 70 70 281 River trips M id dle Lou p 4 91 er Riv Grand Island 42 Find out more at VisitNebraska.com