SENTC Layout - Thayer County Economic Development Allliance
Transcription
SENTC Layout - Thayer County Economic Development Allliance
SOUTHEAST NEBRASKA 2012 VISITOR’S GUIDE Where the possibilities begin... From fishing and golfing to exploring the trails and back roads in Southeast Nebraska, there is something for everyone in this diverse land. Enjoy the time you spend here doing the things you love! www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org www.visitsoutheastnebraska.org 1 VISIT THESE Pawnee County Attractions Pawnee City Historical Society & Museum 25,000 reasons in 20+ buildings to visit the Museum. Dan Whitney/AKA Larry the Cable Guy’s barn is located there. April-October: Tuesday-Friday 10-3:30, Saturday 9-4, Sunday 1-4. Winter hours are Thurs. 10-4 and by appointment. Table Rock Historical Society Museums See 9 historical buildings including an opera house, log cabin, newspaper office. Open by appointment 402-839-4135 Wildlife Areas • Take in bird viewing at seven wildlife management areas in Pawnee County. For more information on locations, pick up a brochure or go to www.nebraskabirdingtrails.com Stop at the ZCBJ Lodge Hall near DuBois and admire this one-of-a-kind architecture. This Czech social hall is on the National Historic Register. Home of Harold Lloyd • Open by appointment 402-865-4665. Visit the birthplace home of the internationally acclaimed silent film actor and director. Starring in over 200 films, Harold Lloyd introduced thrill comedy featuring astounding realism, including the most famous Safety Last. He was a pioneer of 3-D photography. View silent films and memorabilia. Enjoy outdoor fun at Burchard Lake near Burchard, Iron Horse Lake near DuBois and Pawnderosa in Pawnee City. St. Anothony’s Church in Steinauer features beautiful stained glass windows and a high altar. Pawnee City Public Library “Our Community Living Room” a welcoming place for visitors to come use computers, internet (wireless available) and get caught up on the news. Contact the Pawnee County Tourism Office for information about these attractions Mon. - Fri. 8:30-5 • 402-852-2444 • www.pawneecountyhistory.com • 624 G St. • Pawnee City, NE Paid for by the Pawnee County Lodging Tax Superheroes Aren’t Born, They’re Made (PSRZHU\RXUVHOI(QUROOWRGD\LQ3HUX6WDWH·VRQOLQHRU RQFDPSXVSURJUDPV$IIRUGDEOHÁH[LEOHLQQRYDWLYH DQGUHOHYDQW²ZH·OOKHOS\RXWDNHRQWKHZRUOG www.peru.edu 1HEUDVND·V)LUVW&ROOHJH(VWDEOLVKHGLQ3HUX1HEUDVND0HPEHU,QVWLWXWLRQRIWKH1HEUDVND6WDWH&ROOHJH6\VWHP $FFUHGLWHGE\WKH+LJKHU/HDUQLQJ&RPPLVVLRQ$PHPEHURIWKH1RUWK&HQWUDO$VVRFLDWLRQRI&ROOHJHVDQG6FKRROV Table of Contents 2011 Southeast Nebraska Tourism Council Memberships ......................................................4 Welcome to Southeast Nebraska ...............5 Cass County ................................................. 6-11 Fillmore County .........................................12-16 Gage County ..............................................16-18 Jefferson County ......................................19-21 On the cover The Homestead Heritage Center at Homestead National Monument of America is a place where the magnitude and world-wide impact of the Homestead Act of 1862 is told. See this distinctive visitor center rise above the prairie. Meant to look like a plow cutting sod, the roof purposely points west. Main photo: Heritage Center - Homestead National Monument courtesy Gage County Tourism. Inset photos: courtesy of the Homestead National Monument of America. Photos throughout this publication are provided courtesy of Southeast Nebraska Tourism Council members unless otherwise noted. The 24th edition of the 2012 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide was published for the Southeast Nebraska Tourism Council. Johnson County ........................................22-24 Nemaha County ........................................25-29 Otoe County ..................................30-31; 34-37 Points of Interest Map ..........................32-33 Pawnee County ........................................37-38 Richardson County ...................................39-41 Saline County ............................................42-47 Sarpy County .............................................48-51 Thayer County .........................................51-55 Calendar of Events ..................................56-57 Enterprise Publishing Company, Specialized Marketing Division P.O. Box 328, 138 N. 16th Street, Blair, NE 68008 • Phone (402) 426-2121 Fax (402) 426-2227 • www.enterprisepub.com • [email protected] Publisher - Mark Rhoades • Project Coordinator - Chris Rhoades Layout & Design Coordinator - Jennifer Stolz • Sales Associate - Jane Konecny Business Manager - Tracy Prettyman • Bookkeeping - Cassie Jennings In conjunction with Southeast Nebraska Tourism Council. www.visitsoutheastnebraska.org Copyright 2012 by Enterprise Publishing Company Lodging & Camping .................................58-59 Outdoor Recreation .................................60-61 Golfing ............................................................... 62 www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 3 SOUTHEAST NEBRASKA TOURISM COUNCIL 2011 Memberships PLATINUM SPONSOR Pour House Tasting Room GOLD SPONSORS Homestead National Monument Nemaha County Development Alliance Grandpa’s Woods Golf Course Pawnee County Promotional Network Brownville Fine Arts Association Merchants of Brownville SILVER SPONSORS Schilling Bridge Winery & Microbrewery Deshler Chamber of Commerce Gandy House Bed & Breakfast Humboldt Shares, Inc. BRONZE SPONSORS Check-In Motel Arbor Manor Steakhouse & Motel Whiskey Run Creek Winery Deer Creek Sodbusters, Inc. Friend Chamber of Commerce 4 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide INVESTOR SPONSORS Gerald & Kathy Hopp Nemaha’s Only Stop Snitily Carr Syracuse Chamber of Commerce JoAnn H. Jurgens Wilber Area Chamber of Commerce Econo Lodge Grand Weaver Hotel First National Bank of Johnson Nemaha Valley Museum COUNTY SUPPORTERS: Thayer County Sarpy County Saline County Richardson County Otoe County Johnson County Jefferson County Nemaha County Gage County Fillmore County Cass County COUNTY REPRESENTATIVES Cass Linda Rieke [email protected] • 402-296-5999 Fillmore Patt Lentfer [email protected] • 402-759-4910 Gage Jim Spangler [email protected] • 402-223-2338 Jefferson Sharon Priefert [email protected] • 402-729-3000 Johnson Judy Coe [email protected] • 402-335-5900 Nemaha Mary Kruger [email protected] • 402-274-4193 Otoe Carolyn Gigstad [email protected] • 402-269-3242 Pawnee Welcome to Southeast Nebraska! The Southeast Nebraska Tourism Council (SENTC) would like to “WELCOME” you to our scenic and diverse counties. We have activities, events and attractions for all ages and interests. The area is rich in history and opportunities. Heritage Highway Byway 136, runs through five of the counties. This is the 24th edition of the SENTC guide. The guide is divided into 12 counties and then in each county section the communities are featured. The back of the guide contains lodging, camping, outdoor recreation and a calendar of events. Members of the Southeast Nebraska Tourism Council provided editorial content and most of the pictures. The Southeast Nebraska Tourism Council formed in 1989 has grown from the original nine counties of Cass, Gage, Jefferson, Johnson, Nemaha, Pawnee, Saline and Richardson. It now also includes the counties of Fillmore, Thayer and Sarpy. For more information or comments, visit the SENTC website at visitsoutheastnebraska. org; call 402-335-5900 or mail SENTC, P.O. Box 59, Tecumseh, Nebraska 68450. If you are visiting for only one day or plan an extended stay in Southeast Nebraska we hope you enjoy your visit and will come again. Sincerely, Southeast Nebraska Tourism Council Yvonne Dalluge [email protected] • 402-852-3131 Richardson Sandy Stalder [email protected] • 402-862-3278 Saline Lorine Mares [email protected] • 402-821-2304 Sarpy Linda Revis [email protected] • 402-332-5771 Thayer Arlis Hohl [email protected] • 402-768-7407 Steamboat trace trail----Brownville to Nebraska City www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 5 CASS COUNTY Avoca BLOOM WHERE YOU’RE PLANTED FARM 911 108th St., is located 27 miles east of Lincoln and 35 miles south of Omaha. Offers a big dose of fall fun with an emphasis on the agricultural side of autumn. Lots of fresh air, wide open spaces, recreation, relaxation in a beautiful seasonal setting. (402) 267-4104, www.bloompumpkinpatch.com BLOOM WHERE YOU’RE PLANTED FARM & PUMPKIN PATCH September 15 - October 31, 2012 - 911 108th St., Avoca. Fridays 1-6 p.m., Sat. & Sun. 10:00 a.m.- 6 p.m. Hay rides to U-Pick patch, nature trails, corn box, rubber duck races, pumpkin painting. Kid’s Corral, several farm-themed play areas, farm animals, agricultural exhibits, historic buildings. $4.75/person. (402) 267-4104, www.bloompumpkinpatch.com AVOCA QUACK-OFF January 28, 2012 - Bring a duck or rent one to race on the tennis court. (402) 275-3225 or (402) 275-3266 Eagle EAGLE RACEWAY, 617 South 238th St., Eagle, NE, is a one-third mile dirt track often referred to by some as the “World’s Fastest Third Mile” because of its speed. www.eagleraceway.com, Track line (402) 781-2243, Office (402) 238-2595. (402) 994-3855 Greenwood WWII LIBRARY AND MUSEUM is just off I-80, Exit 420. It features American, German and Japanese memorabilia and a library. (402) 944-4238 or (402) 944-8118 NEBRASKA RACEWAY PARK, 14200 238th St., located at I-80, Exit 420, Greenwood, NE. NASCAR-sanctioned semi-banked half-mile oval dirt track with races April through September, plus special events. www.neracewaypark.com., (402) 659-3301 Elmwood BESS STREETER ALDRICH HOUSE AND MUSEUM, 204 East “F” Street, Elmwood, NE. One of Nebraska’s finest writers. She recreated in her short stories and novels the ups and downs of small-town living in hopes that her readers would not only understand the hardships and struggles of the times, but also see the virtues and hopes that became a part of these prairie times in the Midwest. (402) 994-3855, www.bessstreeteraldrich.org GRANDPA’S WOODS GOLF COURSE, 5505 310th St., Elmwood, NE. A nine-hole executive course that offers a chance to use all the clubs, may it be over the water or through the many beautiful tree-lined fairways. Consists of three par four holes and six par three holes. (402) 994-2100, www.grandpaswoods.com NOVEMBER 24 & 25, DECEMBER 1,2, 8 & 9 - 2:00-5:00 p.m. daily, Bess Streeter Aldrich House, 204 East “F” St., Elmwood, NE. See every room of the author’s historic home dressed for the holidays. Each room is decorated by a local group or family, and themes change every year. Complimentary goodies and browse the gift shop. (402) 994-3855, www.bessstreeteraldrich.org PLATTE RIVER STATE PARK, 14421 346th St., Louisville, NE. A 418-acre park offers swimming, horseback riding, hiking and biking, paddleboating and archery. An 85-foot tower offers spectacular views of the Platte Valley. “Camper cabins" and “housekeeping cabins” are available. (402) 234-2217, www.outdoornebraska.org 6 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide Louisville LOUISVILLE LAKES STATE RECREATION AREA, 18510 Highway 50, Louisville, NE. An excellent camping facility. Five sand pit lakes, surrounded by tall cottonwoods, offer fishing, nonmotorized boating, swimming and picnicking. (402) 234-6855, www.outdoornebraska.org CASS COUNTY Manley LOFTE COMMUNITY THEATRE, 15841 Manley Road. Casual, live theater year-round, including concerts, comedies and Broadway musicals. (402) 234-2553, www.lofte.com “PILLAGE THE VILLAGE,” September 15, 2012 - Manley, NE. Kickball Tourney, Adventure Run, Pancake Feed, Water Fight, Tractor Pull. (402) 234-5232 www.manleyne.com Murdock MURDOCK HISTORICAL MUSEUM, located on the corner of Third and Nebraska, displays the proud history of Murdock. Hours are Sundays 1:30-5:00 p.m. (402)867-3331, www.murdockmuseum.org Murray LAKE RIDGE GOLF COURSE located 1 mile east of Highway 75 and Highway 1 junction at 1536 Country Club Circle, Beaver Lake, NE. Breathtaking views of natural prairie grass roughs lining rolling green fairways, beautiful lakes and championship greens. Open to the public. (402) 235-4653, www.lake-ridgegolf.com LAST HOT SUNDAY IN JULY AUTO/TRUCK SHOW & SHINE, July 29, 2012 - Louisville Main Street, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. SCARECROWS AMONG US DISPLAY, October 21 - November 3, 2012 - Louisville Main Street RINGING IN THE SEASON IN LOUISVILLE, December 8, 2012 www.outdoornebraska.org Park entry permit required Photo courtesy R. Neibel, Nebraska DED. www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 7 Plattsmouth CASS COUNTY CASS COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM, 646 Main St., takes you on a historical journey dating back to when the town was settled. Permanent collection and rotating exhibits tell the history of Cass County since settlement in 1854. Open April-October, Tuesday Sunday, noon-4:00 p.m.; November-March, Tuesday-Saturday, noon-4:00 p.m. (402) 296-4770, www.nebraskamuseums.org/casscountymuseum.htm SCHILLING WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA, Main Street east over the railroad tracks, first left on Refuge Road. 1,500-acre wilderness area offers hiking, picnicking, nature observation and hunting and fishing. Confluence of the Platte and Missouri rivers as written about in the Lewis and Clark journals. www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov QUILTS AND VALENTINES, January 31 - March 3, 2012 - 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Cass County Museum, 646 Main St., Plattsmouth. An exhibit of quilts and Valentines from the late 1800s and early 1900s. (402) 296-4770, www.nebraskamuseums.org/ casscountymuseum.htm BAY HILLS GOLF CLUB, 3200 Buccaneer Blvd. Rolling hills that overlook the Platte and Missouri river valleys. A scenic, tree-lined challenge awaits any level of golfer. (402) 298-8191, www.bayhillsgolfclub.com GRANDMA’S CHINA CABINET, November 1, 2011 - January 28, 2012 - 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Cass County Museum, 646 Main St., Plattsmouth. An exhibit of porcelain, china, custard glass, linens and knick-knacks that reminds you of looking in Grandma’s china cabinet. (402) 296-4770, www.nebraskamuseums.org/casscountymuseum.htm G.A.R. MEDALS, March 6-June 3, 2012 - March: 12:00-4:00 Tuesday through Saturday; after April 1, 12:00-4:00 Tuesday through Sunday, Cass County Museum, 646 Main St., Plattsmouth. An exhibit of Grand Army of the Republic medals collected by H.C. McMaken. (402) 2964770, www.nebraskamuseums.org/ casscountymuseum.htm ROCK BLUFFS SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE, July 15, 2012 - 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., Rock Bluffs School. One-room brick schoolhouse built in 1870 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. (402) 296-4770, www.nebraskamuseums.org/casscountymuseum.htm FARM LIFE AND HARVEST, August 28 -October 28, 2012 - 12:00- 4:00, TuesdaySunday, Cass County Museum, 646 Main St., Plattsmouth. Annual exhibit of paintings and photographs relating to farm life in Cass County, in conjunction with annual Plattsmouth Harvest Festival. (402) 296-4770, www.nebraskamuseums.org/casscountymuseum.htm “CRUIZIN’ MAIN,” October 5, 2012 - Plattsmouth Main Street, 5:30 to 8:30. “Show & Shine” Car Show, over 400 cars, and Open House on Main Street. (402) 296-6021, www.plattsmouthchamber.org ROCK BLUFFS SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE, October 21, 2012 - 2:00-4:00 p.m., Rock Bluffs School. Open House and hot dog roast at one-room brick schoolhouse built in 1870. (402) 296-4770, www.nebraskamuseums.org/casscountymuseum.htm Weeping Water WEEPING WATER MUSEUM, three buildings one block off Main Street, and one on Main Street, that display Native American Culture, frontier life, a Doctor’s Office from the late 1800s and re-creations of Weeping Water's early businesses. (402) 267-4925, www.weepingwaterhistory.org LIVING HISTORY DAY, April 28, 2012 - 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Cass County Museum, 646 Main St., Plattsmouth. Demonstrations in blacksmithing, soapmaking, weaving and spinning. Also includes a May Basket workshop for children.(402) 296-4770, www.nebraskamuseums.org/ casscountymuseum.htm NATIVE AMERICAN ARTIFACTS, June 5 - August 26, 2012 - Tuesday through Sunday, 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Cass County Museum, 646 Main Street, Plattsmouth. An exhibit of arrowheads, tools,and pottery. (402) 296-4770, www.nebraskamuseums. org/casscountymuseum.htm PLATTSMOUTH COUNTRY CLUB, 18003 Clubview Drive, Plattsmouth Country Club is tucked way in the country, away from the distraction of housing. A 9-hole regulation length course with tree lined fairways. SLATTERY VINTAGE ESTATES, 8925 Adams St., Nehawka, Nebraska, located in rural Weeping Water offers a vineyard and tasting room. Summer concert series, along with food and drink. (402) 267-5267, www.svevineyards.com LIMESTONE DAYS, June 30, 2012 - Weeping Water, Nebraska. Parade, Canoe Races, Fishing Contest, Children’s Games, Duck Races, Rock Olympics, 5KFun/Mud Run, Museum Tours, Photo Contest, Car Show, BBQ, Fireworks and Street Dance. (402) 267-5152, www.weepingwaternebraska.com FALL FESTIVAL, September 29, 2012 - Weeping Water, Nebraska. Craft Show, Car Show, Scarecrow Contest, Silent Auction, BBQ, Museum Tours, Children’s Crafts, Chili Cookoff, Wine Tasting and Street Dance. (402) 267-5152, www.weepingwaternebraska.com COME HOME FOR CHRISTMAS, December 1, 2012 - Weeping Water, Nebraska. Craft Show, Cookie/Candy Sale, Children’s Crafts, visit Santa & Mrs. Claus, Museum Tours and Parade of Trees. (402) 267-5152, www.weepingwaternebraska.com 8 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide CASS COUNTY Other Area Attractions Looking for Something? TRY MEESKE HARDWARE Family Owned Since 1939 214 Eldora Avenue Weeping Water 402-267-3185 A store like Grandpa used to know! Photo courtesy J. Nabb, Nebraska DED. LEE G. SIMMONS CONSERVATION PARK AND WILDLIFE SAFARI near Mahoney State Park is a driving route 4 miles through a variety of North American wildlife. The Safari is open April through October (402) 944-9453 or (402) 733-8401, www.omahazoo.com EUGENE T. MAHONEY STATE PARK located just off Interstate 80, Exit 426, is one of Nebraska’s most popular state parks. Secluded cabins, camping, trails, trail rides, fishing, miniature golf and driving range. Lodge with guest rooms, 70-foot observation tower, aquatic center, theater, marina and much more. (402) 944-2523, www.outdoornebraska.org Elmwood, NE Only 15 minutes from Mahoney State Park! Take E. Park Hwy. to 310th St., then south 8.5 miles to 5505 310th St. • Tree-Lined Fairways • Meandering Lake • 3 Par 4 Holes • 6 Par 3 Holes • Riding Carts • Rental Clubs • Club House Beverages & Snacks • Party Room • Affordable Group Outings • Catering Available Rates Weekdays: 9 Holes $9.00 18 Holes $16.50 CALL FOR TEE TIMES 402-994-2100 Weekend & Holidays: 9 Holes $10.50 18 Holes $18.00 Mon.-Fri. All-Day Golf $20.00 www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 9 CASS COUNTY STRATEGIC AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM, located just off Interstate 80, Exit 426, this 300,000-square-foot facility is home to a world-class collection of 30 aircraft and missiles, two aircraft display hangars, an ever-changing exhibit area, an interactive gallery for kids and a 200-seat theater. (402) 944-3100, www.SASMuseum.com IRON HORSE GOLF COURSE, 900 Club House Drive, Ashland, NE. Just minutes from Omaha and Lincoln. This unique golf course is built around an old rock quarry and features incredible views and exceptional course conditions. (402) 944-9800, www.golfironhorse.com ASHLAND COUNTRY CLUB, 16119 Highway 6, Ashland, NE, is a semi-private country club located between Lincoln and Omaha. Club includes an 18-hole golf course, a clubhouse that is available for events and a swimming pool with a wading pool for the entire family to enjoy. (402) 944-3388, www.ashlandgolfclub.com CAROL JOY HOLLING CONFERENCE & RETREAT CENTER, 27416 Ranch Road, Ashland, NE. A year-round, self-contained facility ideal for groups wishing to get away from their everyday environments. (402) 944-2544, www.nlom.org QUARRY OAKS GOLF CLUB, 16600 Quarry Oaks Drive, Ashland, NE, has been named one of the nation’s best public courses by Golf Digest. (402) 944-6000, www.quarryoaks.com CHILI BOMB, January 28, 2012 - Strategic Air & Space Museum, I-80 at Exit 426. 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Sample different chilis, help choose a winner. Take a close-up look at our bombers (B-36, B-17, B-25, B-29 and some components of the B-52). (402) 944-3100, www.SASMuseum.com Photo courtesy R. Neibel, Nebraska DED. CASS COUNTY BARN QUILTS, located in rural Cass County. Painted 8’x8’ barn quilt blocks painted on prominent barns near ElmwoodMurdock. www.elm. esu3.org/barnquilt/ index.html NEBRASKA ROBOTICS EXPO, February 18, 2012 - Strategic Air & Space Museum, I-80 at Exit 426. 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Watch CEENBoT & First Lego League Competition. (402) 944-3100, www.SASMuseum.com INDOOR AIR SHOW, March 31, 2012 - Strategic Air & Space Museum, I-80 at Exit 426. 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Displays featuring para-gliders, gliders and sail. Flying demonstrations featuring the Omahawks & Orbiting Eagles. Paper Airplane competitions for the kids and more. (402) 944-3100, www.SASMuseum.com VALENTINES SPECIAL, February 10-14,2012 - Eugene T. Mahoney State Park. Reserve a cabin or lodge room at regular price and add a Valentine’s package to your reservation for $50.00. Includes a special meal for two and complimentary gift package at the Peter Kiewit Lodge. (402) 944-2523. www.outdoornebraska.org. 81st Annual Plattsmouth Harvest Festival PLATTE RIVER ART SHOW, March 31 & April 1,2012 - Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, a fine arts celebration featuring wildlife,landscape, still life, impressionistic, Southwest and Western paintings in a variety of mediums. Bronze, wood and metal sculpture and photography. Many artists from many states. Saturday 9:00 a.m - 8:00 p.m., Sunday 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (402) 944-2523, www.outdoornebraska.org EGG HUNT, April 7, 2012 - Strategic Air & Space Museum, Where Corn is Still KING! EASTER I-80 at Exit 426. 9:00 a.m. Fun for all of the children. (402) 944-3100, www. SEPT. 6-9, 2012 in Plattsmouth, Nebraska Cornation Carnival Rides Parades Slow Tractor Races Tractor Pull Flower Show Art Show Fly-In Breakfast Little Tuggers Car Show Craft Show & Many Vendors Many More Events! Formerly known as the Kass Kounty King Korn Karnival For information contact: P.O. Box 112, Plattsmouth, NE 68048 www. plattsmouthharvestfestival.com Funded in part by Cass County Tourism 10 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide SASMuseum.com SPACE DAY, May 5, 2012 - Strategic Air & Space Museum, I-80 at Exit 426.11:00 a.m. Guest speakers, stargazing, shows in the museum's planetarium and much more. (402) 944-3100, www.SASMuseum.com HELICOPTER DAY, July 28, 2012 - Strategic Air & Space Museum, I-80 at Exit 426. 10:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m. It’s a bird, it’s a plane it’s...come on out and see who will be landing at the museum. (402) 944-3100, www.SASMuseum.com AUTUMN HARVEST ART SHOW, October 6 & 7, 2012 - Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, a variety of mediums, from many artists. Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Sunday 9:00 a.m - 4:00 p.m. (402) 944-2523, www. outdoornebraska.org HOLIDAY CRAFT SHOW, October 20 & 21, 2012 - Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, 9:00 a.m - 7:00 p.m. A wide range of crafts and jewelry. Free face painting, all regular fall/winter activities. (402) 944-2523, www.outdoornebraska.org TRICK OR TREAT, October 27, 2012 - Strategic Air & Space Museum, I-80 at exit 426.10:00 a.m. Trick or Treat and airplane peeks, followed by a costume competition. (402) 944-3100. www.SASMuseum.com IN THE CASS COUNTY MIDDLE OF IT ALL • Strategic Air and Space Museum • Eugene T. Mahoney State Park • Wildlife Safari Park • Platte River State Park • Hiking and Biking Trails • Seven Golf Courses PLATTSMOUTH • MURRAY • LOUISVILLE SOUTH BEND • WEEPING WATER • MANLEY EAGLE • UNION • MURDOCK • ELMWOOD CEDAR CREEK • WABASH • NEHAWKA GREENWOOD • ALVO • AVOCA For FREE Visitors Information, call 1-800-965-8479 www.visitcasscounty.com www.visitsoutheastnebraska.org 3 FILLMORE COUNTY Exeter It was the “free land” that brought the settlers to Exeter in 1870. The railroad’s advance west from Lincoln determined the site and name for Exeter since the railroads were naming towns in alphabetical order. Some settlers from Exeter, N.H. suggested the name. Fairmont The section of land where the town of Fairmont now sits was originally pre-empted by four employees for the South Platte Land Company in the spring of 1871. Because the law required a six-month residence, these men built a little house in the center of the section to keep the claim. FILLMORE COUNTY MUSEUM The Fillmore County Museum is housed in the Fairmont Creamery Company built in 1886. The company was later called Fairmont Foods. Dr. S.F. Ashby purchased the building for his medical practice in 1907. The museum contains the doctor’s waiting room, WW II and Fairmont Army Airfield memorabilia and other items. ST. STEPHEN’S CATHOLIC CHURCH The first St. Stephen’s Catholic Church was built in 1874. The present Romanesque church building dates from 1902 and has undergone many renovations and restorations. Original to the interior are the altars and the stained-glass windows. “Thomas” and “Paul,” the bells in the church tower, are still in use. EXETER MURAL The Exeter Mural, is a representation of downtown Exeter around 1900 and was created by Greg Holdren, an artist from Friend, Neb. Adjacent to the mural which depicts a fire truck en route to a fire is the historic marker for the founding of Exeter. HISTORIC MARKER 278 - 1879 EXETER 1979 The first settler in Exeter Township, Fillmore County was Warren Woodard who built the first house in 1870. The Burlington & Missouri River Railroad building westward determined Exeter’s location in 1871. AQUATIC CENTER Gilbert Park, 1103 Maplewood Street. The new Aquatic Center, was built in 2009. A zero entry pool has a large slide, a toddler slide and a wheel chair area. 402-266-3001 SWEETWATER, 170 S Exeter Ave., in downtown Exeter equals good home cooked food and cold drinks. 402-266-4841 JOHN E’S CAFÉ & BAR, 116 South Exeter Ave. Enjoy Great Food, Great Friends and Great Fun at John E’s Café & Bar. Play KENO and enjoy the music of local bands on special weekends. 402-266-5251. EXETER SUMMER CELEBRATION: July 22 & 23. Co-ed softball tournament, barbecue, beer garden and live music. 12 MCCLELLAN DRUG STORE The McClellan Drug Store, a part of the Fillmore County Museum, contains a soda fountain, a 1905 carriage, a one-room schoolhouse, a 2,400-piece pitcher collection, farm tools and antique furniture. FAIRMONT ARMY AIRFIELD The historic Fairmont Army Airfield, located 2 miles south of Fairmont, was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2003. Visitors can walk the runways, see the hangars and view a model of the airfield as it appeared during WW II. UNION SOLDIER MONUMENT is located in the park just south of the Fillmore County Museum. The Union Soldier Monument was dedicated on June 26, 1910, and restored and rededicated in 2001 to all who have served. MANNING GRAIN Maining Grain at 4 Burress Road, Fairmont was once a trade center for 75 people in the 1920s. The first railroad was built there in 1887. Dances were held in the depot until a dance hall was built in 1937. It wasn’t unusual for more than 500 people to attend dances there until the bands became too big and the prices too high. The last dance was held in 1949 and now the hall holds grain. HISTORICAL MARKER 381: Fairmont Army Air Field, on U.S. Highway 6, east of Fairmont, was one of 11 Army Air Force training fields built in Nebraska during World War II. HISTORICAL MARKER 360: Fairmont Army Airfield, on U.S. Highway 81, is located 2 miles south of Fairmont. Construction began on the Fairmont Army Air Field September 17, 1942, and crews worked around the clock. It was one of 11 Army Air Force training fields built in Nebraska during World War II. It was deactivated in 1945. HISTORICAL MARKER 309: 601 6th Ave. The Fairmont Creamery Company was incorporated March 29, 1884, as a stock company by Wallace Wheeler and Joseph H. Rushton. This building was the original office and the creamery was half a mile east of town. LEGENDS, at 540 6th Ave. Test your talent with karoake and enjoy food and drink at Legends in Fairmont. 402-268-4191 OLD SETTLERS PICNIC: A community festival dating from 1876 is filled with games, karaoke, a fun run/walk, parade, barbecue and street dance. July 28-29. 402-268-2461 or 402-268-3138 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide Geneva FILLMORE COUNTY In 1870 there was a large migration into the area. In 1871 an election was held in the dugout-residence of Nathaniel McCalla. Officers were elected and the site of the county seat was determined and named Henry. In 1872, the town name was changed to Geneva. DEMPSTER WOODS The 1888 Dempster Woods Italianate-style home was built by John A. Dempster, a Civil War veteran from Illinois, who homesteaded near Ohiowa and served in the Nebraska House of Representatives. The home has tin ceilings, fireplaces, hardwood floors, stained-glass windows and an acre of woods for walking. OVERTIME GRILLE & LOUNGE Take time to stop at Overtime Grille & Lounge in downtown Geneva for delicious bar food and drinks. Live bands perform certain weekends. 402-759-3841 GENEVA CITY PARK, 1404 E Street, is the home to an American Legion Memorial Park Monument, an Army tank, and the largest natural boulder in Fillmore County with the inscription “For God and County.” The park has a swimming pool, horseshoe pits, ballparks, and play equipment. Four mini-parks grace local neighborhoods. GENEVA AUDITORIUM was built in 1915. The Geneva Auditorium served as the city hall and opera house. The building is now used for live performances and on weekends volunteers transform the stage into the Rialto II movie theater. HIDDEN HILLS, located on the northwest edge of Geneva at 1115 Road L, is a nine-hole golf course with rolling hills, mature trees and a winding creek. It may be used by the public. 402-759-3084 FILLMORE COUNTY COURTHOUSE Placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977, the newly renovated Fillmore County Courthouse was first completed in 1894. A simplified version of the Richardsonian Romanesque style, the courthouse provides a sense of the history and permanence of the county’s heritage. GEORGE W. SMITH HOUSE The Queen-Anne style George W. Smith House was built in 1890 by Geneva settler George Smith whose loan office was the predecessor of the First National Bank of Geneva. From 1925 to 1942, the house served as a hospital. National Register of Historic Places J.M. BURK HOUSE The J.M. Burk House was built in 1891 for J.M. and Minnie Burk who moved from Seward County to Geneva to open a hardware business. Three fireplaces, three stained-glass windows and five sets of 6 by 8 foot pocket doors are its special features. National Register of Historic Places CUMBERLAND‘S STYLE SHOPPE, NEVAEH BOUTIQUE, ROYALTY’S GIFTS AND A LITTLE INSPIRATION. Visit these unique one-of-a-kind shops located around the Courthouse Square throughout historic downtown Geneva. GENEVA JAVA & BRISTRO offers great coffees along with pastries and sandwiches. Enjoy dinner that has been cooked on the grill, Thursday and Friday nights. 402-759-4400 GENEVA HOME AND GARDEN SHOW March 16-17 - Held each year at the Fillmore County Fairgrounds. More than 60 vendors, also workshops and entertainment. 402-759-1155 CELEBRATE PATRIOTISM-GENEVA, July 3-4 - Games, a parade, street dance, entertainment and a spectacular fireworks display are downtown and at the county fairgrounds. 402-759-4280 or 402-759-1155 FILLMORE COUNTY FAIR, July 20-25 Located at the west edge of Geneva at the Fillmore County Fairgrounds, 100 5th St. 402-759-3274 CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS, December 1- 24. Santa visits, a free Holiday movie for kids, shopping specials around the square in downtown Geneva. 402-759-1155 Grafton The Burlington Northern Railroad had an influential role in founding and locating Grafton. In 1876, Grafton’s residents numbered 50 and it rapidly became an essential grain market and trade center. ST. HELENA’S CATHOLIC CHURCH The original St. Helena’s Catholic Church was built in 1880. In 1922, the church was sold and moved to make way for its replacement. On September 10, 1923, the new St. Helena’s was ready for worship. Stained-glass windows from Italy were added in 1927. The church was refurbished in 2000. www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 13 FILLMORE COUNTY WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS AND WILDLIFE PROTECTION AREA The Grafton area is home to seven Wildlife Management Areas and Wildlife Protection Areas http://rwbjv.org/pdf/RWBJV_eastern_tour_map.pdf The BLUE RIVER BRIDGE has been identified as one of the 99 historically significant bridges in the state by the Nebraska State Historical Society. Located 6 miles northwest of Grafton, it was designed in 1918. National Register of Historic Places GARY’S BRICKYARD GRILLE, located in one of Grafton’s historic downtown buildings, serves buffalo as well as the finest Nebraska steaks, chicken and pork. Outdoor seating available. 255 N. Washington Ave. 402-282-7311. VILLAGE GREEN is a manufacturer and retail outlet for concrete lawn ornaments and statuaries. It includes a garden area for viewing. 103 W. South St. (along U.S. Highway 6) 402-282-7226 ST. HELENA’S BAZAAR, August 29, 2012 -The church members serve home-style food, sell crafts and baked goods, and hold a quilt raffle. Milligan Milligan claims the title “The Hospitality Capital of Nebraska” and proves it by having many events throughout the year for its citizens and visitors. Milligan has a predominantly Czech heritage and often serves Czech cuisine. CESKY BRATRI CEMETERY AND PIONEER CHAPEL is 2 miles west of Milligan along Highway 41. The earliest gravestone dates to 1876. Passing wagon trains left older, unmarked graves. The Pioneer Chapel, built in 1874, was the first Catholic Church in Fillmore County. It was moved to the cemetery in 1901. THE MILLIGAN AUDITORIUM is an all concrete, masonry, and steel structure, built in 1929. It is one of 10 halls built by liberal Czechs from 1920-60 and the only one built by an association of organizations. It was a popular social gathering place during WW II, and today. National Register of Historic Places RON’S TAVERN, 608 Main St. Visitors can enjoy home-cooked meals. Pork & dumplings is the noon special on Thursdays. 402-629-4385 Ohiowa Settlers from Ohio, Iowa and Missouri settled the Ohiowa area. A dispute arose when deciding what the town should be named. A group of settlers wanted Ohio and others from Iowa preferred the name Iowa. The dispute was settled by compromise: Ohiowa. 14 EVENING WITH FRIENDS, 524 Main St. Enjoy small town-priced steaks and prime rib at Evening With Friends. This unique downtown restaurant is named after a famous Redlin painting and has a cabin in the main dining area for small parties. 402-629-4411 THE BLIZZARD OF 1888 HISTORIC MARKER 247: One of the most spectacular and harrowing events in the history of the Great Plains was the Blizzard of January 12, 1888. Marker on Highway 41 Northeast of Milligan. TWO B-24 “LIBERATORS” CRASH HISTORIC MARKER 475: On October 25, 1943, four B-24 “Liberator” bombers from the Fairmont Army Air Field were flying in formation when two crashed together killing 17 soldiers. Marker is located on Nebraska Highway 41, northeast of Milligan. BT-13B “VALIANT” AND P-47D “THUNDERBOLT” CRASH HISTORIC MARKER 476: In 1944, an instructor pilot in a BT-13B and a student and a P-47 pilot had a mid-air crash killing the student and the P-47 pilot. The marker is located on Nebraska Highway 41, northeast of Milligan. LONE STAR RECREATION AREA, a 160-acre area 4 miles east of Ohiowa, has a 75-acre springfed lake. Camping, boating, fishing, swimming and hiking are available. GRACE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH Located 3 miles southwest of Ohiowa, the church has a strong German heritage. The first church built in 1888 was replaced by the current church built in 1917. OHIOWA AUDITORIUM, HISTORICAL MARKER 460. A community landmark, Ohiowa Auditorium was completed in 1940 and preserved in near original condition. It is one of many Nebraska buildings constructed by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) during the Great Depression. During WW II the auditorium served as an entertainment center for soldiers from the nearby Bruning Army Airfield. Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide FILLMORE COUNTY Shickley During the 1870s, many settlers, Swedish emigrants predominantly, came to Bryant Township in which Shickley subsequently was located. STOCKHOLM SWEDISH LUTHERAN CHURCH, NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACESMARKER 399. The church, built in 1900 at a cost of $3,549, has a 70-foot steeple and Gothic Revival detailing. Its red roof can be seen for miles. Inside hangs a large painting by Professor Oloaf Grafstom. 2 ½ miles west of Shickley. MALLARD HAVEN WATERFOWL PRODUCTION AREA Two miles north of Shickley, Mallard Haven Waterfowl Production Area covers 1,087 acres, including 633 acres of wetland and 454 acres of upland ground. Among the 5-7 million birds migrating each spring are Canadian snow geese, blue geese, ducks, and seasonal bald eagles. Also a habitat for pheasants and quail. THE HOME PLACE, 209 N. Market Street, Enjoy a unique shopping experience at The Home Place. Contains antiques and collectibles. 402-627-7665 DAWG’S SMOKEHOUSE CAFÉ, 213 N. Market Street. Enjoy delicious homemade meals and smoked meats at Dawg’s Smokehouse Café in downtown Shickley. 402-627-2735 BEERS OF NEBRASKA-MILLIGAN. March 24th -Milligan Auditorium on Main St. Taste beers from various Nebraska breweries while enjoying Czech food & music. 402-629-4446 MILLIGAN JUNE JUBILEE-MILLIGAN, June 8, 9 & 10: Main St. Dances, parades, contests, entertainment, BBQ, beer garden, softball & volleyball tournaments. 402-629-4446 KOCKIES BAR, located at 223 N. Market St. in downtown Shickley is a great place to eat, try a variety of wines and meet friends. 402-627-2735 B-47G “FLYING” FORTRESS AND P-47D “THUNDERBOLT” HISTORIC MARKER 474: This marker commemorates the 1944 crash of a “Thunderbolt” fighter from the Bruning Army Air Field with a B-17 “Flying Fortress” bomber. Both planes exploded and seven soldiers died. The marker is located on Nebraska Highway 41, northeast of Milligan. MILLIGAN’S 7TH ANNUAL CHILYMPIAD-MILLIGAN, January 29 - Milligan Auditorium on Main St. Chili cook-off with patrons taste testing and voting for their favorite chili. 402-629-4446 OHIOWA CAFÉ, 520 S. Main St., serves homemade meals and provides that small-town atmosphere. 402-295-2319 OHIOWA DAYS-125TH CELEBRATION, June 16 & 17 - Main St. Co-ed softball, kids parade, activities for all ages, BBQ and dance, community church picnic, ice cream social and water fights. 402-295-2515 OHIOWA CRAFT DAY-OHIOWA. October 14 - Ohiowa Auditorium. Crafts, cookbooks, homemade items, food and door prizes. 402-295-2515 Exeter • Fairmont • Geneva • Grafton • Milligan • Ohiowa • Shickley • Strang THURSDAY CLASSIC CAR NIGHT, 4th Thursdays, May –September. Classic car buffs bring their cars and showcase them on Main Street. Things to see Experiences to try Milligan’s June Jubilee June 8-10 Ohiowa’s 125th Celebration June 15-17 Discover Geneva Patriotism July 3-4 Places to relax Foods to eat & enjoy Exeter’s Summer Fun Day July 20-22 Old Settler’s Day - Fairmont July 28-29 All in Fillmore County! www.visitfillmorecounty.org www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 15 GAGE COUNTY FILLMORE COUNTY Strang Named for a windmill salesman who donated a windmill to the community, Strang is home to the historic Strang School, Belle Prairie Township Hall and the Strang Jail. A windmill still graces a place of honor in the middle of Main Street. STRANG MUSEUM Formerly the Hamilton township hall built in 1889, the Strang Museum was moved to Strang in 1984. During Strang’s centennial year, 1986, the building was transformed into a museum. Standing on the grounds is a wooden windmill and the steeple bell from the United Brethren Church. For appointment, call 402-759-0120. STRANG SCHOOL The Strang School is a two-story brick building built in 1929-30 in a simplified version of the Renaissance Revival-style. The last senior class to graduate was in 1951 but it continued to be used as a grade school until the 1990s. National Register of Historic Places STRANG WINDMILL: This village was named when A.L. Strang, an Omaha windmill dealer, gave the town its first windmill. A windmill still sits in the middle of the principal intersection on Main Street. The BELL PRAIRIE TOWNSHIP HALL was built in 1911 and became the official place to cast your ballot and was the meeting hall for village groups. National Register of Historic Places The TOWN JAIL, built in 1907, was used by the constable and served as the village office. Drunks from the local saloon were housed there overnight. National Register of Historic Places BUBBA’S ANYTIME STRANG CAFÉ, 313 Main St. Stop in and enjoy the homecooked meals at Bubba’s Anytime Strang Café. If the door’s open, the grill is smokin’. 402-759-4840 STRANG’S PANCAKE DAY is held the 4th Sunday of February each year serving pancakes hot off the grill and speciallymade sausage. 16 Adams FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION, June 30 ADAMS COMMUNITY DAYS, Aug. 18 Beatrice HOMESTEAD NATIONAL MONUMENT OF AMERICA Explore your National Park…interactive exhibits, prairie, pioneer school, cabin, and special events chronicle immigration, migration, and Native American cultures of an America forever altered by the Homestead Act. 2012 marks the 150th anniversary of the Homestead Act; numerous events and activities throughout the year. For more information, call 402-223-3514 or visit www.nps.gov/home. CEDAR CREEK POTTERY is owned by Ervin Dixon, a former Florida State Professor. He makes and displays saltglazed stoneware at his refurbished 1895 Lutheran church 7 miles east of Beatrice. Regular hours: Monday – Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (402) 228-0138 YESTERDAY’S LADY is located in the historic 1887 Schmuck Building in the heart of downtown Beatrice. Owner Sue McLain has been collecting vintage clothing since 1985 and has a wide variety of artifacts from the Victorian Era through 1970 on display. (402) 223-5121 GAGE COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY AND MUSEUM is located in the Burlington Railroad Depot built in 1906. Genealogy available. Museum hours are Tue. - Sat., 9 a.m. – Noon and 1 – 5 p.m. and Sun. 1:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. in the summer; and Tue. – Fri. , 9 a.m. – Noon and 1 – 5 p.m. and Sun., 1:30 – 5 p.m. (402) 228-1679 BEATRICE BAKERY has been featured on the Food Network’s “Unwrapped” show. From the mixing room to the oven, the fruitcakes are designed by hand. The finest ingredients are precisely measured and mixed, the nuts hand sorted and selected, and each cake is individually baked. (800) 228-4030 The BEATRICE PUBLIC LIBRARY is the host facility for the Nebraska State Genealogical Society collection. This includes more than 3,000 items of interest to genealogists with Nebraska roots. In addition, the library houses bound volumes of D.A.R. Lineage Records and part of the collection of the Southeast Nebraska Genealogical Society. (402) 223-3584 GAGE COUNTY FAIR AND EXPO/BEATRICE SPEEDWAY Gage County Fair and Expo is the third week in July and includes a midway carnival, food, 4-H animals and exhibits. The fairgrounds is also home to Beatrice Speedway where racing occurs each Friday night from March to October. Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide GAGE COUNTY VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK is dedicated to the military men and women of the United States who have served our country. The Memorial Plaza was created using five points of the star symbolizing the branches of the military. Ten “Walls of Honor” provide the backdrop for historical images, information and a lasting tribute to those veterans. COMMUNITY PLAYERS Since 1975, Community Players has strived to produce high-quality theatre for Beatrice and all of Southeast Nebraska. Thanks to the talents of our many volunteers, on and off the stage, we consistently bring to the stage theatre that entertains, educates, and enlightens. (402) 228-1801 NATIONAL COMMEMORATION OF THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE HOMESTEAD ACT OF 1862 May 20 - at Homestead National Monument of America. A special event with speakers, music, and a historical reenactment. 6:00 p.m.- 9:00 p.m. HOMESTEAD ACT, April 25 - May 28 - Homestead Act of 1862 signed by President Lincoln on public display at the Homestead Heritage Center. FREE LAND? May 21 – 25 - Homesteading Chautauqua, Nebraska Humanities Council will present a weeklong Chautauqua with speakers, workshops and presentations at Homestead National Monument. HOMESTEAD DAYS, June 12 – 17 - Interactive opportunities to experience pioneer life with traditional demonstrators. Nationally-known entertainers, parade Saturday morning, antique tractor and car shows and much more. Free. (402) 223-2338 Filley Cortland CORTLANDFEST, June 23 Exhibits, flea market, festival, craft show, and more. (402) 429-2480 FILLEY STONE BARN, located 2 miles south of town, is unique in its architecture. Built by Elijah Filley in 1874, the barn is the site of the Harvest Festival, on the first weekend of October. HARVEST FESTIVAL, Oct. 5 – 6 - Corn husking, threshing, pumpkin carving, and oldtime music as well as many other activities (402) 228-1679 BEATRICE’S FINEST LODGING & CONFERENCE FACILITY 27639 S. 80th Rd. Beatrice, NE 68310 Daily Hours Throughout the Year: 10-5 Monday-Saturday Phone: 402-228-0138 Directions: From the intersection of Highways 77 & 136, 7 miles east of Beatrice to 80th Rd., ¾ mile south. Beatrice 80th Road • Salt glazed stoneware pottery • Always special, useful and beautifully handmade Offering comfort, value & convenience, Holiday Inn Express is a favorite. • Heated Indoor Pool • Complimentary Wireless Internet Access • Complimentary Manager’s Reception • Priority Club Rewards Points or Miles • Free Express Start Breakfast Bar th 4005 N. 6 St., Beatrice, NE 402-228-7000 www.hiexpress.com/beatricene www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 17 GAGE COUNTY Odell BIG INDIAN NRD RECREATION AREA: Six miles east of town, the area has 250 acres for boating, fishing, camping, picnicking and swimming. An archery range, shelter and playground equipment are on site. (402) 228-3402 The OLD WEST TRAILS CENTER is located in a restored 1885 limestone bank on Main Street. It features interpretive stories on the growth of the area and the influence of the railroad, historic trails and highway. (402) 766-3700 ODELL COMMUNITY DAYS, Sept. 8 – 9 - Street dance, parade, BBQ, kids activities, old-fashioned games and more. ODELL CRAFT SHOW, Nov. 24 - Held annually on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Wymore GREAT PLAINS WELSH HERITAGE AND CULTURE CENTRE MUSEUM AND PLEASANT VIEW SCHOOLHOUSE MUSEUM The Welsh Heritage Project tells the story of Welsh settlers of Nebraska and the Great Plains through interactive displays, artifacts and oral histories. Displays are in the Great Plains Welsh Heritage and Culture Centre Museum at 307 S. 7th St., and the Pleasantview Schoolhouse Museum in McCandless Park on Highway 77. (402) 645-3186. SAM WYMORE DAYS, June 2 - Parade and much more. See a Play • Golf • Attend a County Fair Watch Car Races • Great Restaurants 18 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide JEFFERSON COUNTY Fairbury The ROCK CREEK STATION STATE HISTORICAL PARK is home to a Pony Express Station, a toll bridge on the Oregon Trail, a visitor’s center and the legend of “Wild Bill” Hickok. The recreation area has hiking and horse trails, RV and primitive camping. A state park permit is required. (402) 729-5777 The FAIRBURY CITY MUSEUM at 1128 Elm St. features exhibits that focus on pioneer life and the Campbell Bros. Circus, which wintered at Fairbury in the late 19th century. The museum is open year round. Friday 4-8 pm, Saturday and Sunday 1-4 pm or by appointment. (402) 671-6879. LITTLE BLUE RIVER TRAIL & FAIRBURY DAM The Little Blue River Trail offers walking, biking and cross country skiing starting at 3rd & C Street. Crossing the river on the Rock Island Railroad Bridge you’ll see the Fairbury Dam. (402) 729-2148 The FAIRBURY ROCK ISLAND DEPOT RAILROAD MUSEUM at 910 Bacon Road features the heritage of the rail industry in Jefferson County. It features a Burlington depot, Rock Island Motor Car 9047, a miniature train to ride and an extensive model railroad display. (402) 729-5131 The JEFFERSON COUNTY SPEEDWAY is located at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds. Banked dirt track racing from April through September featuring mini sprints, trucks and dwarf cars. (402) 729-3008 or (402) 729-3514 FAIRBURY’S HISTORIC DOWNTOWN SQUARE offers fine dining, art galleries and antique shopping. At the heart is the hand-cut limestone Jefferson County Courthouse built in 1891. It’s surrounded by an array of architectural styles and forms that were popular in the late 19th century and early 20th century. CRYSTAL SPRINGS PARK located southwest of Fairbury offers three lakes for fishing and RV or tent camping with electricity and water hookups from May 1 - Oct. 15. A quiet, shady setting with picnic shelters, playground, horseshoe court, restrooms and showers. (402) 729-2148 E he hist xplore t ory of • District 10 School •W.C. Smith House & Lime Kiln • Diller Bank • Rock Island Depot Railroad Museum • Historic Steele City • Steele City Flea Market & Antique Farm Machinery Show • Living History Weekends • Rock Island Rail Days 402-729-5131 www.JeffersonCountyHistory.com www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 19 JEFFERSON COUNTY The MCDOWELL’S ROSE CREEK MAUSOLEUM, which is part of Rose Creek Wildlife Area, is located southwest of Fairbury. It’s the work of resident Nelson L. McDowell who spent a decade carving the two-room mausoleum with a hammer and chisel. He died in 1937 and is buried in the Fairbury Cemetery. (402) 729-3000 The W.C. SMITH HOUSE AND LIME KILN is located northwest of Fairbury. The 1872 stone house features exhibits explaining the history of the lime-burning industry and the kiln itself. Open 2-4 p.m. on Sundays from Memorial Day to Labor Day. (402) 729-5131 CITY PARK Frontier Fun Park, Union Pacific Engine No. 421, ornate stone fountain and Girl Scout Cabin, horseshoe court, swimming pool, picnic shelters and ball fields are located in the City Park. MCNISH PARK is home to a challenging 9-hole disc golf course, a stone shelter, fountain and Boy Scout Cabin. JAYHUSKER RACING, April - September - Jefferson County Speedway, Winged Outlaw 600, Non-winged Mini Sprint Legend 600/750, Restrictor 600 & Trucks. 402-729-3008, Scott Criner. www.jayhusker.com Side Trek Bar & Grill OVER 600,000 SERVED “Best Wings in Southeast Nebraska” Served Daily We make our own sauces you can’t get them anywhere else! Harbine, NE • 402-754-4391 Great food and cold beer served 365 days a year! t: a re .com o c t m icni u o rp d e n Fi .dill w ww CARNIVAL • MUD DRAGS • PASTURE GOLF GREAT FOOD • STREET DANCE TRACTOR PULL • HUGE PARADE • KID’S RUN Diller, Nebraska is located just 20 miles southwest of Beatrice on Hwy. 103 20 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide LIVING HISTORY WEEKEND, May 5 & May 6 - Unique museums in historic Steele City, a church, blacksmith shop, livery barn, school and bank building. 402-729-5131 “RAILS & TRAILS”, “ROCK CREEK TRAIL DAYS”, June 2 & 3 - Rock Creek Station Historical Park - east of Fairbury living history demonstrations, buffalo stew cookout. [email protected], 402-729-5777 ROCK ISLAND RAIL DAYS, Rock Island Depot, June 2 & 3 - Fairbury. Exhibits, miniature train rides, food and model railroad display. 402-729-5131, www.jeffersoncountyhistory.com. RUN, ROW, ROCK & ROLL ADVENTURE RACE, June 16 - Fairbury. National Qualifier Race. Burkley Wellness Center, 2200 H St. 402-729-6139 Craig Bontrager, [email protected], www.angrycowadventures.com 41ST ANNUAL SHRINER’S FLEA MARKET, July 4 Fairbury City Park. No reservations needed. Flat rate $50. 402-729-3221 or 402-768-6522 Pioneer Shrine Club 116TH ANNUAL DILLER PICNIC, July 5, 6 & 7, ThursdaySaturday - A parade, carnival, pasture golf, Nebraska Bush Pullers tractor pull, Mud Drags, beer garden w/Cactus Hill. 402-793-5865, www.dillerpicnic.com STEELE CITY ANTIQUE FARM MACHINERY SHOW/ FLEA MARKET, September 15 & 16, Saturday & Sunday - Watch blacksmithing, working saw & shingles mill. 402-729-5131 or 402-729-5857, www.jeffersoncountyhistory.com 22ND ANNUAL FROST FROLIC HOLIDAY MARKET, November 3, Saturday - Fairbury Junior/Senior High School. More than 100 booths attract hundreds of shoppers each year. 402-729-6116, Diane Schutt, [email protected]. Jefferson County, NE Discover our Attractions Explore The Oregon Trail ck Ro Creek Station Dow Mc ell’s Rose Cre ek rso Jeffe n Count y Mausoleum Crysta s l Spring Courthouse Experience our Small-Town Charm For more information, contact Jefferson County Visitors Center at [email protected] Fairbury Chamber of Commerce at [email protected] 402-729-3000 www.fairburychamber.org www.visitoregontrail.org Bringing the exceptional wines & beers of Nebraska to a friendly place, the Pour House is a tasting room destination. Enjoy handcrafted wines, craft brews and gourmet snacks, all in the unique atmosphere of the 126-year-old Warren Building, beneath the Historic Warren Opera House. WWW.VISITTHEPOURHOUSE.COM WWW.MARYMARY-QUITECONTRARY.COM Just a few steps from the Pour House, visit the beautiful Mary Mary Quite Contrary, A Gallery of Beautiful Things. Peruse handcrafted items, original art, photography and pottery. Bring a group of friends and schedule a private tasting event in the Mary Mary Gallery for your special celebrations. JOHNSON COUNTY Tecumseh 1ST RURAL MAIL DELIVERY IN NEBRASKA Tecumseh Post Office – 484 Broadway - Tecumseh was the site of the First Rural Mail Delivery in Nebraska on November 7, 1896, and second in the United States. Information is on display in the Post Office and a sign in front designating the historic event was installed in July 2007, 111 years after the event. Ben Buffum made the initial trip as carrier on Route 1 located in Nemaha precinct which was southwest of the Tecumseh Post Office. Mr. Buffum, driving a team of horses and buggy, delivered nine pieces of mail on his first trip. Samuel K. Blythe, living ¾ mile south of Tecumseh, held the honor of being the first patron to receive a parcel of mail delivered by Rural Free Delivery Service in Nebraska. Cigar boxes, tin cans and the like were hastily nailed to posts by patrons and served as mailboxes in the beginning. Photo courtesy Judy Coe. Discover Tecumseh w w w.tecumsehne.com We Invite You to Discover Tecumseh 22 Tecumseh Federal Bank • Belle Terrace/Ridgeview Towers • Johnson County Hospital • The City of Tecumseh State Farm Insurance–Melinda Olinger Insurance Agency, Inc.• Tecumseh Chamber of Commerce: 402-335-3400 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide JOHNSON COUNTY KEIM STONE ARCH BRIDGE – from Tecumseh – 3 miles east and 1 mile north of Highway 136 - The Nebraska State Historical Society designated the Keim Stone Arch Bridge as historic on June 19, 1992, by placing it on the National Register of Historic Places of the United States Department of the Interior – National Park Service. The bridge was built in 1916 by a prominent local bridge builder, the Keim Cement Company, as indicated on the bridge itself. It is a rare, well-preserved example of early 20th century stone bridge construction and the only surviving stone bridge built by the Keim Company. CIVIL WAR SOLDIER MEMORIAL STATUE – WORLD WAR I CANNON – BANDSHELL - Courthouse square in Tecumseh - A Civil War Soldier Memorial Statue was erected “in memory of all soldiers and sailors of Johnson County” by the Heckathorn Post No. 47, Nebraska GAR in 1903. A replica of a World War I cannon was erected in memory of the USS Maine which was destroyed in Havana Harbor on February 15, 1898. The cannon is a replica because the original cannon was called up in World War II to be used as scrap metal. The plaque placed on the memorial was originally cast from the metal of the USS Maine. A bandshell was erected on the southeast corner of the courthouse square after World War II in memory of those from Johnson County who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Their names are listed on a plaque which is located on the bandshell. BRANDON PARKWAY FOUNTAIN – In front of the Community Building - The Brandon Parkway Fountain has been restored and honors Judge H. W. Brandon, who donated the land on which the Community Building is located. For several years, a beautiful park was located in back of the Community Building and people would walk from there down to the railroad tracks located directly south. JOHNSON COUNTY MUSEUM COMPLEX – 3rd and Lincoln Streets in Tecumseh - Several unique and unusual items are on display at the Johnson County Museum which is housed in the Christian Church built in 1888. The Hedgerow Country School is located just north of the museum and contains items reminiscent of the 79 country schools that were located in Johnson County. The Historic Limestone Jail was built in 1872 and legend has it that there are cannonballs in the walls. Cook Photo courtesy Karen Thomas. Cook was first known as “The Artesian City” because of the numerous artesian wells in the area. One of the wells is located in Windmill Park just west of town. The park also features the only covered bridge in Johnson County. The covered bridge is far right in the picture. www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 23 JOHNSON COUNTY Photo courtesy Judy Coe. COLONEL BARNEY OLDFIELD EXHIBIT 175 South 3rd Street in Tecumseh - depicts the life of Tecumseh native, Col. Barney Oldfield. Barney was a publicist, Hollywood columnist, public relations assistant to Dwight Eisenhower and Ronald Reagan and mentor to boxer George Foreman. In 1997, seven miles of U.S. Highway 136 from Tecumseh east to the Johnson County line was designated as the Colonel Barney Oldfield Memorial Highway and a sign designating the birthplace of Barney was installed at the intersection of Highway 136 and Highway 50. At graduation in 2012, the 2000 Kindergarten Class of Johnson County Schools will receive $1,000 from the Kinman/Oldfield Family Foundation – a gift of Colonel Barney Oldfield. OSAGE WMA: 3 miles north, 2 west, 3/4 north of Tecumseh. Deer, dove, pheasant, quail, rabbit, squirrel, turkey. 778 acres. Target shooting prohibited in certain areas South West Osage, and in south parking lot on North Osage. TWIN OAKS WMA: 2 miles east, 3 south of Tecumseh. Deer, dove, pheasant, quail, rabbit, squirrel, turkey. 1,120 acres. WIRTH BROTHERS LAKE AND PARK: 5 miles north, 1 west of Tecumseh. NRD Park Permit Required. Park/89 acres - Lake/33 acres. Fishing, swimming, picnic tables, shelter house, rest rooms, boat ramp. Sterling HOME & GARDEN SHOW - March 30, 1 to 7 p.m. , & March 31, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Call Diane at 402-335-3361 for more information. JOHNSON COUNTY FAIR, Johnson County Fairgrounds. 1st Street and Highway 136 – August 17, 18 and 19. Friday – Veterans Parade. Livestock judging, free entertainment, 4-H exhibits. Sunday evening Parade. Call 402-335-7050. Vesta HICKORY RIDGE WMA: 1/2 W, 3 1/2 S of Vesta. Deer, dove, pheasant, quail, rabbit, squirrel, turkey. 444 acres. DEER CREEK SODBUSTERS, Second Sunday in August - 4 miles south of Sterling. Tractors and small engines on display. Featured tractor line each year. Flea Market, Craft Show, Entertainment, horse-related farming demonstrations. Event features activities that portray the farmers’ lifestyle from years ago. Only local legacy event of this type in the Library of Congress. Call Bob at 402-866-2122. 24 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide Did You Know.... Tecumseh was founded in 1856 and celebrated its Sesquicentennial in 2006. Located at the crossing of the Nebraska City to Marysville and Brownville to Fort Kearny (Beatrice) trails, it was originally named Frances after the wife of General Richard M. Johnson. In 1857 the name was changed to Tecumseh to honor the Native American, Tecumseh, of the Shawnee Tribe. Because Tecumseh was a crossroads, Seven Trails were located in Johnson County. The Tecumseh downtown historic district was the first town in Nebraska to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1958. The area includes approximately five square blocks and is a fine example of a late 19th century county seat. The best known landmark is the Johnson County Courthouse built in 1888. Tecumseh was also home to an opera house and a Carnegie Library. NEMAHA COUNTY Auburn Auburn was founded in 1883 from two distinct towns named Calvert and Sheridan. When the county seat was moved to Auburn from Brownville the businessmen of Auburn decided to connect the two towns with a street called Courthouse Avenue. The avenue remains today as the link between North Auburn and South Auburn. auburn.ne.gov NEMAHA VALLEY MUSEUM The Nemaha Valley Museum is on the south side of historic Courthouse Square in Auburn at 1423 19th Street. It displays the history of the area in three buildings and a courtyard. 402-274-2608, www.nemahavalleymuseum.org The AUBURN POST OFFICE located at 1320 Courthouse Avenue is on the National Register of Historic Places and features a painting in the lobby by the artist Ethel Magafan, titled “THRESHING.” This is one of 12 paintings in the State of Nebraska that was commissioned by Franklin D. Roosevelt as a WPA project. The AUBURN RECREATIONAL COMPLEX is well-known as one of the best in the state. Since the complex was built in 2001 it has been in constant use hosting state and regional ball tournaments. The complex also features a large picnic shelter house for family gatherings and a RV Park that complements the entire area. Located at 6th & Q Streets. 402-274-3420 Check out Nemaha County’s website at enjoynemahacounty.org STATE HISTORICAL MARKER FOR THE HALF BREED TRACT One mile East of Auburn on Highway 136 is a State Historical Marker for the Half Breed Tract. This tract was located between the Great and Little Nemaha Rivers. It was the custom for many early fur traders to marry into Native American tribes. As the Native Americans ceded their lands, the rights of the half-breed descendants were not always identified. This situation was recognized by the government in 1830 by the Prairie Du Chien Treaty, which set aside a tract of land for the half breeds of the Oto, Iowa, Omaha and Santee Sioux Tribes. POLAR PLUNGE Fundraiser for the Special Olympics held at Rotary Lake on March 3rd. LEGION MEMORIAL PARK has a National Historic Park designation. The land was purchased for a park in 1929 by the City of Auburn. The granite and limestone building structures were part of the WPA projects of President Roosevelt. The bandstand is still in use today for church services, special events and music concerts. The gazebo offers a beautiful setting for weddings. A rock creek dissects the middle of the park for a drainage area and the rock bridges are still used by the pedestrians, not the horse and buggy, as they were originally designed to accommodate. Legion Memorial Park, Hwy. 75 & 10th Streets, is the site of the Nemaha County Veterans Memorial dedicated May 30, 2011. The names of more than 1,000 Veterans are carved into the black granite on one side and murals depicting scenes from the Civil War to present times are on the opposite side of the black granite tablets. The AUBURN COUNTRY CLUB GOLF COURSE is 2 miles south of Auburn on Highway 75. It’s a nine hole course with grass greens, 2,940 yards and par 35. Auburn has the distinct honor of having an airplane navigated by Leut. Bahl of Humboldt and a passenger named Charles Lindbergh land on number six fairway in 1922. They were seeking permission to give airplane rides at the Nemaha County Fair. The number six fairway is now known as Lindbergh Fairway. 402-274-4500 W i ey Run Cree VI EYARD & WI ERY Experience our unique setting in historic Brownville. Visit the 1886 cave, the 1900 barn and our state-of-the-art wine production facility. Take a tour and sip our wines. 702 Main Street Brownville, NE 68821 402-825-4601 www.WhiskeyRunCreek.com ROTARY LAKE sits on the North edge of Auburn and provides fishing experiences for the young and old. The primary fish in the lake are blue gill, catfish, carp and trout. A concrete walking trail around the lake provides a safe place for walking year-round. Three buildings and an outdoor display of the history of the Nemaha Valley area from the 1800’s to present. 1423 19TH STREET 402-274-2605 AUBURN, NE 68305 402-274-3735 HOURS: 1-4:30 P.M. TUESDAY THRU SUNDAY APRIL -DECEMBER Freewill donations accepted. www.nemahavalleymuseum.org www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 25 NEMAHA COUNTY Brock The first grist mill was built in 1876, and a saw mill was built on the Nemaha River the same year. In 1883 a big flood came through and washed away houses and livestock and at that time the town of Brock was moved to its present location. STONESHOP STUDIO–art gallery and classroom (2 miles west of Brock and 1/4 mile south) Highway 67. 402–856–3355 Brownville Situated at the edge of the heartland prairie, the historic Village of Brownville, founded in 1854, is located on the tree- covered picturesque rolling Loess Hills overlooking the 1804 Lewis & Clark campsite on the Missouri River. Designated a National Historic District, Brownville is celebrating 157 years of American history as a pioneering gateway to opening the west. This scenic frontier river town, abundant with wildlife, showcases the culture and natural beauty of the Missouri River Basin region providing historical, educational and recreational opportunities. CARSON HOUSE The Carson house was originally built by Richard Brown, founder of Brownville, and later in 1864, became the home of John L. Carson, an early Nebraska banker. Mr. Carson’s daughter, Rose, bequeathed the house to the Brownville Historical Society upon her death in 1966. Hours Open Saturday and Sunday 1-4 p.m., May through October. 402-825-6001. GOVERNOR FURNAS MUSEUM, 1868, South 6th Street at Water Street (White Brick House) This Italianate and Gothic Revival style house was built in 1868 and was occupied by Robert Furnas from 1878 until his death in 1905 (as his retirement home). Robert Furnas was Nebraska’s third (or second elected) governor. For hours call 402-274-2676. Photo courtesy Judy Coe. CORYELL PARK (1 mile east of Brock, 3 miles south) or 73203 633 Avenue, Johnson. Coryell park was homesteaded by the LL Coryell family in 1867. The park commemorates the spirit and values of Nebraska’s settlers. Coryell is unique and incorporates peace, recreation and beauty to all who visit. The park has a playground, covered bridge, pavillion, chapel (often used for weddings) and Treasure House filled with collectibles of the family, most notably a doll collection. Coryell Park was awarded the honor of one of the State’s Hidden Treasure’s for 2011. 402-856–2875 THE WHEEL MUSEUM Historical display of various carriages, wagons, cannon, steam engines, etc. Open and free to the public. DR. SURGEON’S DENTAL OFFICE Recreation of an early 20th century dentist office open and free to the public weekly. THE FURNAS ARBORETUM The Furnas Arboretum, an affiliate site of the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum, provides educational activities, eco-tourism, birding, symposiums, garden tours and memorial plantings and dedication opportunities. The Furnas Arboretum entrance is located on Main at 5th Street. For hours please call, 402-274-2676 SCHOOLHOUSE ART GALLERY AND NATURE CENTER Located at 427 Main Street, special exhibitions focus on visual artists of the region and are dovetailed with lectures, workshops and artist receptions. For hours please call, 402-274-2676. HEARTS UNITED FOR ANIMALS located 6 miles north of Auburn on Highway 75, 1 mile west on Highway 67–towards Brock, 1 mile south. Hearts United is a no-kill animal shelter. Go to their website for further information. A truly moving experience. 26 BROWNVILLE VILLAGE THEATRE is the oldest repertory theatre in Nebraska, and is preparing for its 46th season of repertory theatre, including four plays and a musical. There is something truly magical about live theatre--for performers and audiences alike. Call (402) 825-4121 www.BrownvilleVillageTheatre.org Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide Photo courtesy Nora Tallmon. BAILEY HOUSE The house is built of brick manufactured in one of the three brick factories in early Brownville. It is unique in that it originally stood near the Missouri River. When the river began to change its course and endanger the house, it was disassembled in 1877, and moved brick-by-brick to its present location on Main Street. Captain Bailey was a Civil War captain. Hours Open Saturday and Sunday from 1-4 pm, May through October. Phone 402-825-6001 or toll free at 877-559-6005 Experience Nemaha County Birdwatching, art workshops, entertainment and events throughout the year also help make this a great place to visit! ❷ Oh, the stories you’ll tell Hike, bike, fish, hunt, shop and explore. Indian Cave State Park • Steamboat Trail Historic Brownville Winery ❶ ❸ ❺ ❹ ❻ ❼ Did you experience ❶ Coryell Park ❷ Veterans Memorial ❸ Concert Hall ❹ The Steamboat Trail ❺ Whiskey Run Creek Winery Barn ❻ Indian Cave State Park ❼ Historic Houses Auburn • Brock • Brownville • Johnson • Julian • Nemaha • Peru www.enjoynemahacounty.org 877-404-4711 Paid for by Nemaha County Visitors Committee NEMAHA COUNTY THE MERIWETHER LEWIS DREDGE MUSEUM The Meriwether Lewis, a decommissioned US Army Corps of Engineers dredge boat, now houses a Museum of Missouri River History. Hours please call. Phone 402-825-3982, www.MeriwetherLewisFoundation.org Julian Photo courtesy Jay Tallmon. BROWNVILLE FIRST FRIDAY SERIES The first Friday of every month offers evening entertainment from regional performers, 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. www.Brownville-NE.com BROWNVILLE CONCERT SERIES Eleven world-class musical performances from classical to jazz to cabaret are presented in the Brownville Concert Hall on N. 2nd & Atlantic Streets. For complete concert details, call 402-825-3331 or visit the website: www.BrownvilleConcertSeries. com ANNUAL SPRING FLEA MARKET is Memorial day weekend on Main St. More than 200 vendors from across the United States. Antiques, flowers, jewelry, collectibles and food, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Free. (402)825-6001. ANNUAL BROWNVILLE FALL FLEA MARKET, last weekend in September - Main St. More than 200 vendors from 7 states. Antiques, primitives, crafts, flowers, jewelry, collectibles and food, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. (402)825-6001. Julian was settled by a sizeable number of French immigrants who organized the St. Bernard Catholic Church in 1881. Julian was a flourishing city until the Great Depression of the 30s began to take its toll. Julian still has a heritage of the French immigrants shown in the St. Bernard’s Catholic Cemetery and the Lafayette Cemetery near Brock. Julian also has the distinction of being the smallest “Tree City” member in Nebraska. Johnson Johnson is the kind of town many people believe no longer exists. Located along the Heritage Highway Scenic Byway at the intersection of US Hwy. 136 and Hwy. 105 this family-oriented village of 300 residents is quiet and friendly, has a highquality school system, and a variety of stores and businesses that offer all the essentials for Nebraska’s “Good Life.” Here the ambience of small town America combines with the modern amenities to offer fine homes, churches, a new village park complex, basketball and tennis courts, community library, cable TV, high-speed internet access and emergency medical services. Johnson’s Annual Father’s Day Chicken BBQ Weekend brings in thousands of visitors each year to enjoy the many activities and events. The uniquely picturesque Coryell Park is only 4 miles away. Johnson is the best in small town living. For more information contact the Village of Johnson, 224 Main Street, PO Box 58, Johnson, Nebraska 68378. 402-868-5305, email @ [email protected]. ANNUAL FATHER’S DAY BBQ, June each year on Father’s Day weekend. The weekend is filled with alumni, family reunions, friends, and thousands of visitors. 402–868–5305, [email protected] Your Adventure Begins... On The Steamboat Trace Trail 21 Miles of Hiking/Biking Trail through the scenic Missouri River Bluffs of Southeast Nebraska Look for Trailheads at • Brownville • Peru: North end of 5th St. • Nebraska City: South on Hwy. 75 east to OPPD Power Station 402-335-3325 28 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide Nemaha’s Only Stop Your Last Stop For Supplies Before Arriving At Beautiful Indian Cave State Park • Convenience Store • Groceries • Daily Lunch Specials • Beer • Pop • Ice 8 Miles North of Indian Cave State Park or 4 Miles South of Historic Brownville, Open Mon-Sat, Closed Sunday Nemaha, Nebraska • 402-824-5655 NEMAHA COUNTY Nemaha ASPINWALL BEND WMA, 1⁄2 mile south of Nemaha. Located on the Missouri and Little Nemaha Rivers, this is an outstanding spot to catch channel catfish and carp. Deer, pheasant, quail, turkey and waterfowl are also a common site to the area. SITE OF ORIGINAL LEWIS AND CLARK CAMP. (Not marked, need to consult with local historians) UNDERGROUND RAILROAD Nemaha was a station for the Underground Railroad for smuggling slaves to the north. Many were ferried across the river, hid in attics of local sympathizers by day and headed to the north by night. There are two documented sites by the Nebraska Historical Society and documented in Nemaha County. INDIAN CAVE STATE PARK Nemaha is the gateway to Indian Cave State Park from the north, Highway 67. The City Park offers primitive overnight camping for the traveler. 402-883-2575, www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov METHODIST CHURCH, features native brick and a cornerstone laid in 1890. It still houses weekly Sunday Services. 1865-ERA CEMETERY is located 1 mile north, 1 mile east of the town. Peru STEAMBOAT TRACE TRAIL, starts in Otoe County near Nebraska City and follows the Missouri River along the bluffs. It goes past the ghost town of Minersville. The carved drawings in the rocks known as Sherman’s drawings are a feature found nowhere else. The Trail ends in historic Brownville after traveling about 21 miles of unmatched scenery. The flora, fauna, birds and wildlife are abundant throughout the trip. The Trailhead at Peru offers a place for a fresh drink, bathroom and camping. The plan is to have QR signs along the Trail by the Spring of 2012. Web site gives current condition of trail www.nemahanrd. org/trail.htm NEAL PARK is located on the south edge of Peru. There is hiking, biking, birding opportunities and great picnicking areas in the park or beneath the park pavilion . The PERU MUSEUM features a history of the Missouri River involving fishing, barge traffic and recreation. The Museum is not always open so call 402-872-5865. PERU STATE COLLEGE and the Campus of a Thousand Oaks Arboretum is a botanical resource for students, visitors and residents of Southeast Nebraska. Peru State College was established in 1863 as Mt. Vernon College, then became Peru State College in 1867. It was the first teaching college in the state. 402-872-3815, www.peru.edu PERU CEMETERY – Mount Vernon. The observation point features a Tri-State identity of Nebraska, Missouri and Iowa. The genealogy information is kept at the Peru Museum. “OLD MAN RIVER DAYS” - first weekend in June. For further information call 402–872–6685 The MISSOURI RIVER BOTTOM LAND provides an excellent place for the mushroom morsels in the early Spring. If you are not experienced with the bottomland or just what the morsels are, get a guide. Arbor Manor STEAKHOUSE & MOTEL Enjoy the atmosphere and great food of this 1910 house-turned restaurant. Relax in the gazebo bar during the summer and stay in one of our guest rooms year-round. 1617 Central Ave. Highway 136 West Auburn, NE • 402-274-3663 www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 29 OTOE COUNTY Located within easy distance of Omaha, Lincoln, and Kansas City, Otoe county is a lovely, rolling region of rich, cultivated soil, apple orchards, vineyards, and untamed woods. It borders the dramatic bluffs and rapid water of the Missouri to the east and the High Plains to the west. Otoe, as in the Otoe Indians, is an abbreviation for Watota, which means “lovers of pleasure.” And we’re sure you’ll find much pleasure discovering the geographic diversity of the area as well as the frankly surprising variety of historic, cultural, romantic and familyfriendly attractions. The region is known for its great wines, BBQ, and, of course, apple pie, but be sure to sample some of the local cafes and Mexican restaurants as well. Shopping is also a treat! You won’t get many chains in these parts, but you will find some outstanding specialty boutiques: antiques, art galleries, quilt shops, clothing stores, and green goods are the favorites. Burr As of the last census, 66 people (or 16 families) called this charming southwest Otoe County village home. From Syracuse, you can find Burr 6 miles south on Hwy. 50 and 6 miles west on County Road R. Dunbar Douglas The westernmost village of Otoe County, Douglas, boasts approximately 230 people and close proximity to Lincoln, the state capitol. From Palmyra, you can find Douglas 7.7 miles south on Spur 66A. With a population of about 230 people, this rural village is situated between Nebraska City and Syracuse in Otoe County. It is 11 miles west of Nebraska City on Hwy.2. Lorton Lorton, population 39, is one of the smallest communities of Otoe County, but remains an important point of socialization for area farmers. It covers a total area of 0.1 square miles, all of it land. Locals frequent the popular Lorton Lounge. Nebraska City Although best known for its lush fall foliage and apple harvests, you can experience the splendor of Arbor Day’s hometown yearround. In search of a sun-filled family adventure or cozy getaway? Visit NebraskaCity.com for the best of the area’s eclectic shops, cafes, wineries, museums (11), recreation and world-class lodging opportunities. (402) 873-6654, www.nebraskacity.com Wildwood Historic Center Victorian House & The barn Art & Gift Emporium © Ashley Purdy ARBOR LODGE STATE HISTORICAL PARK, 2300 2nd Ave. Situated on 72 acres of wooded, rolling hills, Arbor Lodge mansion, home of J. Sterling Morton (founder of Arbor Day), features more than 300 varieties of lilacs, a terraced garden, whispering bench and walking trails. Park grounds are open year-round. Mansion open seasonally. Admission. State Park Permit required. 402-873-7222, www.ngpc.state.ne.us ARBOR DAY FARM TREE ADVENTURE, 2611 Arbor Ave. Journey through the woods and orchard on the new Discovery Ride. Climb 50 feet high in the Canopy Tree House. Hike the trails. Play in the Nature Explore Classroom. Watch “Trees in the Movies,” and experience the Lied Greenhouse where you’ll get a free tree seedling to take home. Open daily, year round. Admission. 800-546-5433, www.arbordayfarm.org 30 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide Visit this 10-room home built in 1869. Experience the quiet, orderly, unhurried mood of the mid-Victorian era. Shop in The barn Art Gallery & Gift Emporium featuring regional artists . Plan your special event or just relax in the Victorian Garden. Open mid-April through October Monday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sundays 1-5 p.m. $3 Adult Admission - $1 for child for House Tour (guides in costume) Located at 420 Steinhart Park Road • Nebraska City, NE 402-873-6340 • e-mail [email protected] www.wildwoodhistoriccenter.org OTOE COUNTY CIVIL WAR MUSEUM AT GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC HALL, 910 1st Corso. Civil War and Grand Army of the Republic artifacts are preserved in an original post used as a social gathering place for Union Civil War veterans. Call for hours. Admission. 402-873-4018 MAYHEW CABIN WITH JOHN BROWN’S CAVE, 2012 4th Corso. National Park Service Underground Railroad Network to Freedom site. Visitors can tour the cabin, escape tunnel “cave” and other exhibits. Open May-Oct and by appointment. Admission. 402-873-3115, www.mayhewcabin.org NEBRASKA CITY HISTORICAL SOCIETY’S OLD FREIGHTER’S MUSEUM & NELSON HOUSE, 407 N. 14th St and 711 3rd Corso. Freighter’s museum showcases the importance of transportation to the development of the community dating back to 1859. One of the oldest homes in the state, the Taylor Wessel Bickel Nelson House is filled with period furnishings and artifacts. Call for hours. Admission. 402-873-6188 or 402-873-9360 NEBRASKA CITY MUSEUM OF FIREFIGHTING, 1320 Central Ave. Home to the oldest operating volunteer fire department in Nebraska— pays tribute to its tradition of excellence. Visitors enjoy interactive exhibits featuring antique equipment, dress in real bunker gear and peruse the gift shop. Call for hours. Admission. 402-873-3579, www.ncfire.net MISSOURI RIVER BASIN LEWIS & CLARK INTERPRETIVE TRAIL & VISITOR CENTER, 100 Valmont Dr. Complete with an authentic replica of Lewis and Clark’s keelboat, plenty of hands-on activities, and over 3 miles of trails, this center features more than 300 flora, fauna, and scientific discoveries made on the historic Corps of Discovery Journey. Open year-round. Admission. 402-874-9900, www.MRB-lewisandclarkcenter.org Nebraska City continued on Page 34 It’s more than a getaway. It’s discovery at every turn. Experience the naturally inspiring surroundings of Lied Lodge & Conference Center. Nestled on 260 acres of beautiful woodlands, Lied Lodge’s tranquility ensures comfort and creativity. Hike miles of scenic trails at the Tree Adventure, climb a tree house 50 feet high, savor nature-inspired cuisine, taste wines from our vineyards, or soothe your spirit in the spa. Make your reservation today for a getaway to remember. 2700 Sylvan Road Nebraska City, Nebraska 800-546-5433 liedlodge.org/visit www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 31 ² Nebraska York § ¨ ¦ 6 £ ¤ 80 ¬ « Lincoln 15 ¬ « 103 Friend Exeter Fairmont Grafton Dorchester Crete ¬ « 33 FILLMORE Geneva ¬ « Milligan 41 ¬ « 15 SALINE Cortland Wilber ¬ « ¬ « 41 Clatonia 103 Shickley Strang ¬ « 74 Ohiowa Tobias Western De Witt Swanton 77 £ ¤ Pickrell 81 £ ¤ Davenport Daykin Bruning ¬ « 4 ¬ « Carleton Plymouth 4 GAGE Beatrice Belvidere Alexandria ¬ « ¬ « 53 5 ¬ « 15 THAYER F Byway 136 JEFFERSON Jansen Holmesville Harbine Hebron 136 £ ¤ Deshler Gilead Fairbury Blue Springs ¬ « Wymore 103 Diller ¬ « 112 Endicott Reynolds ¬ « 15 Byron Chester Hubbell Odell Steele City ¬ « 8 ¬ « 112 Barne 75 £ ¤ Southeast Nebraska Omaha Council Bluffs, Iowa La Vista Bellevue Papillion ¬ « Gretna 370 75 £ ¤ Springfield SARPY ¬ « ¬ « 31 Nebraska Roads Plattsmouth ¬ « Louisville 66 66 Greenwood Interstate CASS Murdock Manley ¬ « Alvo Murray ! ( 1 63 US Highway Weeping Water Elmwood Heritage Highway Nehawka Eagle Union 34 £ ¤ Nebraska State Highway Avoca ¬ « 43 Otoe Palmyra ¬ « 2 Unadilla 0 ¬ « 50 ¬ « 2 29 Lorton ¬ « Douglas 128 43 ¬ « 67 Burr ¬ « 128 Talmage Julian Cook Peru Brock Adams ¬ « 41 20 § ¨ ¦ OTOE ¬ « 10 Nebraska City Dunbar Syracuse 5 ¬ « Sterling 67 ¬ « 105 Johnson JOHNSON Tecumseh 136 £ ¤ Auburn NEMAHA Nemaha Crab Orchard Elk Creek Filley ¬ « ¬ « 105 62 Virginia 75 £ ¤ Stella Lewiston Brownville ¬ « 67 ¬ « Shubert 62 Barada Steinauer ¬ « Table Rock 4 ¬ « 99 Humboldt « ¬ «¬ 50 Verdon 65 Dawson Burchard PAWNEE ¬ « Pawnee City 105 Liberty RICHARDSON Salem ¬ « eston 65 ¬ « 99 Du Bois ¬ « 50 73 £ ¤ Falls City 159 £ ¤ Preston Rulo Miles 30 Nebraska City continued OTOE COUNTY RIVER COUNTRY NATURE CENTER, 114 S. 6th St. Don’t miss the learning about four major Nebraska ecosystems (Eastern deciduous, Riparian, Sandhills & Grasslands) and much more. Impressive collection of taxidermy delights young and old. Call for hours. Admission. 402-873-3411, www.RiverCountryNatureCenter.org WILDWOOD HISTORIC HOME & ART GALLERY, 420 Steinhart Park Rd. Ten-room Victorian home, built by Nebraska City banker, contains hundreds of historical pieces. Costumed guided tours give you insight into the lifestyle of the period. Regional artists are showcased in The Art Barn on property. Seasonal hours. Admission to house. 402-873-6340, www.wildwoodhistoriccenter.org KIMMEL HARDING NELSON CENTER FOR THE ARTS, 801 3rd Corso. With constantly changing art exhibits, the center is a popular destination in Nebraska City. The Center also serves as a working retreat for resident artists, writers, and musicians from across the country and around the world. 402-874-9600, www.KHNCenterfortheArts.org ARBOR DAY CELEBRATION 140-year-old Arbor Day Celebration begins the last Friday in April and features children’s activities, parade, run/walk, tree plantings, ceremonies, and tours of Arbor Lodge. NEBRASKA CITY BRIDAL SHOW: “Destination Heartland”, March 11, 2011 NEBRASKA CITY FARMERS’ MARKET, Thursday Afternoons/Evenings June - September KIMMEL ORCHARD STRAWBERRY & CHERRY FESTIVALS, Mid to Late June NEBRASKA CITY LEMON DAYS, Sidewalk Sales Promotion – First Weekend in August KIMMEL ORCHARD WINE UNDER THE PINES FESTIVAL, First Weekend in August KIMMEL ORCHARD PEACH FESTIVAL, August NEBRASKA CITY APPLEJACK FESTIVAL (40+ Years of the Apple Harvest) – Third Weekend in September LIVING HISTORY DAYS Arbor Lodge State Park Living History Days, 4 Weekends Sept-October WILDWOOD HOME VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS, Entire Month of October NEBRASKA CITY TRAIL OF TREATS Halloween Week Palmyra Tucked into the northwest corner of Otoe County with a population of nearly 550, this quaint little community is a prime example of the Nebraska good life and celebrates in a big way every June during the annual Palmyra Old Settler’s Picnic. The main attractions at the event include outdoor movies, bingo, a children’s carnival, flea market, baseball games, horseshoeing demonstrations, an antique tractor display, parade, pie eating contest, pedal tractor pull, street dance and all kinds of delicious food. PALMYRA’S OLD SETTLER’S PICNIC – June 34 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide APPLEJACK FESTIVAL Third weekend in September. The legendary AppleJack Festival features craft and quilt shows, a classic car show, parade showcasing 30 plus marching bands, carnival and orchard festival activities. THE JAYCEES FIREWORKS CELEBRATION & ICE CREAM SOCIAL, Independence Day Weekend at Steinhart Park. Bring your blankets/lawn chairs to enjoy live music, great food and a display that lasts an hour. HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS Holiday cheer, rewarding shopping, and warm memory-making abounds during Nebraska City’s Home for the Holidays each holiday season. What better place is there to be for “trimming the tree” than the home of Arbor Day. Otoe Otoe, population 217, is a village in North Central Otoe County. Previously Berlin, the town was renamed after World War I because of prevailing anti-German sentiment. The Otoe Volunteer Fire Department hosts an Annual Mud-Drag racing event the first Saturday of each July. From Syracuse, visit Otoe by driving 3 ½ miles north on Hwy. 50 and 3 miles east on Spur 66C. OTOE COUNTY MUD DRAGS - July See the Missouri River the way Lewis and Clark did! V isit the Lewis and Clark Visitors Center and experience displays that focus on the captains’ amazing scientific discoveries. People of all ages will learn through interactive participation, youare-there experiences, and an interactive birding exhibit. Visitors can experience several miles of hiking trails. Missouri River Basin Lewis & Clark Interpretive Trail & Visitors Center 100 Valmont Drive • Nebraska City, NE 68410 • 402-874-9900 [email protected]•www.mrb-lewiscandclarkcenter.org Percival/Nebraska City 2103 249th St., 2 Jct. I-29 & Hwy. Percival, Iowa Phone: 712-382-2828 Fax: 712-382-2929 Newly remodeled in Fall 2011 www.super8.com IURPUHQRZQHGDWWUDFWLRQV $QQXDO(YHQWV )HEUXDU\ *URXQGKRJ'D\8QDGLOOD 'HVWLQDWLRQ+HDUWODQG%ULGDO6KRZ1HEUDVND&LW\ $SULO $QQXDO$UERU'D\&HOHEUDWLRQ1HEUDVND&LW\ $UERU'D\.5XQ1HEUDVND&LW\ WRVSHFLDOW\VKRSSLQJ -XQH 6WUDZEHUU\&KHUU\)HVWLYDOV1HEUDVND&LW\ 2OG6HWWOHU¶V3LFQLF3DOP\UD 7DOPDJH'D\V7DOPDJH 8QDGLOOD'D\8QDGLOOD -XO\ 3HDFK)HVWLYDO1HEUDVND&LW\ *RRG:RRG%%4&RQWHVW1HEUDVND&LW\ -D\FHHV)LUHZRUNV&HOHEUDWLRQ1HEUDVND&LW\ 2WRH&RXQW\0XG'UDJV2WRH *HUPDQ)HVW6\UDFXVH WRZRUOGFODVVUHFUHDWLRQ $XJXVW 2WRH&RXQW\)DLU6\UDFXVH /HPRQ'D\V6LGHZDON6DOHV1HEUDVND&LW\ :LQH8QGHUWKH3LQHV)HVWLYDO1HEUDVND&LW\ 6HSWHPEHU 3DWULRW¶V'D\.5XQ6\UDFXVH $QQXDO$SSOH-DFN)HVWLYDO1HEUDVND&LW\ DQGDFFRPPRGDWLRQV 6HSWHPEHU±2FWREHU $UERU/RGJH6WDWH+LVWRULFDO3DUN/LYLQJ+LVWRU\'D\V 1HEUDVND&LW\ 2FWREHU 9LFWRULDQ&KULVWPDVDW:LOGZRRG1HEUDVND&LW\ 7UDLORI7UHDWV1HEUDVND&LW\ 'HFHPEHU +RPHIRUWKH+ROLGD\V1HEUDVND&LW\ 7DQQHQEDXP&HOHEUDWLRQ6\UDFXVH 1HEUDVND&LW\FRPƒ Syracuse OTOE COUNTY Nestled at the intersection of Nebraska Highways 2 and 50 rests Syracuse, a community of 1,947 people which has grown 10% in the past decade. Syracuse combines elements of the past --- original cobblestones on the downtown streets and renovated historic buildings --- with up-to-date specialty design and home accent shops, an art gallery, quilt shop, tea room and coffee shop. Syracuse is rich with German heritage and is a thriving community. PARKS Syracuse hosts a variety of recreational opportunities and facilities. Williams Park is located in the middle of town and features a mile-long lighted bike/walk path, playground equipment, sheltered picnic areas and restroom, along with a fishing pond. Near Williams Park is the Lion’s Club Arboretum. The South Park, located on the south edge of town adjacent to the Otoe County Fairgrounds, offers several large picnic shelters, camper hookups, restrooms and playground. A newly constructed ball complex is in the SW corner of Syracuse. It features 4 ball fields, picnic shelters, volleyball and basketball courts, multi-purpose field and bike walk path. FARMERS MARKET every Saturday from June-August located on Hwy. 50 and 11th Street. The SYRACUSE AQUA CENTERS offers six lap lanes, drop slide, diving boards, zero-depth entry, floor geysers and a flower geyser. In addition, the Syracuse Country Club hosts a wellkept par 70, nine-hole golf course on the western edge of the community. The course is open to the public. OTOE COUNTY MUSEUM OF MEMORIES Syracuse is the home of the Otoe County Museum of Memories, housed in the former First Faith Church, dedicated in 1881. The museum complex also houses the Kramer Building, a nature exhibit, and is open every Sunday afternoon from May through September or by appointment. GERMANFEST The community celebrates its heritage with GermanFest, which will be July 7, 2012. The event is a combination of a downtown Market of food and crafts, “Viener Dog Races”, dancers and singers from the Omaha German/American Society, parade, kids’ activities, street dance and fireworks. OTOE COUNTY FAIR In August, the Otoe County Fair comes to town with all the old-fashioned fair attractions. It is located on the south edge of town at the Otoe County Fairgrounds. TANNEBAUM FESTIVAL Unique to Syracuse is the annual Tannebaum Festival held the first Saturday of December. A large Christmas tree is situated in the middle of the intersection in the heart of the downtown area. A full day of activities include downtown shops’ open houses, kids’ activities, a Christmas tour of homes and a visit with Santa. Additional activities include Christmas caroling and hay ride, if weather permits. 36 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide Talmage This rural community of just over 250 people is on the southern edge of Otoe County off Highway 67. Early pioneers selected the land for its extreme fertility and resources. The grain and food this valley continues to produce surely exceed the dreams of its early settlers. Each May and November, the volunteer fire and rescue personnel sponsor a popular pancake breakfast that supports the area’s ongoing services. The annual community-wide Talmage Days festival features an antique tractor and jeep show, pedal tractor games, good food, and a variety of entertainment. Gritzka Lake, on First Street, is the site of the Youth Fishing Derby and is always open for public fishing. Additional area attractions include the 125-year-old Zion United Church of Christ where visitors stand in awe of unique tin sanctuary walls that prominently feature “the Little Green Man,” an ancient symbol reminding worshipers of the importance to be good stewards of the earth. The Berg Prairie, a 13-acre natural prairie preserve, is home to more than 80 species of plants, several mammals, and, during certain times of the year, neo-tropical birds. Call 402-445-4138 for more information). Tri Valley Bank, one of the oldest banks in the United States, was founded in 1884. The Talmage Public Library began in 1904 when a group of women donated 80 books. Today, its remodeled and expanded space includes a collection of thousands of books, videos, records, copies of early newspapers, and internet access providing an outstanding source for historical and genealogical research. Great for genealogy buffs! For current hours, phone 402-264-3875. The Talmage Community Building is reserved by many for dances and family gatherings. Its central location, air-conditioning and new kitchen make it a great meeting facility. The reservation book is kept at the bank. Call 402-264-2795. THE PANTRY OF Chris’’ Cuisine Chris • SERVING HOMEMADE SOUPS • FRESH SALADS • CHRIS’ FAMOUS CHICKEN SALAD SERVED ON FRESH BAKED BREAD OR CROISSANTS • FRUIT AND CREME PIES USUALLY AVAILABLE 812 CENTRAL AVE. • NEBRASKA CITY, NE 402-873-7962 P AW N E E C O U N T Y OTOE COUNTY Unadilla Unadilla is a village in the northwest region of Otoe County some 20 miles southeast of Lincoln on Hwy. 2. The population was 342 at the 2000 census. In 1911, Main Street was consumed by fire. The buildings were rebuilt in their original locations mirroring the curve of the Nemaha River and railroad tracks. This is the only Main Street of its kind in Nebraska and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1995. In January 1988, the Lt. Governor signed a proclamation declaring Unadilla “Groundhog Capital of Nebraska.” Groundhog Day is celebrated the first Saturday in February and is always marked with a parade at 1 p.m., even during blizzards. Other activities include a jerky contest, soup contest, craft fair and a featured speaker. In recent years, Unadilla has seen a surge of young families moving there for a quieter way of life. Burchard HAROLD LLOYD HOME In the 1920s, silent movie star Harold Lloyd thrilled audiences with his hair-raising stunts. The actor’s boyhood home is a museum that screens Lloyd’s many movies. Open by appointment. Call (402) 865-4665 or (402) 865-6155. More information at www.pawneecountyhistory.com. DuBois DUBOIS BAR & GRILLE – Good food & cold beer, homemade pizza. IRON HORSE LAKE – 1 mile north and 2 west of DuBois, camping and boating. NEMAHA RIVER – 1 mile east of DuBois, fishing and rafting. Pawnee City ZCBJ LODGE HALL Stop at the ZCBJ Lodge Hall near DuBois and admire this one-of-a-kind architecture. This Czech social hall is on the National Historic Register. Dances are held on Saturday nights with other activities at other times. ANNUAL POKER RUN – 3rd week in August. Contact Jon Klepper for more information 402-859-4449. ABATE BIKE RALLY – 3rd week in June. Contact Jimmie Wray 402-859-4737 The commercial district of Pawnee City, comprised primarily of late 19th and early 20th century buildings, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Courthouse in the square dominates the view and reflects, along with the picturesque storefronts, that minimal alteration has occurred to the city’s historic charm. UNADILLA DAY – Unadilla Day is the third Saturday in June and almost always features citywide garage sales and barbecue. The ConventBEDHouse & BREAKFAST Experience the essence of Nebraska’s good life in this former Catholic convent renovated with local family mementos. Sunroom, unique brick patio & backyard gardens. Banquet facilities/catered meals. PAWNEE CITY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM Twenty-two buildings are filled with more than 25,000 items of pioneer furnishings and memorabilia at the Pawnee City Historical Society Museum at the east edge of town on Highways 8 and 50. Dan Whitney’s barn, experimental tailwind airplane and 1,600 sets of salt and pepper shakers are some of the collection of items. Admission is $5 for adults, free for children. For more information go to www.pawneecountyhistory.com or call 402-852-3131. Big Blue Ranch & Lodge Ride horses, fish, hunt, or just relax. conventhousebedandbreakfast.com 402-869-2230 311 Hickory Steinauer, NE email: [email protected] The Convent House is a member of the Nebraska Association of Bed & Breakfast and Southeast Nebraska Tourism Council and Travel Council Beautiful cedar log lodge overlooking 20-acre fishing lake surrounded by tall grass prairie hills and woodlands with abundant wildlife. Cattle ranch adventures, fishing, birdwatching and deer or turkey hunting packages offered. www.bigblueranch.com • 402-865-4335 • Burchard, NE www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 37 P AW N E E C O U N T Y SCHILLINGBRIDGE WINERY AND MICROBREWERY, 62193 710 Road (six blocks west of Highway 50 and 14th Street), features Nebraska’s first farm winery microbrewery combination. Winetasting events are held throughout the year. 402-852-2400, www.schillingbridgewinery.com HEAVENLY TREASURES is a quilter’s paradise in a 1905 church building. More than 5,000 bolts of fabric of assorted lines. Machine quilting and classes available. Local quilt featured each month. A friendly and peaceful shopping experience is yours at Heavenly Treasures. A PEDAL CLINIC More than 450 pedal cars, tractors, airplanes and other toys are displayed at The Pedal Clinic at Hwy. 8 and I Street. Tours are by appointment only. 402-852-2655 AMISH SETTLEMENTS and stores are located in the countryside near Pawnee City and store in Pawnee City. The HISTORIC DOWNTOWN AREA is on the National Register. Pick up a self-guided touring map at the Tourism office. PAWNEE CITY HISTORICAL DAYS The 4th weekend of September. For more information go to www.pawneecountyhistory.com or call 402-852-2444. Steinauer Steinauer is a friendly, quiet and relaxing village to visit. St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, built in the Romanesque style, is the main attraction in town. It was built in 1926 and has beautiful stained glass windows and a large pipe organ. The old Opera House above the Bank of Steinauer brings back memories of years past. The town park has playground equipment, basketball court, bandstand and plenty of room to run around. Lodging at the Convent House Bed and Breakfast is an extra treat! The rooms are beautifully decorated and the breakfasts are delicious! Table Rock 402-839-4135 VETERAN’S MUSEUM – Features military memorabilia from the Civil War, World War I, World War II and all wars including a photo honor display of area men and women who served. TURNER LOG CABIN – Authentic 1800s log cabin furnished in the style of the time. MAPLE GROVE ONE-ROOM SCHOOLHOUSE – Authentic schoolhouse with authentic furnishings and artifacts. STEHLIK CZECH MUSEUM – Features Czech music memorabilia and artifacts. PIONEER MUSEUM – Several buildings displaying horse drawn machinery, tractors, automobiles, farm implements and hand equipment. TABLE ROCK OPERA HOUSE – Beautifully restored 1892 Opera House complete with painted curtain and stage scenery. ARGUS PRINT SHOP – Features newspaper printing equipment, including a one-of-a-kind 1800s printing press and typesetting equipment from late 1800s – mid 1900s. ST. JOHN’S CATHOLIC CHURCH – One of the oldest framed churches in Southeast Nebraska, featuring hand-painted wall murals throughout the building. LIVING HISTORY DAY – Annual educational event for nearly 500 area 5th grade students and interested individuals, featuring hands-on historical learning activities and demonstration. Spend your days in Southeast Nebraska... Spend your nights at Burchard Lodge Burchard, Nebraska Call 402-850-8227 for reservations 38 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide RICHARDSON COUNTY Falls City Falls City is located within a two-hour drive of places like Kansas City, St. Joseph, Topeka, and Omaha. The town’s leadership is tied into the Nebraska Main Street project, emphasizing improvements in the historic downtown district. Bookmark the website www.fallscitynebraska.org for attractions and events worth your time! AQUATIC PARK The Falls City Aquatic Park features fun for all ages! Features like a zero-depth entry, an enclosed 205-foot tube slide, a diving area with one and three meter springboard, sprayground, and more add up to a great way to beat the heat! LIBRARY AND ARTS CENTER Dedicated in 2007, the Library and Arts Center serves a dual mission. Its library features dedicated readership areas for adults and children. You can do your own catalog search at www.fallscitylibrary.org. The Stalder Art Gallery is a state-of-the-art venue hosting shows the entire year. BRENNER FIELD Private and corporate aircraft regularly use Brenner Field airport, handling more than 4,800 landings per year with a 4,000-foot hard surfaced all-weather runway #14-32 with NDB and GPS approaches. It is equipped with computerized WSI Pilot/Vector weather information and includes a comfortable pilot lounge and a courtesy car that can be reserved. Photo courtesy Natural Beauty Photography. KRUMME ARBORETUM This 2-acre site features native plants from Nebraska and adjoining states, about 70 species. The first planting was during 1992. You can experience a southeastern Nebraska version of a ‘Black’ Forest from seven different plantings. Several Boy Scouts of America Eagle projects are part of the property. RICHARDSON COUNTY MUSEUM Donated exhibits from farmers and townspeople alike make the Richardson County Museum reflect the life of early years. Displays include an 1855 letter written by Abraham Lincoln and a working refrigerator and washing machine from the late 19th century. The farm display has its own building. STANTON LAKE PARK AND CANDLELIGHT CABIN This city owned Camper Park is away from the concentrated residential areas, next to a scenic lake. A concrete sidewalk circles the lake with a playground for tykes nearby. Picnic shelters and fishing can be part of the experience. The refurbished Candlelight Cabin is home to many reunions and activities. NORMA’S ANTIQUE MALL Opened in 2009, Norma’s Antique Mall is the largest growing Antique Mall in Southeast Nebraska, with more than 30 quality antique and collectible dealers. Take a step back in time and enjoy the wonderful collections located in a beautiful historic building on the square of Falls City, 1715 Stone Street, 402.245.4338. MINI-PARK MURALS Three hand-painted murals hang at the Mini-Park in Falls City, summarizing the town’s history from its beginning through the mid-1980s. Local artists describe how the town got its name and some of the landmarks of early settlers are drawn. A printed review of the murals is available. Krumme Arboretum Move through 2.2 acres of native plants from ebraska and the region. INDIAN CAVE STATE PARK This 3,000acre park is operated by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. All interior roads are hard-surfaced. Horseback rides and living history presentations are part of the rustic experience. Come check out the annual Halloween Haunted Hollow costume and campsite decorating weekends in October. Park permit required. MILITARY PARK is dedicated to our service men and women. On display are a ship’s anchor, tank, howitzer, and B-17 bomber propeller. The Courthouse hosts a Military Museum back to World War I, including the historical Company B, 134th Infantry, Nebraska Army National Guard. Gorgeous Rooms. Great Rates. GRAND WEAVER Visit us on the Internet at HOTEL Koso-Baldwin Parkway • West 25th St. • Falls City, NE 1800 Stone St. • Falls City 402-245-2448 fallscityonline.com scroll to “tourism and recreation” www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 39 RICHARDSON COUNTY SPRINT TRIATHLON, July 28 - The third annual Sprint Triathlon in Falls City grows each year. Experience a swim of 300 meters, biking 9.3 miles, and running 3.1 miles. JAYCEES’ TRACTOR PULL AND DEMOLITION DERBY, August 4-5 - The Falls City Jaycees’ Tractor Pull and Demolition Derby bring regional entries. Enjoy them at a new, spacious 8-acre site just south of town. COBBLESTONE FESTIVAL, August 24-26 - Cobblestone Festival in Falls City features a parade, family games, a local talent revue, flea market and carnival. Humboldt The HUMBOLDT COMMERCIAL HISTORIC DISTRICT was placed on the National Register in 2005 with the Nebraska Historical Marker placed in the Northeast corner of the City Park. The Humboldt City Square has been revitalized with historic lighting, a painted mural that illustrates the history and heritage of Humboldt, pedestrian amenities, complete new sidewalks with handicap accessibility and the original brick re-laid. Photo courtesy Sandy Stalder. BRUUN MEMORIAL LIBRARY, located on the southeast side of the City Square, was organized in 1884. The newly-renovated addition features a community meeting room, large display of historic pictures, historic memorabilia and a variety of historical records for genealogy research. The library also provides public access computers. bmemorial@neb. rr.com or call 402 862-2941, www.bruunlibrary.org The CITY LAKE PARK in the south part of Humboldt features two fishing lakes, tent and RV camping, swimming pool, tennis court, playground area, ball fields and picnic shelters with tables, lights and electrical outlets. The west lake features a walking bridge to the center park. 402 862-2171, www.ci.humboldt.ne.us Photo courtesy Natural Beauty Photography. CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE, November 23 - The Falls City community greets the seasonal change with a Christmas Open House. Decorated evergreen trees show creative talent and a Santa sleigh comes calling! DUAINE & SANDY STALDER’S GANDY HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST is located one block north of the City Square. This Arts & Craft home was built in 1889 by the family of Dr. & Mrs. George Gandy, whose father, Dr. James Gandy, was one of the first doctors in Humboldt in 1869. 402 862-3278, www.gandyhouse.com The HUMBOLDT FALL FESTIVAL (since 1921) and Richardson County Fair (since 1924) sponsored by the Humboldt Chamber is located around the Humboldt City Square and Park. The fair, in mid-September, hosts rides and concessions for three days and nights with daily parades in the mornings and free acts on the City Park stage in the afternoon and evenings. 402 862-2821, [email protected] KIRKMAN’S COVE RECREATIONAL AREA is a Nemaha Natural Resource 500-acre complex that features a public golf course and 160-acre lake. The park includes fishing, boating, swimming beach, water skiing, picnicking, playground equipment, hiking trails and RV and tent camping. 402-335-3325, www.nemahanrd.org Make your 40 winks feel like a million bucks. CHECK IN MOTEL 1715 Stone Street, Falls City, Nebraska 402-245-4338 Rob & Kristy Gerweck, Owners Cheri Adams, Manager 2824 N. Old Hwy. 73 Falls City, NE 68355 402-245-2433 Fax: 402-245-5895 [email protected] Mailing Address: 2415 Fulton St., Falls City, NE 68355 Wireless Internet 40 www.checkinmotel.com Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide Hours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. RICHARDSON COUNTY HUMBOLDT CITY SQUARE PARK O.J. Tinker donated the land for the Humboldt City Square Park in 1871. The bandstand, in the center of the Park, was dedicated in 1912 in his memory. The park has a playground, Lion’s Club water fountain with memorial bricks and two American Legion Post #269 War Memorials. Photo courtesy Sandy Stalder. KIRKMAN’S LAKEVIEW GOLF COURSE is located 4 miles west and north of Humboldt along Highway 4. It is a 9-hole green grass public golf course with the golf course and club house open March through October. Call 402-862-2828 for golfing fees and tournament schedules. www.klgcgolf.com BOY SCOUT CAMP located 12 miles south of Humboldt contains 360 acres of rolling hills with large oak trees and an abundance of wildlife. When the Scout Camp is not occupied with Scouts, the facility is open to public camping. www.Cornhuskercouncil.com OSAGE WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT (NE Game & Parks) oversees many Wildlife Management areas around Humboldt, Table Rock, Pawnee City and DuBois where the public can hunt year round. Call Mike Remund, NE Game & Parks, 402-335-2534, for information. RICHARDSON COUNTY 4-H FAIR, July 23-28, 2012 – Richardson County 4-H fair features 4-H project exhibits, Livestock shows and judging daily. Contact [email protected] or call 402-245-4324 RICHARDSON COUNTY FREE FAIR, September 13-15, 2012 - Richardson County Free Fair, held around the City square, with rides and concessions. Daily parades at 11 a.m. and free entertainment at 2 and 8 pm. Daily 4-H exhibits & livestock shows in Ag arena. [email protected] or call 402 862-2821. CHAMBER MERCHANT CHRISTMAS, November 19, 2012 – Chamber Merchant Christmas opening with retail business and specialty vendors, soup supper, Santa, Library book fair and free horse & buggy rides around City Square. Contact [email protected] or call 402-862-2821 FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION, July 4, 2012 –All day events, including mud volleyball, softball tourney, kids games, fire truck rides, Chamber BBQ & free fireworks. Bank of Peru Is Online! Our newest branch is a little closer to HOME VISIT US TODAY NOW OPEN 24/7 www.fbcdirect.com HUMBOLDT MURAL The mural illustrates the history and heritage of Humboldt and depicts all the pomp and pageantry of the Richardson County Fair, complete with marching band, flags, horses, fair queens and tractors. Shubert PIONEER RENDEZVOUS Indian Cave State Park near Shubert hosts Pioneer Rendezvous on the first weekend May through October. Park permit required. HAUNTED HOLLOW HAYRACK RIDES, October 13, 19-20, 26-27, at Indian Cave State Park near Shubert blend a spoooooky-theme and a usual campers’ decorating contest. Park permit required. SEETHE DIFFERENCE VISION INN MOTEL 2621 Harlan Street, Hwy. 73 FALLS CITY, NEBRASKA Phone: 402-245-2459 • Fax: 402-245-4797 WWW.VISIONINNMOTEL.COM Locally Owned Continental Breakfast www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 41 SALINE COUNTY Saline County is rich in agricultural interest, with eight communities located within its boundaries, the largest and easternmost being Crete. To its west, on Highway 33, is Dorchester and Friend. Ten miles south from Crete on Highway 103 is Wilber, and 7 more miles south is the community of DeWitt. The towns of Swanton, Western and Tobias are located on county roads west of Wilber off Highways 41 and 15. Although subject to current winds of change, every county in Nebraska has been reported to be Republican, except the county of Saline which has registered Democratic for more than 100 years. Some historians have attributed this to the Czech heritage, for the county claimed the heaviest population in the state of Czech descendants, which immigrated from Czechoslovakia in the 1800s and were known as “free thinkers.” The area is ideal for hunting and fishing with Wildlife Management and Protection Areas. Courtesty of Crete Chamber of Commerce Crete The City of Crete is the northernmost city in Saline County, located 25 miles southwest of Lincoln. With a population of more than 6,000, it’s home to several major industries and a variety of business establishments, and is proud to have top-quality innovative health services at its local modern hospital. Crete has several churches representing a variety of denominations, a public library, five public parks, a swimming pool and a 9-hole golf course at the Country Club. There are two motels, a bed and breakfast, and shopping areas. Several historic properties are listed on the National Register of Historic places, including the College Hill Historic District, Doane College Historic, Jesse C. Bickle House, Frank J. Rademacher House, Johnston/Muff-Algermissen House and the Trinity Memorial Episcopal Church. The Bickle House, (The Maples) and Boswell Observatory on the Doane College Campus are museums, open to the public, tours by appointment. Contact Mark at 402-826-8621 or Janet at 402-8268234. Doane College is located on the eastern edge of town and features a 350-acre garden, comprehensive library, auditorium, meeting rooms and other conference facilities. The Maples Heritage Complex and the new Benne Memorial Museum is located at 800 W. 13th St., and is a historical farmstead with a modern 5,000-sq.-ft. museum. Visit the Bickle Homestead with its 1864 log home and a 1909 Saline County District No. 1 Star School. Open by appointment at 402-826-4656 or 402-826-5270. The Crete Heritage Society will host the 4th annual Riverside Music Festival July 14 and 15, 2012, at the historic Jesse C. Bickle Farmstead in west Crete. The festival features more than 20 hours of classic country, old-time and variety music. Acts come from around the country, including the states of Colorado, Kansas, Florida and Nebraska. The stage and audience area is sheltered by a canopy of trees and food vendors are on hand to provide refreshments. Proceeds support the 17-acre museum complex. Contact Dawn at 402-826-2374 or Janet at 402-826-5270, www.creteheritage.org. Doane College is providing $10,000 to fund the initial creation of a Nature Explore Classroom/ Park. The Crete Community Foundation initially contributed $3,500 to pay for design of the outdoor facility for children and families. Total cost of the Nature Explore Classroom/Park is approximately $45,000. This is a collaborative program of the Arbor Day Foundation and Dimensions Education Research Foundation. Doane and Crete will be a part of the Nature Action Collaborative for Children, a worldwide network whose goal is to help nature become an integral, joyful part of children’s daily lives and learning process. For details, contact Deb Polacek, Director, Crete Chamber of Commerce, 402-826-2136 or www.cretechamber.org. Crete Heritage Society First State Bank Cortland DeWitt Dorchester Filley Firth Hallam Hickman Lincoln 4915 Old Cheney Rd. Havelock Wal-Mart South Pickrell Prairie Home Waverly Western Wilber Yutan www.1fsb.com Member FDIC 42 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide Visit the 17-acre Crete Heritage Complex in Crete. Featuring the Benne Memorial Museum, the Bickle Homestead with 1864 log home, and the 1909 Saline County District #1 Star School. Special exhibits throughout the year and the Riverside Country Music Festival July 14-15, 2012. Open selected dates year-round, call or visit our Web site for hours. July Music Fe stival! 800 West 13th St. • Crete, ebraska 402-826-5270 • 402-826-5050 • www.creteheritage.org SALINE COUNTY Courtesty of Crete Chamber of Commerce BENNE MEMORIAL MUSEUM, 800 W. 13th St., along with The Maples complex, and the Bickle House, all open by appointment at 402-826-4656 or 402-826-5270. DOANE COLLEGE CAMPUS, eastern edge of Crete, has a 350-acre garden, comprehensive library, auditorium and other facilities. Its Boswell Observatory is a museum, open to the public. Call Mark at 402-826-8621 or Janet 402-826-8234. Courtesty of Crete Chamber of Commerce ANNUAL RIVERSIDE MUSIC FESTIVAL, July 14 and 15 - 4th Annual Riverside Music Festival, at Bickle farmstead west edge of Crete. More than 20 hours of classic country, old-time and variety music, tree-sheltered with food vendors. Call Dawn at 402-826-2374 or Janet at 402-826-5270. SALINE COUNTY FAIR, July 24 – 29 - Saline County Fair at Tuxedo Park, west edge of Crete. Livestock judging, Figure 8 Race, Tractor Pull, Rodeo, Dance, and Parade downtown. For details, call Theresa Vernon, 402-826-4787. ANNUAL HALLOWEEN EVENT, October 27 - Annual Halloween event downtown, parade, kids rides, costume contest, trick or treating at businesses. Contact Crete Chamber of Commerce, Deb Polacek, 402-826-2136. Sokol Hall Haunted house in Oct. Contact Nate Walenta at 402-418-7063. www.cretesokol.org. VETERAN’S DAY CELEBRATION, Nov. 11 - Veteran’s Day celebration at Doane College Heckman Auditorium. Call Becky Brewer 800-333-6263. Get Dewitt DeWitt’s landmark year was in 2002 when it celebrated its 130th birthday. A few short years ago, the town lost its main industry, American Tool, which was the original maker of the renowned Vise Grip Hand-Locking Tool that employed more than 700 area residents. But the hearty community continues to offer the public a modern community center, swimming pool, library, village office, three ball fields, sand volleyball court, museum, three churches, and the Tri-County school system. The Community Club sponsors an annual Independence Day celebration for several surrounding area towns. Call the City Office, 402-683-5025. ANNUAL INDEPENDENCE DAY, June 30 - Annual Independence Day celebration with fireworks, clowns, races, games tractor pull, car show. Contact Lana Hager 402-683-5195. ith w d e Notic Blue Blossom Floral Unusual Gifts • Home Decor 135 Maple Street • Friend, NE 68359 • bbfl[email protected] x 328 O. Bo 2121 . P , t Stree 02-426•4 . 16th om 138 N NE 68008 risepub.c Blair, w.enterp ww www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 43 SALINE COUNTY Dorchester Dorchester was named when the Burlington & Missouri River Railroad was naming towns west of Lincoln according to the alphabet, and no one is sure why its name was selected in 1871, and 10 years later it became incorporated. By 1889, the population had swelled to 800, but throughout the Depression and other hardships, it has diminished, like so many other communities. But its proximity to industries in Crete, Seward and Lincoln and access to I-80 has kept the population stable. SALINE COUNTY MUSEUM In the 1960s, the Saline County Historical Society located its museum in Dorchester, and today the museum has 11 buildings on five acres housing many historical items. It is located on the east edge of town on Highway 33. Its unique “In Loving Memory” exhibit shows how Americans deal with death, mourning and funeral customs. The museum is open April through October, Sundays 2-5 p.m., or by appointment. Contact the museum, 402-947-2911, or Judy Rada at 402-243-2356 or Mary Anne Placek at 402-448-5265. The BLUE RIVER STATE RECREATION AREA is 5 miles north of town, which is a day-use area (no camping) with fishing available year round. 402- 821-2161. Saline County Museum photo courtesy of Crete Chamber of Commerce JULY 4 ANNUAL INDEPENDENCE DAY celebration with fireworks, parade and other activities. Contact Steve Ottmann at 402-946-4821. Friend Friend, a community of 1,100 people, is located on Route 6, 12 miles south of I-80 in Southeast Nebraska’s Saline County. The Friend Chamber of Commerce, the Friend Industrial Development Corporation, and the City of Friend combine their efforts to provide economic development in the community. The Friend Industrial Development Corporation has been instrumental in obtaining Community Development Block Grants, which have enabled new businesses, including RTS Inc., The Pour House, and Hardwood Artisan, to start in Friend. A public 9-hole golf course and Friend Country Club are located on the east side of town. WARREN OPERA HOUSE In 2006, the Friend Historical Society began its effort to restore the historic Warren Opera House. This “step back in time” is located on the second floor of the Warren building at 511 2nd Street, with the Pour House Tasting Room located on the first floor. Immediately next door is the Friend Historical Society’s 3,200-sq.-ft. party room called the San Carlo Room. This room is available for rent for everything from graduations and private events to community celebrations. The Society also uses the space to bring cultural performance events to the area. (402) 947-2251 • www.friendchamber.com 44 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide To make the most of your visit to Friend you need to take in the specialty shops that call Friend home, such as Blue Blossom Floral (402-947-6321) with its unique home décor, silk & fresh flowers and unique jewelry. Or visit 2nd Chance Antiques located downtown. SALINE COUNTY Friend features several eateries such as Jo-Leigh’s Java Jitters (402-947-3840), Green Top (402-947-6892), or Sidewaze Sports Bar & Grill (402-947-2332). Friend Country Club is open to the public for evening dining (402-947-6501). Friend has everything to offer any family that moves to town: a hospital, medical center, long-term care facility, K-12 school, grocery store, drug store and many more businesses that help complete this community. COMMUNITY EASTER EGG HUNT in April DUAL COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE June, Father’s Day weekend. Dual Community Garage Sale between Friend & Dorchester FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION, July 4th - in the city park FRIEND FEST, September COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL, December Swanton Swanton, the tiniest of Saline County communities, is located 6 miles west and 7 miles south of Wilber. It has about 100 residents and is a typical rural community. More Village office info, 402-448-2425. You can spot sheep and goats near the highway. ANNUAL FIREMEN’S GOOSE FEED, Feb. 19 - Annual Firemen’s Goose Feed, Auditorium. Contact Lynn Strouf, 402-448-2950. Tobias Tobias is located about 20 miles southeast of Wilber on Highway 74, and is truly representative of a rural agricultural small community. Building of the town began in 1884, and at its peak, was home to more than 600 people. Today the population is about 158 residents who participate in their Community Club and American Legion Auxiliary activities and events that support the local Fire and Rescue department, along with its annual Fun Fair Day, the third Saturday in August. The tiny Historical Museum, located in the old bank building and the library, in the old print shop, can be visited by contacting Judy Rada at 402-243-2356 or City Clerk Carol Rafert at 402-243-2319. ANNUAL FUN FAIR, COMMUNITY CLUB, August 18. Contact Linda Shafer, 402-243-2391. Vitáme Vás We Welcome You To Wilber, Neb., the Czech Capital of Nebraska and U.S.A. Join us and celebrate the 51st Annual Czech Festival Aug. 3, 4 & 5, 2012 Enjoy continuous FREE outdoor entertainment including dance contests, kolace eating contests, talents contest and the Czech historical pageant. Watch the Miss Czech-Slovak U.S. Pageant with contestants from all over the U.S. Festival Activities: Art Show • Travelogue • Quilt Show • Craft Show • Heritage Demonstrations • Kids Rides • Camping • Quilt Raffles • Street Vendors • Bingo • 10K Walk/Run • Dancing • Accordion Jamborees • Sports Events • 3 Parades • Car Show • Historical Pageant Also take part in these year-round activities: Guided Tours • Historic Buildings • Hotel Wilber • Dvoracek Library • Heritage Room • Outdoor Theatre • Czech Museum • Old Country Sausages • Czech Baked Goods • Authentic Baked Meals • Garnet Jewelry • Czech Costumes • Crafts & Souvenirs Wilber Area Chamber of Commerce • Nebraska Czechs of Wilber • City of Wilber www.wilberchamberofcommerce.com • www.nebraskaczechsofwilber.com Czech Days Information • P.O. Box 652 • Wilber, NE 68465 American Legion Park -- Camping • Hookups • Showers • Dump Station -- 402-821-3016 1-888-494-5237 www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 45 SALINE COUNTY Western Western, another small rural community with a population of 287, has an active Community Club, and will be celebrating its 140th birthday in 2012, and the 115th anniversary of its annual Old Settler’s Picnic. STRUCKMAN-BAATZ PUBLIC LIBRARY Western’s Struckman-Baatz Public Library sponsors an exhibit of many small 2-ft. decorated Christmas trees each year during the month of December. Library hours are Tues. – Fri. ,1:30 to 5:30, and Sat., 9:30 to Noon. Call 402-433-2177 or Barb Schwisow at 402-4332541. SALINE CENTER Nine miles north of Western, located on Highway 15, is a social hall named Saline Center, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and was included because of its role in the assimilation of Czech immigrants into American culture. Constructed in the late 1930s, it is still a well-used building, housing weddings, dances, meetings, and a large annual consignment auction. ANNUAL CONSIGNMENT SALE, March 18 - Saline Center, 9 miles north of Western. An auction where live farm animals are sold along with farm machinery, automobiles, furniture and antiques. Held inside building and outside area, rain or shine. Call 402-821-2367 or Lowell Kotas at 402- 821-3191. OLD SETTLER’S PICNIC, July 20 – 21 - Town’s 140th birthday and 115th anniversary of its Old Settler’s Picnic downtown. Car Show, Chicken BBQ, kids rides, entertainment and parade. Call 402-433-2541. Wilber Wilber is located 36 miles southwest of Lincoln, where state Highways 41 and 103 intersect. It was selected as one of the first “Nebraska Heritage Communities” in 1998. The county seat for Saline County, Wilber is a small community of only 1,760 residents that rises each year to accomplish a highly successful ethnic festival. The festival draws more than 50,000 people nationwide and from other countries—the first weekend in August each year. 2011 marked the 50th year of the Czech Festival. Wilber was proclaimed the Czech capital of the USA in 1987 by President Reagan, and as the State Czech capital by Governor Morrison in 1963. But you don’t have to be of Czech heritage to join in the fun and entertainment at the four-day festival. For festival information, click on these websites: www.nebraskaczechsofwilber.com and www. wilberchamberofcommerce.com. The Czech culture is not limited to the annual festival, for the heritage is displayed year round at its recently remodeled Czech Museum on the main street, with full-sized room displays of a barber shop, dental office, meat market and a traditional Czech home. You can see rug making on a working loom. Local historian Verne Anthony can be contacted for local genealogy guidance at 402-821-3277. The Museum is open daily from 1– 4 p.m. or by appointment, admission is free. 888-494-5237 or 402-821-2183. Also, the Sokol Hall downtown houses a mini museum of Czech Sokol athletic historic items. Available by calling 402-821-2690. WILBER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Sponsored year round by the Wilber Area Chamber of Commerce are walking tours of the downtown business area with costumed guides that include the Czech architecture, store fronts identified in Czech language and Czech music on the streets. Tours include authentic Czech meals, and time for shopping for authentic Czech imports and food items at the meat markets, bakery, drug store and craft shops. All are open year round and available by appointment. 888-494-5237 or 402-821-2574. Furniture, Vintage Dolls, Phones (parts & pieces), Pottery (Hull, Fenton, Roseville), Trunks Wilber CZECH MUSEUM Ethnic Exhibits of Early Homes and Shops • Rugs • Dolls • Quilts • Czech Books • Gift Shop Open Daily 1-4 PM or By Appointment Closed: January & February HEDGEHOG & HUBBY’S GIFTS/A TIQUES Highway 76E-Dorchester, Nebraska Phone: 402-946-2193 Open 1-6 Tuesday-Friday, 10-6 Saturday, 1-6 Sunday 46 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide 888-494-5237 or 402-821-2183 102 W. 3rd St. • Wilber, NE SALINE COUNTY HOTEL WILBER The jewel in Wilber’s Czech crown is Hotel Wilber, built in 1895, maintained and restored even as recently as 2011. It is a Victorian structure, modernized with 12 antiquefurnished rooms to rent, with a bed and breakfast atmosphere and restaurant, open year round. 402-821-2020. VETERAN’S MEMORIAL As the Saline County seat, Wilber was the county’s selection for housing the new county Veteran’s Memorial at a cost of $250,000, half of which has been raised from donations, grants and fundraising. Phase I of the endeavor was completed and dedicated in November of 2011. It is located on the northwest corner of the Saline County Courthouse, just four blocks west and one north of the downtown main intersection of Highways 41 and 103. For more information, call 402-826-3372 for Ron Corbett or 402-243-2232 for Lyle Bartels. WILBER CZECH MUSEUM, recently remodeled, houses a vast array of Czech items and history; language, cookbooks and other handmade items for sale; meeting room; and offers local genealogical guidance. Open daily 1 – 4 p.m. or by appointment. 402-821-2183. CZECH CULTURAL CENTER, downtown main street, to be completed by June 2012, will house displays of Czech puppets and dolls, and much musical history and information. 402-8213233. ANNUAL CZECH FESTIVAL KICKOFF, March 16 - Dance and Crowning of Czech Royalty for 2012 at Sokol Hall. Czech Dancers and Alumni Czech Band, all free. 402-821-2749 VETERAN’S DAY PROGRAM, Nov. 9, - at W-C High School, 9 a.m. 402-821-2508. CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION, December 1 & 2 - Sokol Hall downtown, Christmas celebration, with Czech heritage and American traditions. Decorated tree contest, Santa visits, entertainment, crafts, contests, vendors and food available. Free will donation for admission. Call 402-821-2304. Wilber’s DVORACEK PUBLIC LIBRARY includes a separate Czech heritage room with a vast amount of information and is open Mon. - Fri. from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sat. 9 a.m. to Noon. 402-821-2832. Also, the local American Legion and Auxiliary are active organizations having a historic building downtown on Highway 103, and a large building in its Legion Park just on the south edge of town, with several ball fields, a sand volleyball court, four tennis courts and a year-round campground. Call John Prochazka at 402-821-3016 for camping information. A new state-of-the-art swimming pool provides summer entertainment as well as swim meets, and the new Saline County Law Enforcement Center, located on Highway 103, will host tours. Call 402-821-2111. SALINE COUNTY’S ELDERCARE office is at 109 W. 3rd, on the main street of Wilber, and is open weekdays except holidays. It is an information and referral agency that provides guidance in issues such as taxes, Medicare, food and clothing, and has a meal delivery program for county residents. Call 402-8213330 or 800-778-3309 for more information. The City of Wilber governs the Wilber Care Center, located on the north edge of town on Highway #103, with a 70-bed nursing home, a physical therapy center and a recent addition for Assisted Living residents. It is a top-rated facility that the community is proud to have. 402-821-2331 SOKOL HALL, downtown at 317 S. Wilson St., is available for meetings, dances, reunions, celebrations, and houses a mini museum of Czech Sokol athletic historic items. 402-821-2690. 51ST ANNUAL CZECH FESTIVAL, August 2 – 5 - downtown, with 3 parades, 50 bands, 100 vendors, Miss Czech Slovak U.S. contest and pageant, historical pageant, contests, shows, new vehicle raffle, continuous entertainment, all free. Call 888-4WILBER or 402-821-2749. www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 47 Bellevue SARPY COUNTY HAWORTH PARK, End of Mission Ave - Open year round, Haworth Park features 153 acres of park land with a concession stand, public boat launch, RV pads equipped with electric/water hookups, fishing pond, picnic tables and grills, shelters, playground, restrooms, soccer fields, basketball courts, lighted tennis courts, lighted softball diamonds and a sand volleyball court. 402-293-3098 SARPY COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM, 2402 Clay Street - Trace the history of Sarpy County from the original American Indians to its present-day residents. Exhibits include the history of fur traders, missionaries, period rooms, early agricultural pursuits, and a scale model of Fort Crook - now Offutt Air Force Base. Tour information 402-2921880. www.sarpycountymuseum.org BELLEVUE LITTLE THEATER, 203 Mission Avenue - For those in search of live performance art, the Bellevue Little Theater - now in its 43rd season - is a treasured find. Throughout the year, experience award-winning community theater set in the heart of Old Towne Bellevue. Check website for performance details. 402-291-1554 www.bellevuelittletheater.com BELLEVUE PIONEER CEMETERY, 13th Avenue & Lord Blvd. - Tour cemetery for history lessons through time. View resting places of families who pioneered Bellevue. Among those buried here are Fenner Ferguson, first chief justice, Nebraska Territory; Big Elk, prominent chief of the Omaha tribe; archaeologist and artist Dr. Gilder. Tour information 402-293-2142. FONTENELLE BANK, 2212 Main Street - Built in 1857, Fontenelle Bank houses Bellevue memorabilia; an original walk-in vault, exhibits depicting the city’s history and rare samples of Greek-Revival Italianate styling. A year after the bank’s founding, it closed and became the Sarpy County Courthouse and in 1875 Bellevue City Hall. Tour information 402-293-3142. HISTORIC LOG CABIN, 1805 Hancock Street - A treasure of history, this cabin is believed to have been built around 1830. The home changed hands a few times with three families occupying from 1856 to 1950. Most recent residents lived there for around 50 years without indoor plumbing or electricity. Tour information, 402-293-3142. OMAHA AND SOUTHERN RAILROAD DEPOT, 2402 Clay Street - In the mid 1800s, this depot was a hub for commerce and travel. Inside discover a pot belly cast iron stove, Morse code telegraph keys, an oak railroad station clock, oak station waiting benches, trunks, maps, pictures and station safe. Tour information, 402-293-3142. OLD PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 2002 Franklin Street - Step inside this historic building and you’re standing in the oldest church building in the state of Nebraska. Nineteenth-century oak pews, antique stained-glass windows and summer gardens adorn the 150-year-old building. Tour information, 402-293-3142. GROTTO AT SAINT COLUMBANS, 1902 Calhoun St. - within Bellevue City limits - A retreat center and lots of room for you to visit our campus. A short walking trail leads to a grotto, a place for reflection. A number of wild animals such as deer and turkey and other creatures call this place “home,” too. 402-291-1920, www.columban.org/bellevue-nebraska RIVERFEST – July 20-21. Community Festival, Nebraska State BBQ Championship. If you love good food, especially BBQ, and good times and two nights of music, Riverfest is for you. www.bellevuenebraska.com. VETERAN’S DAY PARADE, November 3. Patriotic parade to honor the military services. www.bellevuenebraska.com. ARROWS TO AEROSPACE, August 18 - Mission Ave. & Washington Park. Community celebration featuring a parade, pancake feed, pet show, art in the park, activities for children, entertainment, food and fun. 48 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide FONTENELLE FOREST NATURE CENTER, 1111 N. Bellevue Blvd.- 1,400 acres of woods, wetlands, waterways along 19 miles of trails, including two all-access boardwalks. Overlooking the Missouri River; spectacular scenery and an educational view of wildlife and natural habitat. The Nature Center offers exhibits and live animal displays. 402731-3140, www.fontenelleforest.org LaVista CABELA’S, 12703 Westport Parkway. World’s foremost outfitter of quality merchandise, 128,000-ft. showroom is an entertainment attraction with museum quality animal displays and trophy animals interacting in realistic re-creations of their natural habitat. There is a huge aquarium and lots more. 402-861-4800. www.cabelas.com MIDWEST WINDS KITE FLYERS, La Vista Sports Complex. May – Annual Spring Kite Festival – Free. October – Annual Fall Festival – Free. www.midwestwindskiteflyer.org. Gretna SARPY COUNTY AK-SAR-BEN AQUARIUM/SCHRAMM STATE RECREATION AREA, 21004 West Highway 31, Exit 432. A 330acre state recreation area sits along the Platte River with three miles of hiking paths. Site of the state’s first fish hatchery. The aquarium offers 12 viewing tanks and a glimpse into underwater wildlife. Picnicking and exploring outside. 402-332-3901, www.npgc.state.ne.us./parks HOLY FAMILY SHRINE, 23132 Pflug Road. Situated high atop a hill overlooking the scenic Platte Valley, Holy Family Shrine is a 23-acre site offering travelers a welcome spot for rest, relaxation and reflection. Gardens and stone paths surround the visitor’s center and chapel. 402-332-4565, www.holyfamilyshrineproject.com LINOMA BEACH & LIGHTHOUSE, 171601 S. 255th Street. This landmark features a 40-acre lake and a 110-foot lighthouse bearing the word “LINOMA”. Named to recognize the two major cities it sits between - Lincoln and Omaha. Sand, and swimming in the lake, sand volleyball, badminton along with chairs and umbrellas dotting the beach. www.linomalighthouse.com VALA’S PUMPKIN PATCH, 12102 S. 180th St. Open September 25-October 31. Experience rural beauty and interactive fun at this pickyour-own farm. Hayrack rides to the pumpkin field, delicious food at more than a dozen locations. Entertainment, petting corral, country bakery and gift shop. 402-332-4200, www.valaspumpkinpatch.com NEBRASKA CROSSING OUTLETS & SPECIALTY SHOPPING, I-80, Exit 432. Retail stores, specialty shops, car show, craft fair, farmers market and more. Check web site for calendar of events. www.nebraskacrossingoutlets.com GRETNA DAYS An annual town celebration to thank the citizens of Gretna for supporting local business. www.gretnachamber.com OUTDOOR MOVIE AND CONCERT SERIES La Vista Public Library, 9110 Giles Rd. Friday nights throughout the summer months. www.cityoflavista.org. LA VISTA DAZE, May 24 – 27. Carnival in Central Park, community cookout, parade, fireworks, concert – fun for the whole family. Various events for all ages. www.cityoflavista.org/lavistadaze Offutt Air Force Base OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE Site of the U.S. Strategic Air Command, Offutt is regarded as one of the highest-level military installations in the nation. Home to the 55th Wing - supporting several vital national defense organizations. Each branch of the U.S. military is represented among the approximately 12,000 military and federal employees assigned here. www.offutt.af.mil BELLEVUE OFFUTT RUNWAY RUN, May 13 – 7-mile run includes about 2 miles of Offutt’s Runway. Old Towne to Base at Bellevue Gate and back through gate. DEFENDERS OF FREEDOM AIR SHOW, Aug. 24-25, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Free admission. 402-232-8787, www.offuttairshow.com. Papillion BELLEVUE BERRY & PUMPKIN RANCH, 11001 S. 48th Street - An outdoor adventure awaits as you pick your own berries and pumpkins. Come for a Pirate Festival, Wild West Fest or Great Pumpkin Round Up. Hayrack rides, a playground, and a rental barn are also available. 402-331-5500, www.bellevueberryfarm.com PAPIO FUN PARK, 210 E. Lincoln Street - Something for everyone - laser tag, go-kart racing, miniature golf, batting cages, water wars, an arcade, trampoline games, and more. Spend the day. Group packages, wristbands, snacks and prizes. It’s the place to be for all your fun all year long! 402-592-5671, www.papiofunpark.com WALNUT CREEK LAKE/RECREATION AREA, NE Highway 370 & 96th Street, Beautiful area for fishing, boating, hiking, picnicking, and RV & tent camping along with a boat dock and fishing pier. An equestrian trail is a favorite path for horseback riding. 402-592-8877, www.papillion.org SUMTUR AMPHITHEATER, 11691 S. 108th Street Outdoor amphitheater with productions, movies, events and entertainment throughout spring, summer and fall. Check website for event dates. www.sumtur.org Nebraska Crossing Outlets & Specialty Shops Sidewalk Sales Holiday Events Summer Car Shows Great Shopping! I-80, Exit 432 - Gretna www.nebraskacrossingoutlets.com www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 49 SARPY COUNTY WERNER PARK - Home of the Storm Chasers, 12356 Ballpark Way - Home to AAA baseball games and other events featuring a spacious berm and standing room areas. Perfect for business expos, motivational seminars, concerts, baseball tournament, conventions, corporate seminars, agricultural shows, church gatherings and much more. www.omahastormchasers.com, 402-738-5100 WEHRSPANN LAKE/CHALCO HILLS Highway 50 & I-80, Exit 440. A great spot for anglers , picnic sites, more than seven miles of trails, perfect for biking, hiking or jogging and bird watching. The visitor center overlooks the lake. 402-444-6222, www.papionrd.org SHADOW LAKE TOWNE CENTER, Highway 370 & 72nd Street - For home, fashion, grocery, discount and lifestyle retailing in one convenient location. We provide a wide selection of shopping opportunities and restaurants in an easily accessible environment. More than 70 stores, restaurants and services. www.shadowlakeshopping.com PAPIO BAY AQUATIC CENTER, 815 E. Halleck Street Summertime fun - five acres of swimming, recreational resources, zero-depth pool, waterslides, diving boards, sand volleyball, sand play area, grass/patio sunning areas, wading pool with frog slide. Concessions and boathouse. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day. 402-597-4055 or 402-597-2041, www.papillion.ne.us Sumtur Amphitheater at Walnut Creek PAPILLION DAYS, June 15 -17 -City Park. Parade, carnival, tractor pull, Papillion’s Got Talent, youth dance, adult dance, BBQ contest, pony rides, vendors. www.papillionfoundation.org See Indian artifacts, farm equipment, old general store and several period rooms. View the Tues. - Sat. 10 - 4 7 ft. x 12 ft. model of historic Fort Free Admission Crook, catch one of our historical programs, and bring home a 402-292-1880 souvenir from the gift shop. 2402 Clay St. • Bellevue, NE www.sarpycountymuseum.org Make A Splash! Live Concerts • Musical Plays Camps • Free Events Swinging in Summer Music Series Starlight Movie Series Sumtur Amphitheater features 350 permanent seats and additional hillside seating for up to 2,000 Zero Depth Entry • Water Slides • Diving Boards Sand Volleyball Courts • Children’s Area Full Bathhouses • Concessions • Season Passes 2012 Season Proudly owned and operated by the City of Papillion. or details, contact the Recreation Department at (402) 597-2041 or visit us online at www. sumtur.org for a complete list of events and activities. 11691 S. 108th St. Papillion, Nebraska 402-597-2041 www.sumtur.org OUTSIDE FOOD & BEVERAGES PROHIBITED 50 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide Opening Day: May 26th • Closing Day: September 3rd Hours of Operation 12:00-8:00 pm • Mon/Wed/Fri/Sat/Sun 12:00-6:30 pm • Tues/Thurs Papio Bay Aquatic Park 815 E. Halleck Street Papillion, NE 402-597-2055 www.papillion.org/recreation.cfm SARPY COUNTY Springfield SOARING WINGS VINEYARD, 17111 S. 138th Street - Located on a high hill overlooking the Platte River Valley, Soaring Wings Vineyard is quickly becoming one of the best wineries in the Midwest. Tours and tasting; pick up a bottle of award-winning wine. Open Wednesday - Sunday or by appointment. 402-253-2479, www.soaringwingswine.com SPRINGFIELD ARTWORKS, 183 Main Street - Visit this working studio and gallery, featuring bold contemporary glass and wearable art. Purchase gifts or take an art or glass cutting class. 402-301-9162, www.springfieldartworks.com SPRINGFIELD OLD FASHIONED SODA FOUNTAIN, 205 Main Street - Chocolate and whipped cream and sprinkles, oh my! Dive into an old-fashioned ice cream experience at Sarpy County’s only true soda fountain. Located in historic Springfield Drug, the charming atmosphere and delightful treats will satisfy the entire family. 402-253-2000, www. Springfield.com WEISS SCULPTURE GARDEN AND STUDIO, 13603 Pflug Road - Witness great art in the making while experiencing the natural beauty of this two-acre retreat. Formal and informal gardens showcase the work of Carl Weiss and other local regional artists. A kaleidoscope of beauty awaits. 402-680-0642, www.carlweissart.com SARPY COUNTY FAIR – August 1-5. All the fun you expect: rodeo, carnival rides, exhibits, entertainment, tractor pull, parade, demolition derby and more. www.sarpyfair.com. SPRINGFIELD DAYS - June 8 & 9. Fun-filled days of family-oriented events featuring BBQ contest, food, music, fireworks, farm toy show and more. www.springfieldnebraska.com Old Fashioned Soda Fountain! Visit historic Springfield Drug and enjoy Sarpy County’s only true “Soda Fountain.” Experience the nostalgia and delicious ice cream selections. 402-253-2000 205 Main St. • Springfield, NE T H AY E R C O U N T Y Alexandria Alexandria is the “A” on the alphabetized St. Joseph & Denver City Railroad, now the Union Pacific line, between Fairbury and Hastings. ALEXANDRIA STATE RECREATION AREA Three miles east and one mile south of town, Alexandria State Recreation Area offers good fishing year round in its two recently reconstructed lakes, which total 47 acres of water (electric trolling motors only). The 1,212-acre area is shaded by mature trees and offers hiking, wildlife viewing, picnic shelters and camping. Twenty-five sites have 30-amp electrical hookups, and modern rest rooms and concessions are on site. 402-729-5777. The DISTRICT 10 SCHOOLHOUSE MUSEUM is located approximately one mile south and 2 1/2 miles east of Alexandria, on the Oregon Trail. This schoolhouse turned museum features monuments dedicated to the memory of the Oregon Trail, Pony Express and Mormon travelers. The school was established in Meridian in the 1860s. The present schoolhouse, built in 1898, stands at the original locations. The District 10 Schoolhouse Museum is open Sundays 2 - 4 p.m. Memorial Day to Labor Day. Belvidere Photo courtesy Thayer County Museum Volunteers. The THAYER COUNTY MUSEUM is a threebuilding complex with artifacts from pioneer times, antique machinery, farming tools and exhibits from the 11 communities located in the county. On the museum grounds is a monument dedicated to The FortyNiner Trail, which is also known as The Oregon Trail in Nebraska. Two popular events have been the Bridal Wedding Dresses in the summer and the Decorated Christmas Trees during the holidays. The museum is open, Sundays and Wednesdays, 2-4 p.m., or by appointment. Free. 402-768-6845 or 402-768-7313. The UNION PACIFIC TRAINS travel through the community every 20 minutes. On the north side of the tracks, on Main Street, a train watching station is being built to accommodate the daily watchers. This station will be open to all interested train watchers, day and night. Belvidere is the “B” on the alphabetized St. Joseph & Denver City Railroad, now the Union Pacific line, between Fairbury and Hastings. TOAD FEST is hosted yearly by Toad’s Bar & Grill in Belvidere. Toad Fest is an evening of bands playing songs of the past. The party lasts all night long. Call 402-236-8619 for more information. The FALL FESTIVAL, the first Sunday in October, is hosted by the Thayer County Museum. Enjoy the Arts & Crafts Day, Flea Market, music and food, fun for all ages. www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 51 T H AY E R C O U N T Y Bruning A Valentino’s Pizza 402-353-2040 fast food restaurant and Betty’s Place Home Style Cooking Restaurant 402-353-2725 are favorites in the area. BRUNING’S 125TH CELEBRATION, July 27-29 Byron Byron once had a local farmer in 1902 string 12-gauge wire from fence post to fence post, connecting it to a box containing two batteries. Then hooking it to his homemade transmitter and receiver, he was able to talk with his neighbors. The first telephone company in Byron. The BRUNING OPERA HOUSE was constructed in 1907. The building has served the community for 100 years. The town uses the building as a community hall and library. It has also housed a movie theater, dance hall, community plays and school activities from basketball to graduation. The OLD TAVERN ANTIQUE STORE downtown has many items for sale. Stop in and maybe you will find something that is from your past. The store still has the original bar back, along with many interesting items for all ages. 402-353-6325 Carleton Carleton is an old railroad community. It is the “C” on the alphabetized St. Joseph & Denver City Railroad, now the Union Pacific line, between Fairbury and Hastings. Carleton is known as “The Milo Capital of Nebraska.” MILO DAYS are celebrated the second Saturday of September with pancakes made from Milo flour. This small town has a reputation for having more school bands in its parade than any other event in the area. Other activities are the Milo Queen contest, music, horse show and food. 402-356-2601 Chester “LITTLE BOY BLUE” MONUMENT Chester is home of the “Little Boy Blue” monument. This community found a boy’s body, dressed only in blue pajamas, on the highway on a cold, snowy night. He had been abandoned by his father. The community named the boy “Matthew, gift of God,” gave him a funeral and his final resting ground. The monument is located where you enter Chester at the junction of Hwy. 81 & Hwy. 8. Matthew is buried at the cemetery on the east side of Hwy. 81 north of Chester. The CHESTER CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SHOW is an awesome light show. The lights dance to Christmas Carols for approximately 40 minutes. The show runs approximately 2 weeks before Christmas and through New Years Day. 6-10 p.m. FOOTE’S CAFÉ 402- 324-5674 has served many home cooked meals throughout the years. Stop by and enjoy down home cooking. Old Tavern Antique Co. 128 E MAI ST. BRU I G E 68322 402-353-2007 [email protected] 52 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide WED - SAT 10 - 5 SU 1-4 T H AY E R C O U N T Y Davenport Davenport’s unusual claim to fame is that the first Gideon Bible to be placed in a hotel was in the town of Davenport. That Bible is now in the Gideon headquarters in Chicago. Davenport is the “D” on the alphabetized St. Joseph & Denver City Railroad, now the Union Pacific line, between Fairbury and Hastings. 125TH ANNIVERSARY Davenport will be celebrating its 125th Anniversary in the Summer of 2012. Please call 402-364-2292 for more information. Deshler Deshler was home of the world’s largest Broom Factory in the 1950s-60s. Since then, Deshler is known for Reinke Pivot Irrigation. You can watch the original pivot, 1968, still working on the Northwest corner of the Deshler west entrance. Deshler will be celebrating its 125th Anniversary this summer during Deshler Daze on Father’s Day Weekend. For more information please call 402-365-4260. CENTENNIAL PARK ARBORETUM/THE FRIENDSHIP GARDEN The east entrance to Deshler greets you with Centennial Park Arboretum complete with a gazebo and 15 species of memorial trees and 32 varieties of shrubs and native grasses. As you travel down the main street, you see another park called The Friendship Garden. We invite you to sit on the benches, watch for the many birds in the creek area and have your picture taken with our dragon sculpture. The RATTLESNAKE DISC GOLF COURSE is quite challenging with 9 holes spread out over a 3/4 mile course. The course starts at the Friendship Garden, follows the creek, has holes at the fairgrounds, ball field, City Park and then back to the Friendship Gardens. Welcome You To Hebron! Swing into Hebron... The THAYER COUNTY FAIR is located in Deshler; this year will be the 100th Anniversary for the fair. The dates of the fair are August 9-11. Call 402-365-7651 for more information. ...Just off the Hwy 81 Expressway We Welcome You To Heb We’re at the Heart of the Oregon Trail! Photo courtesy Arlis Hohl. The DESHLER CITY PARK is home to a new walking trail. The trail starts at the south picnic shelter, follows the creek south and east, winds behind the ballpark, up to the swimming pool and then back to the picnic shelter, approximately 1/2 mile. The park is located at 4th & Park Streets. Camping is available in the Deshler City Park at no cost for 3 days with electrical hookups and water, sewer dumping available in town, after 3 days there is a daily cost of $5. Call 402-365-4260 for more information. The PONY EXPRESS MONUMENT is located approximately 5 miles north of Deshler on Highway 5, turn west and travel 2 miles. The DESHLER SWIMMING POOL is located in the City Park. The pool has 2 low diving boards, a small slide, separate baby pool, and plenty of space to swim. Call 402-768-7760 for more information. Discover Hebron’s Heritage y y Join us for our annual July 4th celebration and our Christmas Fair in November! Hebron’s Business Community Welcomes You Motels • Restaurants • Variety Stores • Gift Stores • Quilt Shop Scrapbook Store • Jewelry Stores • Appliance & Automotive Stores Grocery Stores • Pharmacy • Hardward Stores • Floral Shop • Banks Sporting Goods • Convenience Stores • Farm Implements Agricultural Services • Salons • Professional Services Health Care Services www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 53 T H AY E R C O U N T Y Hebron Gilead “There is a balm in Gilead”, Jeremiah 8:22. This town’s name derives from Mount Gilead, Palestine. It is thought by many that the town was named “Gilead” because it is approximately the same distance from another town named Hebron that is also located in the Holy Land. The PIONEERS INN RESTAURANT & BAR 402-768-7409 is located in a limestone building built in 1887. Stop by and enjoy good food, atmosphere and listen to locals tell their stories. ROCK SCHOOL A limestone school named the Rock School, District 17, and the Coordsen School in later years, located northeast of Gilead was built in 1873. From Highway 136, go north 2 miles on Highway 53, then west ½ mile. The school was built with native rock obtained from the surrounding hills. The FANGMEIER FARMS PUMPKIN PATCH is located near Gilead. Open late September – October 31, it features family fun, pumpkins, a corn maze, hay bale maze and games. Look for the signs on Highway 136 approximately 3 miles west of Gilead, turn south 4 miles and then turn east and go 1/8 of a mile. The farm is on the south side of the road 402-768-2120. welcome to r Thaye r Fai County es at Celebr s! ar 100 ye WORLD’S LARGEST PORCH SWING Hebron has the World’s Largest Porch Swing, located at the City Park at 5th and Jefferson. Local volunteers built a swing with a seat 32 feet long. Because Hebron does not also have the world’s largest front porch, the swing is in Roosevelt Park downtown. In true Nebraska fashion, a section of center pivot forms the swing’s top girder. This top girder is actually a subcomponent of the Reinke Corner Gator, a corner watering system, manufactured in Deshler. The swing is said to be long enough for 24 children or 18 adults. Some say 25 adults, but one web commentator remarked, “as far as I’m concerned, any more than 10 and the quaint opportunities for romance are out of the question.” 402-768-7156. The THAYER COUNTY COURTHOUSE is located in Hebron. The courthouse was constructed of Indiana limestone in the Romanesque and Gothic style in 1903. There are floor to ceiling safes located in each major office with a different artistic work painted on each safe door. Ask about the four carved faces found on the outside of the building and hear the story of the mystery related to the carvings. Thayer County Alexandria • Belvidere • Bruning • Byron • Carleton • Chester Davenport • Deshler • Gilead • Hebron • Hubbell EVENTS IN 2012 Deshler, Bruning & Davenpo rt 125 yea rs! Good Friday 2 p.m. Gilead Easter Egg Hunt May 26-28 Memorial Day Weekend Community Programs, Courthouse Flag Display & Speech in Hebron Father’s Day Weekend Deshler Daze Celebration Annual Chicken Dinner, Dance, Food, Children’s Fishing Contest, Games, Deshler Alumni Reunion, more. For more information Hebron Chamber 402-768-7156 Deshler Chamber 402-365-4260 www.thayercounty.ne.gov 54 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide July 4 Hebron’s 4th of July Celebration - Parade, Food, Games, Fun, Fireworks Display Sept. 8 Carleton Milo Day Celebration - Food, Parade, Music Oct. 1-31 Fangmeier Farms Pumpkin Patch Open - Family Fun, Pumpkins, Corn Maze, Hay Bale Maze & Games 1st Sunday in October Thayer County Museum in Belvidere - Arts and Crafts Day and Flea Market. Antiques and more Nov. 18 Christmas Fair in Hebron - Two large gymnasiums full of crafts, specialty booths, vendors, music, fun for whole family Chester Lights Show at Old School The lights dance to the Christmas Carols every hour from 6-10 PM. The show is approximately 2 weeks before Christmas and goes until New Years Day. T H AY E R C O U N T Y The HEBRON POST OFFICE MURAL was painted by Miss Eldora Lorenzini in 1939. The work was commissioned as part of the New Deal’s Public Works of Art Project and the WPA Federal Art Project which employed thousands of artists during the Great Depression. Twelve murals for 12 newly constructed post offices in Nebraska were commissioned, including the Hebron one. The work has a double signature of the artist. After it was hung the signature was nearly obscured by the molding of the frame of the office door. The artist then signed the mural in the lower left hand corner where it may be seen by the viewer. The ARROWHEAD GARDENS ARBORETUM was established in the 1920s and is located on Jefferson Ave. between 7th and 8th Street. Eleven different varieties of trees, six different varieties of native grasses and many plants may be seen in the gardens. The HEBRON COUNTRY CLUB has a well-maintained 9-hole Golf Course, complete with grass greens, cart rental, club house for members and the public to enjoy. The course is located on Highway 136 & 1st Street. Call 402-768-6450 for more information. The LITTLE BLUE RIVER stretches across the southern edge of Hebron and offers fishing, canoeing, hiking and hunting. Look for the eagles that fly over the downtown businesses in the summer. The Little Blue Wildlife Management Area is 2 miles east of Hebron on the River Road, another great place for hunting, fishing and sightseeing. Look for the wild turkeys while traveling the River Road. The ROCK ISLAND WALKING TRAIL follows the old tracks of the Rock Island Train through the south part of Hebron. The trail is approximately 1 mile in length. The OREGON TRAIL AND PONY EXPRESS MONUMENTS are located 2 miles north of Hebron on Highway 81. The Pony Express re-rides the trail yearly. The HEBRON MUNICIPAL SWIMMING POOL offers a variety of family-friendly entertainment. The pool has a 50-ft. water slide, 2 low diving boards, separate baby pool and plenty of space to swim. Across from the pool, are playground equipment, ball fields and a sand volleyball playing area. Call 402-768-6407 for more information. The HEBRON CCC AND POW CAMPS MONUMENT is located at Holdrege and 10th Street, just off Jefferson Avenue. Camping is available down at the old CCC Camp in the Southeast part of town, near the Little Blue River. Riverside Park in Hebron is a beautiful wooded park very near the Little Blue River. The Park has hot showers and restroom facilities available. Sewer dumping is available at a drive-through area on the South end of the campground. The park in Hebron is often referred to as the CCC Camp because of its history. The CCC Camp was home of the Civil Conservation Corp during the Great Depression and then hosted German POWs during World War II. The 4TH OF JULY is Hebron’s annual celebration. A parade downtown, breakfast, games and activities throughout the day, food, and fireworks at the airport at dusk. The ANNUAL CHRISTMAS FAIR, sponsored by the Hebron Chamber of Commerce, is the 3rd Sunday in November in the Thayer Central School gyms. Call 402-768-7156 for more information. MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND, May 2628- Courthouse Flag Display & Speech, High school class reunions. TCHS FOUNDATION –VARIETY SHOW, Held in October. Call 402-786-7203 for more information. Hubbell The SIXTH PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN MARKER southeast of Hubbell is the point where all land in Nebraska and Kansas, and most land in Colorado and Wyoming and parts of South Dakota were surveyed and subdivided. This was all done in 1856. HAY DAYS Hubbell celebrates Hay Days late in August. ACREAGE STEAKHOUSE Come and enjoy The Acreage Steakhouse 402-324-5088, serving some of the best food around. VISIT US ONLINE TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SOUTHEAST NEBRASKA! WWW.VISITSOUTHEASTNEBRASKA.ORG www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 55 CALENDAR OF EVENTS January - December March 16 & 17 May 5 & 6 June 2 June 30 Soaring Wings Vineyard Sunday Acoustic Music Sarpy Couonty Geneva Home and Garden Show Fillmore County Living History Weekend Jefferson County Deshler City Wide Garage Sales Thayer County Adams Fourth of July Celebration Gage County March 17 May 5 June 2 & 3 June 30 Shamrock Shuffle 5K Run/Walk Jefferson Couonty Space Day Cass County Dewitt Annual Independence Day Saline County March 18 Rails & Trails Rock Creek Trail Days Jefferson County May 13 Annual Consignment Sale Saline County Bellevue Offutt Runway Run Sarpy County June 2 Limestone Days Cass County March 24 May 20 Milligan’s Beers of Nebraska Fillmore County National Commemoration of the Homestead Act - 150th Anniversary Gage County June 5 - August 26 Native American Artifacts Cass County Nebraska City Fireworks and Ice Cream Otoe County May 21 - 25 June 8 -10 July Free Land? Chautaugua Gage County Milligan June Jubilee Fillmore County Davenport’s 125th Celebration & Achievement Day Thayer County May 24 - 27 June 8 & 9 La Vista Daze Sarpy County Springfield Days Sarpy County May 26 June 12 - 17 April - September Monumental Fiddling Championship Gage County Homestead Days Gage County JayHusker Racing Jefferson County May 28 First Friday of every month Brownville First Friday Series Nemaha County January 1 - 28 Grandma’s China Cabinet Cass County January 7 - March 4 Hollywood & Homesteading Film Festival Gage County March 30 & 31 January 28 Home & Garden Show Johnson County Avoca Quack-Off Cass County March 31 January 28 Indoor Air Show Cass County Strategic Air & Space Museum Chili Bomb Cass County January 29 Milligan Chili Cook-Off Fillmore County January 31 - March 3 Quilts and Valentines Cass County First Friday In February Unadilla Groundhog Day Otoe County February 10 - 14 Eugene T. Mahoney Valentines Special Cass County March 31 & April 1 Platte River Art Show Cass County April - September Omaha Storm Chasers Triple A Basebal Games Sarpy County April Brownville Wine, Writers and Song Weekend Celebrating Nemaha County April 7 Easter Egg Hunt Cass County February 16 Strang Annual Pancake Day Fillmore County April 21 February 18 Pork & Pints Beer & Wine Fest Jefferson County Nebraska Robotics Expo Cass County February 19 Annual Firemen’s Goose Feed Saline County March to October Beatrice Speedway Friday Night Racing Gage County April 27 - 29 Nebraska City Arbor Day Celebration Otoe County April 28 Living History Day Cass County April 30 - May 4 Hebron Courthouse Program & Flag Display Thayer County Memorial Day Weekend Brownville’s Annual Spring Flea Market Nemaha County Friday nights throughout the summer months Outdoor Movie and Concert Series Sarpy County First weekend in June Peru Old Man River Days Nemaha County Every Saturday June - August Syracuse Farmers Market Otoe County Every Saturday June - August Auburn Farmers Market Nemaha County Thursday Afternoons/Evenings June - September Nebraska City Farmers’ Market Otoe County Sam Wymore Days Gage County June 15-17 June 30 June 30 First Saturday July Otoe County Mud Drags Otoe County July 3 & 4 Celebrate Patriotism-Geneva Fillmore County Deshler Daze, 125th Celebration & Alumni Banquet Thayer County July 4 June 16 & 17 July 4 Ohiowa Days - 125th Celebration Fillmore County Hebron’s 4th of July Annual Celebration Thayer County June 16 Run, Row, Rock & Roll Adventure Race Jefferson County June each year on Fathers Day weekend Johnson’s Annual Father’s Day BBQ Nemaha County Father’s Day weekend in June Deshler Daze Thayer County 41st Annual Shriner’s Flea Market Jefferson County July 4 Dorchester July 4 Annual Independence Day Celebration Saline County July 4 Brownville Freedom Day Celebration Nemaha County July 4 Father’s Day Weekend Friend July 4 Annual Independence Day Celebration Saline County Annual Community Garage Sale Saline County July 4 Third week in June Humboldt Fourth of July Celebration Richardson County Abate Bike Rally Pawnee County Third Saturday in June July 5 - 7 116th Annual Diller Picnic Jefferson County March 3 Storytelling Festival Gage County Auburn Polar Plunge Nemaha County First Weekend May - October Every Tuesday June September March 6 - June 3 Pioneer Rendezvous Richardson County Fairmont & Geneva Farmer’s Market Fillmore County G.A.R. Medals Cass County May - September 4 June Kimmel Orchard Strawberry & Cherry Festivals Otoe County Milligan’s 4th Thursday Classic Car Night Fillmore County Palmyra’s Old Settler’s Picnic Otoe County June 15 -17 Nemaha County Fair Nemaha County June - August Papillion Days Sarpy County July 12 - 15 June 23 Sumtur Amphitheater Play “Annie Get Your Gun" Sarpy County March 11 Nebraska City Bridal Show Otoe County May 13 March 16 Annual Czech Festival Kickoff Saline County 56 Annual Spring Kite Festival Sarpy County Sarpy County Museum Annual Quilt Show Sarpy County Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide Unadilla Day Otoe County Mid to Late June Cortlandfest Gage County July 7 GermanFest Otoe County July 12 - 15 CALENDAR OF EVENTS July 14 & 15 August Late August First Saturday in October November 9 Annual Riverside Music Festival Saline County Otoe County Fair Otoe County Hubbell Hay Days Thayer County Auburn Classic Car Show Nemaha County Wilber Veteran’s Day Program Saline County July 15 First Weekend in August November 11 Nebraska City’s Kimmel Orchard Wine Under the Pines Festival Otoe County 4 Weekends September - October October Rock Bluffs School Open House Cass County TCHS Foundation Variety Show Thayer County Doane College Veteran’s Day Celebration Saline County Third week in July Living History Days Otoe County First Weekend in August September 7 - 15 Nebraska City Lemon Days Otoe County Manley Pillage the Village Cass County Sumtur Amphitheater Play “Annie Get Your Gun" Sarpy County August 1 - 5 September 8 - 9 Sarpy County Fair Sarpy County Odell Community Days Gage County July 20 -25 August 2 - 5 September 13 - 15 Fillmore County Fair Fillmore County 51st Annual Czech Festival Saline County Richardson County Free Fair Richardson County July 20 & 21 August 4 - 5 Second Saturday of September Old Settler’s Picnic Saline County Jaycees’ Tractor Pull and Demolition Derby Richardson County August 9 -11 Gage County Fair and Expo Gage County July 19 - 25 July 20 & 21 Riverfest Sarpy County July 22 & 23 Exeter Summer Celebration Fillmore County July 23 - 28 Richardson County 4-H Fair Richardson County July 24 - 29 Saline County Fair Saline County July 25 - 28 Pawnee County Fair Pawnee County July 27 - 29 Bruning’s 125th Celebration Thayer County July 28 Helicopter Day Cass County July 28 Sprint Triathlon Richardson County July 28-29 Fairmont’s 136th Old Settlers Picnic Fillmore County July 29 October 5 Cruizin’ Main Cass County October 5 & 6 Harvest Festival Gage County October 6 & 7 Third Sunday in November Hebron Annual Christmas Fair Thayer County 2 weeks before Christmas and through New Years Day October 6 & 7 Chester Christmas Lights Show Thayer County Milo Days Thayer County Heritage Highway Byway 136 Trail of Treasures Thayer County November 23 September 14 - 16 October 6 - 9 Nebraska City’s AppleJack Festival Otoe County Paint Brownville Autumn Nemaha County September 15 - October 31 October 13, 19-20, 26-27 Deer Creek Sodbusters Johnson County Bloom Where You’re Planted Farm & Pumpkin Patch Cass County Haunted Hollow Hayrack Rides Richardson County August 17 - 19 September 15 & 16 Johnson County Fair Johnson County Steele City Antique Farm Machinery Show/Flea Market Jefferson County Thayer County Fair Thayer County Second Sunday In August Third week in August October 14 Ohiowa Craft Day Fillmore County October 20 Christmas Open House Richardson County November 24 Odell Craft Show Gage County November 24 & 25 Bess Streeter Aldrich House Cass County First Saturday of December Tannebaum Festival Otoe County First Sunday in December September 22 - 23 Howling Homestead Gage County October 20 & 21 Nemaha Valley Museum Christmas Activities Nemaha County August 18 Pawnee City Civil War Reenactments Pawnee County Adams Community Days Gage County September 29 Holiday Craft Show Cass County December October 21 - November 3 Christmas Tree Exhibit Saline County August 18 Weeping Water Fall Festival Cass County Annual Fun Fair Saline County Last weekend in September Scarecrows Among Us Display Cass County December 1 & 2, 8 & 9 October 21 Bess Streeter Aldrich House Cass County August 18 Annual Brownville Fall Flea Market Nemaha County Rock Bluffs School Open House Cass County December 1- 24 October October 27 Annual Fall Festivals Sarpy County Annual Halloween Event Saline County Entire Month of October October 27 Nebraska City’s Wildwood Home Victorian Christmas Otoe County Trick or Treat Cass County Annual Poker Run Pawnee County Arrows to Aerospace Sarpy County August 18 Soaring Wings Vineyard Swine on the Vine Sarpy County August 18 Sumtur Amphitheater Lucky Bucket Music Festival Sarpy County October Halloween Week August 24 - 26 Paint Brownville Nemaha County August Cobblestone Festival Richardson County October 1 - 31 November 3 Brownville Golf Classic Nemaha County August 28 - October 28 Fangmeier Farms Pumpkin Patch Thayer County August Farm Life and Harvest Cass County First Sunday in October 22nd Annual Frost Frolic Holiday Market Jefferson County August 29 Fall Festival Thayer County Kimmel Orchard Peach Festival Otoe County Chamber Merchant Christmas Richardson County Autumn Harvest Art Show Cass County Nebraska City Trail of Treats & Arbor Lodge Enchanted Forest Otoe County Last Hot Sunday in July Auto/Truck Show & Shine Cass County November 19 Grafton’s St. Helena’s Bazaar Fillmore County November 3 Celebrate the Holidays in Geneva Fillmore County December 1 & 2 Christmas Celebration Saline County December 1 Come Home for Christmas Cass County December 8 Deshler Community Christmas Party Thayer County December 8 Ringing in the Season in Louisville Cass County Veteran’s Day Parade Sarpy County www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 57 LODGING & CAMPING CASS COUNTY GREENWOOD Pine Grove RV Park 23403 Mynard Rd. Interstate 80, Exit 420 between Omaha & Lincoln. (402) 944-3550 www.pinegrovervpark.com LOUISVILLE Louisville State Recreation Area 15810 Hwy. 50 Ideally located in a picturesque area close to the facilities at Platte River State Park. 41 tents, 236 trailers. (402) 234-6855 www.outdoornebraska.org Platte River State Park 14421 346th Street Camper and housekeeping cabins available. (402) 234-2217 www.outdoornebraska.org PLATTSMOUTH Banker’s House Bed & Breakfast 414 Avenue B (402) 296-6991 www.bankersbedandbreakfast.com Parmele House Bed & Breakfast 520 Avenue F (402) 296-0525 www.parmelehouse.com The Fitzgerald Hotel 6th and Main Street (402) 298-4326 www.thefitzgeraldbuilding.com WEEPING WATER Slattery Vintage Estates B&B Bungalows 8925 Adams St., Nehawka, NE. Glamour Camping at its best. Tents completely furnished with all of the necessities. (402) 267-5267 www.svevineyards.com OTHER AREA LODGING Mahoney State Park 28500 W. Park Hwy. Ashland, NE (402) 944-2523 www. outdoornebraska.org FILLMORE COUNTY EXETER Gilbert Park RV 108 E. Maplewood 2 blocks south of U.S. Highway 6 on Exeter Ave. Two spaces. $10, RY, RV-E, RF-F, AD-F. Shaded area in the city park of a small, friendly community. 402-266-3051 GENEVA Geneva Inn 328 S. 13th St. 402-759-3476 www.genevainn.net Hotel Geneva 736 G St. 402-759-2883 or 402-759-2126 www.hotelgeneva.biz Dempster Woods B & B 1212 M St. 402-759-4171 Lakeshore RV Park 100 Walnut St. From U.S. Hwy. 81, west on R St. to 1st St., south to Walnut Court. Peaceful camping for the whole family, reservations available, 10 trailers, $11-$15. YR RF, E,W,S, AD-F. 402-759-3883 MILLIGAN Milligan RV Park 5th & L St. Shaded sites near Centennial Garden, 6 tents, 6 trailers, $6, AprilSeptember, RV-EW, TC, RF-F, AD-F. 402-629-4446 OHIOWA Ohiowa RV Park 203 Main St. Wide-open spaces, café and bar nearby, 3 tents, 6 trailers, $7/day, $150/mo. April-November 1, RVEW, TC, AD-F. 402-295-2378 Lonestar Recreation Area 4 miles east and 1/4 mile south of Ohiowa off Hwy. 74. Electrical hookups, tents, water, fishing and boating. www.littlebluenrd.org SHICKLEY Shickley South Park 101 N. Market St. Quiet park close to downtown. 3 tents, 3 trailers. $5. YR, RV, EW, TC, AD-F. 402-627-2055 www.biglittletown.us Kensington B&B 105 N. 6th St. 402-228-2000 New Victorian Inn 3721 N. 6th St. 402-228-8808 Travelers Lodge 3500 N. 6th St. 402-223-4074 Victorian Inn 1903 N. 6th St. 402-228-5955 WYMORE D&M Motel Highway 77 402-645-3810 JEFFERSON COUNTY FAIRBURY Above the Gallery Lodging 515 4th Street 402- 729-3034 The Capri Motel Highways 15 & 136 800-932-0589 Crystal Springs Park Southwest of Fairbury 402-729-2148 Fairbury Executive Suites 506 E Street 402- 613-2064 Rock Creek Station State Historical Park 6 miles southeast of Fairbury 402- 729-5777 Boulders Inn & Suites January 2012 Highways 15 & 136 402-729-3000 NEMAHA COUNTY AUBURN Arbor Manor Motel 1617 Central Avenue 402-274-3663 Auburn Inn Motel and RV Park 517 J Street (north edge of Auburn on Highway 75) 402-274-3143 City of Auburn RV Park, West on 6th Street to Q Street (Auburn Sports Complex) 402-274-3420 Palmer House Motel 1918 J Street 402-274-3193 BROWNVILLE The Actor’s Residence Mid-August through mid-May, accommodates 14+. 402-825-3982 Brownville Riverside Park On the east edge of town along Highway 136, near the Steamboat Trace. With riverfront camping and nearby boat ramp, it is open year round for fishing, hiking, camping and picnicking. 402-825-3982 The Cottage Luxury, executive lodging. 402-883-2690 www.brownville-ne.com/res/mcmullensingle-flyer.pdf The Hill House Brownville’s latest attraction...very refined, historic property. 402-937-4439 or 402-825-4921 www.facebook.com/pages/The-HillHouse/157174237661546 Meritt’s Two-bedroom, furnished apartment by the week or month. 402-825-4281 GAGE COUNTY JOHNSON COUNTY ADAMS Edna’s Main House B&B 822 Main St. 402-988-2020 TECUMSEH Towne & Country Motel 188 Highway 136 402-335-3586 BEATRICE Carriage House B&B 25478 S. 23rd Rd. 402-228-0356 Pearson-Kelley House The Pearson-Kelley Guesthouse is centrally located. 402-825-6637 www.marysemporium.com/cottage.htm Johnson County Fairgrounds 1st Street and Highway 136 in Tecumseh. 402-335-7050 Pierce Cottage 402-825-4921 www.brownville-ne.com/res/bertelsen.pdf Chautauqua Park 9th & Grable 402-228-5248 Super 7 Motel 402 North 12th 402-335-3100 The Cottage B&B 23436 SW 75th Road 402-228-0125 Wirth Brothers Lake 5 miles north and 1 mile West of Tecumseh. 89-acre recreation area. 34-acre lake. $5 for 2-day permit. $12 Annual per year. 402-335-3325 www.nemahanrd.org Econolodge 3210 N. 6th St. 402-223-3536 Holiday Inn Express 4005 N .6th St. 402-228-7000 The River Inn A boutique, floating B & B, call 402-825-6441. www.river-inn-resort.com Village Guest House 402-825-4921 NEMAHA City Park Primitive camping in the City Park is located 1 block west of the Nemaha One Stop. PERU Cabin at Honey Creek. 402-872-7275 www.NebraskaTheGoodLife.com Steamboat Trace Trailhead Camping & RV Park 402-335-3325 OTOE COUNTY NEBRASKA CITY Arbor Day Farm Lied Lodge & Conference Center 2700 Sylvan Road 800-546-5433 402-873-8733 www.liedlodge.org America’s Best Value Inn & Suites (Temporarily Closed Due to Flooding) 2133 Sapp Bros. Drive (Percival, IA) 888-315-2378 712-382-2100 www.americasbestvalueinn.com Cassel Grove Homestead Inn 750 S. 64th Rd. 402-873-0602 www.casselgrovehomesteadinn.com Best Western Nebraska City 2515 S. 11th Street 800-WESTERN 402-873-7000 www.bestwesternnebraska.com Deluxe Inn 1715 S. 11th Street 402-873-6656 www.deluxe-inn-nebraska.com Riverview Marina Campground & Boat Ramp (Temporarily Closed Due to Flooding) N. 4th Street 402-873-7222 www.ngpc.state.ne.Us Super 8 Motel (Temporarily Closed Due to Flooding) Junction I-29 & Hwy. 2 (Percival, IA) 800-800-8000 / 712-382-2828 www.super8.com Victorian Acres RV Park & Campground 6591 NE Hwy. 2 402-873-6866 www.victorianacresrvpark.com Whispering Pines Bed & Breakfast 2018 6th Avenue 877-277-3577 402-873-5850 www.bbwhisperingpines.com SYRACUSE Syracuse Inn and Suites 130 N. 30th Road 402-269-2700 Mustang Motel 940 Park (402) 269-2185 South Park Camping Grounds 402-260-2173 58 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide LODGING & CAMPING PAWNEE COUNTY RICHARDSON COUNTY BURCHARD Big Blue Ranch & Lodge 70804 608 Ave. Ride horses on a cattle drive, enjoy great fishing, hunt for deer or turkey, or relax indoors by the stone fireplace while watching the sunset. Reserve a full suite in our beautiful log lodge. Canoe or hike around the lake and enjoy what nature has to offer. 402-865-4355, 402-696-4515, 402-730-3643 www.bigblueranch.com [email protected] FALLS CITY Check-In Motel 2824 N. U.S. Highway 73 402-245-2433 checkinmotel.com Burchard Lodge 505 Pawnee 402-865-4020 Stanton Lake Park 2500 Schoenheit 402-245-2707 fallscitynebraska.org Burchard Lake A 150-acre lake featuring year round fishing, camping, hiking and picnic areas. Blinds have been constructed in the park for birdwatchers to enjoy viewing wildlife in the area including the prairie chicken. PAWNEE CITY My Blue Heaven Bed and Breakfast 1041 5th St. It has been in business for 23 years. It has been a member of the state Bed and Breakfast Association since the beginning. This 1920s home has many beautiful quilts on display and antiques. Call 402-852-3131 for reservation. Grand Weaver Hotel 1800 Stone Street 402-245-2448 fallscitynebraska.org Matthes Manor B&B 2102 Stone Street 402-245-5449 fallscitynebraska.org Vision Inn Motel 2621 Harlan St. 402-245-2459 visioninnmotel.com HUMBOLDT City Lake Park 607 Park Ave. Contact City Clerk at 402-862-2171. www.ci.humboldt.ne.Us Camping at Tuxedo Park West edge of Crete, April 1 – Oct. 15. 402-826-4315 WILBER American Legion Campground Located on south edge of town on School Street. Year round camping, hookups, showers and restrooms available. Call John Prochazka at 402-8213016. Hotel Wilber 12 antique-furnished rooms for rent, restaurant and lounge. Call Jana Nicholson at 402-821-2020. SARPY COUNTY KOA Omaha 14601 Highway 6 402-332-3010 www.koa.com Kirkman Cove Recreational Area 402-335-3325 www.nemahanrd.org Pawnderosa City Pond and Campsite Area Approximately 2 acres with 8 electric pads. Fire rings and picnic tables are available at each pad and under the covered picnic area. Potable water, restroom facilities available (April – October) on-site and a Dump Station is available through the Pawnee City Offices. SHUBERT Indian Cave State Park 65296 720 Rd. 2 miles North, 5 miles East 402-883-2575 outdoornebraska.ne.gov Hampton Inn & Suites 3404 Samson Way Bellevue, NE 68123 402-292-1607 www.hamptoninn.com Dana Farms at Mayberry 71775 614 Ave. 888-660-2706 CRETE Crete Inn 1515 West 11th Street (West Highway #33) 402-826-4341 www.creteinn.com Norma’s Nook Larry and Teri Shestak 710 Hawthorne Ave. 402-826-0182 or 402-826-4148 Super 8 1880 West 12th (West Highway #33) 402-826-3600 www.super8.com Value Place Hotel Bellevue 2703 Samson Way Bellevue, NE 68123 402-991-5050 www.valueplace.com Best Western White House Inn 305 Fort Crook Rd. Bellevue, NE 68005 402-293-1600 www.bestwestern.com Pawnee Inn 1023 F St. 402-852-2238 SALINE COUNTY Settle Inn & Suites 2105 Pratt Ave. Bellevue, NE 68123 402-292-1155 www.settleinn.com GRETNA Holiday Inn Express 16175 Stevens Point Circle I-80 Exit 439 402-504-3716 www.hiexpressgretna.com Candlewood Suites 1902 15th St. Bellevue, NE 68123 402-932-8144 www.candlewoodsuites.com STEINAUER Convent House Bed and Breakfast 311 Hickory St. 402-869-2230 Royal Inn/Sandman Motel 105 Fort Crook Road S. Bellevue, NE 68005 402-291-4990 BELLEVUE America Best Value Inn 303 Fort Crook Road S. Bellevue, NE 68005 402-291-1518 Gandy House Bed & Breakfast Duaine & Sandy Stalder 715 5th St. 402-862-3278 www.gandyhouse.com VERDON Verdon State Lake ½ mile W. 402-883-2575 outdoornebraska.ne.gov Park Permit Required Rodeway Inn 1110 Fort Crook Road S. Bellevue, NE 68005 402-291-0804 www.rodewayinn.com Haworth Park Mission Avenue & Payne Drive Bellevue, NE 68005 402-293-3098 Hillside Motel 16408 Highway 75 Bellevue, NE 68123 402-291-3676 Holiday Inn Express 10804 S. 15th Street Bellevue, NE 68123 402-504-4500 www.holidayinn.com Imperial Motel 1209 Fort Crook Road N. Bellevue, NE 68005 402-733-4889 Microtel Inn 3008 Samson Way Bellevue, NE 68123 402-292-0191 www.microtelinn.com Offutt Motor Court 3618 Fort Crook Road S. Bellevue, NE 68005 402-291-4333 Melia Hill Inn 22410 Highway 6 402-332-5737 Super 8 Motel 14355 S. Highway 31, Exit 432 402-332-5188 www.super8.com LAVISTA Courtyard by Marriot 12560 Westport Parkway I-80 Exit 442 402-339-4900 www.marriott.com/courtyard Embassy Suites Hotel 12520 Westport Parkway I-80 Exit 442 402-331-7400 or 800-EMBASSY www.embassysuiteslavista.com Hampton Inn & Suites 12331 Southport Parkway I-80 Exit 442 402-895-2900 www.hamptoninn.com PAPILLION Liberty Lodge 1409 Gold Coast Road Papillion, NE 68046 402-339-0555 Walnut Creek Lake/Recreation Area 9902 Schramm Road Papillion, NE 68046 402-697-9889 www.papillion.org OTHER AREA LODGING Comfort Inn 9595 S. 145th Street Omaha, NE 68138 402-896-6300 www.comfortinn.com Countryside Inn & Suites 9477 S. 142nd Street Omaha, NE 68138 402-884-2644 Hometowne Lodge 10308 Sapp Brothers Dr. Omaha, NE 68138 402-895-2200 www.hthotels.com/NE/Omaha.html 402-339-0555 Motel 6-Sapp Brothers 10560 Sapp Brothers Dr. Omaha, NE 68138 402-896-6868 www.motel6.com Quality Inn 9505 S. 142nd Street Omaha, NE 68138 402-896-9500 www.qualityinn.com Red Carpet Inn 9305 S. 145th Street Omaha, NE 68138 402-895-2555 www.omaharedcarpetinn.com THAYER COUNTY DESHLER Deshler City Park Camping is available at no cost for 3 days, with electrical hook-ups and water. After the 3 days there is a daily cost of $5. Call 402-365-4260 for more information. HEBRON Budget Host Inn-Rosewood 140 S. 13th St. 402-768-6524 www.budgethosthebron.com Riverside Motel 305 S. 13th St. 402-768-7366 www.riversidemotel-hebron.com Riverside Park Camping is available at Riverside Park near the swimming pool. The park has hot showers, restroom facilities and sewer dumping available. For more information call 402-786-7156 Wayfarer Motel 104 N. 13th St. 402-768-7226 Camping sites available www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 59 O U T D O O R S I T E S & R E C R E AT I O N CASS COUNTY AVOCA Bloom Where You’re Planted Farm 911 108th St. (402) 267-4104 www.bloompumpkinpatch.com EAGLE Eagle Raceway 617 South 238th St. Track line (402) 781-2243 Office (402) 238-2595 www.eagleraceway.com GREENWOOD Nebraska Raceway Park 14200 238th St. Located at I-80 Exit 420 402-659-3301 www.neracewaypark.com LOUISVILLE Louisville Lakes State Recreation Area 18510 Hwy. 50 (402) 234-6855 www.outdoornebraska.org Platte River State Park 14421 346th St. (402) 234-2217 www.outdoornebraska.org PLATTSMOUTH Schilling Wildlife Management Area Main St. east over the railroad tracks, first left on Refuge Rd.. www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov WEEPING WATER Slattery Vintage Estates 8925 Adams St. Nehawka, NE 402-267-5267 www.svevineyards.com OTHER AREA OUTDOOR RECREATION Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Located just off I-80, Exit 426 (402) 944-2523 www.outdoornebraska.org Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari Near Mahoney State Park (402) 944-9453 or (402) 733-8401 www.omahazoo.com Historical Marker 381 Fairmont Army Airfield U.S. Hwy. 6, on the east edge of Fairmont. Historical Marker 360 Fairmont Army Airfield U.S. Hwy. 81, 2 miles south of Fairmont. Historical Marker 309 601 6th Ave. EXETER Exeter Mural 217 Exeter Ave. Historic Marker 278 1879 Exeter 1979 219 S Exeter Ave. Aquatic Center 1103 Maplewood St. 402-266-3001 FAIRMONT Union Soldier Monument 601 6th Ave. Located in the park just south of the Fillmore County Museum. 60 Chautauqua Park 9th & Grable 402-228-5248 Prairie Playground 1801 Scott St. 402-228-5248 GENEVA Geneva City Park 1404 E St. WYMORE Arbor State Park 300 West M. Street 402-645-3911 GRAFTON Blue River Bridge 6 miles northwest of Grafton. JEFFERSON COUNTY Wildlife Management Areas and Wildlife Protection Areas http://rwbjv.org/pdf/RWBJV_eastern_tour_ map.pdf MILLIGAN Two B-24 “Liberators” Crash Historic Marker 475 Marker is located on Nebraska Hwy. 41, northeast of Milligan. B-47G “Flying Fortress” and P-47D “Thunderbolt” Historic Marker 474 The marker is located on Nebraska Hwy. 41, northeast of Milligan. BT-13B “Valiant” and P-47 D “Thunderbolt” Crash Historic Marker The marker is located on Nebraska Hwy. 41, northeast of Milligan. Cesky Bratri Cemetery and Pioneer Chapel 2 miles west of Milligan along Hwy. 41. OHIOWA Lone Star Recreation Area 4 miles east of Ohiowa on Hwy. 74 and ¼ mile south in Fillmore County. www.littlebluenrd.org SHICKLEY Mallard Haven Waterfowl Production Area 2 miles north of Shickley. FAIRBURY Campbell Bros. Circus Mural 5th & E Streets, on the side of Globe Rexall Drugstore in downtown Fairbury. Crystal Springs Park Southwest of Fairbury. 402-729-2148 Fairbury City Park, 5th & Maple St., Frontier Fun Park, Union Pacific Engine No. 421 located 3 blocks west of the northwest corner of the downtown square. 402-729-2148 Jefferson County Speedway Jefferson County Fairgrounds 402-729-3008 or 402-729-3514 Little Blue River Trail/Fairbury Dam Starting at 3rd & C St. 402-729-2148 McDowell’s Rose Creek Mausoleum. Located southwest of Fairbury. 402-729-3000 McNish Park, Disc Golf Course west of J Street between 12th & 13th streets just south of Hwy 136. 402-729-2148 Rock Creek Station State Historical Park A state park permit is required. 402-729-5777 JOHNSON COUNTY GAGE COUNTY FILLMORE COUNTY Big Indian Lake/Rec Area 6 miles east of Odell on Hwy. 8 402-228-3402 BEATRICE Beatrice Miniature Golf 402-217-0672 Beatrice Speedway 321 Logan Ave. 402-228-2264 TECUMSEH Brandon Parkway Fountain In front of the Community Building. Civil War Soldier Memorial Statue – World War I Cannon – Bandshell Courthouse square in Tecumseh. Keim Stone Arch Bridge From Tecumseh – 3 miles east and 1 mile north of Hwy. 136. Beatrice Skate Park West Court & Center St. 402-228-5248 Osage WMA 3 miles north, 2 miles west, 3/4 mile north of Tecumseh. Beatrice Water Park 13th & Scott St. 402-228-5248 Twin Oaks WMA 2 miles east, 3 miles south of Tecumseh Beatrice Hiking/ Biking Trails 402-228-5248 Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide Wirth Brothers Lake and Park 5 miles north, 1 mile west of Tecumseh. NRD Park Permit Required VESTA Hickory Ridge WMA 1/2 mile west, 3 1/2 miles south of Vesta. NEMAHA COUNTY AUBURN Auburn Recreational Complex 6th & Q Streets West on 6th street 6 blocks. 4 softball fields, youth baseball, soccer fields. Playground area, LARGE shelter house, RV park City Hall. 402-274-3420 www.Auburn.Ne.gov Half Breed Historical Marker Highway 136 East, 1 mile east of Auburn. Legion Memorial Park Veterans Memorial Skate park, swimming pool, playground, shelter house and band stand. Highway 75 and 10th street, East side of Highway. National Historic Park site. For more information contact City Hall 402-274-3420. Rotary Lake Highway 75 and 6th street. Located east of the rodeo grounds. Fishing lake for trout, bass, cat, carp, blue gill, etc. Full walking trail around the Lake. RV Campground located adjacent to Lake. For more information contact City Hall 402-274-3420. BROCK Coryell Park 73203 633 Ave. Johnson, NE 1 mile east of Brock, 3 miles south 402-856–2875 Hearts United for Animals 73418 638th, Located 6 miles north of Auburn on Hwy. 75, 1 mile west on Hwy. 67–toward Brock, 1 mile south. 402-274-3679 www.hua.org BROWNVILLE The Furnas Arboretum Main at 5th St. 402-274-2676 Schoolhouse Art Gallery & Nature Center 427 Main St. 402-274-2676 NEMAHA Aspinwall Bend WMA 1⁄2 mile south of Nemaha. Located on the Missouri and Little Nemaha Rivers. Indian Cave State Park Highway 136 and 67 intersection at Brownville, 10 miles South and 5 mile East on 64E. 402-883-2575 ww.outdoornebraska.ne.gov Site of Original Lewis and Clark Camp (Not marked, need to consult with local historians) PERU The Missouri River Bottom Land -1/2 mile North of downtown Peru, 1/4 mile East, 1/4 mile North. 850 acres (check for accessibility with the floods in 2011) Peru State College Arboretum, Campus of a Thousand Oaks, over 100 species of trees. 402-872-2401 Arboretum peru.edu.org Neal Park Located on the south edge of PSC Campus. Outstanding Flora and Fauna, trails, nature at its best. Steamboat Trace Trail Traihead in Peru, North end of 5th Street (installation spring of 2012) QR coding 21 miles of the trail, camping with shelters, RV Park, playground. 402-335-3325 www.nemahanrd.org/trail.htm OTOE COUNTY NEBRASKA CITY Arbor Lodge State Historical Park, Whispering Bench & Arboretum 2300 2nd Ave. 402-873-7222 www.ngpc.state.ne.us State park permit required Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure, Nature Explore Classroom and 50’ Tree House 2611 Arbor Ave. 800-546-5433 www.arbordayfarm.org Kimmel Orchard 5995 G Rd 402-873-5293 www.kimmelorchard.com Missouri River Basin Interpretive Trail & Visitor’s Center 100 Valmont Dr 402-874-9900 www.mrb-lewisandclarkcenter.org Nuckolls Square Park Playground & Gazebos 11th Street & 3rd Ave 402-873-5515 Pumpkin Ridge 815 North 60th Road, Nebraska City, 402-873-9238 pumpkinridgecrafts.com Riverview Nature Park and State Recreation Area/Marina North 4th Street at River 402-873-5515 outdoornebraska.ne.gov O U T D O O R S I T E S & R E C R E AT I O N Steinhart Park Public Swimming Pool, Ball Complex, Horseshoe Pits, Sk8Board Park, & Fishing Pond 141 Steinhart Park Rd 402-873-6654 Schilling Bridge Winery and Microbrewery 62193 710 Rd. Six blocks west of Hwy. 50 & 14th St. 402-852-2400 Wildwood Park Municipal Golf Course, Dog Park, Play Center, Sand Volleyball Court, and Shelters 420 Steinhart Park Rd 402-873-6340 Wild Things Outfitting 71075 617 Ave. RICHARDSON COUNTY SWANTON Swanton WMA 3 miles north 1 1/2 miles west of Swanton SYRACUSE Lion’s Club Arboretum Located at 12th Street and Education Drive FALLS CITY Brenner Field 3301 Business Parkway N fallscitynebraska.org TOBIAS Willard Mayes Recreation Area Swan Lake 3 miles east, 2 miles north of Tobias South Park Located west of the Otoe County Fairgrounds, between 1st and 3rd Streets and Midland and Plum Streets Falls City Aquatic Center 3002 N Old Hwy. 73 fallscitynebraska.org WILBER Swan Creek WMA 17 miles west of Wilber, Hwy. 41 Syracuse Aqua Centers Located at 1180 Chestnut Williams Park Located in the middle of Syracuse, running north and south. PAWNEE COUNTY Pawnee County has 5 wild life management areas where you can see many different kinds of birds, and hunt. You can pick up bird brochure at the tourism office located in Pawnee City. There are 2 lakes. Burchard Lake is located 8 miles west and 4 miles north of Pawnee City. It is a 150 acre lake. In the park around the lake, blinds have been constructed so you can watch Prairie Chickens which are booming in February, March, and April. You can also fish in this lake. Iron Horse Lake area is locate ¼ mile north of DuBois and 1 mile east. You can fish there and it has been renovated in 2011 and will be open to public this year. BURCHARD Big Blue Ranch & Lodge located at 61026 708th Road, Burchard, NE DUBOIS Iron Horse Lake 1 mile north and 2 west of DuBois. Nemaha River 1 mile east of DuBois. PAWNEE CITY Amish Settlements Located in the countryside near Pawnee City. Dana Farms at Mayberry 71775 614 Ave. 886-660-2706 www.cabins4fun.com Pawnee City Historic District Primarily bounded by 5th Street on the South, 7 Street on the North, F Street on the west and G Street on the east. Osage Wildlife Management 62875 708 Rd. 402-859-4401 Indian Cave State Park 65296 720 Rd. Shubert State park permit required outdoornebraska.ne.gov Krumme Arboretum W. 25th Street fallscitynebraska.org Mini-Park Murals next to 1515 Stone Street fallscitynebraska.org Stanton Lake Park and Candlelight Cabin W. 25th Street fallscitynebraska.org HUMBOLDT Boy Scout Camp 12 miles south of Humboldt. www.Cornhuskercouncil.com City Lake Park 607 Park Ave South part of Humboldt 402-862-2171 www.ci.humboldt.ne.us Humboldt City Square Park 615 3rd Street 402 862-2171 www.ci.humboldt.ne.us Humboldt Commercial Historic District 618 3rd Street 402 -862-2171 www.ci.humboldt.ne.us Kirkman’s Cove Recreational Area 2 1/2 miles west, 1/2 mile north of Humboldt 402-335-3325 www.nemahanrd.org WYMORE Arbor State Park Aquatic Center 402-645-3911 SALINE COUNTY Divorky Wildlife Mangement area 1 mile north & 2 miles east of corner of Hwy. 41 & 15. CRETE Walnut Creek 2 1/2 miles northeast of Crete DORCHESTER Blue River State Recreation Area 5 miles north of town, a day-use area (no camping) with fishing available year round. 402- 821-2161 SARPY COUNTY PAPILLION TRAILS Halleck Nature Trail Winds through the heart of Papillion and runs parallel to the Papio Creek. This trail is kept busy with walkers, runners and bikers daily. OTHER AREA TRAILS 144th St. Trail Paved trail that follows the grade of the Street, stretching up and down hills, to connect Standing Bear Lake in Omaha to Springfield, including Chalco Hills Recreation Area. Nature & History Trail Haworth Park, Bellevue. More than 2 miles of trails that run through beautiful woods and along the edge of the Missouri River. Entrance to the trail is on the north side of Hwy. 370, just west of the Bellevue Bridge. West Papio Trail The Papillion stretch of the trail runs 5.5 miles from Lincoln and Laredo Roads southeast to 36th St. in Bellevue. It also connects to the Walnut Creek Lake and Recreation Area Cornhusker Rd. to Lincoln Rd. or Cornhusker Rd. to 72nd Street to 36th Street www.omahatrails.com BELLEVUE Bellevue Pioneer Cemetery 13th Ave. & Lord Blvd. Tour information, 402-293-2142. Werner Park Hwy. 370 & 126th St.,12356 Ballpark 402-738-5100 www.omahastormchasers.com Wehrspann Lake/Chalco Hills NE Hwy. 50 & I-80, Exit 440. 402-444-6222 www.papionrd.org SPRINGFIELD Soaring Wings Vineyard 17111 S. 138th St. 402-253-2479 www.soaringwingswine.com Weiss Sculpture Garden and Studio 13603 Pflug Rd. 402-680-0642 www.carlweissart.com Haworth Park End of Mission Ave. 402-293-3098 THAYER COUNTY Historic Log Cabin 1805 Hancock St. Tour information, 402-293-3142. ALEXANDRIA Alexandria State Recreation Area 3 miles east and one mile south of town. (402) 729-5777 Fontenelle Forest Nature Center 1111 N. Bellevue Blvd. 402-731-3140 www.fontenelleforest.org Bellevue Loop Trail The Keystone Trail connects to the Bellevue Loop at Hwy. 370 and 25th St.. This trail runs through Haworth Park in Bellevue. Trailhead parking is at either 13th St. & Capehart Rd. or Harlan Lewis Rd. GRETNA Ak-Sar-Ben Aquarium/Schramm State Recreation Area 21004 West Hwy. 31, Exit 432 402-332-3901 www.npgc.state.ne.us./parks Keystone/Bellevue Loop Trail The Keystone Trail connects to the Bellevue Loop at Hwy. 370 and Capehart Rd. It is paved and very flat except for its underpasses which allows users to safely cross all major streets. Trailhead parking is at 48th St. and Cornhusker Rd. Linoma Beach & Lighthouse 171601 S. 255th St. www.linomalighthouse.com Lewis & Clark Interpretive Trail 16 interpretive sites along the Missouri River in Nebraska and Iowa. OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE Offutt Air Force Base www.offutt.af.mil MoPac Trailhead and Nature Center Hwy. 50 and Platteview Rd. PAPILLION Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch 11001 S. 48th St. 402-331-5500 www.bellevueberryfarm.com Mopac Trail Runs from Schram Rd. to Springfield and south to the Platte River. This trail also runs through Lincoln and will extend south to South Bend and north to Omaha in the near future. Walnut Creek Lake/Recreation Area NE Hwy. 370 & 96th St. 402-592-8877 www.papillion.org Vala’s Pumpkin Patch 12102 S. 180th St. 402-332-4200 www.valaspumpkinpatch.com Papio Fun Park 210 E. Lincoln St. 402-592-5671 www.papiofunpark.com Papio Bay Aquatic Center 815 E. Halleck St. 402-597-4055 or 402-597-2041 www.papillion.ne.us Sumtur Amphitheater 11691 S. 108th St. www.sumtur.org DESHLER Rattlesnake Disc Golf The disc golf course is located on the south side of the Friendship Park which is on 4th Street between Elm & Park Street. The course follows the creek, has holes at the fairgrounds, ball field, City Park then back to the Friendship Gardens. Deshler City Park Deshler City Park is located east of 4th & Park Streets. The city par k has playground equipment, picnic shelters, horseshoes, sand volleyball court, ball park, walking rail, swimming pool and walking trail. Deshler Swimming Pool Located in the City Park. 402-768-7760 HEBRON Hebron Municipal Swimming Pool Call 402-768-6407 for more information. Little Blue River Little Blue River stretches across the southern edge of Hebron and offers fishing, canoeing, hiking, birding and hunting. Little Blue Wildlife Management Area 2 miles east on the River Road. Hunting, fishing, hiking, birding and sightseeing Rock Island Walking Trail Follows the old tracks of the Rock Island Train through the south part of Hebron. World’s Largest Porch Swing Located at the City Park at 5th and Jefferson. (402) 768-7156 www.VisitSoutheastNebraska.org 61 GOLFING CASS COUNTY ELMWOOD Grandpa’s Woods Golf Course 5505 310th St. www.grandpaswoods.com (402) 994-2100 MURRAY Lake Ridge Golf Course Located one mile east of Highway 75 and Highway 1 junction. 1536 Country Club Circle. Beaver Lake, NE (402) 235-4653 www.lake-ridgegolf.com PLATTSMOUTH Bay Hills Golf Club 3200 Buccaneer Blvd. (402) 298-8191 www.bayhillsgolfclub.com Plattsmouth Country Club 18003 Clubview Drive Plattsmouth Country Club is tucked way in the country, away from the distraction of housing. A 9-hole regulation length course with tree lined fairways. OTHER AREA GOLF COURSES Iron Horse Golf Course 900 Club House Drive Ashland, NE (402) 944-9800 www.golfironhorse.com Ashland Country Club 16119 Highway 6 Ashland, NE (402) 944-3388 www.ashlandgolfclub.com Quarry Oaks Golf Club 16600 Quarry Oaks Drive Ashland, NE (402) 944-6000 www.quarryoaks.com FILLMORE COUNTY GENEVA Hidden Hills Country Club 1115 Road L 402-759-3084 GAGE COUNTY BEATRICE Beatrice Country Club 1301 Oak St. 402-223-3639 Beatrice Miniature Golf 2205 N. 6th Street 402-217-0672 62 WYMORE Wymore Country Club 1700 West D St. 402-645-9904 HUMBOLDT Kirkman’s Lakeview Golf Course 71550 631st Ave. 4 miles west and north of Humboldt along Hwy. 4 Call 402-862-2828 for golfing fees and tournament schedules. www.klgcgolf.com JEFFERSON COUNTY SALINE COUNTY FAIRBURY Fairbury Country Club 5688 709 Rd. On the slopes of Little Blue River Valley. Banquet facilities. 402-729-5314 or 402-729-2080 [email protected] CRETE College Heights Country Club 1225 E. 4th Street 402-826-4653 www.Collegeheightscc.com Hidden Acres Golf Course 5536 W. Lilac Rd. 402-228-2146 JOHNSON COUNTY TECUMSEH Tecumseh Country Club West Highway 136 402-335- 2337 NEMAHA COUNTY AUBURN Auburn Country Club Golf Course 2 miles south of Auburn on Highway 75. 402-274-4500 OTOE COUNTY NEBRASKA CITY Arbor Links 6038 H Road 402-873-4334 www.arborlinks.com Table Creek Golf Course 5633 I Rd P.O. Box 815 402-873-7743 www.tablecreek.com Wildwood Golf Course 1101 Wildwood Ln Nebraska City, NE 402-873-3661 www.golfnebraskacity.com SYRACUSE Syracuse Country Club 266 West 9th Street 402-269-2924 RICHARDSON COUNTY FALLS CITY Falls City Golf Club 64870 706 Trail 402-245-3624 e-mail: [email protected] Southeast Nebraska Visitor’s Guide FRIEND Friend Country Club A public 9-hole golf course and country club located on the east side of town. SARPY COUNTY BELLEVUE Fontenelle Hills Golf Course 1102 Country Club Court Carved into the hillsides of the Fontenelle Hills area, this short, aesthetic course challenges golfers’ finesse with wooded, narrow fairways—many of which are ringed by sharp hillside drops. (402) 292-2500 www.fontenellehillsgolf.com Hidden Valley Driving Range 2910 Gilmore Road (402) 291-9456 Platteview Country Club Platteview Road Bellevue This 18-hole course presents a rewarding challenge via rolling terrain and well-placed water hazards. It’s a welcome retreat for any golfer. (402) 291-5927 www.platteviewcc.com Tregaron Golf Course 13909 Glen Gary Circle Golfers can find the best of playability and challenge at Tregaron, which, although open, should not be played recklessly. Plenty of bunkers, uneven lies, water, and wind gusts keep even the best golfers honest. (402) 292-9300 www.tregarongolf.com Willow Lakes 12301 S. 25th St. Bellevue Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., this course combines plenty of lakes and trees to protect its smaller greens. Military restrictions. LA VISTA La Vista Falls Golf Course 8305 Park View Boulevard This fine executive course surrounds a bowl-shaped acreage and features a modern design with raised tees, mostly level fairways, and midsize greens. Most golfers will find this course tricky yet enjoyable. (402) 339-9147 www.ci.la-vista.ne.us PAPILLION Eagle Hills Golf Course 501 Eagle Hills Drive This 18-hole complex comprises two 9-hole layouts: The Links and The Meadows. The Links is an executive course built on a hillside and surrounding flatland. The Meadows is a par-3 course designed like The Links except without the uphill or downhill lies. (402) 592-7788 www.eaglehillsgolf.com Papio Greens Golf Course 11050 S. 66th Street Once Nebraska’s only public 18-hole, par-3 course, Papio Greens is now privately managed by Evergreen Alliance Golf Ltd. Still open to the public, Papio Greens offers a waterengulfed driving range, league play, PGA instructors, junior golf programs, and a full-featured clubhouse. (402) 331-4621 www.papiogreens.com OTHER AREA GOLF COURSES Tara Hills Golf Course 1410 Western Hills Drive This city-owned course was revamped in the mid-1990s to include a back 9 and an expanded clubhouse. The manicured layout is short but challenging. (402) 592-7550 www.tarahills.org Tiburon Golf Club 10302 S. 168th Street Omaha, NE Tiburon, meaning “shark” in Spanish, packs a vicious bite if one’s not careful. The 27-hole complex is long, open, and contoured with wellplaced fairway bunkers lying in wait for off-line tee shots. (402) 895-2688 www.tiburongolf.com THAYER COUNTY HEBRON Hebron Country Club Highway 136 & 1st Street. A well-maintained 9-hole golf course, complete with grass greens, cart rental, and clubhouse for members and the public to enjoy. Call 402-768-6450 for more information. INSIDE BACK COVER GE D E C I T O N T g’s n i h s i l Pub e s i r p ision r v e i t n D E g h n t wi rketi a M d e iz Special Our company is ABOUT a family-owned publishing business US that can trace its roots back to 1869. Since 1938, the Enterprise has been owned and operated locally by my family, and we strive for perfection in everything we produce. Our products are of the highest quality, comparable to any big-city operation. But the service and care we provide is that of a small-town family business. This combination has created many very positive experiences for our customers across Nebraska, Iowa and South Dakota. Currently, we own and operate 14 community newspapers, and have a Specialized Marketing Division, which handles all of our “niche” projects such as magazines, posters and customer printing. We would like to thank you for taking the time to learn more about our business and hope we have the opportunity to earn yours. In simple terms, we do it all. Our Specialized Marketing Division is in place to work exclusively on custom print jobs, speciality publications, and design work. CUSTOM PRINTING • DESIGN • CUSTOMER SERVICE • WEB PROJECT DEVELOPMENT • QUALITY CONTROL • LOGO CREATION 138 N. 16th Street, P.O. Box 328 Blair, NE 68008 • 402-426-2121 www.enterprisepub.com Neaska FUN o S , r So Nea ! Bellevue Papillion La Vista ?\^UZS´QXP Offutt AFB Gretna <M\UXXU[Z Springfield w w w. g o s a r p y. c o m