The Canteen District
3
Scouts Rest Ranch Rd
6
Wild West Arena
12
13
14
Charlie Evans Dr
16
20
EXPLORE NORTH PLATTE
Library 15
Sandhill Crane Viewing
Bill Wood Field Dowhower
Union Pacific Bailey Yard
Court House
Cody Park
City Hall
5
So ball Complex
Rodeo Rd
9
W Front St
20
Library
16
Westfield Shopping Center
North Pla e High School
City Hall
Court House
15
W A St
W A St
Memorial Park
E B St
Chamber of Commerce
North Pla e Regional Airport » Regional Airport Lee Bird Field
W E St
Look for Bu alo Bill’s Bu alo of Approval for other great a ractions throughout the community.
St Pat’s High School
Police/ Fire
W Philip Ave
E Philip Ave
Find your way to a good time, exploring all of the fun things to do in North Platte. Discover the home of Buffalo Bill and the Golden Spike Tower overlooking Bailey Yard—the world’s largest rail yard. Enjoy outdoor festivals, arts & culture, recreation, and fun for all ages. In North Platte you’ll discover all of the activities and events that have been given Buffalo Bill’s coveted Buffalo of Approval, the sure sign of a fun time to be had. 20th Century Veterans Memorial and Law Enforcement Memorial 2811 S. Jeffers St. Axces and Aces 675 E North Lake Rd. Bu alo Bill State Historical Park 2921 Scouts Rest Ranch Rd. 13 14 NEBRASKAland Days 2801 Charlie Evans Dr.
District 177 Shopping
A ractions
Great Plains Health
21
W Francis St
E Francis St
Walmart Supercenter
17
Post O ice
Centennial Park
12 Lincoln County Fairgrounds & Raceway 5015 Rodeo Rd.
1
Visitor Center
Lincoln County Historical Museum 2403 N. Buffalo Bill Ave.
2
56G
8
Mid-Plains Community College North Campus
80
80
4
3
EXIT 177
19
4
Cody Go-Karts/ Crystal Cave & Falls Adventure Mini Golf 805 Halligan Dr. Cody Park, Train Museum, Kiddie Rides 1601 N. Jeffers St. Dusty Trails Horseback Riding/Tanking 2617 N. Buffalo Bill Ave.
North Pla e Area Children's Museum 314 N. Jeffers St.
Iron Horse Lake
15
Iron Horse Park
1
VisitNorthPlae.com DISCOVER MORE AT 800-955-4528 16
80
11 2 Miles South on S. Homestead Rd.
EXIT 179
E Walker Rd
5
W Walker Rd
North Pla e Community Playhouse 301 E. 5th St. North Pla e Recreation Complex 1300 McDonald Rd.
D&N Event Center
80
6
17
Feather River Vineyard 5700 SE State Farm Rd. Fort Cody Trading Post 221 Halligan Dr.
Pals Brewing Company 4520 S. Buffalo Bill Ave.
7
18
Peg Leg Brewing 2519 Halligan Dr. Prairie Arts Center 416 N. Jeffers St. WB’s Fun Center 1100 S. Jeffers St.
8
19
Mid-Plains Community College South Campus
18
Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center 1249 N. Homestead Rd.
9
20
Nebraska Game & Parks Commission
101 Halligan Dr. VisitNorthPlatte.com 800-955-4528
W State Farm Rd
E State Farm Rd
Grain Bin Antique Town 10641 S. Old Highway 83 Rd. Homestead Pumpkin Patch 6459 S. Homestead Rd.
10
21
7
University of Nebraska West Central Research Center
2 5 Miles South on HWY 83
11
Hike/Bike Paths
10
5 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024
Canoes, kayaks, tubes… AND CATTLE TANKS.
DISCOVER MORE AT BuffaloBillsAdventures.com
Sure, there are a million ways to get down a river. It just so happens that out here we use cattle tanks. It may not be the most conventional choice, but that’s what makes it genius. That, and the fact that they have room for everyone and a giant cooler. A leisurely mosey down the river; paddling optional. That’s why float trips down the Platte River with Dusty Trails get Buffalo Bill’s Buffalo of Approval.
800-955-4528 | BuffaloBillsAdventures.com
6 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024
AN ELEVATED SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
THERE’S SO MUCH IN STORE District 177 Serves As A Prime Commercial Center
Nestled in District 177 Heartland Flats boasts several stores where you can find clothing, self-care items, shoes and even workout equipment and nutrition. All of these bustling stores create an elevated shopping experience all within walking distance from one another. Coming soon to the area are the Rib & Chop House, 7brew Coffee and TJMaxx in
household products. Whether you want a fruity crisp apple scent or a woodsy mahogany vanilla, Bath and Body Works is where you will find it. Bling Glamour A stylish and chic women’s clothing store, Bling Glamour offers a seasonal variety of styles that range from business professional to a night out on the town.
addition to Riddle’s Jewelry’s new location. Bath and Body Works A perfect place to find your new signature scent or to stock up on hand soaps and sanitizers, Bath and Body Works has a scent for everyone. Another store that offers a rotating selection, Bath and Body Works offers hundreds of scented self-care and
Famous Footwear Sneakers, boots, sandals; no matter what kind of shoe you might be in the market for, Famous Footwear will have a variety to choose from. Find your new favorite footwear in brands such as Nike, Converse, Vans and more with Famous Footwears full selection of curated style trends for everyone. Five Below Home decor, self-care products, toys and any kind of candy or snack you can think of, all for $5 or less. Five Below offers cute, trendy items at North Platte Travel Guide 2024 | 7
7 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024 Bling Glamour specializes in offering fashionable and practical clothing to keep up with your busy lifestyle, and strives to be the go-to destination for women’s clothing — both professional and casual. Buckle What started as one store on the bricks of downtown Kearny, Buckle now boasts more than 440 retail stores across 42 states. Buckle offers a large variety of jeans, western inspired clothing, the latest fashion trends, accessories and more for both men, women and children.
Dunham’s Sports What started as a bait and tackle shop in 1937 is now a one-stop-shop for all your sports apparel and equipment needs in the Midwest. Dunham’s provides everything from hunting, fishing and camping equipment to golf clubs, exercise equipment and even apparel for men, women and children. Customers can find big name brands at low prices with Dunham’s full line of traditional sporting goods and athletic equipment as well as a wide variety of active and casual sports apparel and footwear.
an affordable price. You can find pet supplies, journals, outdoor and indoor decor, and even spring fashion among Five Below’s brightly lit and colorful shelves. Glik’s Boutique Glick’s Boutique is a family-owned business. For over 125 years Glik’s has been providing quality brands and seasonal styles to the Midwest. Men, women and children can find the newest styles, including beloved brands such as Carhartt, The North Face, Patagonia and Simply Southern.
Committed to quality, customer satisfaction and a personalized shopping experience tailored to each individual customer, Glik’s strives to enrich the communities they serve as a fashion leader and responsible employer. GNC Live well With a mission to motivate and support the desire to live well, GNC is the perfect place to get high-quality products for fitness and nutrition. GNC strives to give customers customized products that support each person’s functional and dietary
requirements vitamins, supplements, proteins, herbs and natural solutions and even products for supporting digestion and gut health. Maurices including Maurices believes a great outfit can change a woman’s day. That’s why the company says they are devoted to delivering feel-good fashion at a good price. Creating their own styles since 1931, Maurices offers Inclusive sizing, seasonal styles and even youth clothing that cannot be found anywhere else.
8 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024
WHERE FOOD MEETS FUN
Practice Your Swing With A Golf Club Or An Ax At Axes & Aces
BY RYAN HERZOG ryan.herzog@nptelegraph.com If you’re ready for some fun and games throughout the year, Axes & Aces is the spot to go. Ax throwing has proven popular in recent years. At Axes & Aces you can reserve access to hone your skills at one of four ax-throwing lanes. Take your time, line up your ax to that bullseye and let ’er loose! You can even hold a beer in your off hand (better known as “swing lubricant”). Axes & Aces is located down the road from Lake Maloney State Recreation Area at 675 E. North Lake Road, south of North Platte. The venue’s two virtual golf booths allow the user to swing a club at a real ball. Cameras detect the speed and direction of the ball as it hits a cloth screen where the course is projected. Data from the trajectory of the ball is translated to the virtual ball on screen. There is no need to haul a bag anywhere, nor is there anybody ahead of you on the fairway. At
North Platte Travel Guide 2024 | 9
9 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024 Axes & Aces, you can work on getting that drive over a dog leg or a 50-yard pitch over a bunker onto the green, saving you a few strokes in the winter months. Axes & Aces recently added pickleball courts. Pickleball has been one of the fastest-growing sports in recent history and provides a good mix of calisthenics with skill. Sports fans can watch the big game on 14 televisions. On special sports nights, Axes & Aces will have special drinks to celebrate whatever event is happening. In the summer, they plan to have cornhole and giant Jenga on their outdoor patio. Axes & Aces also plans to have leagues for each of their three attractions in the upcoming months. Check their Facebook page for announcements. Access to any one of these amenities at Axes & Aces can be reserved at axesnaces. com. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations take priority. Axes & Aces will also hold events, including concerts by the Platinum Pearls in May and Drew Philips in July. Check the website for upcoming events, league announcements and extra information.
NORTH PLATTE TELEGRAPH PHOTOS At top left: Ax throwing lanes provide a safe spot for target practice. Ax throwing is a sport that combines precision and finesse. Axes & Aces provides four lanes for guests to enjoy throwing with friends or for solo practice. At bottom right: Guests who draw on a dollar are allowed to post it on the frame holding up the bar located in the center of Axes & Aces.
NORTH PLATTE’S FAVORITE FOR BURGERS DRIVETHRU FRENCH FRIES KIDSMENU
TWO LOCATIONS IN NORTH PLATTE 410 S Jeffers St - 202 E Leota St
10 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024
American Heartland A Journey from Cuba to the NEW CUBAN CUISINE RESTAURANT
El Mojito is a culinary journey into the unique fusion of African, Spanish and indigenous influences that define Cuban cuisine. Known for its harmonious blend, Cuban cuisine is among the most popular in the world. The restaurant’s menu fea- tures traditional dishes such as yuca, plantains, pork and chicken, all prepared with the distinctive Cuban flair. El Mojito is North Platte’s first Cuban restaurant and marks a new chapter for the Denis brothers, who have overcome numerous obstacles to bring their pas- sion for food and their love for their homeland to the American Midwest. As they embark on this exciting venture, Jorge and Jose look forward to sharing their culture and cuisine with the wel- coming community of North Platte. The brothers’ story is a testament to the resilience, determination and unwav- ering spirit of immigrant entrepreneurs in America. The first Cuban restaurant in North Platte is not just about food; it sym- bolizes the power of diversity and cultural exchange in enriching our communities and bringing people together. Address: 520 E Philip Ave, Suite 1 Phone: (308) 221-2070
The Denis brothers’ journey to North Platte is a tale of perseverance and the pursuit of the American dream. Around 2010, their mother and father made the decision to flee Cuba with Jorge, Jose and their sister. Initially, seeking refuge in Spain due to immigration challenges that prevented them from coming directly to the United States. After obtaining Spanish citizenship, they finally made their way to America in 2012. Settling in Miami, they became U.S. citizens. Although the brothers always dreamed of opening a Cuban restaurant, they knew ARROWHEAD MEADOWS GOLF COURSE Take ina GOOD “DRIVE” Great Course! Great Rates!
that Miami’s saturated market would make it difficult for them to stand out. However, when their sister moved to North Platte to take a job at the Walmart Distribution Center, Jorge and Jose saw an opportunity to turn their American dream into reality. “When we came to North Platte, we noticed no one had food with the flavors and spices that we were used to in Cuba,” says Jorge. The brothers are eager to invite the community to experience their culture through authentic Cuban food and drinks.
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Sailing?
North Platte Travel Guide 2024 | 11
11 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024
DISCOVER HIDDEN GEMS
Nebraska Passport North Platte stops for the
Where can you find nostalgia, discovery, and the thrill of uncovering hidden gems? At the first Lincoln County Passport stop - CR Rustic Antique Mall. CR Rustic is located in the Historic Canteen District and opened in August of 2020. At CR Rustic, they have a large range of products including antiques, refurbished goods, candles, paint, crafts, fresh flowers and boutique items. With over 20 vendors, there is a great selection of custom-made products. Each visit to CR Rustic to see their ever-changing inventory is a delightful adventure. CR Rustic is open Tuesday-Friday from 10:30am-6pm and on Saturdays from 11:30am-6pm. They are located at 108 E 5th St, North Platte. After you are exhausted from shopping at CR Rustic and the entire downtown, head over to another local Passport Stop- Feather River! Nestled in the picturesque landscapes just outside of North Platte, Feather River Vineyard offers an enchanting escape that will leave you craving more. They have created a variety of wines that reflect the character and history of the area’s geologic heritage.
River and windblown sediment have created the mineral-rich soil of the region that nurtures the vines that produce grapes of a distinctive quality. Feather River is one of Nebraska’s largest vineyards and planted their first vines in 2001. The 37-acre vineyard includes a bevy of grape varieties including Edelwiess, Seyval, Reisling, LaCrosse, St Pipen, Marechal Foch, Frontanec, St. Croix, and Marguette. Feather River Vineyard will be open daily during the Passport program from 1pm-6pm, and until 8pm on Fridays. They are located at 5700 SE State Farm Rd, North Platte. Each year seventy unique tourist destinations throughout the state are selected and highlighted by the Nebraska Passport Program. This year, we are so lucky to have these two Nebraska gems included! The 2024 Nebraska Passport program will run from May 1st through September 30th, 2024. At each Passport stop participants visit they will receive a stamp, either in a Nebraska Passport booklet or a digital stamp on the Nebraska Passport app. Participants then turn in their stamps and receive prizes. 2024
Nebraska Passport booklets are available at NebraskaPassport.com or you can download the app by searching for “Nebraska Passport 2024!”
12 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024
STEP INTO THE PAST
September Canteen Festival Features New Musical’s Debut BY TODD VON KAMPEN todd.vonkampen@nptelegraph.com
This fall’s fourth annual celebration of North Platte’s famous World War II Canteen features the world premiere of a full-length musical on western Nebraska’s 1941-46 homegrown phenomenon of hospitality. The Sept. 27-28 festival in the downtown Canteen District will coincide with the opening performances of “The North Platte Canteen: A Musical Miracle,” set for Sept. 27-29 and Oct. 4-6 at the 1929 Fox Theatre, 307 E. Fifth St. The North Platte Community Playhouse will stage the production by co-writers Johnny Rodgers and Sue Fabisch Errico, whose 2008 show “Motherhood: The Musical” has been produced nationally and internationally. It received its first “staged reading” workshop in September 2023 in Franklin, Tennessee. A group of North Platte women led by Rae Wilson opened the Canteen on Christmas Day 1941. They served some 6 million U.S. and Allied service members between then and April 1, 1946, gradually joined by some 55,000 volunteers
North Platte Travel Guide 2024 | 13
13 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024 from 125 communities in Nebraska and northeast Colorado. Their Canteen musical will replace the locally written “A Sentimental Musical Journey,” which has been the Playhouse’s Canteen Festival showcase event the past three years. Showtimes for “A Musical Miracle” will be at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 27-28 and Oct. 4-5 and at 2 p.m. Sept. 29 and Oct. 6. For information and to reserve tickets closer to those performance dates, visit north- plattecommunityplayhouse.com. Canteen Festival visitors also can shop at vendor booths during the day on and near North Dewey Street between Fourth and Sixth streets. A car show will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 28, said Lisa Burke, executive director of Visit North Platte. Museum Displays North Platte’s main repository of Canteen history can be found at the Lincoln County Historical Museum, 2403 N. Buffalo Bill Ave. Museum hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays through Sept. 30. Visit lincolncountymu- seum.org or call 308-534-5640 for infor-
mation.Museum leaders are raising money for a Canteen-focused addition that will feature scale replicas of the for- mer 1918 Union Pacific Depot’s “Canteen room” and the depot’s trainside entrance. The Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center, outside Bailey Yard at 1249 N. Homestead Road, includes a Canteen display on its upper floors. Hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily the rest of the year. Call 308-532-9920 or visit goldenspiketower.com. City-wide Memorials Canteen memorials can be found at the depot’s location along the Union Pa- cific tracks on East Front Street and at the 20th Century Veterans Memorial at Iron Horse Park near Interstate 80 Exit 177. Canteen District Inc. plans this year to install an interactive Canteen sculpture at the southwest corner of Parkade Plaza on East Sixth Street. Omaha sculptor Troy Muller’s creation will offer an “opti- cal illusion of perspective” to evoke what train passengers would have seen as they arrived at the Canteen.
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14 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024
NORTH PLATTE’S HERITAGE
The Heritage of Buffalo Bill Cody The Tradition Lives On
Once considered the world’s greatest showman, the legendary Buffalo Bill Cody called North Platte home for more than 40 years. He loved his hometown and generously supported many local worthwhile causes. Today, Visit North Platte uses his persona, in the guise of a fun-loving, somewhat slapstick “new” Buffalo Bill, to introduce all of the fun to be had in Lincoln County to a new generation by awarding attractions and events his coveted “Buffalo of Approval”. Buffalo Bill State Historical Park It’s Buffalo Bill’s ranch, of course it gets his Buffalo of Approval. You don’t have to take his word for it, there’s tons of reasons this State Historic Park is a must-see for visitors. Originally the 4,000-acre Scout’s Rest Ranch, the historic park now consists of 16 acres that contain Buffalo Bill’s home as well as a barn, outbuildings, and a variety of other features. The house is Cody’s 2nd Empire mansion, built in 1886 at a cost of $3,900, that has been restored and filled with period appropriate furnishings as well as a ton of Buffalo Bill memorabilia. The barn, once used to house horses, now contains a collection of antique carriages
that belonged to Bill as well as a variety of memorabilia from the days of his world- famous Wild West Show. Come to North Platte and see why a man of taste and distinction gives Scout’s Rest Ranch the Buffalo Bill Buffalo of Approval. Address: 2921 Scouts Rest Ranch Road Phone: (308) 535-8035 VisitNorthPlatte.com/things-to-do/ attractions/buffalo-bill-ranch/ Season/Hours of Operation: Opening May 1 for the travel season: Wed-Sun 9:00am-5:00pm Other times by appointment. Grounds are open year-round. Dusty Trails Trail Rides: Memorial Day- Labor Day Fri-Sat 12:00pm-6:00pm Admission: Admission charged, and park permit required Fort Cody Trading Post Over the years roadside souvenir stands have been given a bad name. Well, this is one shop that’s worth the trip. It’s not just any souvenir shop, inside you’ll find a museum, a two-headed calf, and a plethora of off the wall goodies to commemorate your trip. When it comes to Western souvenirs, Fort Cody Trading Post has everything from
cowboy gear to plush buffaloes, jackelope statues, toy animals and tons of clothing for all sizes and ages. The back portion of the Fort Cody building contains a small but impressive museum devoted to Buffalo Bill Cody. Its centerpiece is the spectacular Buffalo Bill’s Miniature Wild West Show, featuring over 20,000 figures, painstakingly hand carved in wood, by Ernie and Virginia Palmquist. Many of the figures are animated — there’s a train that runs around the circus tents, and animated bucking broncos, sharpshooters, and more. Recorded audio narration tells the story of Buffalo Bill, his traveling Wild West show, and the creation of the miniatures. The show runs for about five minutes every 30 minutes. If you’re in town on a Thursday in the summer don’t miss out on the live music in the stockade during the Fort Cody Summer Music Series. With all of that, is there any wonder that Fort Cody gets Buffalo Bill’s coveted Buffalo of Approval? Address: 221 Halligan Drive Phone: (308) 532-8081 FortCody.com Season/Hours of Operation: Memorial Day-the Second Week in August:
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15 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024 Daily 9:00am-9:00pm Winter: Mon-Sat 9:00am-5:30pm, Sun 12:00pm-5:30pm Spring & Fall: Mon-Sat 9:00am-6:00pm, Sun 12:00pm-6:00pm Admission: Free Lincoln County Historical Museum One trip to the Lincoln County Historical Museum and you’ll see why it gets Buffalo Bill’s Buffalo of Approval. The museum contains a mix of old west, early pioneer, agricultural and WWII history that makes it an intriguing mix for any history buff. Early pioneer history is preserved in the Western Heritage Village which is home to restored buildings dating from the 1860’s Pony Express log cabin to the 1917 Country Church. Also included are the 1963 Fort McPherson headquarters, 1899 Fredericksen home, 1869 two story log home of the first homesteader in Lincoln County, 1900 barber shop, and the 1876 birthplace of William Jeffers, President of Union Pacific Railroad from 1937 through 1946. The Museum is also the home of the World War II North Platte Canteen exhibit, which served more than 6.5 million service men and women from Christmas Day 1941
through April 1st, 1946. Every day, as many as 5,000 service members visited the North Platte Canteen in the Union Pacific Depot. Many never forgot the ten-minute stop, as sixty years of thank-you letters can attest. In addition to the exhibits inside the main museum and the collection of historic buildings, there’s also a large collection of antique farm machinery, including tractors in working condition, as well as restored antique autos that are periodically on display. Hands-on-history spanning the last 200 years; that’s why Buffalo Bill loves the Lincoln County Historical Museum. Stop by and see why it gets his coveted Buffalo of Approval. Address: 2403 N. Buffalo Bill Avenue Phone: (308) 534-5640 LincolnCountyMuseum.org Season/Hours of Operation: May 1–September 30: Mon-Sat 9:00am-5:00pm, Sun 1:00pm – 5:00pm
Other times by appointment. Admission: Admission charged
NEBRASKAland DAYS NEBRASKAland Days is the longest- running event to receive Buffalo Bill’s coveted Buffalo of Approval. Which only
16 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024
NORTH PLATTE’S HERITAGE
Stones & Bones Gallery & Emporium Stones and Bones is a unique gallery tucked into the small town of Hershey, Nebraska. The gallery features Native American artifacts, western art and wildlife pieces. Visitors and history lovers won’t want to miss their exceptionally private collection of Native American Stone Age artifacts that have been collected from across western Nebraska. Stones and Bones offers special tours for groups of 10 or less. The tour offers unique insights including question and answer ses- sion that cover the collection, Stone Age artifacts, flint knapping with demonstra- tions and personal instruction. For groups looking to add a special touch they will also demonstrate the process of setting up a teepee or flint-knapping. Address: 105 E. 2nd Street, Hershey Phone: (308) 368-7400 VisitNorthPlatte.com/things-to-do/arts- entertainment/art-galleries/stones-bones Season/Hours of Operation: Call ahead
makes sense because he’s the inspiration for NEBRASKAland Days. Way back on July 4th, 1882, the world’s greatest showman, Buffalo Bill Cody, produced the “Old Glory Blowout” in North Platte. That show would eventually become Cody’s Wild West Show. 2023 will mark the 141st anniversary of the first spectator rodeo. From country concerts to the Buffalo Bill Rodeo, art competitions and everything in between, there is something for everyone at NEBRASKAland DAYS. NEBRASKAland DAYS 2024 is scheduled for June 12-22. There’s 10 great days of rodeo, concerts and festivities, don’t miss NEBRASKAland Days in 2023. Come be part of the fun and find out why NEBRASKAland Days gets Buffalo Bill’s Buffalo of Approval. Office Address: 2801 Charlie Evans Drive Phone: (308) 532-7939 or (888) 313-5606 NebraskaLandDays.com Season/Hours of Operation: Held annually the third week of June. Visit website for a full list of events. Admission: Many events free; admission charged for rodeo, concerts, and other events at the Wild West Arena
17 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024
start here
August 2-4, 2024 One weekend only! GoldenSpikeTower.com/events/northplatteraildays
18 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024
RIDE THE RAILS
Staying On Track Bailey Yard is the world’s largest railroad classification yard
Cody Park Railroad Museum North Platte is a fantastic destination for people who love trains and the railroad. The Cody Park Railroad Museum is just one reason why. This hands-on museum gets Buffalo Bill’s Buffalo of Approval for having the only Challenger 3900 series steam loco- motive on public display in the world. Unit 3977 is not just on display, you can climb up and get the engineers view before you walk through a series of old rail cars, including a mail car and a caboose, that are filled with old railroad memorabilia from the time when trains were America’s main mode of transportation. In addition to the 3900 series is unit 6922. The 6900 series diesel locomotives were the largest ever made. These two locomotives made a combined horsepower of over 12,000. It’s not just the locomotives and rail cars, you’ll also find the old Hershey, Nebraska rail depot. It also has historic railroad arti-
facts inside. All of this combined with the other rail attractions in town to make North Platte a must-visit for railroad fans. It’s no wonder these attractions get Buffalo Bill’s Buffalo of Approval. Address: 1601 N. Jeffers Street VisitNorthPlatte.com/things-to-do/attrac- tions/trains-railroads/cody-park-rail- road-museum Season/Hours of Operation: May 1-Fourth Full Weekend of September: Mon-Sat 10:00am-7:00pm, Sun 12:00pm-6:00pm Other times by appointment. Admission: Free Golden Spike Tower Anyone who’s ever loved the railroad or been interested in trains will instantly understand why the Golden Spike Tower gets Buffalo Bill’s Buffalo of Approval. The tower offers the best view of the world’s
largest railyard, Union Pacific’s Bailey Yard, where every day approximately 20,000 rail- cars are sorted and sent on to their next destination. The tower also includes multi- media exhibits on the history of the railroad as well as the Orphan Trains and the North Platte WWII Canteen, but the real treasure here are the volunteers. Every day you’ll find friendly volunteers, in almost every case a retired Union Pacific employee, manning the tower ready to enlighten visitors about the logistics and choreography that happens every day at Bailey Yard. Visitors will find that these knowledgeable volunteers can explain just about everything that’s happening down on the railyard and how it affects the big pic- ture of getting raw materials and consumer goods where they need to go. This is no small task either; it’s been said that you can get a pretty good picture of how the entire U.S. economy is doing by paying attention to Bailey Yard because of the sheer quantity
North Platte Travel Guide 2024 | 19
19 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024 of freight that is shipped through this yard. With everything going on, from the exhibits to the knowledgeable volunteers, and even the unique gift shop, it’s no won- der that the Golden Spike Tower gets Buffalo Bill’s coveted Buffalo of approval. So, if you’re planning on coming through North Platte, make sure you stop at the Golden Spike Tower. Address: 1249 N. Homestead Road Phone: (308) 532-9920 or (866) 338-7596 GoldenSpikeTower.com Season/Hours of Operation: Memorial Day-Labor Day: Daily 9:00am-7:00pm Labor Day-Memorial Day: Daily 9:00am-5:00pm
beyond the borders of North Platte, a community of 25,000 citizens. Put end-to- end, Bailey Yard’s 315 miles of track would reach from North Platte, in western Nebraska, all the way past Omaha on the Iowa border along the Missouri River. Every 24 hours, Bailey Yard handles 20,000 railroad cars. Using a mound crest- ing 34 feet for eastbound trains and 20.1 feet for those heading west, these two hump yards allow four cars a minute to roll gently into any of 114 “bowl” tracks where they become part of trains headed for dozens of destinations. Together, these two yards have 18 receiving and 16 depar- ture tracks. Train operations and repair shops at Bailey Yard are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The fueling and service cen- ter processes a minimum of 9,000 loco- motives each month, using technology like overhead cranes and elevated work bays to maintain fluid operations. Address: 4000 W. Front Street VisitNorthPlatte.com/things-to-do/attrac- tions/trains-railroads/bailey-yard Can be experienced by a visit to the Golden Spike Tower.
Other times by appointment Admission: Admission charged
Pacific Railroad Bailey Yard Union Pacific Railroad’s Bailey Yard in North Platte, Nebraska, is the largest rail- road classification yard in the world. It was named in honor of former Union Pacific President Edd H. Bailey. This massive yard covers 2,850 acres, reaching a total length of eight miles, well
wiDe selection Camping this summer? See us first?
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1330 N. Burlington Ave. | Hastings, NE 402.461.2399 | HastingsMuseum.org
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Hotels
2
Scouts Rest Ranch Rd
Wild West Arena
83 Motel 920 N. Jeffers St. 308-532-2313
A
Husker Inn 721 E. 4th St. 308-534-6960
L
Charlie Evans Dr
8
American Best Value Inn 602 E. 4th St. 308-534-4020 Avid Candlewood Suites 202 E. Eugene Ave. 308-252-1505 Best Western Plus 3201 S. Jeffers St. 308-534-3120 Blue Spruce Motel 821 S. Dewey St. 308-534-2600 Comfort Inn & Suites 2809 Halligan Drive 308-562-2736 Days Inn 3102 S. Jeffers St. 308-532-9321 / 800-329-7466 Fairfield Inn and Suites 319 W. South River Rd. 308-532-9900 Hampton Inn 200 Platte Oasis Pkwy. 308-534-6000 / 800- 426-7866 Holiday Inn Express 300 Holiday Frontage Rd. 308-532-9500 / 800-562-9500 Hospitality Inn 501 Halligan Dr. 308-532-6650 / 888-532-0151
La Quinta Inn & Suites 2600 Eagles Wings Pl. 308-534-0700 / 866-534-0700
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M
101 Halligan Dr. VisitNorthPlatte.com 800-955-4528
3
Sandhill Crane Viewing
N
Union Pacific Bailey Yard
Bill Wood Field Dowhower
Motel 6 / Studio 6 2701 Halligan Dr.
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4
Cody Park
So ball Complex
1
North Pla e Inn & Suites 1209 S. Dewey St. 308-532-0130 / 800-678- 4025 Park Motel 1302 N. Jeffers St. 308-532-6834 / 800- 456-5450
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Rodeo Rd
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P
A
E
W Front St
Quality Inn 2901 S. Jeffers St. 308-532-6144
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F
L
Westfield Shopping Center
North Pla e High School
Ramada 2102 S. Jeffers St. 308-532-9090 / 800-760-3333 Super 8 Motel 220 Eugene Ave. 308-532-4224 / 800-800-8000
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G
Library
B
W A St
W A St
423926590157062
Memorial Park
E B St
City Hall
S
Court House
North Pla e Regional Airport » Lee Bird Field
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Chamber of Commerce
W E St
Police/ Fire
St Pat’s High School
Travelodge 451 Halligan Dr. 308-535-9900 TRU by Hilton 2400 Halligan Dr. 308-532-8700
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E
I
W Philip Ave
E Philip Ave
District 177 Shopping
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Great Plains Health
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W Francis St
E Francis St
Walmart Supercenter
Centennial Park
Post O ice
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R
Visitor Center
I
H
56G
Golf Courses
T
Mid-Plains Community College North Campus
80
80
K
5
EXIT 177
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F
J
North to North Pla e
Indian Meadows 2746 W. Walker Rd.
Rivers Edge 1008 W. 18th St.
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3
Iron Horse Lake
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D C
G Q S
Iron Horse Park
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80
Lake Maloney 606 Birdie Ln.
2
EXIT 179
E Walker Rd
3
W Walker Rd
D&N Event Center
7
7
1
80
N Lake Rd
RV & Camp Grounds
Lincoln County Wildlife Gun Club
Lake Maloney
7
Holiday RV Park 601 Halligan Dr.
A-1 Sunset Mobile Park 3120 Rodeo Rd. Bu alo Bill SRA 2921 Scouts Rest Ranch Rd.
1
5
Mid-Plains Community College South Campus
I-80 Lakeside Camping 3800 Hadley Rd.
2
6
Nebraska Game & Parks Commission
Lake Maloney SRA N. Lake Rd.
CB’s Hideaway 206 N. Lake Rd.
3
7
W State Farm Rd
E State Farm Rd
2
University of Nebraska West Central Research Center
Lincoln Highway RV Park 4684 W. Hwy 30
4
8
Cody Park Campground 1400 N. Jeffers St.
Hike/Bike Paths
South Beach Recreation Area
5 Miles South on HWY 83
2
3 7
Hike/Bike Paths
5 miles South on HWY 83
22 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024
ADVENTURES & ATTRACTIONS
14 FAMILY FRIENDLY Adventures and Attractions in North Platte
2 Cody Go-Karts
1 Axes & Aces Axes & Aces is fun family centered restaurant and entertainment space! They feature pizza, burgers, sandwiches, salads, wings, and more. They also offer a full-service bar. Take advantage of two state-of-the-art golf simulators, four axe throwing lanes, three indoor pickleball courts and an out- door courtyard. Enjoy a sweet treat while you are there, including ice cream from the local ice creamery, Double Dips! Address: 675 N. Lake Road Phone: (308) 221-1040 AxesNAces.com Season/Hours of Operation: Tues-Sat 11am-9pm, Sun 11am-8pm Admission: Pricing varies based on activities
kiddie go-karts and bumper boats. All of that, plus snacks and a nearby campground and area hotels combine to make Cody Go-Karts a no-brainer for the coveted Buffalo Bill’s Buffalo of Approval The fastest man in the west, Buffalo Bill Cody, invites you to test your skills at Cody Go-Karts! Plus, you can challenge a chicken to tic- tac-toe! Address: 805 Halligan Drive Phone: (308) 534-8277 CodyGoKarts.com Season/Hours of Operation: Memorial Day-Labor Day: Daily 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Open weekends pre-season and post-season. Admission charged.
Cody Go-Karts gets Buffalo Bill’s Buffalo of Approval. You know why? Because they offer tons of
great activities for the whole family. As you’d expect, there’s go-karts, but just having go-karts isn’t good enough. There are two different tracks. The standard track features a multi-level figure eight with the option of single or tandem karts. The slick track course offers a challenge for anyone looking for slippery fun also with single and tandem racecar karts. In addition to the go-karts, there’s great summer fun with bumper boats, over 560 feet of wet and wild waterslides, and a kid- die slide in the pool area. Speaking of the little guys, there’s plenty for them too with a variety of kiddie rides, arcade games, even
4 Cody Park Pool The Cody Park Pool features depths from 3 feet to 12 feet. There are three diving boards and a kid- die pool. Inner tubes are available to rent. Address: 1400 N. Jeffers Street Season/Hours of Operation: Varies Admission charged. 5 Crystal Cave and Falls Adventure Mini Golf The Crystal Cave and Falls Adventure Mini Golf course is new to North Platte! It features a handmade cave, hand printed and stamped sidewalks, hand poured rocks, and artisan features all throughout. There are memorial waterfalls and ponds all across the course. Come see the working blacksmith shop and visit the unique gift shop. Address: 805 Halligan Drive Phone: (308) 539-2247 CodyGoKarts.com Season/Hours of Operation: Daily Memorial Day Weekend-Labor Day Weekend 10:30am-9pm Admission: Admission charged North Platte Travel Guide 2024 | 23
23 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024 3 Cody Park Carousel and Concessions You know why Cody Park, includ- ing the carousel and children’s rides, gets Buffalo Bill’s Buffalo of Approval? Because it’s a great time not just for just the kids, but the whole family! The historic carousel is a ton of fun for kids of all ages as they ride around on beau- tifully carved horse. In addition to the car-ousel, the miniature kiddie rides are great for the little ones. Combine that with the fact that the world’s best soft-serve ice cream is available right next door during the summer, and you’ve got a recipe for a great afternoon. Cody Park has tons of options to ensure that people of all ages have a great time. Facilities include a wildlife sanctuary, pic- nic tables, restrooms, a bandstand, play- ground equipment, horseshoe pits, baseball and softball fields, campgrounds, snack shop, barbecue pits, an outdoor swimming pool and tennis courts and soon pickleball courts. Whether you want to relax by the pool,
enjoy some of the best ice cream, ride the kiddie carnival rides, or challenge your fam- ily to a game of horseshoes or disc golf, Cody Park is the place for you. This North Platte gem is nestled along the North Platte River which is a fun place to cool off during the hot summer days. The drive-by zoo is home to animals of all sorts, including bison, deer, elk, burros, llamas, geese and peacocks. You can purchase ani- mal food from nearby vending machines. Many shaded picnic areas are found throughout the park, with playgrounds and recreational activities nearby. Fun for the whole family, that’s why Cody Park in North Platte gets Buffalo Bill’s covet- ed Buffalo of Approval. Address: 1400 N. Jeffers Street Season/Hours of Operation: Cody Park: Daily Sunrise-Sunset Kiddie Rides and Concessions: April-September: Mon-Fri 5pm-10pm, Sat 12pm-10pm, Sun 12pm-9pm Admission: Admission charged for rides and concession. Many activities are free.
24 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024
ADVENTURES & ATTRACTIONS
6 Dusty Trails Outdoor Specialists: Horseback Riding and Tanking Dusty Trails LLC is Nebraska’s pre- mier outfitter located in North Platte at the Nebraska Game & Parks Buffalo Bill’s Scouts Rest Ranch. Dusty Trails provides several fulfilling outdoor experiences, ranging from horseback riding through Buffalo Bill’s original ranch to tanking, kayaking or canoeing down the iconic North Platte River. You can also just hang out with the adorable animals in the petting zoo. Dusty Trails operates on the Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park. Dusty and his team strive to provide the opportunity for anyone to be able to enjoy and participate in the great outdoor life that Nebraska has to offer. They offer a vast variety to accom-
to everyone during the summer. If you’re looking for a great way to cool down with the kiddos just head on down.
modate all age groups and backgrounds. They have been providing services for almost 20 years and are continually grow- ing and looking for new adventures. Address: 2617 N. Buffalo Bill Avenue Phone: (308) 530-0048 DustyTrails.biz Season/Hours of Operation: Call to book your water/outdoor adventure Trail rides: By appointment, year-round Admission: Admission charged 7 Memorial Park Splash Pad The perfect place for small chil- dren to cool off on a hot summer day, the Betty Keenan Memorial splash pad is located in Memorial Park along East Fourth Street in North Platte. The park and splash pad are free and open
Address: 1200 E. 4th Street Season/Hours of Operation: Weather permitting, May-Aug: Daily 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Admission: Free.
8 North Platte Area Children’s Museum of Approval. It’s simple to see why. There’s a bunch of great activities that will fire any kid’s imagination. For the medically inclined, there’s a doc- tor’s office, complete with masks, gowns, gloves and a super-sized operation game. The North Platte Area Children’s Museum gets Buffalo Bill’s Buffalo
North Platte Travel Guide 2024 | 25
25 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024
ADVENTURES & ATTRACTIONS
9 Potter’s Pasture
To Get There: Take I-80 to Brady (exit 199). Go south on 56D, at 2.7 miles turn right on Brady-Morfield Road. At 9.2 miles, the pavement ends and at 9.7 miles the entrance to the Old Camp is on the left. At 11.0 miles, turn left on Jeffrey Road and 2.7 miles later turn right into the campground. The sign says “Potters Pasture New Camp.” Admission: Free. 10 North Platte Rec Center The North Platte Rec Center is a large recreational venue that offers many opportunities for fitness, recreation, weightlifting, cardio exercise, racquet sports, yoga and aerobics. The center incorporates a large swimming pool with a water slide, hot tub, and sauna. The double gymnasium accommodates two full-size basketball courts with seating for 150, locker rooms and a concession stand. Free childcare is provided for parents who are taking a rec center class, and there is a game room for children of all ages.
If they’re interested in the heritage of the heartland there’s an interactive farming exhibit complete with a tractor to play in and a market for when they bring in the harvest. For the more adventurous child, they can sail the seas on a giant pirate ship, as they find their way to plunder buried treasure. Be the engineer and take the trains through the tracks at our Union Pacific railroad exhibit. Combine all that with a dress-up area, a pizza parlor, a puppet theatre and much more and it’s simple to see why kids have a great time at the North Platte Area Childrens Museum. Kids having a great time, it’s why the North Platte Area Children’s Museum gets Buffalo Bill’s covet- ed Buffalo of Approval. Address: 314 N. Jeffers Street Phone: (308) 532-3512 NPChildrensMuseum.com Season/Hours of Operation: Tues-Fri 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Admission charged
Some of the best mountain bike trails in Nebraska can be found south of the I-80 exit 199 along the
Brady-Moorefield Road. Potter’s Pasture is about 10 miles south of the interstate, offering close to 100 miles of trails through 1,200 acres of hills and canyons. There are a wide variety of trails, from easy open ones that are suitable for riders of any ability, including children, to extremely technical trails best suited for advanced riders. Potter’s Pasture is privately owned but free and open to the public. A network of volunteers and riders create and maintain the trails, as well as host events and races throughout the year. There are also campgrounds on site and dogs are welcome. For more information about events and trails at Potter’s Pasture go to WhiteTailCycleSport.com. Find out why Potter’s Pasture has received the coveted Buffalo Bill’s Buffalo of Approval and see first-hand reviews for the trails from users at SingleTracks.com/bike-trails/ potters-pastures.
26 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024
ADVENTURES & ATTRACTIONS
Address: 1300 McDonald Road Phone: (308) 535-6772 Season/Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri 6 a.m.-8 p.m, Sat 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun 1 -7 p.m. Admission: Admission charged 11 Splatterbox Paintball and Laser Tag Paintball and laser tag busi- ness in the Hershey area offers low-cost, high-quality paintball and laser tag. Also, they have affordable add-ons to make your experience better. Address: 2024 N Spur 56c, Hershey, NE Phone: (308) 530-0553 Season/Hours of Operation: Sun: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Private Parties: Monday-Sunday Admission charged. 12 Water Fun Sutherland Reservoir, Lake Maloney and Jeffrey Lake all offer great opportunities for
bowling. No siree, WBs is a great stop for so much more than that. In addition to great family bowling fun, the arcade is second to none. Get the family together for an exciting game of Laser lag or experience incredible virtual reality in one of the only VR arcade experiences in America! In addition to the best bowling for several counties WB’s is now also home to Brigham’s Taproom. Brigham’s Taproom offers dining, a full bar, and Nebraska brews. Entertainment for everyone, paired with great food makes WB’s Fun Center an obvious choice for Buffalo Bill’s Buffalo of Approval. Address: 1100 S. Jeffers Street Phone: (308) 532-5720 WBsFun.com Hours of Operation: Laser tag hours vary. Daily 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday 11 a.m.-midnight Friday-Saturday Admission charged
water sports, fishing, and camping. If you want a unique taste of Nebraska fun, then you need to give tanking a shot. It’s the genius of rural America at its finest as you lazily float down the North Platte River in a stock tank with friends and fami- ly. Bring your own snacks and drinks. If you’re looking to be a little more active, try canoing or kayaking on the Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District Supply Canal that stretches from North Platte to Brady. Combine all of that with the great fishing at all the stocked interstate lakes and you’ll see why North Platte is a fantastic destina- tion for fun on the water. For information go to VisitNorthPlatte. com/things-to-do/outdoors/water-activi- ties. 13 WB’s Fun Center WB’s has earned Buffalo Bill’s coveted Buffalo of Approval for more than just
North Platte Travel Guide 2024 | 27
27 | North Platte Travel Guide 2024
WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
N e CHECK WEBSITE FOR UPDATES! (308) 539-2247
VISIT US AT WWW.CODYGOKARTS.COM
36 WATERFALLS 17POOLS DINOSAUR TRACKS BOTANICAL GARDEN GREAT VIEWS
PERfECT FOR ALL AGES GIFT/SOUVENIR SHOP 32 YEARS TO HAND BUILD
805 HALIGAN DRIVE NORTH PLATTE NE (308) 534-8277
Sandhill Cranes Each spring an estimated 400,000 Sandhill Cranes spend about six weeks on the 25-mile stretch of the North Platte River Valley between North Platte and Sutherland. At night they roost on the North Platte River, rising each morning to spend the day dancing and foraging in the meadows and crop fields. Early scouts will begin arriving in early February. Numbers will continue to grow until peaking in mid-March, remaining high through the end of March. By the middle of April, they will all be gone. The North Platte area offers a variety of Sandhill Crane experiences, including public blinds, private guided blinds, and guided bus tours. Visitors can even combine the experiences with Prairie Chicken dances later in March and early April. VisitNorthPlatte.com/things-to-do/attractions/sandhill-cranes Season/Hours of Operation: Early March Through Mid-April. Admission: Some free public blinds available, admission charged for tours Sandhill Cranes The migration of the
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