Holly ColoradoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Holly, Colorado.
1. Amache Museum
HISTORIC JAPANESE-AMERICAN HERITAGE
Amache Museum preserves the history of the Japanese-American internment camp that operated near Holly during World War II. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring photographs, artifacts, and personal stories from former internees. The museum serves as an important educational resource about this difficult chapter in American history.
2. Camp Amache
WWII INTERNMENT SITE
Camp Amache is a National Historic Landmark that was once a Japanese-American internment camp during World War II. The site includes reconstructed buildings, interpretive signs, and a cemetery honoring those who died while interned. Visitors can take self-guided tours to learn about the experiences of the approximately 7,000 Japanese Americans who were forcibly relocated here.
3. Pike's Tower
HISTORIC LOOKOUT POINT
Pike's Tower offers visitors a glimpse into the region's pioneer history with its distinctive stone construction. The tower provides panoramic views of the surrounding eastern Colorado plains and grasslands. History enthusiasts appreciate this landmark for its connection to early settlement in the area.
4. Spreading Antlers Golf Course
SCENIC PRAIRIE GOLFING
Spreading Antlers Golf Course offers golfers a challenging yet enjoyable experience on the eastern Colorado plains. The well-maintained course features rolling greens, strategic water features, and native grassland roughs that showcase the natural beauty of the region. Visitors appreciate the friendly atmosphere and affordable rates at this local favorite.
5. Willow Creek Nature Trail
PEACEFUL RIPARIAN HABITAT
Willow Creek Nature Trail provides a serene walking path alongside one of the area's natural waterways. Visitors can observe native plants, birds, and wildlife that thrive in this eastern Colorado riparian ecosystem. The trail offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and photographers seeking to experience the subtle beauty of the plains.
6. Holly Historical Barn
PIONEER RANCHING HISTORY
The Holly Historical Barn, dating back to 1874, sits on the south end of Main Street and showcases the town's rich ranching heritage. Inside, visitors can explore historic photographs and artifacts that tell the story of Holly's development from Hiram Holly's cattle ranch to the present day. The renovated structure serves as both a museum and a reminder of the area's agricultural roots.
7. Holly Train Depot
RESTORED RAILWAY HISTORY
The Holly Train Depot, built in 1881, stands as a testament to the importance of the railroad in developing eastern Colorado communities. The restored historical structure offers visitors a glimpse into the era when train travel connected this remote region to the wider world. Local exhibits inside the depot highlight the economic and social impact the railway had on Holly and surrounding areas.
8. Holly City Hall Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Holly City Hall Museum, operated by the local historical society, preserves and displays artifacts significant to the town's development. Exhibits showcase everyday items, photographs, and documents that bring to life the experiences of generations of Holly residents. Visitors appreciate the museum's intimate look at small-town prairie life through the decades.
9. Original Holly Sugar Factory
AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE
The Original Holly Sugar Factory site marks where the internationally known Holly Sugar company began operations in 1905. Though now privately owned and used for farm storage, the historic industrial buildings on the west side of town remain an important landmark. Visitors can view the exterior of these structures that represent Holly's significant contribution to American agricultural industry.
10. Cheyenne Creek Rest Area
SANTA FE TRAIL STOP
Cheyenne Creek Rest Area welcomes travelers with informative displays about Colorado attractions and the historic Santa Fe Trail. Located just inside the Colorado border on US Highway 50, this well-maintained facility offers a peaceful setting on the banks of Cheyenne Creek. Visitors can stretch their legs, learn about regional history, and plan their Colorado adventures from this convenient stopping point.
11. Trail City Ruins
WILD WEST CATTLE TOWN
The Trail City Ruins south of US Highway 50 near the Colorado-Kansas border mark the site of a once-bustling cattle town from the late 1800s. This historic location was instrumental during the great cattle drives that moved livestock to northern grazing grounds. Visitors interested in Wild West history can explore these remnants of a bygone era that helped shape the American frontier.
12. John Martin Reservoir State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
John Martin Reservoir State Park offers a refreshing oasis approximately 50 miles from Holly with opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The park's large reservoir, known as the sapphire on the plains, attracts outdoor enthusiasts year-round for camping, bird watching, and water sports. Visitors can enjoy spectacular sunsets over the water while exploring this diverse ecosystem that supports numerous species of birds and wildlife.
13. J&L Cafe
HOMETOWN COMFORT FOOD
J&L Cafe serves as Holly's gathering place for locals and travelers seeking hearty, homestyle meals in a welcoming atmosphere. The cafe specializes in classic American breakfast and lunch fare with generous portions that satisfy hungry farmers, ranchers, and visitors alike. Guests appreciate the friendly service, reasonable prices, and authentic small-town dining experience that captures the spirit of eastern Colorado.
14. Reyman's Grocery
ESSENTIAL SMALL-TOWN MARKET
Reyman's Grocery provides Holly residents and visitors with essential food items, local produce, and picnic supplies. The family-owned store has served the community for generations, adapting to meet changing needs while maintaining its small-town character. Travelers passing through appreciate the opportunity to stock up on provisions while experiencing an authentic piece of rural American commerce.
15. The Emporium
UNIQUE GIFTS & SOUVENIRS
The Emporium offers shoppers a delightful selection of unique gifts, local crafts, and practical items in downtown Holly. The shop features products made by regional artisans alongside agricultural souvenirs that celebrate the area's farming and ranching heritage. Visitors enjoy browsing this charming store for one-of-a-kind mementos of their eastern Colorado journey.