Barada NebraskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Barada, Nebraska.
1. Barada Hills
HISTORIC MISSOURI RIVER BLUFFS
The Barada Hills of southeastern Nebraska offer unique bluffs along the Missouri River with a rich and colorful history. Named after Antoine Barada, son of French Count Michael Barada and Laughing Buffalo of the Omaha Tribe, these hills were documented by Lewis and Clark in 1804. The area's subtle beauty and ongoing evolution have been captured in watercolors by John Frederick Lokke and poems by Jan Chism Wright as part of a collaborative project.
2. Chimney Rock National Historic Site
ICONIC PIONEER LANDMARK
Chimney Rock National Historic Site stands as one of Nebraska's most iconic natural landmarks and a symbol of the pioneer journey. The distinctive 325-foot spire served as a recognizable landmark for travelers along the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails during the mid-1800s. Visitors today can view this geological wonder that has inspired countless travelers and learn about its significance to westward expansion.
3. Chimney Rock Museum
WESTERN MIGRATION HISTORY
Chimney Rock Museum provides comprehensive exhibits about the natural formation and historical significance of Chimney Rock. The museum features interactive displays about pioneer life and the challenges faced by travelers on the western migration routes. Visitors can view artifacts, diaries, and historical photographs that bring to life the experiences of those who passed by this landmark.
4. Bayard Depot Museum
RAILROAD HERITAGE PRESERVATION
Bayard Depot Museum preserves the rich railroad history of the region in a restored historic train station. Inside, visitors can explore exhibits featuring railroad memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts that showcase the importance of rail transport to Nebraska's development. The museum offers a glimpse into the era when railroads were the lifeblood of small towns across the Great Plains.
5. Chimney Rock Golf Course and Restaurant
SCENIC FAIRWAYS AND DINING
Chimney Rock Golf Course and Restaurant offers golfers a challenging course with spectacular views of the surrounding countryside including Chimney Rock. The well-maintained fairways provide an enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels while the namesake landmark provides a dramatic backdrop. After a round of golf, visitors can enjoy hearty Nebraska cuisine at the on-site restaurant featuring panoramic views of the landscape.
6. Indian Cave State Park
NATURAL WONDER AND RECREATION
Indian Cave State Park, located near the Barada Hills, features a large sandstone cave with prehistoric petroglyphs carved by Native Americans. The park encompasses nearly 3,400 acres of rugged, forested bluffs along the Missouri River with extensive hiking trails and camping facilities. Visitors can experience spectacular fall colors, abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, and historical attractions including a reconstructed 1860s river town.
7. Steamboat Trace Trail
HISTORIC RIVER ROUTE
Steamboat Trace Trail follows the former route of the Nebraska City-Peru-Northern Railway along the Missouri River near the Barada Hills region. This 21-mile crushed limestone trail offers spectacular views of the river, bluffs, and surrounding farmland while connecting several historic communities. Hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts can spot abundant wildlife while traveling through diverse landscapes that change dramatically with the seasons.
8. Brownville Historic District
PRESERVED RIVER TOWN
Brownville Historic District preserves a charming 19th-century river town with numerous buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Founded in 1854, this former steamboat port features museums, art galleries, historic homes, and antique shops housed in original structures. Visitors can experience living history through walking tours, riverboat excursions, and seasonal events that celebrate the town's rich cultural heritage.
9. Four State Lookout
PANORAMIC REGIONAL VIEWS
Four State Lookout offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, and Iowa from a single vantage point near the Barada Hills region. Located on a bluff overlooking the Missouri River, this scenic overlook provides interpretive displays explaining the geographical and historical significance of the area. On clear days, visitors can see for miles across the four-state region while appreciating the natural beauty of the river valley below.
10. Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge
PREMIER WILDLIFE VIEWING
Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge, a short drive from the Barada Hills, hosts spectacular seasonal migrations of waterfowl including hundreds of thousands of snow geese. The refuge encompasses diverse habitats including wetlands, grasslands, and forests that support over 300 bird species and numerous mammals. Visitors can explore auto tour routes, hiking trails, and observation platforms that offer excellent wildlife viewing and photography opportunities throughout the year.
11. Whiskey Run Creek Vineyard & Winery
LOCAL WINE PRODUCTION
Whiskey Run Creek Vineyard & Winery occupies a restored 100-year-old barn in historic Brownville near the Barada Hills region. The winery produces award-winning wines from locally grown grapes while offering tastings in a charming setting featuring original limestone walls and hand-hewn timbers. Visitors can tour the production facilities, enjoy wine on the outdoor deck overlooking the creek, and purchase bottles to take home from the well-stocked tasting room.
12. Spirit of Brownville Riverboat
MISSOURI RIVER CRUISES
The Spirit of Brownville Riverboat offers scenic cruises on the Missouri River with spectacular views of the surrounding bluffs and countryside. This authentic riverboat experience includes narration about the area's history, wildlife, and the important role the river played in the region's development. Themed dinner cruises feature local cuisine alongside live entertainment while showcasing the natural beauty of the mighty Missouri at sunset.
13. Flatwater Folk Art Museum
UNIQUE ARTISTIC TREASURES
The Flatwater Folk Art Museum houses an impressive collection of folk art from Nebraska and surrounding regions in a historic Brownville building. Exhibits showcase handcrafted items including quilts, carvings, paintings, and functional art created by self-taught artists from diverse backgrounds. The museum celebrates the creativity and cultural heritage of ordinary people who expressed themselves through extraordinary artistic achievements without formal training.
14. Lyceum Bookstore
HISTORIC LITERARY HAVEN
Lyceum Bookstore occupies a beautifully restored historic building in Brownville, offering an extensive selection of new, used, and rare books. This charming independent bookshop specializes in regional literature, history, and works by Nebraska authors while hosting regular literary events and author readings. Visitors can browse through carefully curated collections while enjoying the ambiance of a traditional bookstore that honors the town's reputation as Nebraska's booktown.
15. The Schoolhouse Art Gallery
CREATIVE COMMUNITY SPACE
The Schoolhouse Art Gallery showcases works by regional artists in a reimagined historic schoolhouse near the Barada Hills area. This vibrant creative space features rotating exhibitions of paintings, sculpture, photography, and mixed media works with an emphasis on pieces inspired by the natural beauty of the Missouri River valley. Visitors can purchase original artworks directly from local artists while supporting the area's thriving creative community.