Brainard NebraskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Brainard, Nebraska.
1. Timber Point Recreation Area
OUTDOOR RECREATION AND FISHING
Timber Point Recreation Area is a 160-acre public use tract located three miles southeast of Brainard that features a 29-acre lake. The lake is stocked with channel catfish, largemouth bass, and bluegill, making it a popular fishing destination. Visitors can enjoy camping facilities, a 3.1-mile hiking trail, picnicking, hunting, and no-wake boating activities.
2. Red Cedar Recreation Area
LAKE AND WILDLIFE AREA
Red Cedar Recreation Area is a public use area developed by the Lower Platte South Natural Resources District located one mile south and seven miles east of Brainard. It features a 51-acre lake on a 175-acre tract with boat ramp access and primitive camping facilities. The lake is stocked with multiple fish species including channel catfish, flathead catfish, largemouth bass, and bluegill, with hunting also permitted in designated areas.
3. Oak Creek Trail
SCENIC HIKING AND BIKING
Oak Creek Trail was developed on an abandoned railroad line between Brainard and Valparaiso, offering 13 miles of crushed limestone path. It is considered one of Nebraska's most diverse hiking and biking trails in terms of scenery and terrain, with an equestrian trail running alongside it. The trail features Trail Head Park at its southern terminus in Brainard, complete with shelter and picnic facilities.
4. Makovicka Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING
Makovicka Winery is a local winery in the Brainard area that offers wine tastings and vineyard experiences. Visitors can sample various locally produced wines while enjoying the peaceful countryside setting. The winery has earned a respectable 4.0 rating from visitors who appreciate the quality of their products and hospitality.
5. Brainard Swimming Pool
HISTORIC COMMUNITY POOL
The Brainard Swimming Pool is a historic community facility built on former Chicago and Northwestern railroad property and dedicated on June 23, 1974. It holds the distinction of being the first stainless steel pool in Nebraska with a capacity for 140 swimmers. The pool remains a beloved local attraction, providing a place to cool off during hot summer days and employment opportunities for local students.
6. Saint Luke Czech Catholic Shrine
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS SITE
Saint Luke Czech Catholic Shrine is located in the hamlet of Loma, positioned midway between Brainard and Valparaiso. The shrine serves as an important cultural and religious landmark preserving the Czech heritage of the region. Visitors can explore this historic site while traveling along the Oak Creek Trail which passes through the area.
7. Bone Creek Museum of Agrarian Art
RURAL ART COLLECTION
Bone Creek Museum of Agrarian Art is a cultural institution near Brainard that showcases artwork depicting rural and agricultural themes. The museum has earned an impressive 4.8 rating from visitors who appreciate its unique focus on agrarian art and regional heritage. Its exhibits celebrate the farming culture and landscape of Nebraska through various artistic mediums.
8. Railside Green Arboretum
NATURE AND PLANT COLLECTION
Railside Green Arboretum is a botanical garden featuring diverse plant species and landscaped areas for public enjoyment. Visitors can stroll through the grounds to observe various trees, shrubs, and flowering plants in a peaceful setting. The arboretum has received a 4.0 rating from visitors who appreciate this natural oasis in the region.
9. WindCrest Winery
WINE TASTING EXPERIENCE
WindCrest Winery is a popular wine destination not far from Brainard that has earned a 4.3 rating from visitors. The winery offers tastings of their locally produced wines in a charming countryside setting. Guests can enjoy the vineyard views while sampling various wine varieties and learning about the winemaking process.
10. Evergreen Court
HISTORIC APARTMENT COMPLEX
Evergreen Court is a historic apartment complex in Brainard built by John Brunner in 1979, consisting of eight one-bedroom apartments. The complex serves as government-assisted elderly and low-income housing, reflecting the community's commitment to supporting its residents. Now owned by Shooting B Properties, Evergreen Court continues to be an important part of Brainard's housing infrastructure.
11. Historic Main Street
DOWNTOWN HERITAGE DISTRICT
Brainard's Historic Main Street features buildings that once housed iconic local businesses including Coogler Hardware, the former post office, Joe Dupek's store, and Jacob Hirachik's General Store. The street offers visitors a glimpse into the town's rich commercial history and architectural heritage. Walking along Main Street provides an authentic small-town Nebraska experience with its preserved storefronts and local character.
12. Brainard Veterans Memorial
MILITARY SERVICE TRIBUTE
The Brainard Veterans Memorial displays the American Legion emblem alongside emblems of the five branches of military service. This meaningful monument stands as a beautiful reminder of all those from the community who have served their country. The memorial honors the sacrifices made by local veterans and provides a place for reflection and remembrance.
13. Trail Head Park
SCENIC TRAIL GATEWAY
Trail Head Park is situated at the southern terminus of Oak Creek Trail on the edge of Brainard near the town's residential subdivision. The park features a shelter and picnic table, providing a comfortable starting point for those exploring the Oak Creek Trail. As a gateway to one of Nebraska's most diverse hiking and biking trails, Trail Head Park serves as an important recreational asset for both locals and visitors.
14. Nebraska National Forest
VAST WOODLAND RECREATION
Nebraska National Forest is the largest hand-planted forest in the United States, offering extensive outdoor recreation opportunities within driving distance of Brainard. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and seasonal activities across its expansive woodland terrain. The forest provides a unique ecosystem in the Great Plains, making it a noteworthy natural attraction for those staying in the Brainard area.
15. Carhenge
UNIQUE AUTOMOTIVE MONUMENT
Carhenge is a famous Nebraska attraction replicating England's Stonehenge using vintage American automobiles painted gray. Located in Alliance, this quirky roadside monument has become one of the state's most photographed landmarks and represents Nebraska's creative spirit. Though requiring a longer day trip from Brainard, this unusual art installation provides visitors with a truly distinctive Nebraska experience worth the journey.