Eddyville NebraskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Eddyville, Nebraska.
1. Busted Knuckle Saloon
LOCAL DINING & DRINKS
The Busted Knuckle Saloon offers lunch specials and locally raised steaks and hamburgers in Eddyville. Visitors can enjoy a cold beverage while experiencing small-town Nebraska hospitality. The saloon serves as a gathering spot for both locals and travelers passing through the quiet community.
2. The Eddyville Pit Stop
GAS AND CONVENIENCE STORE
The Eddyville Pit Stop provides essential services for travelers along Highway 40. Visitors can purchase gas, diesel, and grab snacks while passing through the area. It serves as a convenient rest point for those exploring the scenic Wood River Valley region.
3. Buzzard's Roost Canyon
SCENIC NATURAL LANDMARK
Buzzard's Roost Canyon is a scenic natural area near Eddyville known for its beautiful landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can observe turkey buzzards flying overhead as well as deer and wild turkeys that call the canyon home. The canyon is featured in the popular Buzzard's Roost Trail Rides held in spring and fall by the Eddyville Trail Riders.
4. Eddyville Annual Rodeo
NEBRASKA'S ORNERIEST RODEO
The Eddyville Annual Rodeo is a major event held each June that draws contestants from as far as Texas. Known as "Nebraska's Orneriest Rodeo," this two-night performance features a full lineup of traditional rodeo events. During the rodeo, the small town's population increases tenfold as trailers line the streets for blocks.
5. South Loup River
FISHING AND RECREATION
The South Loup River near Eddyville offers excellent fishing opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The river winds through the scenic Nebraska countryside, providing a peaceful setting for recreation. Visitors to the area often come to fish the river as part of their Nebraska outdoor experience.
6. Eddyville Mud Drags
EXCITING MOTORSPORT EVENT
The Eddyville Mud Drags is an annual September event featuring over 80 entries in a variety of vehicle classes. This exciting motorsport competition serves as a major fundraiser for the Community Building and is organized by the local committee and firemen. Spectators enjoy watching powerful vehicles competing to navigate through challenging mud courses.
7. Buzzard's Roost Trail Ride
SCENIC HORSEBACK ADVENTURE
The Buzzard's Roost Trail Ride is a biannual event held in May and September that meanders through the scenic, historic Buzzard's Roost Canyon. Wagons are provided for non-riders, making this adventure accessible to people of all ages and abilities. The trail ride is sponsored by the Eddyville Trail Riders and showcases the natural beauty of the area.
8. Mac's Creek Winery & Brewery
LOCAL WINE AND BEER
Mac's Creek Winery & Brewery is a highly-rated establishment near Eddyville that offers visitors a chance to taste locally produced wines and craft beers. The winery features tastings in a picturesque setting that showcases Nebraska's agricultural heritage. Visitors appreciate the quality products and welcoming atmosphere, as evidenced by its 4.8/5 rating.
9. Dawson County Historical Museum
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Dawson County Historical Museum preserves and displays the rich history of the region surrounding Eddyville. This 4.3-rated museum houses artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that tell the story of Nebraska pioneer life and settlement. Visitors can learn about local agricultural practices, early settlers, and the development of communities in the area.
10. Bargain John's Antiques
VINTAGE TREASURE HUNTING
Bargain John's Antiques is a perfect destination for collectors and vintage enthusiasts near the Eddyville area. With a perfect 5.0 rating, this antique shop offers a wide selection of unique items and collectibles from Nebraska's past. Visitors can spend hours browsing through historical artifacts, furniture, and memorabilia.
11. Fort Robinson State Park
HISTORIC MILITARY OUTPOST
Fort Robinson State Park is one of Nebraska's most popular historical destinations featuring a former U.S. Army fort that played a significant role in the Indian Wars. Visitors can explore historic buildings, enjoy outdoor recreation including hiking and horseback riding, and learn about Native American history. The park offers lodging options, making it an excellent base for exploring western Nebraska's attractions.
12. Eugene T. Mahoney State Park
YEAR-ROUND OUTDOOR RECREATION
Eugene T. Mahoney State Park is a premier outdoor recreation area in Nebraska offering activities for all seasons. The park features an aquatic center, hiking trails, lodging options, and winter activities like sledding and ice skating. Families particularly enjoy the park's adventure playground, observation tower, and indoor activity center.
13. Ash Hollow State Historical Park
OREGON TRAIL LANDMARK
Ash Hollow State Historical Park preserves an important stopover point on the Oregon Trail where pioneers found fresh water and shelter. The park features a visitor center, archaeological sites, and hiking trails that showcase both natural and historical aspects of the area. Visitors can explore Windlass Hill, where wagon wheel ruts from the 19th century are still visible.
14. Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park
PREHISTORIC FOSSIL DISCOVERY
Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park features remarkably preserved prehistoric animal skeletons buried by volcanic ash 12 million years ago. Visitors can watch paleontologists excavating fossils in the Rhino Barn, a working research site open to public viewing. The park's interpretive center explains the ancient savanna ecosystem that once thrived in Nebraska and the volcanic event that preserved it.
15. Bowring Ranch State Historical Park
WORKING RANCH HISTORY
Bowring Ranch State Historical Park preserves the 7,000-acre ranch once owned by former U.S. Senator Eve Bowring. The park features the original ranch house, outbuildings, and a visitor center that tells the story of Nebraska's ranching heritage. Visitors can see livestock similar to those that would have been raised on the ranch during its operational years.