Falls City NebraskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Falls City, Nebraska.
1. John Philip Falter Museum
LOCAL ARTIST HERITAGE
The John Philip Falter Museum celebrates the life and work of a Falls City native who became a world-renowned illustrator. Opened in 2015, the museum provides a comprehensive understanding of Falter's significant contributions to American illustration. The museum is also a stop on the Wander Nebraska cultural trail, making it a key cultural landmark in the region.
2. Historic Downtown Stone Street
CHARMING MAIN STREET
Historic Downtown Stone Street is the celebrated heart of Falls City, famously depicted in John Philip Falter's illustration 'Falls City Christmas.' The vibrant downtown area is home to restaurants, museums, and various shopping opportunities. Visitors can experience the authentic small-town charm that has been preserved through generations.
3. Falls City Golf Course
CHALLENGING GREENS
Falls City Golf Course offers a beautiful yet challenging golfing experience just a couple miles west of Falls City on Highway 8. The course features 9 greens and 18 tee boxes, providing variety for golfers of different skill levels. Its scenic layout makes it a popular destination for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy a round of golf.
4. Stanton Lake & Arboretum
OUTDOOR RECREATION HUB
Stanton Lake & Arboretum on West 25th Street offers a serene park setting with fishing, picnic areas, volleyball courts, playgrounds, and a dog park. The park features an 18-hole disc golf course added by the Tanner Shelby Merz Foundation in 2016, appealing to visitors of all ages. The adjacent Itha-Krumme Memorial Arboretum is the only site within the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum system showcasing plants native to Nebraska and surrounding states.
5. Richardson County Historical Museum
REGIONAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Richardson County Historical Museum houses numerous displays of artifacts that preserve the rich history of the county. Located at 1401 Chase Street, this beautiful facility is open April through October on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 2-4pm or by appointment. The museum serves as an important educational resource for understanding the development and cultural heritage of Richardson County.
6. Richardson County Military History Museum
HONORING MILITARY SERVICE
The Richardson County Military History Museum, located in the Richardson County Courthouse, features an extensive collection of war memorabilia including photographs, uniforms, and equipment from various conflicts. Exhibits cover World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and Company B, 134th Infantry of the Nebraska Army National Guard. The museum's creation was spearheaded by Falls City's late mayor Marshall Maddox, a Vietnam combat veteran.
7. Candlelight Cabin
SCENIC LAKE VENUE
The Candlelight Cabin at Stanton Lake is a recently renovated event space featuring a room and screened porch with beautiful views of the park and lake. Available for rental year-round, it provides a picturesque setting for gatherings and special occasions. Its location within the Stanton Lake recreation area makes it convenient for combining indoor events with outdoor activities.
8. Runza Restaurant
ICONIC NEBRASKA EATERY
Runza Restaurant offers visitors a taste of authentic Nebraska cuisine, specializing in the iconic Runza sandwich—a bread pocket filled with beef, cabbage, onions, and spices. This fast-food establishment provides a quick dining option that showcases a regional specialty unique to Nebraska. The restaurant serves as both a convenient meal stop and a cultural experience for those wanting to try local flavors.
9. Verdon State Recreation Area
PEACEFUL OUTDOOR GETAWAY
Verdon State Recreation Area offers visitors a tranquil outdoor experience near Falls City. The recreation area features opportunities for fishing, camping, picnicking, and wildlife observation in a natural setting. Its proximity to Falls City makes it an ideal day trip for those looking to enjoy Nebraska's natural beauty.
10. Falls City Library and Art Center
CULTURAL LEARNING HUB
The Falls City Library and Art Center serves as a cultural and educational resource for the community and visitors alike. Beyond its collection of books, the center features art exhibitions showcasing local and regional talent. The facility provides a welcoming space for learning, creativity, and community engagement.
11. Loess Bluff National Wildlife Refuge
MIGRATORY BIRD HAVEN
Loess Bluff National Wildlife Refuge is a premier destination for bird watching, particularly during migration seasons when hundreds of thousands of birds gather at the wetlands. Located a short drive from Falls City, this natural sanctuary spans over 7,000 acres of wetlands, grasslands, and forests. Visitors can enjoy a scenic auto tour route, hiking trails, and observation areas to witness spectacular wildlife displays.
12. Whiskey Run Creek Winery & Distillery
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Whiskey Run Creek Winery & Distillery offers visitors a taste of locally produced wines and spirits in a charming setting near Falls City. The winery is housed in a renovated 100-year-old barn, creating a rustic and authentic atmosphere for tastings and tours. Guests can enjoy sampling award-winning wines while learning about the winemaking process specific to the region.
13. Historic Brownville
RIVERSIDE CULTURAL VILLAGE
Historic Brownville is a picturesque village on the Missouri River offering a step back in time with its well-preserved 19th-century buildings and museums. The town features art galleries, bookstores, historic homes, and seasonal riverboat excursions that showcase its rich history as one of Nebraska's oldest settlements. Visitors can enjoy the unique blend of culture, history, and riverside charm within an easy drive from Falls City.
14. Big Lake State Park
RECREATIONAL LAKE PARADISE
Big Lake State Park offers extensive water recreation opportunities on Missouri's largest oxbow lake, just a short drive from Falls City. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, and camping amidst beautiful natural surroundings. The park also features hiking trails, picnic areas, and excellent bird watching opportunities throughout the year.
15. Yesterday's Closet
VINTAGE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Yesterday's Closet provides a unique shopping experience in Falls City featuring vintage clothing, accessories, and collectibles. The store offers carefully curated items that appeal to both collectors and those looking for distinctive fashion pieces with historical character. Shoppers can discover one-of-a-kind treasures while experiencing the charm of sustainable, nostalgic retail therapy.