Hershey NebraskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Hershey, Nebraska.
1. Stones & Bones Gallery And Emporium
NATIVE AMERICAN ARTIFACTS GALLERY
Stones and Bones is a unique gallery tucked into the small town of Hershey, Nebraska featuring Native American artifacts, western art, and wildlife pieces. Visitors and history lovers can explore their exceptional private collection of Native American Stone Age artifacts collected from across Western Nebraska. The gallery offers special tours for groups of 10 or less, including insights on the collection, Stone Age artifacts, and flint knapping demonstrations with personal instruction.
2. Maria Lutheran Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
Maria Lutheran Church stands as a notable landmark in the community of Hershey, Nebraska. The church serves as both a place of worship and a historical point of interest for visitors to the area. Its architecture and community significance make it one of the top landmarks to visit in Hershey.
3. Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church
CATHOLIC SPIRITUAL CENTER
Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church is a prominent religious landmark in Hershey, Nebraska. The church serves the local Catholic community while also being recognized as a point of interest for visitors. Its spiritual significance and architecture make it worth visiting when exploring Hershey's landmarks.
4. Hershey United Methodist Church
METHODIST COMMUNITY LANDMARK
Hershey United Methodist Church is a recognized landmark in the small town of Hershey, Nebraska. The church has been serving the spiritual needs of the local Methodist community for generations. Visitors often appreciate its historical significance and contribution to the town's cultural identity.
5. Longhorn Bar
LOCAL WESTERN WATERING HOLE
The Longhorn Bar is a popular establishment in Hershey, Nebraska offering visitors a taste of local culture and hospitality. Known for its authentic western atmosphere, the bar provides a gathering place for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy drinks, possible dining options, and the opportunity to mingle with residents of this small Nebraska town.
6. Union Pacific Railroad Bailey Yard
WORLD'S LARGEST RAIL YARD
Union Pacific Railroad Bailey Yard in nearby North Platte is the largest railroad classification yard in the world, spanning 2,850 acres. Every day, the yard handles 10,000 railroad cars and visitors can observe this incredible operation. The massive scale and continuous activity make it a fascinating attraction for train enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
7. Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center
RAILROAD OBSERVATION TOWER
Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center offers an eight-story high view overlooking Bailey Yard, the world's largest railroad classification yard. Visitors can enjoy 360-degree views of the massive rail operation from both enclosed and open-air observation decks. The center also includes historical displays, a gift shop, and knowledgeable staff who provide insights into the railroad's significance to the region.
8. Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park
WILD WEST HERITAGE SITE
Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park preserves the former home of William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody, the famous Wild West showman. Visitors can tour the restored 1886 Second Empire-style house filled with period furnishings and Buffalo Bill memorabilia. The property includes a large barn housing exhibits related to Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show and the lifestyle of this iconic American figure.
9. Ash Hollow State Historical Park
OREGON TRAIL HISTORIC SITE
Ash Hollow State Historical Park is a significant Oregon Trail landmark where pioneers descended the challenging Windlass Hill into the North Platte Valley. The park features a visitor center, preserved wagon ruts, Native American archaeological sites, and a schoolhouse from the 1900s. Nature enthusiasts can also enjoy hiking trails, picnicking areas, and opportunities to observe local wildlife and flora.
10. Cody Park
FAMILY RECREATION AREA
Cody Park in North Platte offers a variety of family-friendly activities including a historic carousel, antique railroad equipment displays, and a wildlife exhibit featuring elk, deer, and bison. The park includes recreational facilities such as picnic areas, a swimming pool, and sports fields for visitors to enjoy. During summer months, families can also enjoy an ice cream shop and concession stands that add to the park's appeal as a local gathering spot.
11. Lincoln County Historical Museum
REGIONAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Lincoln County Historical Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of North Platte and the surrounding region. A highlight of the museum is the North Platte Canteen exhibit, honoring the World War II volunteers who served over 6 million service members passing through on troop trains. The outdoor village area includes historic buildings like a one-room schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, and pioneer church that have been relocated to the museum grounds.
12. Lake Maloney State Recreation Area
OUTDOOR WATER RECREATION
Lake Maloney State Recreation Area offers 1,600 acres of water and 1,000 acres of land for outdoor enthusiasts near North Platte. Popular activities include fishing for walleye, white bass, and catfish, as well as boating, water skiing, and swimming during summer months. Camping facilities, picnic areas, and hiking opportunities make this a versatile destination for both day trips and extended outdoor adventures.
13. Ole's Big Game Steakhouse & Lounge
HISTORIC TROPHY RESTAURANT
Ole's Big Game Steakhouse & Lounge in nearby Paxton is famous for its unique decor featuring over 200 exotic animal trophies collected by founder Ole Herstedt during safaris between 1938 and 1988. This historic restaurant has been serving hungry travelers along the Lincoln Highway since 1933 and maintains its reputation for hearty steaks and burgers. Visitors come not only for the food but also for the unforgettable atmosphere created by the impressive collection of mounted animals from around the world.
14. Fort Cody Trading Post
WESTERN SOUVENIR EMPORIUM
Fort Cody Trading Post is a unique western-themed shopping attraction designed to resemble an old frontier fort complete with log walls and watchtowers. Inside, visitors find a vast selection of souvenirs, western wear, Native American crafts, and Nebraska products in a space that doubles as a free museum. The highlight for many is the hand-carved miniature mechanized Wild West Show featuring 20,000 pieces that depicts Buffalo Bill's famous traveling exhibition.
15. Feather River Vineyards
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Feather River Vineyards offers visitors a chance to sample locally produced wines in a picturesque setting near North Platte. The winery features a tasting room where guests can enjoy various wine varieties crafted from grapes grown in their Nebraska vineyard. With occasional events, outdoor seating areas, and vineyard tours during growing season, it provides a relaxing destination for wine enthusiasts traveling through the region.