Merriman NebraskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Merriman, Nebraska.
1. Bowring Ranch State Historical Park
HISTORIC WORKING RANCH
Bowring Ranch State Historical Park showcases the legacy of ranching in Nebraska and the lives of Arthur and Eva Bowring. Visitors can explore a fully operational cattle ranch, enjoy the beautiful Sandhills landscape, and learn about the region's history in the visitor center museum. The park also offers hiking trails and picnic areas for a relaxing day outdoors.
2. Cottonwood Lake State Recreation Area
LAKESIDE OUTDOOR RECREATION
Cottonwood Lake State Recreation Area is a scenic spot known for fishing, camping, and birdwatching. The lake provides opportunities for boating and picnicking in a peaceful natural setting. Its campgrounds are popular with both locals and travelers seeking an authentic Nebraska outdoor experience.
3. Twisted Pine Ranch
RURAL GUEST EXPERIENCE
Twisted Pine Ranch offers visitors the chance to experience ranch life firsthand in the Nebraska Sandhills. Guests can enjoy horseback riding, guided tours, and home-cooked meals in a rustic setting. The ranch emphasizes hospitality and education about the local environment and ranching traditions.
4. Merriman Market
LOCAL GROCERY & ESSENTIALS
Merriman Market is a staple for residents and visitors needing groceries and supplies in town. The market is known for its friendly service and selection of everyday essentials. It provides a convenient shopping stop for travelers venturing through the rural Sandhills.
5. Merriman Community Center
LOCAL GATHERING PLACE
The Merriman Community Center serves as a hub of activity for the village, hosting events, meetings, and celebrations. It's the site of local gatherings and often features community dinners or holiday festivities. The center is a testament to the town's sense of togetherness and small-town charm.
6. Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge
WILDLIFE & BIRDING HAVEN
Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge, located just north of Merriman across the state line, preserves vital wetland and grassland habitats for migratory birds and native wildlife. Visitors can enjoy wildlife observation, photography, and educational programs amid tranquil lake and marsh environments. The refuge is renowned for its populations of trumpeter swans and other waterfowl.
7. Sandhills Drive Scenic Byway
SCENIC NEBRASKA BYWAY
The Sandhills Drive Scenic Byway traverses miles of rolling, grass-covered dunes, providing sweeping views of Nebraska's unique Sandhills landscape. Travelers along the byway can enjoy stops at ranches, small towns, and natural areas for a true taste of rural Nebraska. It's an ideal route for road trips, photography, and taking in the region's natural beauty.
8. Wounded Knee Massacre Monument
HISTORIC NATIVE SITE
Located a short drive north, the Wounded Knee Massacre Monument marks a significant and somber site in Native American and US history. The monument and cemetery honor the hundreds of Lakota who lost their lives in 1890. Visitors come to learn, pay respects, and reflect on this pivotal chapter of the American West.
9. Nebraska's Cowboy Trail
MULTI-USE RAIL TRAIL
Nebraska's Cowboy Trail is a converted rail-trail stretching over 200 miles, with access points in nearby Valentine. The trail offers outstanding opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding across the scenic Sandhills. It's popular with both outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to explore the rural Nebraska landscape on foot or by bike.
10. Merriman Diner
CLASSIC SMALL-TOWN EATS
Merriman Diner is a welcoming local eatery serving comfort food and homemade pies. The diner is a gathering spot for residents and passing travelers alike, known for its hearty breakfasts and daily specials. Its down-to-earth atmosphere captures the spirit of Nebraska's rural dining scene.
11. Red Cloud Heritage Center
NATIVE AMERICAN CULTURAL HUB
The Red Cloud Heritage Center, located on the Pine Ridge Reservation, features an impressive collection of Native American art and historical exhibits. Visitors can learn about Lakota culture and see contemporary works by local artists. The center also offers shopping for authentic handcrafted gifts and artwork.
12. Oglala Lakota College Historical Center
EDUCATIONAL & CULTURAL CENTER
Oglala Lakota College Historical Center, a short drive from Merriman, highlights the history, traditions, and continuing education of the Oglala Lakota people. The center features exhibits, educational programs, and cultural demonstrations open to all visitors. It's an enlightening stop for those interested in the history of the Great Plains tribes.
13. Cherry County Historical Society Museum
REGIONAL HISTORY MUSEUM
Cherry County Historical Society Museum preserves and interprets the diverse history of Cherry County with engaging exhibits and artifacts. The museum displays items from early pioneer days, the ranching era, and Native American culture. It's a must-see for history buffs exploring the northern Nebraska region.
14. Club 20 Steakhouse and Lounge
POPULAR STEAKS & NIGHTLIFE
Club 20 Steakhouse and Lounge is a favorite dining and entertainment spot in the area, located in nearby Martin. The restaurant is known for its savory steaks, friendly service, and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the casual setting and the chance to meet locals over a hearty meal.
15. Sandhills Motel & Glidden Canoe Rental
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES & LODGING
Sandhills Motel & Glidden Canoe Rental in Mullen offers both comfortable accommodations and access to outdoor adventures on the nearby Middle Loup River. Guests can rent canoes or tubes for river trips, enjoying the beauty of the Sandhills from the water. The site is also known for its hospitality and local recommendations for travelers.