Pawnee City NebraskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Pawnee City, Nebraska.
1. Pawnee City Historical Society & Museum
RICH LOCAL HISTORY
The Pawnee City Museum sits on the east edge of town and features 22 buildings and more than 25,000 historical items. It includes a barn that was in Dan Whitney's family (aka the Cable Guy), the Butler home, and the Curtis house. Every fourth weekend in September, the museum holds Pawnee City Historical Days, featuring Civil War reenactments, demonstrations, vendors, and a twilight walk.
2. Historic Downtown District
NATIONAL HISTORIC REGISTER SITE
The Historic Downtown District in Pawnee City features an 1881 downtown area included on the National Historic Register. The buildings around the courthouse square date from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, earning the commercial district its prestigious designation. Visitors can pick up a self-guided tour map at the Pawnee City Public Library to experience the flavor of another era in this downtown built on the square.
3. Fairview Golf Course
CLASSIC NEBRASKA GOLFING
Fairview Golf Course is a 9-hole course facility in Pawnee City featuring all the hallmarks of Nebraska golf. The course opened in 1922 and has been providing golfers with a classic experience for over a century. Fairview offers visitors and locals alike a chance to enjoy outdoor recreation in a scenic setting.
4. Jerry's Dream Museum
VINTAGE GAS STATION MEMORABILIA
Jerry's Dream Museum is a restored Phillips 66 historic Pawnee Oil Station that got its start in 1937. It features memorabilia displays and a restored 50's-style diner that transport visitors back in time. The museum hosts 'Cars & Coffee' on the second Saturday of each month from April through October, showcasing a different make of vehicle each month.
5. SchillingBridge Winery and Microbrewery
LOCAL WINES AND BREWS
SchillingBridge Winery and Microbrewery offers visitors a taste of locally produced wines and craft beers. This establishment combines the best of both worlds with its dual focus on quality wines and microbrews. Visitors can enjoy tastings and learn about the local production processes in a welcoming atmosphere.
6. Pedal Clinic
VINTAGE TOY COLLECTION
The Pedal Clinic houses a unique display of more than 450 pedal cars, tractors, airplanes, and other toys collected by Bill and Elsie Sunneberg. This private museum is housed in a former church, creating a distinctive setting for the extensive collection. Tours are available by appointment, allowing visitors to step back into childhood nostalgia.
7. Rinne's Private Toys and Dolls Collectibles Museum
NOSTALGIC DOLL COLLECTION
Rinne's Private Toys and Dolls Collectibles Museum was created by Larry and Jeanne Rinne as a showcase for their personal collection. Located at 1038 8th St. in Pawnee City, this museum offers a glimpse into the world of vintage toys and dolls. Tours are available by appointment, giving visitors a personalized look at these cherished collectibles.
8. Little Brown Jug
LOCAL FOOD AND SPIRITS
The Little Brown Jug is a small-town combination liquor store and deli located on F Street in Pawnee City. It offers lunch specials, sandwiches, salads, and meat and cheese available by the pound. The establishment is also known for its 'Jugaritas' - frozen margaritas available in regular or strawberry flavors.
9. Shirley's Place
HOMESTYLE LOCAL DINING
Shirley's Place is a local restaurant offering homestyle cooking on 6th Street in Pawnee City. The establishment serves lunch daily and extends to dinner service Thursday through Saturday, providing a comfortable spot for locals and visitors. Shirley's has become a community gathering spot known for its welcoming atmosphere and satisfying meals.
10. Palmer Cafe
EARLY BIRD BREAKFAST SPOT
Palmer Cafe is an early-opening breakfast and lunch spot located on F Street in Pawnee City. Opening at 5:30 a.m. on weekdays, it caters to early risers and those looking for hearty morning meals. The cafe offers a selection of breakfast and lunch options in a casual, small-town setting.
11. Pawnee City Thriftway
GROCERIES AND READY MEALS
Pawnee City Thriftway serves as both a grocery store and convenient food option on F Street. The establishment offers carryout chicken dinners, lunch specials, and Hunt's Brothers pizza for those seeking a quick meal. Beyond prepared foods, Thriftway provides essential grocery items for both residents and visitors to Pawnee City.
12. Burchard Lake
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Burchard Lake is a scenic recreational area near Pawnee City offering outdoor activities for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and wildlife observation in this tranquil setting. The lake provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to connect with nature in southeastern Nebraska.
13. Iron Horse Trail Lake
FISHING AND WILDLIFE
Iron Horse Trail Lake is a recreational area located near DuBois offering fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities. The lake is named after the historic railway that once passed through the region, connecting it to local history. Visitors can enjoy peaceful surroundings while engaging in outdoor activities throughout the year.
14. Harold Lloyd Boyhood Home
SILENT FILM STAR CONNECTION
The Harold Lloyd Boyhood Home preserves the early residence of silent film star Harold Lloyd in Pawnee County. Lloyd, who became one of the most famous and highest-paid actors of the silent film era, spent his formative years in this Nebraska setting. The site offers visitors a glimpse into the early life of this influential entertainment figure before he achieved Hollywood fame.
15. DuBois Community Building
LOCAL GATHERING PLACE
The DuBois Community Building serves as a central gathering place for events and activities in the town of DuBois near Pawnee City. This facility hosts various community functions, private celebrations, and public meetings throughout the year. The building represents the heart of community life in this small Nebraska town, providing space for residents to come together.