Nebraska

6 Delightful Towns To Visit In Nebraska

Published

2 years ago

June 5, 2024

Nebraska is a midwestern US state set amid sprawling Great Plains landscapes and miles of prairie country. Known for its large cities like Omaha and the state capital, Lincoln, many travelers may overlook the rest of the Cornhusker State as a vacation destination. However, among Nebraska’s flat and unassuming vistas lie several small-town gems featuring some of the state’s most spectacular scenery and diverse attractions. From High Plains havens like Chadron to Sandhills towns like Valentine, historic havens like Nebraska City, and state park settings like McCook, Nebraska’s delightful small towns have something for everyone.

Nebraska City

Downtown Nebraska City, Nebraska. Ammodramus via Wikimedia Commons.

Nebraska City is a small, picturesque town in Southeastern Nebraska. The oldest incorporated city in the state, Nebraska City is known for its rich history and culture, seen through museums like the Old Freighters Museum, the Nebraska City Museum of Firefighting, the Civil War Veterans Museum, and Wildwood Historic House. Famed as the home of Arbor Day, Nebraska City also celebrates its tree-loving heritage with plenty of Arbor Day sites, including the Arbor Lodge State Historical Park and Arbor Day Farm. Visitors can also follow in the footsteps of the famed explorers Lewis and Clark with a visit to the Missouri River Basin Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. While exploring the downtown area, they can also explore the abundance of historical murals that proudly showcase the city’s colorful past.

Bordered by the Missouri River and surrounded by lush, verdant vistas, Nebraska City also has its share of scenic beauty and outdoor recreation. Visit the River Country Park for stunning vistas, bird, and wildlife watching, hiking, and kayaking, bask in the beauty of the Missouri River on the Steamboat Trace Hike/Bike Trail, or visit Riverview Park and its scenic overlook. Other city parks and green spaces throughout the city include Kearney Hill Park and Steinhart Park, perfect for picnicking or simply soaking up the tree-dotted landscapes of Nebraska City.

McCook

McCook, aka “The Capital of the Buffalo Commons,” is a small town in Western Nebraska’s High Plains. Founded in 1882 as an intended railroad center between Omaha and Denver, McCook has a proud heritage evident throughout its many historical and cultural attractions. View Sutton House, the only Frank Lloyd Wright house in Nebraska; explore McCook’s history, including the story of its original settlement, at the Museum of the High Plains and Carnegie Library; or learn about one of Nebraska’s most influential statesmen at the Senator George W. Norris State Historical Site—all help visitors to uncover the city’s past.

McCook’s rolling prairies, undisturbed landscapes, and High Plains locale make it the perfect place for outdoor recreation. Situated in scenic Red Willow County, the area is famed for being a top birdwatching destination and places like nearby Barnett Park and Red Willow State Recreation Area helped to cement its reputation. Additionally, visitors can also visit McCook for the town’s popular Prairie Chicken Dance Tours to see the elusive bird during mating season. There are also many local fishing spots, all less than 30 minutes from McCook, including Swanson Reservoir State Recreation Area and Medicine Creek State Recreation Area. Red Willow State Recreation Area is also known for its fishing and water sports.

Chadron

Chadron is a scenic Nebraska small town defined by its proud High Plains heritage and picturesque pine ridge landscapes. Visitors can learn all about Chadron’s fur trading days with a visit to the Museum of the Fur Trade, the Dawes County Historical Museum, or the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Chadron’s Commercial Historic District also highlights its rich cultural past with a historic walking tour showcasing its many architectural landmarks. The Eleanor Barbour Cook Museum on the campus of Chadron State College is another can’t-miss stop for fans of both history and geology.

Home to Nebraska’s first state park—aptly named Chadron State Park—Chadron has its share of breathtaking natural attractions and outdoor recreation. While Chadron State Park remains a popular destination for camping, trail rides, fishing, and panoramic views of Nebraska’s Pine Ridge region, many other scenic spots are nestled within this small town gem. The Nebraska National Forest’s Pine Ridge District offers visitors hunting, camping, hiking, biking, and horseback trails, as well as being home to attractions like Toadstool Park, Soldier Creek Wilderness, and Pine Ridge National Recreation Area.

Seward

Seward is the county seat of historic Seward County and is one of its most populous communities. Its location—intersected by Interstate 80 and Highways 34 and 15—makes Seward a great place to start exploring the region’s many diverse attractions. Nearby scenic spots include the Smith Creek Wildlife Recreation Area, known for its outdoor recreation, watersports, and scenic lake; Meadowlark Lake, known for its boating, fishing, hunting, and camping; and Twin Lakes, a tranquil retreat with beautiful views. The Plum Creek Trail & Garden Area in Seward also has a picturesque biking and hiking trail that winds through the town’s east side.

While Seward’s convenient location makes it easy to explore Seward County, the pretty Southeast Nebraska town also has plenty to see and do in its own right. Visit the World’s Largest Time Capsule, a 45-ton, concrete vault dedicated in 1975; the Nebraska National Guard Museum featuring artifacts from Nebraska’s military history and heritage; and The Bartels Museum and Marxhausen Gallery of Art for its unique displays. Seward is also known as the 4th of July City and is known for its Independence Day celebrations. Additionally, those who are feeling patriotic can also visit the Seward Parade of Flags or attend a show at the historic Old Glory Theatre.

Valentine

Located in Nebraska’s scenic Cherry County, Valentine is famed for its sprawling Sandhills and picturesque Niobrara River setting. However, it’s the area’s famed outdoor attractions that make it such a great place to visit. From watersports, hiking, and waterfalls at Niobrara National Scenic River to bison watching at Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, Valentine has something for every nature enthusiast. The area is also known for its plethora of dramatic waterfalls, with Smith Falls State Park and Snake River Falls offering some of the state’s most picture-perfect photo ops. Nearby Merritt Reservoir and Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest also offer numerous opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, bird watching, and camping.

Cherry County is also Nebraska’s largest county, and it has plenty of history showcasing the Cornhusker State, as well as the surrounding Sandhills. In Valentine, visitors can explore this rich heritage with a visit to the Centennial Hall Museum and the Cherry County Historical Society Museum. Additionally, the Bowring Ranch Historical State Park explores Sandhills ranch life and is less than one hour away. On the way, be sure to keep an eye out for Cherry County’s historical markers and its many historic bridges scattered throughout the area.

Ogallala

The Keith County town of Ogallala is home to Nebraska’s largest body of water, Lake McConaughy. Also known as “Big Mac,” Lake McConaughy has 100 miles of shoreline, and, combined with the Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala State Recreation Areas, there are nearly endless opportunities for watersports and picture-perfect lakeside views. Boating, fishing, swimming, windsurfing, and scuba diving are just some of the activities at this famed Ogallala area attraction.

But that’s not all—Ogallala also has plenty of historical and cultural attractions in and around its downtown area. Learn about Keith County heritage on the Historic Walk of Fame, see a Western stage show at the Front Street and Cowboy Museum, and tour historic Boot Hill to learn about Ogallala’s cowboy past. Visitors can also step back in time with a stop at Ogallala’s Mansion on the Hill, listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Additionally, nearby Ash Hollow State Historical Park gives visitors a glimpse into the area’s geology, paleontology, prehistoric history, and pioneer past, as well as stunning canyon views from its Visitor Center.

While Nebraska might not be one of America’s top tourist destinations, the Cornhusker State’s picturesque natural landscapes, historic heritage, and recreational opportunities make it an exciting getaway. And there’s no better place to explore Nebraska’s charm than its welcoming small towns. Among these hidden gems lie some of the state’s best destinations: from its oldest city (Nebraska City) to the home of its first state park (Chadron), these delightful small towns in Nebraska are bustling yet cozy destinations perfect for anyone looking for an escape from the ordinary.

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Nebraska

Athlete of the Week: Creighton Prep boys wrestling’s Zaiyahn Ornelas

Published

8 hours ago

February 27, 2026

Press Room

Athlete of the Week: Creighton Prep boys wrestling’s Zaiyahn Ornelas

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) – Creighton Prep senior Zaiyahn Ornelas won his fourth consecutive Nebraska state wrestling title on Saturday.

According to NSAA records, he joins 39 other wrestlers in state history to accomplish the feat.

“It’s a great feeling,” Ornelas said. “It’s a feeling everybody wants.”

The senior ended his career as the 39th four-time state champion in Nebraska history, winning three at Wilber-Clatonia before joining the Jr. Jays.

Ornelas won three Class C state titles at Wilber-Clatonia at 106, 113 and 120 pounds before transferring to Creighton Prep for his senior season, where he competed in Class A at 126 pounds.

“Three state titles there and then just thought I could bump up my competition,” Ornelas said.

“Zaiyahn is one of the cleanest technicians I’ve ever seen. That’s a huge testament to his coaching staff at Wilber,” Fisher added.

Ornelas was one of four Creighton Prep wrestlers to win state titles this season, helping lead the Jr. Jays to the Class A team title. Teammates said his presence in the practice room raised their level of competition.

“I could never slack off just because my competition in the state was easy. I always had to come in this room and get better or else I was going to get beat,” said sophomore Cruzer Dominguez, a two-time Class A state champion at 106 and 120 pounds.

Sophomore Kameron Green, the Class A 144-pound state champion this year, also credited Ornelas for aiding in his development.

“Zaiyahn being a training partner has helped me in tremendous ways,” he said. “When he wrestles, he’s not the nicest or shyest kid, but he’s tenacious and tough.”

The sophomore won his first state title after finishing as a runner-up at 126 pounds as a freshman.

Junior JT Smith, a two-time state champion at 175 and 190 pounds, said the achievement carries weight for the entire team.

“It’s something really special to have a teammate that’s a four-time state champion,” he said. “That’s something everyone wants to be.”

The junior finished the season as a back-to-back state champion after winning a gold medal at 175 pounds as a sophomore.

Fisher said Ornelas’s attitude set the tone from the start.

“He has so many skills and then coming into our room, he’s extremely coachable. Every time he came in here he was humble, ready to work, wanting to get better and that’s why he is as good as he is,” Fisher said.

Ornelas signed to wrestle at the University of Nebraska in November. He said the move to Creighton Prep delivered what he was looking for.

“This is the reason why I came here. I went out to explore, to find the best, and this is the territory that I found. If it wasn’t for these guys — the push — I would have not been there,” Ornelas said.

“It’s hard to believe. That’s kind of what I wanted since the beginning, freshman year,” he said.

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Nebraska

Nebraska Chamber taps former state senator to lead during leadership transition

Published

20 hours ago

February 26, 2026

Press Room

Nebraska Chamber taps former state senator to lead during leadership transition

LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) – The Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry has selected a former state senator and longtime board member to lead the chamber while it searches for a new president and CEO.

Board of Directors Chair Pat Keenan said Thursday that Matt Williams of Gothenburg agreed to serve as interim president.

ALSO READ: Nebraska Chamber president and CEO resigns after less than a year

“The Board is grateful to Matt for stepping into this role during a very active and productive time for the Nebraska Chamber,” Keenan said. “He has steady leadership, strong relationships and trust from his many years of advocacy for economic development, and decades of experience working with the legislature and state government on tax policy and economic development incentives.”

Matt Williams(NE Chamber)

Williams represented District 36 in the Nebraska Legislature from 2015 to 2023.

The chamber said Williams has had a lifelong career in banking and serves as chairman of Flatwater Bank. He previously served as chair of the Nebraska Bankers Association and the American Bankers Association.

His long involvement with the chamber includes membership on the Board of Directors; he currently serves as director for District 6. In 2025, he was named to the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame.

“The Nebraska Chamber is on rock-solid footing, with the clear vision of the Board, and talented and hard-working staff hitting its stride in legislative policy and advocacy, technology, manufacturing, leadership-development, fund-raising and membership. The success of cutting-edge initiatives like 6 Regions, One Nebraska, the launch of the Go Big Future series, and the strong member engagement across the state demonstrate the success and strength of this organization. I’m excited to lend my support in whatever way I can for the Chamber. I know how strong businesses and communities make for a stronger Nebraska, and I’m glad to be part of that.”

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Nebraska

Maryland men’s basketball silenced late by No. 12 Nebraska, 74-61

Published

1 day ago

February 26, 2026

Press Room

Maryland men’s basketball silenced late by No. 12 Nebraska, 74-61

Maryland men’s basketball has found itself in plenty of close games over the past few weeks. Four of its last five were decided by seven points or less, and the Terps won three of them.

Head coach Buzz Williams had ostensibly found a winning recipe in crunch time. That is, until Wednesday’s clash with No. 12 Nebraska.

Down by five with just over six minutes to play, the key ingredients for a comeback were nowhere to be found. Andre Mills, who had been superb over Maryland’s past few matches, turned the ball over to star forward Pryce Sandfort on an errant pass. Just seconds later, Sandfort splashed a 3-pointer, and Pinnacle Bank Arena went wild.

That sequence was the cap of a 9-0 run and the middle of an 0-of-4 shooting stretch for Maryland. What was largely a competitive contest soon became lopsided, and the Terps fell, 74-61.

Williams used his coach’s challenge just a minute and a half into Wednesday’s contest. The reversed call didn’t result in points right away — the Terps turned it over the very next possession — but it undoubtedly sent a crystal clear, no-nonsense message to the sideline.

And Maryland’s defense was ready for the rowdy away game occasion. The Terps notched just five points in the opening five minutes — two coming on a thunderous Solomon Washington slam — but didn’t allow Nebraska on the scoresheet. In fact, Maryland turned the Cornhuskers over twice in that span, and Guillermo Del Pino rejected a Jamarques Lawrence layup.

Nebraska started the game 0-of-6 from the field before finding the net. Sandfort channeled his shooting prowess, sinking a 3-pointer to give the Cornhuskers their first advantage of the match six-and-a-half minutes in.

Forward Braden Frager was the true catalyst for Nebraska’s sudden surge, logging seven of the team’s first 10 points and operating well in transition. His quick-hit offense didn’t allow Maryland to set up its effective half-court defense.

The Terps’ offense remained relatively cold as the midway point of the half approached. They embarked on a 1-of-8 shooting stretch, with Nebraska consistently switching on Maryland’s perimeter looks and forcing Washington into some perimeter shots.

Interestingly enough, it was Washington and his frontcourt counterpart — Elijah Saunders — that offered the team a surge from beyond the arc. The two combined for four of the squad’s first five 3-pointers — two of Saunders’ makes came in the last five minutes of the half to keep Maryland within striking distance.

The Cornhuskers took a six point advantage into the halftime locker room, up 33-27.

Rienk Mast finally got into a bit of rhythm to open the second half, burying a 3-pointer in an attempt to keep the Terps at bay. But Maryland’s offense wasn’t rattled. It didn’t revert to the same isolation playbook that it has sometimes found itself running; it instead was gritty on the glass and earned multiple second-chance opportunities.

Nebraska was being worn down on defense, and its crowd was becoming less intense. Maryland just needed to establish some prolonged momentum.

But the game remained deadlocked for the ensuing minutes. Andre Mills began to display some of the athletic lane-driving traits he’s exhibited over the past 10 contests. But he also drilled a pair of long-range jumpers, quickly becoming the team’s leading second-half scorer.

As the clock ticked below 10 minutes left with the game decided by just a matter of points, the Terps’ offense hit a stagnant stretch. Coit took four consecutive shots — and made only one — while the team’s ball movement came to a screeching halt.

After Nebraska’s 9-0 run, things didn’t realign on the attack for Maryland. Coit continued to struggle, going 2-of-6 from three in the second half. Mills also missed back-to-back looks, and from there, the result was all but decided.

1. Elijah Saunders’ big day. With Mills struggling in the first half Wednesday, Saunders picked up some of the slack. The 40% 3-point shooter made half of his looks, resulting in a season-high five 3-pointers against the Cornhuskers. That comes just one game after he set his previous season-high of four 3-pointers against Washington.

2. Paint production erased. Maryland’s frontcourt did some damage Wednesday night, but much of it came from deep. The Terps finished with just 14 points in the paint compared to Nebraska’s 26. Despite both teams grabbing seven offensive rebounds, Maryland didn’t make much of the second chance opportunities in the restricted area.

3. More Del Pino minutes. After playing 27 minutes and securing the win with an alley-oop lob against Washington, Del Pino was on the court for 15 minutes Wednesday. Though he finished without any points, he seems to have earned Williams’ trust and continues to operate the floor well from a distribution perspective.

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