Nebraska, often referred to as the “Heartland” of America, is a state filled with charming small towns that show the spirit of the Great Plains. From the scenic Sandhills to the Missouri River, Nebraska’s small towns offer a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty sure to delight all who visit. As the summer sun shines bright, there is no lovelier place than the small picturesque towns in Nebraska. Plan an unforgettable summer getaway and discover what Nebraska has in store!
Fremont is a town in Dodge County filled with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Located in eastern Nebraska and founded in 1856, the city got its name from the famous explorer and general John C. Frémont. This charming town has a rich history and natural beauty to explore, making it one of the loveliest towns in the state.
For a taste of outdoor beauty, the Platte Riveris the place to go for fishing, kayaking, and a view of its serene and breathtaking surroundings. Visit the Fremont State Recreation Area for hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails. The town is also home to the historic Fremont Opera House, which hosts performances and events throughout the year that you can enjoy as a solo or family activity. Stay at The Super 8 by Wyndham Fremont, a convenient and affordable option if you’re on a budget.
In central Nebraska, there is a vibrant, colorful town that has captivated visitors since the Oregon Trail. Known as the Sandhill Crane Capital of the World, Kearney is all about enjoying its natural ecosystem’s feel and alluring appeal.
Start your holidays with a touch of history by visiting the Great Platte River Road Archway Monument, which spans the Platte River and offers stunning views of the river. It doubles up as a multi-level museum, telling stories of how the river helped build America. Explore the scenic trails and waterways of the Kearney State Recreation Area located in Fort Kearny State Historical Park. This park commemorates the famous fort that once stood there, and it is a park you cannot afford to miss while in town. Stay at the Kearney Inn, a historic hotel with elegant rooms, or the Holiday Inn Express Kearney, a modern hotel with comfortable amenities.
Advertisement
Sidney
The main intersection is in downtown Sidney, Nebraska. Image credit Publicchall via Wikimedia Commons.
History forms a crucial part of Sidney’s tourism culture. Named after the famous railroad official Sidney Dillon, Sidney is known for its unique attractions and place in American history.
The rich history of Sidney is evident in places such as the Living Memorial Gardens and Sidney Boot Hill Cemetery. Living Memorial Gardens is located in Legion Park and is used to pay respect to war veterans. The same goes for Sidney Boot Hill Cemetery, which was first used to bury soldiers of Fort Sidney and later used to bury victims of Sidney’s Wild West days.
You can also find the famous Cabela’s World’s Foremost Outfitters flagship retail store, which offers a vast selection of outdoor gear, museum-quality animal displays, and apparel. Stay at Hampton Inn Sidney, a modern hotel with luxurious amenities, and discover the charm of Sidney, with its friendly people and natural attractions.
Alliance
Carhenge, Alliance, Nebraska. Image credit MarekPhotoDesign.com via stock.adobe.com
Alliance is a quaint town in western Nebraska with an endearing history and a blissful natural environment, making it a gem of a holiday destination. Experience the town’s rural feel by visiting the iconic Carhenge, a quirky replica of Stonehenge made from vintage cars. The trails and waterways of the Alliance Recreation Center leave you in awe of the environment. It also makes for a good location to take good holiday pictures and enjoy picnics and family gatherings.
Stay at the Alliance Hotel and Suites, a cozy boutique hotel with luxurious amenities, or the Super 8 by Wyndham Alliance, a convenient and affordable option. The town’s downtown district is filled with shops and restaurants that connect you to the town’s spirit.
Hastings
The Naval Ammunition Depot Hastings near Hastings, Nebraska.
Hastings is a town in south-central Nebraska where hospitality and charm come together through the bonds between relationships, sports, arts, and history. This unique mix of different elements of human culture allows Hastings to provide unique experiences to different personalities.
The talk of the town is the Adams County Fairgrounds, which hosts Fairfest, one place you must not miss. Fairfest is a musical festival in July that features top-notch artists and elevates the music scene in town. Along the shores of the River Platte, you can enjoy watching the different species of waterfowl that pass between March and May. History enthusiasts can learn about the lives of veterans who served the town with utmost devotion at the Adams County Veterans Monument.
North Platte
Buffalo Bill Ranch.
As the summer sun shines bright, North Platte draws many tourists with its rich history, outdoor adventures, and small-town charm. With many attractions, a summer in North Platte will surely not be boring!
Explore the Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, which features the legendary William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody’s sprawling Victorian mansion and its stunning gardens. You may go for watersports activities at the North Platte River, which flows through the heart of town. Visit the Cody Park Railroad Museum to climb aboard historic trains and learn about the town’s railroad heritage. Relax on the beach or hike at Lake Maloney State Recreation Area, a picturesque lake just outside town. Your kids are not left out, as the interactive North Platte Area Children’s Museum allows their imaginations to run wild while they have fun.
Advertisement
Brownville
Missouri River with the historic dredge, Captain Meriwether Lewis, in Brownville, Nebraska. Image credit marekuliasz via Shutterstock
Brownville is a chill town by the Missouri River Valley where visitors can enjoy relief from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town is a complete mix of history and bliss and is home to the famous Brownville Historic District. Over the years, Brownville has maintained its tourism standards, making it an ideal holiday destination. Visit the Brownville Historical Society Museum for a quick history lesson. The Spirit of Brownville, with its exhibits and rural vibe, also has a calm atmosphere.
Enjoy some of the finest wine at the Whiskey Run Creek Vineyard and Winery, which is also a historic site in the neighborhood. Here, you can meet locals and learn more facts about getting the best liquor in town, which complements the holiday experience. A night at River Inn Resort will give you access to local cuisines and an elite experience.
Papillion
Aerial view of the Omaha suburb of Papillion, Nebraska.
If you’re looking for a tranquil retreat near Omaha without sacrificing the city’s luxuries, look no further than Papillion. This charming town is just a 25-minute drive from the city and offers the best of both worlds. Papillion is home to the stunning Walnut Creek Lake and Recreation Area, where you can hike, bike, camp, and more. For a fun-filled farm experience, head to Bellevue Berry Farm & Pumpkin Ranch.
There is enough fun for everyone. Kids will go wild for the go-karts and games at Papio Fun Park, while sports enthusiasts can catch a thrilling Omaha Storm Chasers game. Step back in time with a visit to the historic John Sautter House and Portal School. Papillon offers adventure and relaxation, and it is the perfect respite from the stress of the big city.
Columbus
Aerial View of the small town of Columbus, Nebraska.
Columbus is located in the heart of the Midwest, and it is an incredible experience filled with historic attractions that will keep you walking across the town, aiming to make the most of your holiday. The historic bridges and Andrew Jackson Higgins National Memorial take you down memory lane. You can see a life-sized replica of the World War II Higgins boat, which helped bring American forces ashore in battle.
Along the Lincoln Highway Scenic & Historic Byway, you can enjoy calm evenings while taking a stroll or during an evening drive. The Quincentenary Belltower, in tribute to Christopher Columbus’ trip around the world, is a historically significant site. You can also enjoy live music and unbeatable Nebraska steak at Dusters Bar and Grill before having a good night’s rest at Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites.
Scottsbluff
Scotts Bluff National Monument, Nebraska.
Scottsbluff, a charming town in western Nebraska, is a preferred summer destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history lovers, and families alike. With adventures that cater to the needs of various sets of travelers, it is no wonder that tourists visit this town in their thousands.
For those seeking to learn about the town’s development, consider a visit to the iconic Scotts Bluff National Monument, 10 minutes from the town. This natural wonder has guided travelers for centuries. Not too far from the National Monument, the Legacy of the Plains Museum showcases the region’s rich history and heritage.
Enjoy premium outdoor adventures when you hike the scenic trails at Scotts Bluff National Monument or explore the beautiful gardens, animals, and natural ecosystems at the Riverside Discovery Center. Families will love the Scotts Bluff County Fairgrounds, 14 minutes from the town, which holds a plethora of summer events that may help you get some entertainment. For a unique shopping experience, the downtown area is filled with boutiques and antique stores that will definitely pique your interest. With its warm hospitality and natural beauty, Scottsbluff is the perfect destination for your next adventure.
Advertisement
Nebraska’s small towns have majestic sceneries and a peaceful charm. From the plains of Scottsbluff to the quaint streets of Papillion, each place on this list offers a unique experience that will leave you feeling like you have discovered a hidden gem. Get ready to pack some bags and embark on an adventurous trip to any (or all!) of these small towns in this state.
Ten UNK students will perform with other outstanding instrumentalists from across the state as part of the 2026 Nebraska Intercollegiate Band. Front row, from left: Olivia Kohmetscher, Kaia Johnson, Douglas Davidchik, Micah Feddersen and Avery Reitz. Back row, from left: Evan Porter, Ike Smith, Kaitlyn Obrecht, Cameron Grafel and Chloe Harms. (Courtesy UNK, Click to enlarge)
KEARNEY, Neb – Ten students will represent the University of Nebraska at Kearney as members of the 2026 Nebraska Intercollegiate Band.
They’ll perform 11:30 a.m. March 7 in Kimball Recital Hall on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus as part of the 65th annual Nebraska State Bandmasters Association convention. The concert is free and open to the public.
Advertisement
The Nebraska Intercollegiate Band includes outstanding instrumentalists from colleges and universities across the state. Students selected for the honor spend time rehearsing together in Lincoln before performing for the public. This year’s ensemble is led by guest conductor Donald McKinney, director of bands at Indiana University.
“Rehearsing and performing in the Nebraska Intercollegiate Band will be an excellent opportunity for experiential learning,” said professor Duane Bierman, director of bands at UNK. “Not only will these students get a great musical experience but they will also get a chance to expand their network and grow their interpersonal skills.”
Students representing UNK include: Broken Bow – Cameron Grafel, horn Columbus – Douglas Davidchik, clarinet Elm Creek – Chloe Harms, euphonium Grand Island – Olivia Kohmetscher, tenor saxophone Kearney – Ike Smith, trumpet Kearney – Micah Feddersen, trumpet Kearney – Avery Reitz, string bass and tuba La Vista – Kaitlyn Obrecht, piano Minden – Evan Porter, percussion Ravenna – Kaia Johnson, flute
Not even more sickness could stop the No. 12 Nebraska men’s basketball team.
Advertisement
With a nasty flu strain ripping through the Huskers and the UNL campus as a whole, Nebraska needed a little more time to take care of Maryland, but freshman star Braden Frager and his team-high 21 points and eight rebounds led a late NU surge for a 74-61 victory over the Terrapins. Forward Pryce Sandfort added to the effort with 16 points and eight rebounds while both Rienk Mast (13) and Sam Hoiberg (12) also reached double figures.
Advertisement
Now with just three games remaining in the regular season, the Huskers venture west for a two-game road trip to L.A., where they start off against a USC team in the middle of a long losing skid. Here’s all you need to know for Saturday’s mid-afternoon showdown between the Huskers and Trojans.
How to Follow Along
Matchup: Nebraska (24-4, 13-4 B1G) at USC (18-10, 7-10 B1G)
When: Saturday, February 28
Where: Galen Center, Los Angeles, Calif.
Time: 3 p.m. CST
Watch: Big Ten Network
Listen: Huskers Radio Network and Affiliates
USC head coach Eric Musselman has already surpassed the wins total from his first season in charge of the Trojans. | Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Advertisement
USC Scout
Head Coach
Eric Musselman | 2nd season at USC; 11th as HC
35-28 (.556) at USC; 256-121 (.679) College Career Record
Previous head coach at Arkansas, Nevada, Sacramento Kings and Golden State Warriors
Previous assistant at LSU, Arizona State, Memphis Grizzlies, Atlanta Hawks, Orlando Magic and Minnesota Timberwolves
2024-2025 Record & Awards
Record: 17-18 (7-13 B1G, T-12th)
Finish: L, 60-59 to Villanova in CBC Quarterfinals
All-B1G: 1x Honorable Mention
All-Time Series
USC leads 6-5
Jan. 22, 2025, last matchup, 78-73 USC
Washington guard Desmond Claude (1) was an All-Big Ten Honorable Mention pick last year at USC before transferring. | Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
Advertisement
Key Returners
Terrance Williams II | F | Gr. | Was off to a great start with 10.6 points and 4.6 rebounds per game last year before getting knocked out for the season just seven games in; has not been the same with just 2.5 PPG in 27 contests this season.
Key Departures
Desmond Claude | G | Transfer | Named All-Big Ten Honorable Mention last season for the Trojans after leading the team with 15.8 points per game, but transferred to Washington over the offseason.
Wesley Yates III | G | Transfer | Another player that transferred to Washington, the Texas native was second on the team last season in scoring (14.1) and steals (40) as a redshirt freshman.
Chibuzo Agbo | G | Graduated | Veteran guard that scored 11.8 points per contest while leading the team with 76 made three-pointers as part of his final college season.
Saint Thomas | F | Graduated | The Omaha native and Millard North graduate scored 9.5 points and grabbed 5.9 rebounds per game in his final college season.
Rashaun Agee | F | Graduated | A 6-foot-8 veteran forward who proved to be USC’s most dangerous threat off the bench by scoring over nine points per game.
Josh Cohen | F | Graduated | A 6-foot-10 post that started in 25 of his 33 appearances while adding 5.9 points per game for the Trojans.
Clark Slajchert | G | Graduated | Another key reserve for the Trojans who put up four points per game in 11 minutes across 27 games.
Kevin Patton Jr. | F | Transfer | After scoring 9.8 PPG at San Diego, the California native saw limited action for USC off the bench to prompt his transfer to New Mexico over the offseason.
Matt Knowling | F | Graduated | Played in 27 contests with an average of over 18 minutes, but added little production with three points and 2.6 rebounds.
Another standout guard for USC last season, Wesley Yates III (9) transferred to Washington ahead of his redshirt sophomore year. | Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Advertisement
Impact Transfers/Newcomers
Rodney Rice | G | Jr. | The third leading scorer from a Sweet 16 Maryland squad last season, the transfer scored over 20 points per game for the Trojans before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury in December.
Chad Baker-Mazara | G/F | Gr. | A veteran transfer that aided Auburn’s run to the Final Four last season, the Dominican Republic native leads all active Trojans with 18.6 points per game and 71 total assists.
Ezra Ausar | F | Sr. | The 6-foot-9 forward transfer from Utah scores over 15 points per game and grabs over six rebounds per contest in an elevated role after the injury to Rice.
Alijah Arenas | G | Fr. | The son of former NBA star Gilbert Arenas, the true freshman missed the first 18 games of the season, but he’s been highly productive with a 13.9 points per game average in his first 10 college games.
Jacob Cofie | F | Soph. | A massive 6-foot-10 forward from Seattle, the Virginia transfer gives USC a weapon inside with 9.8 points and seven rebounds per game as a full-time starter.
Kam Woods | G | Gr. | A mid-season transfer from Robert Morris, where he led the program to its 10th NCAA Tournament appearance, the Alabama native has added over eight points and four rebounds in 16 contests this year.
Jordan Marsh | G | Jr. | The 2025 Big South Conference Newcomer of the Year last season at UNC-Ashville, Marsh acts as the sixth man for the Trojans with 6.7 PPG to lead all reserves.
Jaden Brownell | F | Gr. | A 6-foot-10 bench forward, the USC big man was a 14-point scorer at Samford last season before making his way to L.A.
Jerry Easter II | G | Fr. | An Ohio native who went to the heralded Link Academy in Missouri, Easter II has earned six starts in his 26 appearances by scoring 4.4 points per game.
Gabe Dynes | C | Jr. | The 7-foot-5 center led the country in blocks (104) last season at Youngstown State before transferring to USC, where he’s putting up three points per game, but has collected 30 blocks while only averaging 12 minutes per appearance.
Outlook
A veteran head coach at both the college and NBA levels, Eric Musselman was at the center of one of college basketball’s wildest coaching carousel moves following the 2023–24 season, leaving Arkansas for USC and paving the way for the legendary John Calipari to take over the Razorbacks program.
Advertisement
While Calipari marched his team to a Sweet 16 appearance in his first season, Musselman’s debut season in L.A. ended with a quarterfinal loss in the CBC for an underwhelming year. What followed was an exodus from the program, with top-two scorers Desmond Claude (15.8) and Wesley Yates III (14.1) both transferring to Washington despite standout seasons. Six others graduated, including Omaha native Saint Thomas (9.5) as well as Chibuzo Agbo, a veteran guard who scored 11.8 points per game in his final college season.
That resulted in a whole new crop of transfers to join the team, including the crown jewel of the haul in Rodney Rice, who played a big part in helping Maryland reach the Sweet 16 last season. The junior started out hot for the Trojans, logging over 20 points per game, but a devastating shoulder injury ended his season just seven games in, which immediately lowered the ceiling for a USC team with decent talent. Chad Baker-Mazara has stepped up in the place of Rice with 18.6 points per game and a team-high 71 assists after transferring from Auburn, where he helped the Tigers reach the Final Four.
Advertisement
Rodney Rice (1) was scoring over 20 points per game for USC before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury in December. | Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
Advertisement
Utah transfer Ezra Ausar has produced at a high level with over 15 points and six rebounds per contest. Despite missing the first 18 games of the season, true freshman Alijah Arenas has averaged 13.9 points per game as a starter. Sophomore and Virginia transfer Jacob Cofie is the muscle in the post, scoring 9.8 points per game and grabbing a team-high seven rebounds per contest. Similar to Arenas, Robert Morris transfer Kam Woods has been a big mid-season addition with over eight points and 4.6 rebounds per game. Plus, Jordan Marsh (6.7), Jaden Brownell (5.3), and 7-foot-5 center Gabe Dynes give Musselman the opportunity to mix-and-match his lineup off the bench depending on the matchup.
The Rice injury is massive, and could end up being one of the primary reasons for the Trojans missing the NCAA Tournament, for which they are a bubble team in the latest projections. It’s crunch time for USC, which is in the midst of a four-game losing streak after dropping contests to Ohio State, No. 10 Illinois, Oregon, and UCLA. Three of those four were winnable for the Trojans and games that could really haunt them as they search for key wins down the stretch to lock up a spot in March Madness.
Against a Trojan team that doesn’t defend well, but ranks as one of the top rebounding teams in the conference, USC is an interesting matchup for Nebraska. Being on the road and dealing with more sickness isn’t helpful, but I’m riding the Huskers for this one to reach 25 wins on the year.
LEXINGTON, Neb. (KOLN) – Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol arrested one person after finding more than 240 pounds of cocaine during a commercial vehicle inspection.
On Tuesday afternoon, an NSP Carrier Enforcement trooper conducted a commercial vehicle inspection on a semi tractor/trailer driven by Arwinderjit Singh, 30, of California, near mile marker 254 on Interstate 80.
Arwinderjit Singh mugshot(Dawson County Jail)
During the inspection, the trooper became suspicious of criminal activity. An NSP K-9 detected the odor of a controlled substance inside the cab of the semi, troopers said.
After searching the cab, troopers located 242 pounds of cocaine concealed underneath the sleeper bed, NSP said.
Advertisement
Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol arrested one person after finding more than 240 pounds of cocaine during a commercial vehicle inspection.(Nebraska State Patrol)
Singh was arrested on suspicion of possession of cocaine, possession with intent to deliver, possession of an open alcohol container, no drug tax stamp and displaying a fictitious license plate.
Singh was lodged in Dawson County Jail, and his bond was set at 10% of $2 million. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 12.
Click here to subscribe to our 10/11 NOW daily digest and breaking news alerts delivered straight to your email inbox.
