The Historical Heritage Highway Scenic Byway
Whether you’re a history buff or someone who prefers to live in the moment, this stretch of Highway 136 has something for you. This scenic drive takes you from the banks of the mighty Missouri River to the wide-open fields and plains of south-central Nebraska, extending though small towns and villages on its journey.
Route Directions
Brownville to Beatrice: 62 miles
Beatrice to Fairbury: 27 miles
Fairbury to Hebron: 23 miles
Hebron to Superior: 36 miles
Superior to Red Cloud: 29 miles
Red Cloud to Alma: 49 miles
Day 1
Brownville
Experience small-town charm like no other in historic downtown Brownville. Aside from its many historical homes open to tour, the Flatwater Folk Art Museum celebrates the diversity and traditions of the human spirit. Stop by Environs Art of the Midwest Gallery and immerse yourself in art using natural materials. Sample local wines at Whiskey Run Creek Vineyard and Winery before partaking in a tasty lunch at Brownville Lyceum. Cruise down the Missouri River on the Spirit of Brownville Riverboat and River Inn Resort.
Beatrice
Head west to Beatrice and the Homestead National Historical Park to learn how the Homestead Act of 1862 led to profound and lasting changes to the land, to Native Americans, immigration and migration patterns and agriculture. Afterward make your way to the Nebraska Baseball (Amateur) Hall of Fame featuring displays of vintage baseball equipment, uniforms of famous players, photographs, inductee histories and other exciting exhibits. Step back in time in the historic 1887 Schmuck building to explore vintage clothing from 1840 to 1960 at Yesterday’s Lady. Afterward, enjoy dinner downtown at Black Crow Restaurant and Bar, a critically acclaimed restaurant serving international, American and Mediterranean cuisine.
Day 2
Fairbury
A quick trip from town is Rock Creek Station State Historical Park, where you can view Oregon Trail ruts and stand in the same place where Wild Bill Hickok began his infamous gunfighting career. Head back to town to refresh and refuel at Jalisco with its full Mexican menu in a historic building.
Hebron
Continue westward so you can tell your friends you sat on One of the World’s Largest Covered Porch Swings! The swing is 32 feet long and can seat 24 children or 18 adults.
Superior
Get your fill of greenery and let the plants be your inspiration at The Petal Patch, a local greenhouse and garden center. Next head to Nuckolls County Museum to view exhibits on the history and settlement of Superior and Nuckolls County. While there, check out the exhibit of Lady Evelyn Vestey and one of the state’s largest model airplane collections.
Red Cloud
Next up is the home of famed Nebraska author Willa Cather. While in town, visit Willa Cather Childhood Home & Historic Sites and National Willa Cather Center and Red Cloud Opera House to learn more about her life and works. Also downtown is the Mark Dahle Art Gallery, a 10,000-square-foot gallery. Once you have had your fill of history, stop by The Palace Lounge & Steakhouse for a mouthwatering Nebraska steak before topping off the evening at On the Brix for quality spirits and local craft brews in a relaxing environment.
Day 3
Alma
After breakfast at Alley Cats Bar & Grill & Bowling, make your way to Harlan County Reservoir for a guided tour of the Harlan County Dam during the summer months. This area also is a bird watcher’s paradise serving as a stopover for millions of migrating birds.