Itinerary: Cranes and Kearney - Along the Central Platte River Valley

Local tip: For the best viewing experience make a reservation to see the birds from a blind on their river roosts, either morning or evening at Rowe Sanctuary!

Kearney Sandhill Crane Capital of the World
Day 1
Plautz Crane Viewing Deck

47751 Elm Island Rd
Gibbon, NE
United States

Start your day with a sunrise viewing of the crane liftoff at Plautz Viewing Deck! This platform provides spectacular views of cranes, herons, egrets, pelicans, and many other birds.

Breakfast Cart

2524 1st Ave Ste 6
Kearney, NE
United States

The made from scratch family recipes at the Breakfast Cart will have you feeling at home! With a full menu of delicious breakfast items to choose from everyone leaves feeling full!

The Archway

I-80 Exit 275
Kearney, NE
United States

Visit the Archway, a unique museum experience spanning I-80, for a new view of history! From the Oregon Trail era through today, the Archway’s family-friendly historical exhibit tells the story of the adventurers who followed the Great Platte River Road and helped to build America.

Good Evans

1010 3rd Ave Ste. F
Kearney, NE
United States

For a lunch that is about more than food visit Good Evans. Offering an elevated menu to traditional breakfast and lunch items they aim to be good at everything they do!

The Brickwalk Gallery

2008 Ave A
Kearney, NE
United States

Arrange a visit to the Brickwalk Gallery, a collection of Nebraska made art. The Brickwalk invites guests in for friendly conversation, art talk and the opportunity to purchase select pieces of artwork. 

Alley Rose

2013 Central Ave
Kearney, NE
United States

Enjoy a night of elegant dining at the Alley Rose. This restaurant provides a distinct difference in dining and atmosphere for all to enjoy.

Ft Kearny Recreation Area

1020 V Rd
Kearney, NE
United States

Experience an evening of hiking, biking, and more at Ft. Kearny State Recreation Area. Finish the night off by observing the cranes roost for the night at the bridges over the Platte River.

Oldfather Guest House

2146 22 Rd
Kearney, NE
United States

Come stay in the private Oldfather Guest House. Located near the banks of the Platte River, the Guest House is situated amid the corn fields the cranes feed in during their stay in Central Nebraska. 

Kearney Archway
Day 2
Full Circle Bakery/Café

334 2nd Ave
Kearney, NE
United States

This scratch bakery features a variety of pastries, breads, cookies, and more. They serve breakfast and lunch with an international flair!

Self-Guided Crane Viewing

Kearney, NE
United States

Create your own tour of the cranes using this map! Watch the birds as they feed in the fields during the day before moving to the river at night.

Suwannee Thai Cuisine

1420 W 24th St
Kearney, NE
United States

Try a taste of authentic Thai food at Suwannee Thai Cuisine! This restaurant offers a large menu with options for all to enjoy.

Trails & Rails Museum

710 West 11th St
Kearney, NE
United States

This museum features seven historical Buffalo County buildings and a Union Pacific train to educate on the history and preservation of the history of our community.

Cunningham’s on the Lake

610 Talmadge St. STE A
Kearney, NE
United States

A modern twist to a taphouse and grill dining, Cunningham’s on the Lake allows you to view the lake from our fire pit tables, sit at the bar and become a beer connoisseur with our 48 craft beers, or catch the game in the dining room with a TV in every direction.

Oldfather Guest House

2146 22 Rd
Kearney, NE
United States

Come stay in the private Oldfather Guest House. Located near the banks of the Platte River, the Guest House is situated amid the corn fields the cranes feed in during their stay in Central Nebraska. 

Cranes Flying