Itinerary: Explore America's Homestead Story—and more—in Beatrice and Gage County

Where America's Homestead Story begins, you'll find a little something for everyone, from history and the arts to delicious wines and ales.

Homestead National Monument of America in Beatrice, Nebraska

Homestead National Monument of America

Local's Tip

Always call ahead to make arrangements with attractions listed. Many are not open daily, but will work with you to make arrangements for your visit to Beatrice and Gage County.

Day 1
Start your day at the Country Cookin' Cafe

111 S. 8th St.
Beatrice, NE
United States

Stop in for breakfast (and lunch) specials Monday through Friday at this eatery known for down-home country cooking. 

Visit Cedar Creek Pottery

27639 S. 80th Rd.
Beatrice, NE
United States

Artist Ervin Dixon showcases his beautiful pottery in an old country church. Free demonstrations to small groups available by arrangement.

Do Lunch at Valentino's

701 E. Court St.
Beatrice, NE
United States

You'll love the all-you-can-eat Italian buffet at this pizzeria chain.

Take home something sweet from Beatrice Bakery Co.

201 S. 5th St.
Beatrice, NE
United States

From the mixing room to the oven, Beatrice Bakery creates cakes by hand using the finest ingredients. Stop in to purchase one of their famous fruit cakes or breakfast breads, or take home something else from their from-scratch menu. 

Do dinner at The Black Crow

405 Court St.
Beatrice, NE
United States

Critically acclaimed as the best restaurant in Southeast Nebraska, the Black Crow serves international, American and Mediterranean cuisine. You'll find the restaurant in a restored 1890s building in historic downtown Beatrice just five miles from Homestead National Monument. Expect friendly, knowledgeable servers and a diverse menu featuring hand-cut and -trimmed Nebraska beef steaks and prime rib; fresh fish, oysters and mussels; roast duckling, gourmet pastas and pizzas and entree salads. Save room for desserts created by the restaurant's in-house pastry chef.

Unwind at Stone Hollow Brewing Co.

301 Court St.
Beatrice, NE
United States

Taste Stone Hollow's craft brews inside Beatrice's preserved 1880s mercantile building, featuring original beams and masonry. 

Check into Hackberry B&B

1447 W. Hackberry Rd.
Beatrice, NE
United States

At this bed-and-breakfast located right outside of Beatrice, guests can enjoy the serenity of the country in wide-open spaces, under a big sky and on a hiking trail less than one mile from the house. 

Stone Hollow Brewing Co. in Beatrice, Nebraska

Stone Hollow Brewing Co.

Day 2
Wake up to Sunrise Bakery

419 Court St.
Beatrice, NE
United States

From chocolate long johns and cherry-filled doughnuts to fluffy biscuits, Sunrise bakes it fresh.

Step back in time at Yesterday’s Lady

113 N. 5th St.
Beatrice, NE
United States

View Nebraska's largest collection of vintage clothing on display inside the completely renovated, award-winning 1887 Schmuck building.

Do lunch at Legends Of Nebraska

2205 N. 6th St.
Beatrice, NE
United States

Try Legends' famous fried chicken or a hand-cut steak with a trip to the fresh salad bar or an order of homemade onion rings. 

Visit Homestead National Monument of America

8523 W. State Hwy. 4
Beatrice, NE
United States

The Homestead Act of 1862 was one of the most significant and enduring events in the westward expansion of the U.S. By granting 160 acres of free land to claimants, it allowed nearly any man or woman a "fair chance." Homestead National Monument of America commemorates this act. Onsite, discover indoor displays, hiking trails, a period cabin and schoolhouse and frequent educational programs. 

Dine at 4 ONE 8 Bar and Grill

418 Court St.
Beatrice, NE
United States

With local-favorites like prime rib pasta, inventive burgers and fresh Thai salad, you'll find something you're craving on this menu. 

See a show by the Community Players

412 Ella St.
Beatrice , NE
United States

Check the show schedule for this community theater that stages live comedy, mysteries, family musicals and more. 

Check into Rice Lodge & Conference Center

302 Main St.
Odell, NE
United States

The Rice Lodge & Conference Center is a historic hospital beautifully renovated into a bed-and-breakfast/conference facility. 

Community Players in Beatrice, Nebraska

Community Players

Day 3
Check out the Great Plains Welsh Heritage Project

307 S. 7th St.
Wymore, NE
United States

Welsh pioneers made rich contributions to life on the North American prairie. After breakfast at your hotel, check out the Great Plains Welsh Heritage Project Centre in downtown Wymore. You'll enjoy a themed mural and garden, and depending on the season, discover exhibits and preserved buildings.

Do lunch at Classic's

1301 Oak St.
Beatrice, NE
United States

See why locals rave about the steaks and burgers at Classic's Bar and Grill. 

Visit Gage County Historical Society and Museum

101 N. 2nd St.
Beatrice, NE
United States

In its mission to collect, preserve and interpret Gage County history, this society operates a museum inside a 1906 rail station. Ask volunteers to point you to the Oregon Trail Marker and 19th-century Filley Stone Barn nearby. 

Enjoy Playa Azul Authentic Mexican Restaurant

2102 N. 6th St.
Beatrice, NE
United States

You'll love the hearty, authentic Mexican fare at this Beatrice favorite. 

Relax at Tall Tree Tastings

122 N. 5th St.
Beatrice, NE
United States

Tall Tree serves appetizers, craft beer and a wide selection of Nebraska wines. Order at the bar and pull up a stool to chat with the bartender, or relax at a table nearby.  

Check into Victorian Inn

1903 N. 6th St.
Beatrice, NE
United States

Choose a room or family suite at this hotel, conveniently located near Homestead National Monument and other Beatrice/Gage County points of interest. 

Great Plains Welsh Heritage Project Centre in Nebraska

Great Plains Welsh Heritage Project Centre