Itinerary: A Small-Town Tour of Northeast Nebraska
Exploring Northeastern Nebraska is a great way to find interesting historical sites like 19th-century blacksmith shops or fossil beds, delicious local food, and most of all — a good time!
Local's Tip
For all museums, attractions and accommodations featured in this itinerary, always call ahead to make arrangements to visit. Many are not open daily, but can work with you in advance to make arrangements for your visit. Check the Nebraska 511 site to ensure road access between locations isn't compromised!
201 S. NE-12
Ponca, NE
United States
Start the day right with some amazing fresh cinnamon rolls from the C&C Country Store!
204 3rd St.
Ponca, NE
United States
Check out the Adams House Museum and the Cook's Blacksmith shop for an authentic look into turn-of-the-century northeastern Nebraska living. Open May through September on Saturdays from 2-4 pm or by appointment, both of these are sure to scratch your history itch for the day.
105 E. 3rd St.
Ponca, NE
United States
Feeling hungry? Taking a quick six-block stroll down 3rd Street will bring you to an area favorite: Outlaw Pizza. With ice cream, mini golf, and (obviously) pizza you can't go wrong here!
2548 Park Ave.
Niobrara, NE
United States
Moving on with the day, you'll want to take a jaunt up to Niobrara and visit the Ponca Tribal Museum for a glimpse of their rich history. If you have the time, you can also enjoy swimming, horseback riding, hiking, and more at Niobrara State Park.
89141 Hwy. 14
Niobrara, NE
United States
After a long day of adventuring, you'll want to stop in to the Country Cafe for some down-home comfort food.
25411 Park Ave.
Niobrara, NE
United States
To close out the first leg of your trip, unwind at the unique and charming Two Rivers Saloon Hotel with few drinks.
Monowi, NE
United States
First on the agenda is a trip to the smallest incorporated town in the United States: Monowi, Nebraska. Elsie is the town's sole resident, in addition to being the mayor, bartender, and librarian! You can chat with her at the Monowi Tavern or just wander around and take a look at what remains of the town.
O'Neill, NE
United States
After you've had your fill of Monowi, you can continue on to O'Neill for some lunch where we'd recommend either Chesterfield West or the Holt County Grill.
O'Neill, NE
United States
Next on the agenda for the day is checking out the Holt County Historical Museum and the Historic Golden Hotel, both more than 100 years old.
116 E. 4th St.
Neligh, NE
United States
For dinner on Day Two, after a short drive over to Neligh, you'll be able to enjoy the Imperial Mexican Restaurant's wildly popular cuisine.
Neligh, NE
United States
Close out the second day by swinging through one of Neligh's popular attractions; the Neligh Mill State Historic Site, the Pierson Wildlife Museum, and the Antelope County Museum are local favorites.
101 J St.
Neligh, NE
United States
You have a few options for lodging in Neleigh, but we would recommend the Deluxe Motel.
302 Norfolk Ave.
Norfolk, NE
United States
For breakfast, head on over to Norfolk where you can grab a tasty pastry from Downtown Coffee Co & Bistro.
83210 554th Ave.
Madison, NE
United States
In the fall, visit the beautiful Degroots Orchard for fresh apples and cider, otherwise you can explore downown by following the outdoor sculpture walk.
Norfolk, NE
United States
For lunch, Black Cow Fat Pig and Napoli's Italian both come highly recommended.
Wayne, NE
United States
Next stop, Wayne. Here you can see the Wayne County Historical Museum or stop by Wildcat Lanes for some bowling.
121 W. 1st St.
Wayne, NE
United States
Close out your third day with dinner at Genos Steak House.
Wayne, NE
United States
Finish the night at some local favorite bars — Broken Antler and White Dog Pub.
505 Tomar Dr.
Wayne, NE
United States
Wrap up your trip with a stay at the comfortable and modern Cobblestone Hotel.
