See Our State: Nebraska Agritourism

Fancy a ranch-cation, where you can get your hands dirty and experience what it's like to live on a working ranch? Or maybe you'd prefer a tasting tour across Nebraska, sampling the state's best concoctions from local breweries, distilleries and wineries. If either of these trip styles sound right for you, then keep scrolling to see agritourism stops across Nebraska. 

Northwest

Landscape view of Ponderosa Guest Ranch.

Stop for a round (or two or three) of pints at Boss City Brewing Company. This downtown Sidney brewery is located inside Sam & Louie’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria, so you can pair your brew with a delicious slice.

If you’re traveling in autumn, stop by The Pumpkin Patch at BE Farm in Bayard. Kids can enjoy farm games and activities like duck racing, pumpkin roll, ladder ball, pumpkin slingshots, pumpkin bowling, corn maze exploring and even more fall fun.

Stay in Crawford at the Ponderosa Ranch. Explore the ground on horseback and discover 3,600 acres of northwest Nebraska beauty. Hunters will also find exceptional turkey and deer hunting opportunities onsite.

Southwest

A group toasting at Pals Brewing Company.

If you’re craving a good meal and a crisp craft beverage, Pals Brewing Company in North Platte is the stop for you. Grab a seat and stay awhile at Pals Taproom and Beer Oasis for small-plate apps, pizza and their signature brews. 

North Platte’s Dusty Trails is perfect for adventure seekers. From horseback riding to sandhill crane tours, Dusty Trails offers unforgettable experiences. Plan a visit in October for Dusty’s Pumpkin Fest at the Cody’s for tons of seasonal family fun.

Plan the ultimate hunting weekend at Spring Creek Ranch in Grant. The ranch cabin sleeps six and the ranch offers 1,500 acres of private hunting grounds.

South Central

Celebrate fall and pick out the perfect pumpkin at Nielsen Kid U-Pick Pumpkin Patch & Sweetcorn. This Minden pick-your-own farm features squash, sweetcorn, gourds and plump pumpkins for carving.  

Plan a peaceful Nebraska ranch getaway at Whisker Creek Ranch and Lodge. This Gibbon stay features a two-bedroom cabin nestled on 25 acres near the North Platte River.

Sip craft spirits at Long Dogs Distilling in Arapahoe. Stop by the tasting room to sample a selection of unique fruit brandies, whiskeys, vodka and Thundershine, a house concoction made from distilling a local brew.

Southeast

Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard

Celebrate the fruits of the land at Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard in Nebraska City. Explore the nature trails, take a hay rack ride and book a tour to learn all about Nebraska agriculture. Then, purchase fresh produce and goods from the U-pick and Apple Barns.

Get your hands on more locally made products from Apple House Market at Arbor Day Farm. Also located in Nebraska City, Apple House Market offers apple cider, apple jam and signature wines from their orchard and vineyard.

Spend a relaxing afternoon sipping expertly crafted wines at Superior Estates Winery in Superior. Try their Label Series wines, including Cabernet Franc, Vignoles and award-winning Cayuga White.

Metro

Kids posing on a pile of pumkins at Vala's Pumpkin Patch.

If you’re visiting in the fall, then Vala's Pumpkin Patch & Apple Orchard is a must. The Gretna farm features 44 attractions, including the pumpkin mine, hayrack rides, a haunted house and a three-acre corn maze and eateries onsite.

Stop in Waterloo for a visit to Ellsworth Crossing. This “farm-to-fork” market offers the freshest products from local Nebraska cattle farmers. Pick up the freshest cuts to grill over your campfire or on the porch of your vacation rental.

Plan a visit to Bellevue Berry Farm & Pumpkin Ranch in Bellevue for a unique country experience chock full of attractions, including hay rack rides, a small Western frontier town, pirate ship playground and haunted attractions in the fall.

Northeast

Head to Albion for a peaceful day of flower picking at Valley View Flowers. Build a custom bouquet as you take in the beautiful Nebraska countryside.

If you’ve got a green thumb, pay a visit to Wettlaufer's Garden Center & Flower Shop in Atkinson. This full-service shop offers fresh trees, shrubs, perennials and all the premium supplies to help build your at-home oasis.

Featuring harvesting classes and wild herb walks, Red Road Herbs Retreat & Learning Center LLC is perfect for a tranquil escape in Stanton. Shop a variety of herbal salves, dried herbs and herbal gift items before you leave. 

Sandhills

How about some more fall fun? The Scarecrow Patch in St. Libory features attractions, including a corn cannon, barnyard petting zoo, corn maze and zip lines, that the whole family will enjoy.

Valentine’s Golden Prairie Bison invites guest to explore their ranch and see bison in their natural habitat. You can also book a camping trip or hunting excursion on the property.   

Sample corn-based spirits at Loup River Distilling. Visit the distillery bar in St. Paul and try craft concoctions made from house vodka, gin, whiskey, bourbon and moonshine. While the bar doesn’t serve food, you’re welcome to bring in your own eats.