Nebraska has plenty of quaint little towns that are well worth exploring. But here’s a unique little town that embraces our state’s Wild West history, and also provides some incredible outdoor recreation opportunities. Gas up the car and head to Ogallala for the day.
If you’ve ever visited Ogallala, you’ve seen this iconic cowboy welcoming you.
Luisa/flickr
Front Street was built in 1964 as a tourist attraction to showcase Ogallala’s Western frontier history. This little community was once a rugged outpost, and Ogallala calls itself the “Cowboy Capital” of Nebraska. When you visit, you’ll definitely get a sense of the history here.
Felixstowe2016/Tripadvisor
Get a look at life in a Western town at the museum.
Dave Clark/flickr
Stop by the Petrified Wood and Art Gallery to see some unique creations like these music boxes made from petrified wood.
Petrified Wood and Art Gallery/Facebook The museum is located at 418 E. 1st Street.
Boot Hill is the resting place of many of Ogallala’s early residents. Some died of disease, others of old age… but many died in gunfights.
Limey52/Tripadvisor
Mansion on the Hill was completed in 1887, and you’ll find it on the corner of West 10th and Spruce Streets. During summer months, you can take a tour.
Larry J/Tripadvisor
Ogallala celebrates history throughout the decades. The Spruce Street Visitor’s Center is housed in a historic gas station, complete with original gas pumps.
Jasperdo/flickr You’ll find it at 220 N. Spruce Street.
Lake McConaughy, just nine miles from downtown, is the largest reservoir in Nebraska. In addition to fishing, you can camp, hike, bird-watch, ride personal watercraft, go boating, and even try your hand at surfing. The sunsets here make it worth staying overnight.
dzh8080/TripAdvisor
Lake Ogallala is Lake McConaughy’s little sister on the other side of the dam. It’s well-known for its great fishing; you’ll find tons of rainbow trout here.
Vicki Watkins/flickr
Play a round of golf at Bayside Golf Course. The sweeping prairie views are incredible.
Tim O’Brien/flickr
Before you head home, enjoy a tasty dinner at Open Range Grill.
molay/Tripadvisor
This Western-themed restaurant serves up some delicious burgers. It’s located at 1108 N. Spruce Street.
mtnwoman/Tripadvisor
Have you visited Ogallala? What was your favorite part of the trip?
Luisa/flickr
Felixstowe2016/Tripadvisor
Dave Clark/flickr
Petrified Wood and Art Gallery/Facebook
The museum is located at 418 E. 1st Street.
Limey52/Tripadvisor
Larry J/Tripadvisor
Jasperdo/flickr
You’ll find it at 220 N. Spruce Street.
dzh8080/TripAdvisor
Vicki Watkins/flickr
Tim O’Brien/flickr
molay/Tripadvisor
mtnwoman/Tripadvisor
If you’re ready to explore more small towns, follow your stomach and take a look at these 17 small towns that have amazing restaurants.
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