Belvidere NebraskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Belvidere, Nebraska.
1. Thayer County Museum
RICH HISTORICAL HERITAGE
The Thayer County Museum in Belvidere features 10 buildings on 8 acres with over 50,000 square feet of display area preserving the history of Thayer County. The five-building complex houses exhibits from the 11 communities located in the county, including artifacts from pioneer times to the present. A 135' x 66' 'Red Barn' built in 2010 holds antique farm machinery and farming tools.
2. Belvidere Train Watching Station
TRAIN TOWN USA
The Belvidere Train Watching Station is an open-air constructed viewing platform completed in 2012 with private donations and grants from the Union Pacific Rail Road. Railroad enthusiasts can view Union Pacific trains on a double wide track system approximately every 20-25 minutes. The station includes Thayer County's last depot and a wooden boxcar, earning Belvidere recognition as a 'Train Town USA' community in 2013.
3. California Trail Marker
HISTORIC PIONEER ROUTE
The California Trail Marker is located at the museum site in Belvidere, commemorating one of the earliest trails in the county. The historic trail ran north of the Big Sandy Creek and was an important route for westward expansion. Visitors can learn about the pioneers who traveled this path during the mid-19th century.
4. Belvidere Centennial Park
HISTORIC ROADSHOW SITE
Belvidere Centennial Park was created in 1967 to honor Nebraska's Centennial celebration. The area was originally the winter home of the Bill Lewis Traveling Road Show, with original cement slabs still visible and the old bridge still standing. Located just blocks from the museum complex, the park offers a glimpse into the town's entertainment history.
5. Belvidere Cemetery
HISTORIC FINAL RESTING PLACE
Belvidere Cemetery contains graves dating back to 1877, offering a window into the town's earliest days. Located two blocks east of Centennial Park, the cemetery preserves the memory of Belvidere's founding families and earliest settlers. History enthusiasts can explore the old gravestones and monuments that tell the story of this small Nebraska town.
6. Alexandria State Lakes
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Alexandria State Lakes is a small recreation area encompassing 55 acres of land with two lakes totaling 46 acres of water. The relatively level area features mature trees and offers fishing, picnic shelters, and campsites with hookups and a dump station. Located at 7176 River Road, just 4 miles east and 1 mile south of Alexandria, it provides an excellent outdoor getaway for visitors to the region.
7. World's Largest Porch Swing
UNIQUE ROADSIDE ATTRACTION
The World's Largest Porch Swing in nearby Hebron is a popular and highly-rated attraction unique to the region. The oversized swing can seat up to 24 adults and has become a favorite photo opportunity for visitors to Thayer County. This quirky roadside attraction exemplifies the charm and creativity of small-town Nebraska.
8. Pla Mor Lanes
FAMILY BOWLING FUN
Pla Mor Lanes is a bowling alley in nearby Fairbury that offers family-friendly entertainment. The venue provides a classic bowling experience with multiple lanes and rental shoes available. It serves as a social gathering spot for locals and visitors alike seeking indoor recreation in the area.
9. Bonham Theater
HISTORIC CINEMA EXPERIENCE
The Bonham Theater in Fairbury is a highly-rated historic cinema that continues to show films for the community. With its vintage architecture and nostalgic atmosphere, it offers a unique movie-going experience that harkens back to simpler times. The theater has become a beloved institution in the region, drawing visitors from surrounding communities including Belvidere.
10. Crystal Springs Park
NATURAL RECREATIONAL HAVEN
Crystal Springs Park in Fairbury offers visitors a beautiful natural setting with water features and outdoor recreation opportunities. The well-maintained grounds provide space for picnicking, walking, and enjoying the outdoors just a short drive from Belvidere. The park's natural springs and lush landscape make it a refreshing destination, especially during warmer months.
11. Fairbury City Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER
Fairbury City Park is a highly-rated community recreation area that serves as a hub for outdoor activities. The park features playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas perfect for family outings and community gatherings. Its convenient location makes it an ideal stop for visitors exploring the greater Thayer County area including Belvidere.
12. Rock Creek Station State Historical Park
WILD WEST HISTORY
Rock Creek Station State Historical Park preserves the site of a stage and Pony Express station where Wild Bill Hickok gained notoriety. The park features reconstructed buildings, interpretive displays, and hiking trails that bring the Old West to life. Located near Fairbury, the park offers a fascinating glimpse into Nebraska's frontier days for visitors from Belvidere and beyond.
13. Stagecoach Mall Antiques
VINTAGE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Stagecoach Mall Antiques in Fairbury houses a vast collection of vintage items, collectibles, and antiques from various eras. Shoppers can browse through multiple vendor booths offering everything from furniture and household items to toys and memorabilia. The mall provides a nostalgic shopping experience for visitors from Belvidere looking to discover unique treasures and historical artifacts.
14. Fairbury Steakhouse
CLASSIC MIDWEST DINING
Fairbury Steakhouse offers traditional Midwestern cuisine with an emphasis on quality cuts of beef and homestyle cooking. The restaurant's welcoming atmosphere and hearty portions make it a favorite dining destination for locals and visitors to the area. Located a short drive from Belvidere, it provides a taste of authentic Nebraska cuisine in a comfortable setting.
15. Jefferson County Historical Society
REGIONAL HERITAGE CENTER
The Jefferson County Historical Society preserves and showcases the rich heritage of the region surrounding Belvidere. The society maintains historical collections, photographs, and artifacts that tell the story of the area's development and cultural history. Visitors interested in local genealogy and history will find valuable resources and displays that complement what they might learn at the Thayer County Museum in Belvidere.