Crofton NebraskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Crofton, Nebraska.
1. Lewis & Clark Pulley Museum
UNIQUE ANTIQUE COLLECTION
The Lewis & Clark Pulley Museum in Crofton features a specialized collection of antique hay pulleys and related agricultural artifacts. The museum is located at 105 West Main Street and is open by appointment, offering visitors a glimpse into an often-overlooked aspect of farming history. It also includes a meeting room for community gatherings and special events.
2. Crofton's LakeView Golf Course
SCENIC GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Crofton's LakeView Golf Course offers golfers a pleasant recreational experience in a picturesque setting. The course is one of the area's popular outdoor attractions, drawing both locals and visitors seeking leisure activities. It represents one of the many recreational opportunities that make Crofton an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Crofton Courts Arboretum
NATURAL BOTANICAL SHOWCASE
Crofton Courts Arboretum is a celebration of nature that has expanded significantly over the years, featuring the Arbor Walkway and Memorial Rose Garden in Northside Park. The South Park section, located along Nebraska Highway 12, includes Flagview Gazebo, Veteran's Memorial, and the Avenue of Flags. The arboretum boasts more than 59 species of trees and shrubs that are conveniently labeled for easy identification, helping Crofton maintain its Tree City USA status since 1991.
4. Gavin's Point Dam
ENGINEERING MARVEL LANDMARK
Gavin's Point Dam is an impressive engineering structure that serves as one of Crofton's most notable attractions. The dam creates Lewis & Clark Lake and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and waterways. Visitors can enjoy the lookout point which provides educational information about the dam's purpose and construction.
5. Jeanne's Antiques
VINTAGE TREASURE HUNTING
Jeanne's Antiques is a charming shop where collectors and casual browsers can discover a variety of vintage items and collectibles. The store offers a curated selection of antiques that reflect the history and culture of the region. Visitors often enjoy the treasure-hunting experience while exploring the unique merchandise available.
6. Avenue of Flags
PATRIOTIC COMMUNITY DISPLAY
The Avenue of Flags in Crofton's Southside City Park is a patriotic display honoring American heritage and veterans. This impressive installation creates a stunning visual representation of national pride and community values. The flags are particularly meaningful during patriotic holidays and community events, adding color and significance to the park landscape.
7. Gavins Point National Fish Hatchery & Aquarium
AQUATIC CONSERVATION CENTER
The Gavins Point National Fish Hatchery & Aquarium provides visitors with a first-hand look at the fish and plant species native to the Missouri River ecosystem. Located just a short drive from Crofton, this educational facility plays an important role in conservation efforts and public awareness about aquatic life. Visitors can observe various fish species and learn about the ecological importance of the Missouri River watershed.
8. Ash Fall Fossil Beds State Historical Park
ANCIENT PREHISTORIC DISCOVERIES
Ash Fall Fossil Beds State Historical Park preserves hundreds of skeletal remains of prehistoric animals including rhinos, three-toed horses, and camels that were buried over 10 million years ago by volcanic ash. The remarkably well-preserved skeletons remain in their death poses, frozen in time around what was once a prehistoric watering hole. Scientific study of these fossilized remains began in the 1970s, offering visitors today an extraordinary glimpse into Nebraska's ancient past.
9. Cruzin' Day & Grill Fest
ANNUAL COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
Cruzin' Day & Grill Fest is an annual event held every August in Crofton that brings together the community for food, music, and antique car displays. The festival takes place at 1210 W. 2nd Street and has become a beloved tradition that showcases local culture and cuisine. Visitors can enjoy various activities while experiencing the warm hospitality that makes Crofton special.
10. Crofton Dam Race
UNIQUE TRIATHLON EVENT
The Crofton Dam Race is a distinctive triathlon held annually in July that challenges participants to kayak on Lewis & Clark Lake, run a 5K through Weigand campground, and bike 12 miles into downtown Crofton. This innovative sporting event welcomes both individual competitors and teams to test their endurance across three disciplines. The race concludes with a celebratory barbecue in downtown Crofton, bringing together athletes and spectators for a community gathering.
11. Niobrara State Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Niobrara State Park offers stunning views where the Niobrara and Missouri Rivers meet, providing visitors with opportunities for camping, hiking, and wildlife observation. The park features cabins, RV hookups, and tent camping sites for overnight stays amidst beautiful natural surroundings. Visitors can enjoy activities such as horseback riding, fishing, and guided buffalo watch tours while exploring this scenic recreational area near Crofton.
12. Lewis and Clark Visitor Center
HISTORICAL EXPEDITION SHOWCASE
The Lewis and Clark Visitor Center, located near Gavins Point Dam, provides educational exhibits about the famous Corps of Discovery expedition that traveled through the region. The center offers panoramic views of Lewis and Clark Lake and displays that detail the explorers' journey and encounters with Native American tribes. Visitors can learn about the natural history of the Missouri River and the significant role this waterway played in American westward expansion.
13. Crofton Memorial Park
COMMUNITY GATHERING SPACE
Crofton Memorial Park serves as a central community space where residents and visitors can enjoy outdoor recreation and leisure activities. The park features areas for picnics, sports, and community events throughout the year. Its well-maintained grounds provide a peaceful setting for relaxation while honoring the community's heritage and values.
14. Missouri National Recreational River
PROTECTED WILD WATERWAY
The Missouri National Recreational River preserves one of the few remaining natural stretches of the Missouri River, offering a glimpse of the waterway as Lewis and Clark would have seen it. This protected area spans 98 miles and provides opportunities for boating, fishing, wildlife viewing, and connecting with nature. Visitors can experience the diverse ecosystem that supports numerous plant and animal species along this historically significant river corridor near Crofton.
15. Weigand Marina
WATERFRONT RECREATION HUB
Weigand Marina provides access to Lewis & Clark Lake with facilities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities near Crofton. The marina includes boat ramps, docking facilities, and nearby camping areas for extended stays. Visitors appreciate the convenient services and scenic location that make it a popular destination for water recreation enthusiasts.