Platte Center NebraskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Platte Center, Nebraska.
1. Westbrook Lanes
FAMILY-FRIENDLY BOWLING FUN
Westbrook Lanes offers a classic bowling experience for visitors of all ages in Platte Center. The establishment features multiple bowling lanes, arcade games, and a snack bar serving casual fare. Families and groups frequently visit this venue for birthday parties, friendly competitions, and weekend entertainment.
2. Union Pacific Railroad Bailey Yard
WORLD'S LARGEST RAIL YARD
Union Pacific Railroad Bailey Yard holds the distinction of being the world's largest railroad classification yard. Visitors can observe hundreds of trains being sorted, serviced, and dispatched daily across the massive 2,850-acre complex. The Golden Spike Tower offers an eight-story panoramic view of this impressive operation.
3. Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park
WILD WEST HERITAGE SITE
Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park preserves the Scout's Rest Ranch, once owned by famed showman William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody. The park features Cody's 1886 Second Empire mansion filled with period furnishings and personal artifacts from his Wild West Show. Visitors can explore the enormous barn containing fascinating exhibits, horse-drawn wagons, and other historical items related to Buffalo Bill's legendary life.
4. America's 20th Century Veterans' Memorial
HONORING MILITARY SERVICE
America's 20th Century Veterans' Memorial stands as a beautifully designed tribute to those who served in the armed forces. The memorial features detailed monuments, sculptures, and educational displays chronicling military history throughout the 20th century. Visitors frequently comment on the powerful emotional impact and thoughtful design of this patriotic landmark.
5. Carhenge
QUIRKY AUTOMOTIVE STONEHENGE
Carhenge is a unique roadside attraction created by Jim Reinders in 1987 as a creative reinterpretation of England's Stonehenge. The installation features vintage American cars arranged in a circle, painted gray to resemble the ancient stone monument. This quirky landmark has become one of Nebraska's most photographed attractions, drawing curious visitors from across the country.
6. Pawnee Plunge Water Park
SPLASHING SUMMER FUN
Pawnee Plunge Water Park offers a refreshing escape during hot Nebraska summers with its variety of water slides and pools. Families can enjoy attractions including speed slides, tube slides, a lazy river, and a zero-depth entry pool for younger children. The water park also features concession stands, picnic areas, and ample space for visitors to relax between aquatic adventures.
7. Andrew Jackson Higgins National Memorial
WWII NAVAL HERO TRIBUTE
The Andrew Jackson Higgins National Memorial honors the Columbus native who designed the landing craft crucial to Allied success in World War II. The memorial features a life-sized replica of the famous Higgins Boat along with educational displays about Higgins' contributions to the war effort. President Eisenhower once credited Higgins as "the man who won the war for us" due to his revolutionary landing craft design.
8. Ash Hollow Historical Park and Cave
PIONEER TRAIL LANDMARK
Ash Hollow Historical Park and Cave served as an important stop for pioneers traveling the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails in the 1800s. The site features a natural limestone cave, visitor center with exhibits on pioneer history, and breathtaking views of the North Platte River Valley. Guests can explore hiking trails that reveal the area's unique geological formations and significant fossil discoveries.
9. Golden Spike Tower
RAILROAD OBSERVATION DECK
The Golden Spike Tower provides visitors with an eight-story high panoramic view of Union Pacific's Bailey Yard operations. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating information about the railroad's history and the complex logistics of managing the world's largest rail yard. The facility includes indoor and outdoor observation decks, a gift shop, and educational exhibits about railroad heritage.
10. North Platte Canteen Exhibit
WWII HOMEFRONT HISTORY
The North Platte Canteen Exhibit commemorates one of America's greatest volunteer efforts during World War II. The exhibit tells the story of how local residents served more than six million traveling service members with food, refreshments, and hospitality between 1941 and 1946. Visitors gain insight into this remarkable display of patriotism and community spirit through photographs, artifacts, and personal accounts.
11. Kearney Arch Bridge
HISTORIC RIVER CROSSING
The Kearney Arch Bridge, built in 1935, has been repurposed as a pedestrian footbridge spanning the Platte River. The historic steel arch structure offers visitors stunning views of the river and surrounding landscape, making it a popular spot for photographers. Many visitors come to fish from the bridge or engage in birdwatching, as the area attracts diverse wildlife throughout the seasons.
12. Platte Center Community Parks
LOCAL OUTDOOR RECREATION
Platte Center Community Parks provide residents and visitors with spaces for outdoor relaxation and recreation throughout the year. The parks feature playgrounds, picnic areas, and open green spaces for family gatherings and community events. Seasonal festivals, outdoor concerts, and sports competitions are regularly held in these welcoming public spaces.
13. Ole's Big Game Steakhouse
EXOTIC TAXIDERMY RESTAURANT
Ole's Big Game Steakhouse combines dining with an unusual museum-like atmosphere featuring over 200 exotic animal trophies from around the world. Founded in 1933 by big game hunter Rosser "Ole" Herstedt, this iconic establishment has been serving hearty steaks and burgers to travelers along the Lincoln Highway for generations. The restaurant's walls are adorned with everything from African lions to polar bears, creating a truly unique dining experience.
14. The Plainsman Museum
PIONEER LIFE COLLECTION
The Plainsman Museum showcases over 40,000 square feet of exhibits dedicated to the history and culture of Nebraska pioneers. Visitors can explore a recreated historical village including a train depot, schoolhouse, general store, and other buildings authentically furnished with period pieces. The museum houses an impressive collection of agricultural equipment, vintage automobiles, and everyday items that tell the story of early life on the plains.
15. Fort Kearny State Historical Park
WESTWARD EXPANSION OUTPOST
Fort Kearny State Historical Park preserves the site of a military post established in 1848 to protect travelers on the Oregon Trail. The reconstructed stockade, blacksmith shop, and powder magazine offer visitors a glimpse into frontier military life during America's westward expansion. Living history demonstrations and interpretive programs are held regularly during summer months, bringing the fort's significant role in western settlement to life.