Spalding NebraskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Spalding, Nebraska.
1. Mignery Sculpture Garden
ARTISTIC OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE
Mignery Sculpture Garden is a cultural highlight in Spalding featuring monuments and statues that celebrate local heritage. Visitors can wander through this outdoor gallery to appreciate artistic expressions in a serene setting. The garden serves as both a point of interest and a landmark for the community.
2. Spalding City Park
RECREATIONAL COMMUNITY HUB
Spalding City Park offers extensive recreational facilities including two sets of playground equipment, sports courts, and baseball diamonds. The park features sand volleyball, tennis, basketball, and a football field with a running track. Families can enjoy immense green space for various activities and camping options.
3. St. Michael's Catholic Church Complex
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
St. Michael's Catholic Church Complex stands as the focal point of Spalding with its monumental scale and towers visible for miles. The complex includes the church, Spalding Academy, and Sisters convent, showcasing Renaissance Revival architectural style. Located in the center of town, it represents an outstanding landmark in the community's architectural environment.
4. Spalding Dam and Mill
FISHING AND CAMPING DESTINATION
Spalding Dam and Mill offers camping and fishing opportunities along the Cedar River. The area underwent the Spalding Fish Passage Aquatic Habitat Project completed in 2016 to allow fish migration around the hydropower dam. Visitors can purchase fishing permits and bait locally at People's Service or through the Nebraska Game and Parks website.
5. Cedar River
NATURAL WATERWAY EXPERIENCE
The Cedar River flows through Spalding providing fishing and outdoor recreational opportunities for visitors and locals alike. Following habitat improvements from the Fish Passage Project, the river now supports better fish populations, particularly channel catfish. The waterway contributes to the natural beauty and outdoor appeal of the Spalding area.
6. Spalding Academy
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
Spalding Academy is a historic educational institution that forms part of the town's architectural heritage with its vernacular Renaissance Revival style. The academy hosts annual alumni events during Memorial Day weekend that bring together former students and community members. As part of St. Michael's Catholic Church Complex, it contributes to the cultural and historical significance of Spalding.
7. People's Service
LOCAL SUPPLIES STORE
People's Service serves as a local supply store where visitors can purchase fishing permits and bait for Cedar River activities. The store provides essential services to both tourists and residents exploring Spalding's outdoor recreation options. It functions as a convenient stop for those preparing to enjoy the natural attractions of the area.
8. Greeley County Fair
ANNUAL COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
The Greeley County Fair is a three-day event held annually in early August that provides fun for the whole family. Visitors can enjoy typical county fair activities, entertainment, and community gatherings during this celebration. The fair represents one of Spalding's major annual events that showcase local culture and bring together area residents.
9. Santa Claus Day
FESTIVE HOLIDAY TRADITION
Santa Claus Day is a December tradition in Spalding filled with Christmas cheer and community celebration. The event brings together locals and visitors for seasonal festivities and holiday spirit. Details and updates about this annual tradition can be found on the Spalding Santa Claus Day Facebook Page.
10. Springfields Designer Outlet & Leisure
SHOPPING AND RECREATION
Springfields Designer Outlet & Leisure combines shopping and outdoor enjoyment with factory outlets and garden features. Visitors can explore craft shops and water features while children enjoy the adventure playground. The venue also offers casual dining options for a complete day experience.
11. Baytree Owl and Wildlife Centre
INTERACTIVE BIRD EXPERIENCE
Baytree Owl and Wildlife Centre offers engaging flying displays and interactive bird handling experiences. The centre focuses on conservation education in a serene garden setting. Visitors can learn about various bird species while enjoying the natural surroundings.
12. Ayscoughfee Hall
HISTORIC FAMILY HOME
Ayscoughfee Hall is a family home built in the 1450s standing in 5 acres of gardens near Spalding. The Hall tells the story of the people who lived there as well as local history through various exhibits. Its extensive gardens are filled with interesting features that complement the historical experience of the main building.
13. Gordon Boswell Romany Museum
CULTURAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Gordon Boswell Romany Museum showcases the cultural heritage and history of Romany people near Spalding. Visitors can explore artifacts, traditional wagons, and historical displays that tell the story of this distinctive culture. The museum provides educational insights into a unique aspect of regional history and cultural diversity.
14. Alumni Memorial Day Weekend
ANNUAL REUNION CELEBRATION
The Alumni Memorial Day Weekend brings together former students from Spalding Public, Spalding Academy, and Riverside for annual reunion events. This gathering occurs every Memorial Day weekend and serves as an important community tradition. The event combines nostalgia, community spirit, and celebration of educational heritage in Spalding.
15. Spalding Fish Passage
ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION PROJECT
The Spalding Fish Passage Aquatic Habitat Project created a bypass allowing fish migration around the hydropower dam on the Cedar River. Completed in 2016 after a seven-year effort, the project was a collaboration between Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and various partners. The ecological initiative has helped repopulate the Cedar River above the dam, particularly benefiting channel catfish populations.