Potter

Potter Sundry

Joshua Hardin The green-and-gold water tower along at I-80 Exit 59 promotes Sidney as home to Cabela’s. The Cabela family built their business that started at their kitchen-table into a national retail giant here in from Sidney, population 6,000. Cabela’s large-scale flagship store is still a source of pride for the community. 115 Cabela Dr. (308) 254-7889

Located next to Cabela’s, the National Pony Express Memorial includes a bronze statue of horse and rider, and flags of states the express rode through Sidney. 1 Cabela Dr.

The ceremonial tapping of the keg kicks off Sidney’s three-day Oktoberfest the first full weekend in October. Then the live music, dancing, comedy shows and parade can begin. There’s a craft show and plenty of bratwurst, sauerkraut and beer. Running of the Wieners and Rod & Roll car show add more thrills to an exciting fall weekend. SidneyOktoberFest.com

Just west of Sidney, the small town of Potter is a delightful jaunt. In one of several restored historic buildings on Chestnut Street, Potter Sundry is an old-fashioned soda fountain serving homemade food and ice cream desserts. (308) 879-4548

Visitors can try duckpin bowling at Duckpin Bowling Alley. There’s also shopping at A Collective Gathering Flea Market and Chestnut Street Memory Station.

The Railroad Museum on Front Street displays Union Pacific Railroad History. Potter Historical Museum on Sherman Street preserves local history. Both museums open by appointment. (308) 879-4356

Prairie Pines Golf Course is a links style seven-hole course with cart rental. (308) 879-4469