2011 Travel Guide

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2 • The North Platte Telegraph Travel Guide

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So, is North Platte really . . . . . .4 The art of unity . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Wild about nature . . . . . . . . . . .6 Golfing? Of course . . . . . . . . . .7 Taste of the farm . . . . . . . . . . . .8 A sense of place . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Honoring our heritage . . . . . . .10 Geocaching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Calendar of events . . . . . . . . . .12 Campgrounds . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Bed and Breakfasts . . . . . . . . .18 Our local attractions . . . . . . . . .22 Visitors Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 All stories written by Muriel Clark, Lincoln County Convention & Visitor’s Bureau

There’s more

to explore WHETHER YOU’RE JUST VISITING OR YOU CALL IT HOME, MAKE LINCOLN COUNTY YOUR SUMMER VACATION DESTINATION f you’re watching the steady upward creep of fuel prices with trepidation, wondering whether or not your family is going to be able to afford a vacation this summer, why not consider a staycation and become a tourist in your own back yard? Why travel for endless hours, burning fuel and enduring cranky children when you could be relaxing and enjoying the sites in Lincoln County that you’ve forgotten are here? For a fun weekend with the kids, choose one of our fantastic local lodging properties that has a pool and let someone else worry about the laundry and cooking. Get up in the morning, go down to the lobby for a free hot breakfast and make your plans for the day. If you have younger kids, spend the morning at the North Platte Area Childrens Museum, then head on over to Cody Park to enjoy a delicious burger and ice cream cone from the concession stand. While you’re at it, check out the Railroad Display then feed the animals. Continue the railroad theme at the Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center where you’ll learn about the industry that captures the imagination of Railfans worldwide. Slip in a little education at the Buffalo Bill State Historical Park and the Lincoln County Historical Museum. Enjoy a dinner out on the town, then return to the hotel for another dip in the pool and your comfortable room. The next day sleep in, get a leisurely start, go out for lunch, explore Fort Cody Trading Post then spend the afternoon at Cody Go-Karts. If it’s a relaxing couple’s retreat you’re looking for, why not check into one of North Platte’s delightful

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The North Platte Telegraph Travel Guide • 3 bed and breakfasts, Knoll’s Country Inn or Brauer’s. Enjoy a peaceful evening under the stars in the country and be treated to a delicious homemade breakfast. Take a drive out to Healing Arts Spa and Retreat for a massage, hot stone therapy and pedicure. Can I hear an “ahhhhh”? Head on out to Feather River Vineyards for a wine tasting, then a delicious meal at one of our great casual fine dining restaurants. Enjoy another night at the Bed and Breakfast before it’s back to the real world. If you have a more adventurous spirit and there hasn’t been any rain for a couple days, drive through the beautiful Cottonwood Canyon on the back roads. About 10 miles south of Maxwell will bring you to Effenbeck road and the Wapiti Wildlife Management Area. This 1,920 acres of canyonland is criss-crossed with trails, so be sure you take your GPS to

find your way back to your vehicle. You will see a wide variety of birds and wildlife in this serene wilderness. Continue on south and you’ll end up in Moorfield, and a short drive through Curtis, Maywood and Wellfleet will take you to the Dancing Leaf Cultural Learning Center. Your hosts can prepare a delicious Buffalo Stew meal, guide your stargazing, explain the Medicine Wheel and Moon Dial, then show to your beds, either in one of their comfortable housekeeping cabins or the more primitive Earth Lodge. These are just a few examples of the wonderful times that await you right here in your own back yard. For more information about all the great things there are to see and do in Lincoln County, visit the NorthPlatte/ Lincoln County Convention and Visitors Bureau at 1221 S. Dewey, Suite A, or check out their website at www.VisitNorthPlatte.com.

Sandhill cranes take flight in a cornfield near the Golden Spike Tower and Visitors Center. Lincoln County has a wealth of natural beauty and unique destinations to explore.

A very good place to be.

TM

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•Express Start Breakfast •24-hr Indoor pool, Jacuzzi & exercise room •Conference center for 400 •Free high speed Internet •Business Center

Toll-free reservations North Platte: 1-888-562-9500 Lexington: 1-866-669-9731

Go anywhere. Stay here.

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• Complimentary Breakfast • High speed Internet • Indoor pool • Restaurant

Toll-free reservations: 1-800-446-4656


4 • The North Platte Telegraph Travel Guide

We’re all you’ve heard ...

... and MORE! North Platte/Lincoln County Convention and Visitors Bureau 1221 S. DEWEY, SUITE A, NORTH PLATTE, NE 69101 PHONE: 308-532-4729 TOLL-FREE: 800-955-4528 FAX: 308-532-5914 EMAIL: INFO@VISITNORTHPLATTE.COM The office is located a half mile north of Interstate 80 exit 177 on Highway 30 which is northbound Dewey Street, on the corner of Francis and Dewey. May 1 through Labor Day the office is open seven days a week 8 am to 6 pm and serves as a visitor center with local tourist information as well as maps and a limited amount of regional and statewide tourist information. Visit the North Platte/Lincoln County Convention and Visitors Bureau online at www.VisitNorthPlatte.com, follow us on twitter at http://twitter.com/NorthPlatteNEBR, or “like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/VisitNorthPlatte.

So, is North Platte really ...

The home of the world’s largest rail yard? Yes. Union Pacific’s Bailey Yard has been certified by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s largest railyard, covering more than 3,000 acres with over 300 miles of track, handling more than 150 trains each day. Rail Town USA? Yes, indeed it is! Congress Adrian Smith introduced HR 408, which was passed in September of 2008, officially naming North Platte Rail Town USA by an act of Congress. The home of Nebraska’s official state celebration? You betcha! NEBRASKAland DAYS was first conceived in 1965 as a statewide celebration and came to its permanent home in North Platte in 1968. 2011 will also mark the 130th anniversary of the birth of rodeo which was begun in North Platte by Buffalo Bill in 1882. Buffalo Bill’s hometown? Well, yes and no! Buffalo Bill moved his family here after he arrived as an Army Scout in 1869 and fell in love with the area, so it is his adopted hometown. It was here Cody got the idea for the Wild West Show and the rest is history! Where the walking sprinkler was invented? Now that you mention it, yes it is! Around 1930, John “Jack” Wilson designed and produced the “Automotive Traveling Sprinkler” at Wilson Automotive Company in North Platte. Learn about this and much more of Lincoln County’s history at the Lincoln County Historical Museum. Known as “Little Chicago?” At one time, yes it was. During prohibition and after, North Platte was known for its gambling, bootlegging, prostitution and political corruption. Fortunately in the 1950’s, a strong group of civic leaders saw to it that the town was cleaned up. The home of a World War II Canteen? The North Platte World War Ii Canteen served more than 6.5 million servicemen and women in the old Union Pacific Depot. While only a community of about 12,000 people at that time, it took more than 55,000 volunteers fielded from central and western Nebraska and the surrounding states to keep the Canteen in operation. The town that fights about everything? Yes it is… No it’s not… Yes it is… No it’s not… That however is the title of a book about North Platte written by a former editor of the North Platte Telegraph, the late Keith Blackledge.


The North Platte Telegraph Travel Guide • 5

The [DF of unity

he latest additions to North Platte’s tourism “product” line up are the Creativity Unlimited Arts Council’s “Community Unity” Art Sculptures. Located throughout North Platte – Cody Park, Memorial Park, Centennial Park, Courthouse Square and Veterans Memorial Park – these eight-foot tall sculptures are each covered with more than 300 hand-painted tiles. The placement of the sculptures creates an “art trail” through North Platte beginning at the main Interstate 80 interchange and ending in the beautiful Cody Park. Taking nearly three years to complete, the Community Unity Art Sculpture project brought together the entire community of North Platte and much of Lincoln County to create the individual tiles that grace the sculptures. From nearly every then-fourth

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THREE TRACKS: Slick Track. Figure 8 Track. Kiddie Track THREE WATER SLIDES: Kiddie Swim Area. Kiddie Rides BUMPER BOATS ADVENTURE GOLF

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grade student in the North Platte school system to Grandmas and Grandpas creating a lasting legacy for their family, more than 1,500 residents came together to paint tiles to beautify the sculptures. Some of the notable tiles include one from our beloved Keith Blackledge and many from the crew of the U.S.S. Nebraska submarine in town as guests of NEBRASKAland DAYS, as well as from members of organizations such as the Velvet Spurs riding club. A full listing of the tile artists can be found on the Creativity Unlimited website, www.artsinnorthplatte.com. The Art Sculptures are a project of Creativity Unlimited Arts Council, whose mission is “to provide opportunities for creative self-expression.” The current project of CUAC is the renovation of the historic 1913 federal building on the corner of 5th and Jeffers Streets into the Prairie Arts Center.

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308-534-8277

HALLIGAN DRIVE • I-80 Exit 177 North Platte, NE codygokarts.com


6 • The North Platte Telegraph Travel Guide

UNTAMED SPLENDOR CAN BE FOUND OFF THE BEATEN PATH

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nature ebraska may have fewer acres of public lands than nearly any other state in the Union, but that doesn’t mean we have none at all. Lincoln County alone boasts 27 different public acreages, ranging from State Recreation Areas, Wildlife Management Areas to State Historical Parks such as the Buffalo Bill State Historical Park in North Platte. Hunting seasons dominate the usage of the public lands from the first of September through the end of May, but June, July and August are the perfect months to get out and do some exploring on foot. The largest tract of public land in Lincoln County is the 1,920 acre Wapiti Wildlife Management area twelve miles south of Maxwell in the Cottonwood Canyon. To find this one, travel south of Maxwell on State Spur 56A/Fort McPherson Road, then turn south onto South Cottonwood Road. At the fork of South Cottonwood Road/Effenbeck Road, take the right fork, which is Effenbeck. Within a couple of miles there will be an unnamed fork going off to the right, with Effenbeck Road continuing on to the south.

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Wellfleet Lake sits on 50 acres of public land and is a great place for fishing and primitive camping.

Open for Lunch Mon-Fri

Lunch- Mon-Fri

Open for dinner every night

Dinner- Mon-Sat

11-5pm 5-10pm Sun 5-9pm

Wednesday:

Bar Open Everyday

ALL YOU CAN EAT PrimeRib!

at 5pm

Thursday: ALL YOU CAN EAT Ribs!

2102 S. Jeffers, Inside the Quality Inn

535-6168

Take the right fork once again, and the Wapiti Wildlife Management Area will be reached in just over a mile. Don’t let these vague directions scare you off, the trip is more than half of the adventure! Just be sure to plan ahead, let someone know where you’re going, take a GPS unit with you if you have one, give yourself plenty of time, carry supplies for an unexpected extended stay and enjoy yourself. An important word of caution though – make sure it hasn’t rained in the days prior to your trip. These roads are clay and impassable even with four-wheel-drive after a rain. Less off the beaten path is the 880 acre Cedar Valley Wildlife Management Area 1.25 miles east of Wellfleet on the paved Opal Springs Road. Major species in the area include whitetail and mule deer, wild turkey, pheasant, bobwhite quail, wood duck, raccoon, muskrat and many nongame species. There is a parking area just off of the road, and a foot trail traverses the parcel. The hike will take you across the short-line railroad tracks and the Medicine Creek, past wildlife and irrigated corn plots as well as plantings of native grasses. If Cedar Valley is still too wild, give the Wellfleet Lake a try. Located just a half a mile south of the Lincoln County community of Wellfleet, this 50 acres of public land includes one of the most picturesque lakes in the area, from which you can pull bluegill, channel and flathead catfish, crappie and largemouth bass. Primitive camping is available, and boats must use electric fishing motors only. Other opportunities in Lincoln County include the Sutherland Reservoir, Lake Maloney, Jeffrey Lake, the Interstate Lakes. A full listing of Nebraska’s public lands and the guidelines for their use can be found at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s website, www.outdoornebraska.gov.


The North Platte Telegraph Travel Guide • 7

Golfing? Of course! incoln County is an affordable golfing paradise with three eighteen-hole courses and two nine-hole courses. If you love to golf, gather up a four-some and devote a weekend to a golfing marathon that you’ll remember for years to come.

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River’s Edge Golf Course, formerly the North Platte Country Club, is an easy walking course. It is level with a mix of old and young trees, and a creek that comes into play. Once a World Herald hall of fame hole, the 9th is a long par 4 with the creek in front of the green. It often plays into the wind and demands two big hits to reach the dance floor. The course features a putting green, driving range, lessons, rental clubs, rental cars, pull carts, snack bar, restaurant and bar. North Platte’s municipal course, Iron Eagle, is nestled on the banks of the South Platte River. Tree lined fairways, long water carries, narrow landing areas, greenside bunkers, and tiered putting surfaces await those who take on the Eagle. Bring a sense of humor and some antacid. The front nine is longer than the back and plays through a forest of cottonwoods next to the South Platte. The back nine breaks into the open and into a Scottish links arrangement. Preserved wetlands are utilized throughout the course as unforgiving natural hazards. Several holes would serve as signature holes for other courses. One of those is the 6th. It requires a long iron approach around cottonwoods and over sand to a green surrounded by wetlands. Farther afield you’ll find the Lake Maloney Golf Course, just south of its namesake Lake Maloney. Lake Maloney Golf Club was an eighteen hole sand green tract until the early 90’s when the members rebuilt and converted the greens to grass. The result is a challenging regulation course. The rolling terrain offers few level lies, sand and trees can get in the way on several holes. The most difficult hole is the par 4 thirteenth. Not only is it appropriately numbered, it is long, uphill, and plays into the prevailing wind. When you finally arrive at the green you are rewarded with a view of the lake and a cool breeze off of the water. North Platte’s nine-hole course is Indian Meadows. The only course in the state to do so, Indian Meadows finishes with back to back par 5’s. The fairways are straightedge and most of the greens are mid-sized and in good shape. A few of the greens are bi-level. The rough is seeded and cut nearly the same length as the fairway. A creek, shrouded in prairie grass and cattails, comes into play on three holes. The par 3, 6th is the most scenic hole. You tee-off from a nook in a corner of trees, hitting through a narrow divide and over a creek to a bi-level green. Just to the west of North Platte on the edge of the Sutherland Reservoir is the nine-hole Oregon Trail Golf Course. The hillside that the course encompasses is part of O’Fallons Bluff, one of the most treacherous stretches of the Oregon Trail. The layout features open fairways and large greens. Pine trees are scattered between fairways and future plans include an additional 200 hardwoods. The 4th and 5th holes are a difficult combination. The 4th hole is most remarkable. It runs along the lake’s edge. A large hook will put you over a ledge and into the drink. The 5th is an uphill par 3 with a raised green.

North Platte’s selection of golf courses includes three 18hole golf courses and two nine-hole courses.


8 • The North Platte Telegraph Travel Guide

AREA FARMER’S MARKETS OFFER HEALTHY, LOCALLY-GROWN FOOD AND HAND-CRAFTED WARES

Taste of the farm othing is better than homegrown produce fresh off the farm. In the heart of America’s breadbasket, North Platte is fortunate to have ready access to a wide variety of fresh produce at the annual Farmer’s Market. Vendors at the market come from Lincoln, Custer, Dawson, Frontier, Hayes, Keith, Logan, McPherson and Perkins counties. Just what might you find at our local farmer's market? A veritable rainbow of healthy, fresh fruits and vegetables; raw honey and honey products; free range chickens; corn fed lamb and beef; bison meat; fresh baked goodies; jams, jellies, and preserves; farm fresh eggs; potted plants, annuals, perennials, and herbs; homemade dog biscuits, brownies, muffins, and scarf dog collars; crafts. The North Platte Farmer’s Market is open for business beginning Saturday June 18 in the Parkade Plaza parking lot at the corner of 6th and Dewey. The Saturday market runs from 7:30am to 1:00pm. July through October there are also Tuesday markets at the Parkade Plaza from 4:30pm to 7:30pm and Thursday Markets at the south end of the Platte River Mall, 1000 S. Dewey from 4:30pm to 7:30pm. You don’t have to travel all the way to North Platte to find fresh homegrown produce either. July through October you will also find markets in Sutherland and Hershey. In the past the Hershey market has been from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursdays at the Hershey Senior Center, 326 Lincoln Avenue. Sutherland’s market is on Tuesdays from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Railroad park across from the Village offices. Periodically throughout the summer the North Platte Farmer’s Market will partner with local musicians and artisans to host entertainment and fine art booths in conjunction with the market. Check the newspapers and local community calendars for these events.

N North Platte’s farmer’s market offers up a bounty of fresh food, flowers, crafts and more.

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Valley View Road 3/4 Mile

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Interstate 80

Hayrides available by appointment 308-582-4320 or 308-582-4392

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1402 S . Jef fers , Nor th Plat te, NE NICE ROOMS REASONABLE RATES FREE Continental Breakfast Buffet - Restaurant - Lounge - Full Staff


The North Platte Telegraph Travel Guide • 9

A sense of place, a sense of pride LINCOLN COUNTY’S SMALL-TOWN CELEBRATIONS ARE SHOWCASES OF MIDWESTERN TRADITION incoln County communities pull out all the stops each summer as they plan their community celebrations. These gatherings represent the best of what small American towns have to offer. Parades, rodeos, horse races, community meals and more mark these wonderful celebrations. Brady Days is scheduled for August 5, 6 and 7. Events include parade, turtle races, watermelon seed spitting contest, street dance, community barbecue, kids’ games and lots of community camaraderie. Maxwell’s Heritage Day is scheduled for Saturday August 20 and includes a parade, community meal, team races, and draft house pull obstacle course. Hershey’s Fall Festival is scheduled for August 27 and includes a car show, cheer competition, parade and a street dance “under the stars and between the bars.”

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Sutherland’s annual celebration is the Fourth of July weekend, beginning with a rodeo slack performance on July 2, rodeo on the 3rd and kids games, parade, community meal and the final rodeo performance on the 4th. Wallace celebrates their Fall Festival on September 17. The highlights of the event are the tractor pull, parade, community barbecue, kids games and street dance. In Wellfleet the fun is scheduled for September 10th with a mountain bike cross country ride, stock dog classic, mud volleyball, antique tractor pull, sheep chip bingo, parade and entertainment. If you want to experience smalltown living at its best, make plans to attend any or all of these wonderful celebrations. As you can see, no two of them are alike, and you’re bound to make new friends and come away with a new sense of pride in rural America.

Children’s footraces at the Wellfleet Fall Festival are just one of Lincoln County’s many revered small-town traditions.


10 • The North Platte Telegraph Travel Guide

Honoring our heritage NORTH PLATTE’S WILD WEST HISTORY IS ROOTED IN PIONEER SPIRIT AND TIMELESS HOSPITALITY North Platte’s roots of hospitality go deep into our past. Soon after the end of track “hell on wheels” town move on to the west with the continuing of the construction of the railroad, our founding fathers were already seeing something special about North Platte. Union Pacific believed that our wide open spaces would be the perfect location for a classification yard to help expand their growing operation. A young man named Bill Cody had the good fortune to be stationed at Fort McPherson and in his spare time founded a 4,000 acre ranch in partnership with some of his fellow army scouts. After his duty in the service of his country was finished, he settled on his ranch, which he named “Scouts Rest,” becoming one of our leading citizens. In 1882 he was asked to organize an Independence Day celebration that would be known as the “Old Glory Blowout.” It was an overwhelming success, and Cody had found his niche in the entertainment world. The Old Glory Blowout became Buffalo Bills Wild West and Congress of Rough Riders, touring throughout North America and Europe to sell-out crowds. North Platte has commemorated Cody’s contribution to the world by preserving 250 acres of his original ranch, including his ornate Victorian mansion filled with period furnishings and Cody memorabilia. The grounds include a log line-shack that saw use on the far north reaches of his ranching empire. The magnificent fully restored horse barn features wagons, buggys and a chariot from the show, Wild West Show posters and a short film of original movie clips shot by

Buffalo Bill’s Scouts Rest Ranch home is preserved 250 acres of his original ranch. Thomas Edison himself. The site of the original Old Glory Blowout is commemorated at the entrance to Cody Park with the Wild West Memorial, consisting of flags from every state and nation where the Wild West Show toured, and a life-size bronze statue of Buffalo Bill himself. To get an inkling of the scope of the Wild West Show, a visit to Fort Cody Trading Post is in order. Fort Cody houses a Wild West Museum, complete with a 20,000 piece hand-carved miniature replica of the Wild West Show. Enjoy the painstaking craftsmanship that went into the display itself, but also kick your imagination into gear and think about the people and animals as living, breathing beings. The sights, the sounds, the smells must have been incredible as the show packed up and was transported by rail to the next location, where everyone had to be fed and sheltered and the show itself had to be set up. While we’re on the subject of logistics and rail transportation, let’s talk about Union Pacific’s Bailey Yard. Certified by the Guinness Book of World

Hours (MST) Monday - Friday 9am - 5:30pm Saturday 9am - 5pm 108 North Spruce • Ogallala, NE 69153 308-284-6838

Records as the largest in the world, Bailey Yard covers nearly 3,000 acres and contains more than 300 miles of track. It is eight miles long and nearly a mile wide. The 3,000 employees handle 150 trains each day made up of 15,000 rail cars. All of this activity can be seen from the top of the Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center. A more up close view of these monster machines can be had at the Railroad Display at Cody Park, home of one of the only Challenger steam locomotives on public display, a 6900 series diesel locomotive, the largest ever made, and a collection of railroad memorabilia housed in historic rail cars. We celebrate our railroad heritage annually the third weekend in September with the North Platte Rail Fest. It includes bus tours of Bailey Yard, railroad experts on hand to tell the story of working in the yard, equipment on display and lots of fun and entertainment for the whole family. One of the most heartwarming stories to come out of North Platte’s association with Union Pacific is the wartime saga of the World War II Canteen. From Christmas Day 1941 through April 1 1946, local volunteers met every single troop train traveling across the country to the various theaters of war. During the 54 months of operation, more than 6.5 million service men and women were treated to North Platte’s brand of hospitality. This story, along with lots of other local historic memorabilia is preserved at the Lincoln County Historical Museum. Our western heritage takes the spotlight each year in June with the annual NEBRASKAland DAYS, Nebraska’s official state celebration, featuring four nights of rodeo, top-name concert entertainment, parades, food and music throughout the town. June also sees Miss Nebraska and Miss Rodeo Nebraska crowned in North Platte.


The North Platte Telegraph Travel Guide • 11

GEOCACHING — A TREASURE HUNT IN YOUR OWN BACK YARD

41°7.368’N — 100°45.747’W ot sure what the above code means? Then you’ve got to get yourself geocaching! The numbers, letters and symbols above are the GPS coordinates to the front door of the North Platte/Lincoln County Convention and Visitors Bureau office at 1221 S. Dewey.

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Now you just might be asking yourself, “What is geocaching?” According to the official website of geocaching, www.geocaching.com, “Geocaching (pronounced geo-cashing) is a worldwide game of hiding and seeking treasure. A geocacher can place a geocache in the world, pinpoint its location using GPS technology and then share the geocache’s existence and location online. Anyone with a GPS device can then try to locate the geocache.” Lincoln County’s resident expert on geocaching is Cathy Weaver, with the University of Nebraska Lin-

coln Extension of Lincoln and McPherson Counties. Not only can she school you on the finer points of geocaching, the Extension Service has a number of GPS units that can be checked out for you to try the adventure yourself. The Extension office is located at 348 W. State Farm Road, 308-532-2683. Within 50 miles of North Platte, which should just about encompass all of Lincoln County, there are 384 registered caches. With names like “Grandpa’s Tire Swing,” “Cold Spring Station” and “Cache for Clunkers,” these caches will take you off the beaten path on your way to discovering more than just the hidden treasure of the caches. You’ll find out-of-the-way places that you never even knew existed, interesting facts and tidbits of history, and some of the most beautiful scenery found anywhere in the world. Geocaching is great exercise and you’ll soon become hooked on the thrill of finding hidden treasure. Multiple pairs of eyes are better than one, so gather up the whole family and head out on your own geocaching adventure. Who knows, you may soon be hiding caches of your own.


12 • The North Platte Telegraph Travel Guide

DV[ [ V_][D TA J V_FE May May 13 — Open Mic Night at A to

Memorial Day Weekend May 27, 28, & 29 — Unreel Events — Country Weekend — 4684 W. Highway 30, North Platte, NE — Toll-Free: (877) 534-4910, Local: (308) 534-4910. Live outdoor entertainment with country music performances by: local band Mike Nicolen & The Lost Sideman, Nashville recording artists Gwen Sebastian and Glen Templeton, Chad Lee, Western Underground, Brenda Cohn, West Wind, Susie McEntire, and the Bellamy Brothers.

Z Books — An evening of heartfelt prose, poetry, music and fun for all! Twice a month, the second Friday and the last Saturday at 7:30pm10:30pm. Donations of $1-10 are appreciated but not necessary. Jam session follows. Location: 507 N Jeffers North Platte NE 69101; Phone: 308-534-0140 May 14 — Lincoln County Raceway. Gates open at 5:00pm, Race starts at 7:00pm. IMCA — Modified, Stock Cars, Hobby Stock, Sports Mod, Burger King Challenge. Regular Admission $10 Adults, $5 Kids 6-12, 5 & under free. 5015 W. Highway 30, North Platte. 308-532-1204. May 19 — Mason Douglas in concert at the Nebraska Outback House Concert Series. The music begins at 7:30pm, with two 45 minutes sets and plenty of time to get up-close and personal with the artist. Seating is limited, so please RSVP to markandmurielclark@yahoo.com. 31513 West Park Road, Sutherland. 308.386.2588. May 21 — Lincoln County Raceway. Gates open at 5:00pm, Race starts at 7:00pm. Walmart night, IMCA — Modified, Stock Cars, Hobby Stocks, Sports Mod. Regular Admis-

Public Golf

Woofstock, on May 21 in Memorial Park in North Platte, is a celebration of the special bond between pets and the people who love them.

sion $10 Adults, $5 Kids 6-12, 5 & under free. 5015 W. Highway 30, North Platte. 308-532-1204. May 21 — Woofstock. A fundraiser for Paws-itive Partners Humane Society, will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Memorial Park on East Fourth in North Platte. Bring the family, including the family dog (on a leash!) for games, contests and food.

Course

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May 28 — Lincoln County Raceway. Gates open at 5:00pm, Race starts at 7:00pm. Veterans Night, Drivers Autographs IMCA — Modified, Stock Cars, Hobby Stock, Sports Mod. Regular Admission $10 Adults, $5 Kids 6-12, 5 & under free. 5015 W. Highway 30, North Platte. 308-5321204. May 28 — Open Mic Night at A to Z Books — An evening of heartfelt prose, poetry, music and fun for all! Twice a month, the second Friday and the last Saturday at 7:30pm10:30pm. Donations of $1-10 are appreciated but not necessary. Jam session follows. Location: 507 N Jeffers North Platte NE 69101; Phone: 308-534-0140 Please see CALENDAR OF EVENTS, Page 13


The North Platte Telegraph Travel Guide • 13

June June 4 — Lincoln County Raceway. Gates open at 5:00pm, Race starts at 7:00pm. IMCA — Modified, Stock Cars, Hobby Stock, Sports Mod. American Cancer Society Relay at the Races, Outlaw Vintage Mod Lite Kids Candy Toss. Regular Admission $10 Adults, $5 Kids 6-12, 5 & under free. 5015 W. Highway 30, North Platte. 308-532-1204. June 5 — Open Waterfront Days. Experience the excitment and intensity of an action-packed day at camp. Flying off the Blob tower, screaming down the waterslide and leaping off The Rock into the lake, you will experience firsthand what the fun at camp is all about. Maranatha Camp, 16800 E. Maranatha Road, Maxwell. 308582-4513 June 7 — Lincoln County Raceway. Gates open at 5:00pm, Race starts at 7:00pm. NebraskaLand National Bank night, IMCA — Modified, Stock Cars, Hobby Stock, Sports

Gates Open: 5:00pm Races Start: 7:00pm Licoln County Raceway Track Phone: 308-532-1204 Platte Valley Speedway: 308-532-1274

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Mod, Nebraskaland National Bank Run for the Money. Regular Admission $10 Adults, $5 Kids 6-12, 5 & under free. 5015 W. Highway 30, North Platte. 308-532-1204. June 8-11 — Miss Nebraska Pageant. Special appearances by Miss America Teresa Scanlan. For more information visit www.missnebraska.org. June 10 — Open Mic Night at A to Z Books — An evening of heartfelt prose, poetry, music and fun for all! Twice a month, the second Friday and the last Saturday at 7:30pm10:30pm. Donations of $1-10 are appreciated but not necessary. Jam session follows. Location: 507 N Jeffers North Platte NE 69101; Phone: 308-534-0140

June 11 — Bill Summers Ford Triathlon. The race is a half mile open water swim, twelve mile bike and three mile run in and around Lake Maranatha. Maranatha Camp, 16800 E. Maranatha Road, Maxwell. 308582-4513. June 11-12 — Woodcarver Show and Sale, 9:00 — 5:00, Quality Inn and Suites, 2102 S. Jeffers June 11-12 — Heritage Festival at Lincoln County Historical Museum. Features antique farm implements and practices, as well as many of the practices used in making a home by the first pioneers or the area. For more information go to www.lincolncountymuseum.org. 2403 N. Buffalo Bill Ave, North Platte. Please see CALENDAR OF EVENTS, Page 14

May 21st May 28th June 4th June 7th June 14th July 2nd July 9th July 30th August 6th August 13th Special June 21st Demolition Derby 7:00 Start

The Miss Nebraska Pageant, taking place this year from June 8-11, will feature a special appearance by Miss America Teresa Scanlan — Nebraska’s first Miss America.


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June 12 — Open Waterfront Days. Experience the excitment and intensity of an action-packed day at camp. Flying off the Blob tower, screaming down the waterslide and leaping off The Rock into the lake, you will experience firsthand what the fun at camp is all about. Maranatha Camp, 16800 E. Maranatha Road, Maxwell. 308582-4513 June 12 — Sporting Clays Fun Shoot, 10am to 4pm. Maranatha Camp, 16800 E. Maranatha Road, Maxwell. 308-582-4513. June 12-15 — Miss Rodeo Nebraska pageant — various locations throughout North Platte. For more information visit www.missrodeonebraska.org June 12-18 — NEBRASKAland DAYS Competitive Art Show. Platte River Mall, 1000 S. Dewey. June 13 — Frontier Revue Musical. North Platte Community College Theater, 601 W. State Farm Road. June 14 — Lincoln County Raceway. Gates open at 5:00pm, Race starts at 7:00pm. IMCA — Modified, Stock Cars, Hobby Stock, Sports Mod, Burger King 9 for 9 Sports Mod. Regular Admission $10 Adults, $5 Kids 6-12, 5 & under free. 5015 W. Highway 30, North Platte. 308-5321204.

June 15-18 — Buffalo Bill Rodeo. Americas First Rodeo! For more information go to www.nebraskalndday.com Location: Wild West Arena, 2400 N. Buffalo Bill Ave. North Platte, NE June 16 — Golden Games. North Platte Rec. Center, 1300 McDonald Road. June 18 — Governor’s Art Show and Sale. Presented by Great Western Bank, Quality Inn and Suites, 2102 S. Jeffers June 18 — NEBRASKAland DAYS on Parade, 1:00pm. Downtown North Platte. June 18 — Farmers Market. Come browse the locally home grown veggies and other goods at the North Platte Farmer Market in the Alco Parking Lot Saturday from 7:30am — 1:30pm. For more information please call Lori at 308-660-0177. Location at 201 East 6th Street, North Platte, NE June 19 — Open Waterfront Days. Experience the excitment and intensity of an action-packed day at camp. Flying off the Blob tower, screaming down the waterslide and leaping off The Rock into the lake, you will experience firsthand what the fun at camp is all about. Maranatha Camp, 16800 E. Maranatha Road, Maxwell. 308582-4513

Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park

Buffalo Bill’s Restored Home & Barn 2921 Scouts Rest Ranch Rd., North Platte, NE

The Nebraskaland Days parade takes place this year on June 18 in downtown North Platte.

June 21 — Lincoln County Raceway. Special Demolition Derby. Pits open at 4:00, Main Gates open at 5:00pm, Race starts at 7:00pm. Regular Admission $10 Adults, $5 Kids 612, 5 & under free. 5015 W. Highway 30, North Platte. 308-532-1204. June 24-25 — NEBRASKAland DAYS U.S. Cellular Summer Jam Concert series featuring Brad Paisley, Blake Shelton, Jerrod Niemann, Hinder and My Darkest Days. Wild West Arena, 2400 N. Buffalo Bill Ave. For ticket information visit www.nebraskalanddays.com. Please see CALENDAR OF EVENTS, Page 16

LASSO ESPRESSO •I-80 EXIT 211•

HOURS: March 21-May 27, 10am to 4 pm weekdays only May 28-Sept. 5, 9am to 5 pm every day Sept. 6-Oct. 21, 10 am to 4 pm weekdays only Christmas at the Cody’s Dec. 16 - 19, 5:30 am to 8 pm

Admission: State Park Vehicle Permit $ 00 4 Per Vehicle Daily or $2000 Annually

Phone: 308-535-8035

Latte • Mochas • Chai Tea Smoothies • Malts • Floats Muffins • Scones Sandwiches • Unique Gifts

308-537-2525 • GOTHENBURG, NE


The North Platte Telegraph Travel Guide • 15


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June 25 — Open Mic Night at A to Z Books — An evening of heartfelt prose, poetry, music and fun for all! Twice a month, the second Friday and the last Saturday at 7:30pm10:30pm. Donations of $1-10 are appreciated but not necessary. Jam session follows. Location: 507 N Jeffers North Platte NE 69101; Phone: 308-534-0140 June 26 — Open Waterfront Days. Experience the excitment and intensity of an action-packed day at camp. Flying off the Blob tower, screaming down the waterslide and leaping off The Rock into the lake, you will experience firsthand what the fun at camp is all about. Maranatha Camp, 16800 E. Maranatha Road, Maxwell. 308582-4513 June 30 — Dorian Michael in concert at the Nebraska Outback House Concert Series. The music begins at 7:30pm, with two 45 minutes sets and plenty of time to get up-close and personal with the artist. Seating is limited, so please RSVP to markandmurielclark@yahoo.com. 31513 West Park Road, Sutherland. 308.386.2588.

July Every Saturday — Farmers Market. Come browse the locally home grown veggies and other goods at the North Platte Farmer Market in the

Foghat, Innocent Mischief, JJ Howlin, and Zwarte. July 2 — Lincoln County Raceway. Gates open at 5:00pm, Race starts at 7:00pm. Veterans Night, Drivers Autographs, IMCA — Modified, Stock Cars, Hobby Stock, Sports Mod. Regular Admission $10 Adults, $5 Kids 612, 5 & under free. 5015 W. Highway 30, North Platte. 308-532-1204. July 3 — Open Waterfront Days. Experience the excitment and intensity of an action-packed day at camp. Flying off the Blob tower, screaming down the waterslide and leaping off The Rock into the lake, you will experience firsthand what the fun at camp is all about. Maranatha Camp, 16800 E. Maranatha Road, Maxwell. 308582-4513

July 4 offers plenty of American-style fun around Lincoln County, including fireworks and festivals.

Alco Parking Lot Saturday from 7:30am — 1:30pm. For more information please call Lori at 308-660-0177. Location at 201 East 6th Street, North Platte, NE

Fourth of July Weekend July 1, 2, & 3 — Unreel Events — Beach Party — 4864 W. Highway 30, North Platte, NE — Toll-Free: (877) 534-4910, Local: (308) 534-4910. Celebrate the Fourth with spectacular North Platte fireworks, a surfing content, and our famous farmer’s tan contest. Time to party at the beach with Beach Boys music and nonstop live music by: Haywire, The Rumbles,

Play At These Locations: Brothers Tavern • House Bar Canteen Bar & Grille • Cedar Bowl

534 - 3354

215 East 6th Street • North Platte, NE

July 3 and 4 — Sutherland 4th of July Celebration & Rodeo A hometown 4th of July celebration, with kid’s games, parade, and rodeo both evenings. For more information go to www.ci.sutherland.ne.us Location: Throughout Sutherland July 4 — Anvil Blowing at Lincoln County Historical Museum, 2403 N. Buffalo Bill Ave. 308-534-5640 July 4 — Camp Maranatha Independence Day Celebration. 2-7 p.m. Waterfront is Open ; 2-7:30 p.m. Sweetshop is Open; 6-7:30 p.m. BBQ Line is Open; 8 p.m. Evening Entertainment; 10 p.m. Fireworks Show. 16800 E. Maranatha Road, Maxwell. 308-582-4513. Please see CALENDAR OF EVENTS, Page 17


The North Platte Telegraph Travel Guide • 17 July 8 — Open Mic Night at A to Z Books — An evening of heartfelt prose, poetry, music and fun for all! Twice a month, the second Friday and the last Saturday at 7:30pm10:30pm. Donations of $1-10 are appreciated but not necessary. Jam session follows. Location: 507 N Jeffers North Platte NE 69101; Phone: 308-534-0140 July 9 — Lincoln County Raceway. Gates open at 5:00pm, Race starts at 7:00pm. IMCA — Modified, Stock Cars, Hobby Stock, Sports Mod, Kids Candy Toss. Regular Admission $10 Adults, $5 Kids 6-12, 5 & under free. 5015 W. Highway 30, North Platte. 308-532-1204. July 10 — Open Waterfront Days. Experience the excitment and intensity of an action-packed day at camp. Flying off the Blob tower, screaming down the waterslide and leaping off The Rock into the lake, you will experience firsthand what the fun at camp is all about. Maranatha Camp, 16800 E. Maranatha Road, Maxwell. 308582-4513

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July 16 — North Platte Public Library Gardens and Gables Tour. For more information email gardensandgables@npplfoundation.org or call 308-535-8036 July 17 — Open Waterfront Days. Experience the excitment and intensity of an action-packed day at camp. Flying off the Blob tower, screaming down the waterslide and leaping off The Rock into the lake, you will experience firsthand what the fun at camp is all about. Maranatha Camp, 16800 E. Maranatha Road, Maxwell. 308582-4513 July 20-25 — Lincoln County Fair. 5015 W. Highway 30, North Platte. For more information visit www.lincofair.com July 22 — 2011 Demolition Derby

& Beer Garden Friday, 7pm (gates open @ 5pm) Beer Garden 5pm — 1am. Free concert featuring local band Dirty Finger. July 23 — 2011 Chaos at the County Fair Jonny Klein Roughstock Rodeo, 8pm — Beer Garden opens @ 3pm. Free Concert featuring local band Pieces of Eight. July 23 — Open Mic Night at A to Z Books — An evening of heartfelt prose, poetry, music and fun for all! Twice a month, the second Friday and the last Saturday at 7:30pm10:30pm. Donations of $1-10 are appreciated but not necessary. Jam session follows. Location: 507 N Jeffers North Platte NE 69101; Phone: 308-534-0140 Please see CALENDAR OF EVENTS, Page 19


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LC_XT _ TG_F [^ BDTG_]E A-1 Sunset Mobile Park 3102 Rodeo Road 308532-9182 Buffalo Bill State Historical Park 2921 Scouts Rest Ranch Road 308-535-8035 Frontier Resort Café & Marina I-80 Exit 177, 5.5 mi S. on Hwy 83 600 Frontier Drive 308-5328776, 308-532-8308 Cody Park 1400 N. Jeffers St. 308-535-6700 Fort McPherson Campground 12568 S. Valley View Road, Maxwell 308-582-4320 www.fortmcphersoncampground.com Hidden Acres East Hwy 30 (I-80 Exit 164, north to to Hwy 30, east 1.5 miles), Hershey 308368-5654 Holiday RV Park 601 Halligan Drive 308-5342265, 800-424-4321 www.holidayparkne.com

Krazy Kirbs RV Park North Spur Rd, Hershey (I-80 Exit 164) 308-530-7368 Lakehouse Campground 206 W. North Lake Road 308-534-5315 www.LakehouseNP.com Lake Maloney SRA North Lake Road 308-5358025 Lake Side Camping 3800 Hadley Rd. 308-5345077, 877-648-2267 Lincoln Highway RV Park 4684 West Hwy 30 308-534-4910, 877-534-4910 www.lincolnhighwayrvpark.com Oregon Trail Golf Course Campground 31200 W. Tower Rd., Sutherland 308-386-4379 Sutherland Reservoir SRA Sutherland Reservoir Inlet, S. Hwy 25, Sutherland

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Brauer’s Bed and Breakfast 12900 N. Sandhills Road 308-5301752 Dancing Leaf Cultural Learning Center 6100 East Opal

Springs Road, Wellfleet 308-9634233 www.dancingleaf.com Fort McPherson Campground and Cabins I-80 Exit 190, Maxwell 308-582-4320 www.fortm-

cphersoncampground.com Knoll’s Country Inn 6132 South Range Road 308-368-5634, 877-378-2521

DV[ \GDX\VE


The North Platte Telegraph Travel Guide • 19 July 23 — Civil War Reenactment at Lincoln County Historical Museum. 2403 N. Buffalo Bill Ave. 308-534-5640

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July 24 — Open Waterfront Days. Experience the excitment and intensity of an action-packed day at camp. Flying off the Blob tower, screaming down the waterslide and leaping off The Rock into the lake, you will experience firsthand what the fun at camp is all about. Maranatha Camp, 16800 E. Maranatha Road, Maxwell. 308-582-4513 July 30 — Lincoln County Raceway. Gates open at 5:00pm, Race starts at 7:00pm. KBBN Radio night, IMCA — Modified, Stock Cars, Hobby Stock, Sports Mod. Regular Admission $10 Adults, $5 Kids 6-12, 5 & under free. 5015 W. Highway 30, North Platte. 308-532-1204.

August Every Saturday — Farmers Market. Come browse the locally home grown veggies and other goods at the North Platte Farmer Market in the Alco Parking Lot Saturday from 7:30am — 1:30pm. For more information please call Lori at 308-660-0177. Location at 201 East 6th Street, North Platte, NE August 5-6 — Brady Days. Come to Brady and enjoy the fun filled days, with parade, turtle races, and watermelon seed spitting contest, street dance, BBQ, Kids’ games, and more! For more information go to www.villageofbrady.com or call 308-584-3316. Location: Through out Brady. August 5, 6, & 7 — Unreel Events — End of Summer Band Slam — 4864 W. Highway 30, North Platte, NE — Toll-Free: (877) 534-4910, Local: (308) 534-4910. Join us WANT TO KNOW EVEN MORE ABOUT OUR AREA?

www.VisitNorthPlatte.com Why Pay More for Qualit y Rooms? Repeat Clients

HOSPITALITY INN From 1-80, exit 177 Make the 1st right on Halligan Dr. 1/4 Mile

501 Halligan Dr., North Platte

308-532-6650 Toll Free 888-532-0151 Call for Availability and rates

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for our tribute to Johnny Cash with live music by Brandon Cash. The World Famous Platters will be here, along with Dokajovi and nationally recognized performer Elvis Presley Jr. Dates and times are subject to change. August 6 — Scrabble Scramble. Ride your bicycle to six stops, picking up a Scrabble letter at each stop. When you get back, play your best word to win a prize. Get more information and register after June 1st at www.theconnectionnp.com/scrabblescramble. 7:30am registration, 8:00 a.m. start. $15.00 per adult. Children under 18 free. Location: Gazebo in Centennial Park, across Oak St. from Great Plains Regional Medical Center. August 6 — Lincoln County Raceway. Gates open at 5:00pm, Race starts at 7:00pm. IMCA — Modified, Stock Cars, Hobby Stock, Sports Mod, Kids candy toss, Cruzan Motor Sports back to school night. Regular Admission $10 Adults, $5 Kids 6-12, 5 & under free. 5015 W. Highway 30, North Platte. 308-532-1204. Please see CALENDAR OF EVENTS, Page 20


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August 12 — Open Mic Night at A to Z Books — An evening of heartfelt prose, poetry, music and fun for all! Twice a month, the second Friday and the last Saturday at 7:30pm10:30pm. Donations of $1-10 are appreciated but not necessary. Jam session follows. Location: 507 N Jeffers North Platte NE 69101; Phone: 308-534-0140 August 13 — Lincoln County Raceway. Gates open at 5:00pm, Race starts at 7:00pm. Alco night, IMCA — Modified, Stock Cars, Hobby Stock, Sports Mod, Bicycle drawing for boys and girls bike, URSS 305 Sprint Car. Regular Admission $10 Adults, $5 Kids 6-12, 5 & under free. 5015 W. Highway 30, North Platte. 308-532-1204. August 14 — Sporting Clays Fun Shoot, 10am to 4pm. Maranatha Camp, 16800 E. Maranatha Road, Maxwell. 308-582-4513.

September Every Saturday — Farmers Market. Come browse the locally home grown veggies and other goods at the North Platte Farmer Market in the Alco Parking Lot Saturday from 7:30am to 1:30pm. For more information please call Lori at 308-660-0177. Location at 201 East 6th Street, North Platte, NE September 9-11 — Nebraska State Rodeo Association State Finals. Nebraska cowboys and girls compete in the state finials. For more information please call 308-535-6772. Location: Wild West Arena, North Platte, Ne September 11 — 17th Annual Colonel Cody’s Cruise Show & Shine in downtown North Platte. For more

information contact Todd Freeburg 308-532-6727 September 11 — Arts in the Park Enjoy a day of homemade crafts in the park. For more information call 308-535-6772. Location: Cody Park at 1402 North Jeffers Street, North Platte September 11 — Mike Mennard in concert at the Nebraska Outback House Concert Series. Special concert in celebration of Grandparents Day. The music begins at 3:00pm, with two 45 minutes sets and plenty of time to get up-close and personal with the artist. Seating is limited, so please RSVP to markandmurielclark@yahoo.com. 31513 West Park Road, Sutherland. 308.386.2588. September 12 — Camp Maranatha Paintball Days — a towered tactical course or a speedball course, 16800 E. Maranatha Road, Maxwell. 308-582-4513. Please see CALENDAR OF EVENTS, Page 21

August 20 — Maxwell Heritage Day Join Maxwell for a parade, feed, team races, and draft house pull obstacle course. For more information please call 308-582-4324. Location: Through out Maxwell. August 27 — Open Mic Night at A to Z Books — An evening of heartfelt prose, poetry, music and fun for all! Twice a month, the second Friday and the last Saturday at 7:30pm10:30pm. Donations of $1-10 are appreciated but not necessary. Jam session follows. Location: 507 N Jeffers North Platte NE 69101; Phone: 308-534-0140 August 27 — Hershey Fall Festival Come and enjoy a day of kids games, BBQ and other activities. For more information please call 308-3685840. Location: Through out Hershey. August 29 — Camp Maranatha Paintball Days — a towered tactical course or a speedball course, 16800 E. Maranatha Road, Maxwell. 308582-4513.

The 17th Annual Colonel Cody’s Cruise Show & Shine in downtown North Platte on Sept. 11 will be a haven of hot rods and cool chrome.


The North Platte Telegraph Travel Guide • 21 September 16-18 — North Platte Rail Fest. Locomotive simulator, live music, tours of Mid-Plains College Railroad Technology Center, tours of Bailey Yard, and much more. For more information go to www.nprailfest.com or call 308534-3648. Location: Cody Park, North Platte

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September 16-17 — “Canteen Memories” Cemetery Tour. Friday, September 16, 2011 4:00 p.m. — 8:00 p.m. Saturday, September 17, 2011 1:00 p.m. — 5:00 p.m. North Platte Cemetery, Rodeo Road North Platte. For more information call the North Platte Public Library, 308535-8036. September 17 — Wallace Fall Festival. Join Wallace for a day of parades, kids games, rodeo tractor pull, free BBQ, street dance and other events. For more information please call Mickey Philips at 308-387-3403. Location: Through out the town or Wallace. September 17 through October 31— Golden Spike Corn Maze. 10 acres, 2 mazes, nearly 5 miles of trails! 1249 N. Homestead Road, 308.532.9920 or www.goldenspiketower.com September 18 — Lincoln County High School Rodeo. Location: Wild West Arena, North Platte. Contact: Tricia Schaffer Phone: 308-534-1244 September 26 — Camp Maranatha Paintball Days — a towered tactical course or a speedball course, 16800 E. Maranatha Road, Maxwell. 308-582-4513.

October Through October 31— Golden Spike Corn Maze. 10 acres, 2 mazes, nearly 5 miles of trails! 1249 N. Homestead Road, 308.532.9920 or www.goldenspiketower.com

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October 16 — Sporting Clays Fun Shoot, 10am to 4pm. Maranatha Camp, 16800 E. Maranatha Road, Maxwell. 308-582-4513.

November Cody Park Winter Wonderland Roughly from Thanksgiving weekend through the end of December, Cody Park is transformed into a Winter Wonderland with automated displays, special events such as hayrack rides, sleigh rides, Santa and more.

December Christmas At The Codys The last full weekend before Christmas, Buffalo Bill’s home in North Platte is decorated to the hilt with holiday finery and open to the public. Tour the home, enjoy roasted chestnuts, hot cocoa and cider, sleigh rides, Santa and Buffalo Bill.


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20th Century Veterans Memorial The busy crossroads of the Eisenhower Memorial

The five major armed forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard) as well as the volunteers of the North Platte Canteen are memorialized by larger than life bronze statues at the 20th Century Veterans Memorial.

18TH ANNUAL SOUTH LOUP RIVER BLUES FESTIVAL Saturday, July 9th Old Mill Park • Arnold, Nebraska Gates open at 10:00 a.m. - Performances begin at 11:00 a.m. PERFORMERS: Super Chikan & The Fighting Cocks -- late night headliner (Clarksdale, MS) Earl & Them with guest Lil' Slim -- early evening headliner (Arkansas) Kris Lager Band (Omaha) • Lil' Slim Blues Band (Lincoln) Matt Cox Band (Omaha) • Melvin Running Bear Band (Central Nebraska) Advanced -- $25 • Day of show -- $30 (No charge for children 12 and younger if accompanied by parent) TICKETS AVAILABLE AT: Kittle's Music -- North Platte • Peterson's Supermarket -- Gothenburg C&D Bottles -- Holdrege • Ron's Music -- Grand Island House of Barbers -- Kearney • Whiskey Barrel -- Broken Bow Jim's Bar, Mighty Mart, Nebraska Farmhouse Antiques - Arnold www.southloupbluesfest.com CONCESSIONS: Beer and food on sale inside gate RESTRICTIONS: Alcoholic beverages are not allowed to pass through the gate No coolers/beverage containers or glass containers on the field CAMPING:-- Old Mill Park (site of the festival) * No electrical hook-ups* -- AND, the Village of Arnold now owns the former State Park that is located ½ mile south of Arnold on Highway 40 so state park permits are no longer needed *This 40-acre park has picnic tables, grills, 20 electrical camper hookups, outdoor privies, and playground (can hold up to 60 campers) LODGING: -- Broken Bow is 35 miles via Highway 92 & 2 -- North Platte is 35 miles via Highway 92 and 83 -- Gothenburg and Cozad are 35 and 46 miles via Highway 40 & I-80

** FREE SHOW ON FRIDAY, JULY 8th - 8:00 p.m.** Mike Adams Trio from Kearney will perform at the free show Friday night. Sponsored by KBBN 95.3 FM "The Thunderbird" FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FESTIVAL VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.southloupbluesfest.com OR CALL 1-800-584-9336

Interstate System (I-80), and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Memorial Highway (Highway 83), is the appropriate location of the 20th Century Veterans Memorial. The five major armed forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard) as well as the volunteers of the North Platte Canteen are memorialized by larger than life bronze statues. The five major conflicts of the 20th century (World Wars I and II, Korea, Vietnam and Desert Storm) are depicted in a fifteen foot tall brick bas-relief mural. The memorial features a Walk of Honor, lined by thousands of commemorative bricks showing the names of veterans who served at any time during the 20th century. Location: 2811 South Jeffers – North Platte Self guided tours The Memorial is open 24 hours all year. For more information on America’s 20th Century Veterans’ Memorial contact: Mid-Nebraska Veterans Memorial Association PO Box 1393 – 221 East 5th Street – North Platte, NE 69103 308-532-6579 www.20thcvetsmem.org

Alpha and Omega Labyrinth The 11-circuit Labyrinth is a spiritual tool used for walking meditation. It comes from the Christian tradition during the 11th and 12th century and is a replica of the one on the floor of Chartres Cathedral outside of Paris. 1600 West E Street North Platte, NE 69101 308-532-1478 www.npfumc.org Admission: Donations are welcome to help maintain the space and for future landscape projects.

Art and Gift Gallery Five galleries featuring the works of member artists in the largest co-op gallery in the state. Address: 516 N. Dewey Phone: 308-534-1946 Hours: Tuesday through Saturday 11 am to 4 pm Special Hours by appointment. Please see ATTRACTIONS, Page 23


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Bark Parks The Waggin Tales park at 1102 West Leota is most conveniently located to Interstate 80 and the hotels near there. From I-80, go north on Dewey Street (Highway 83) to Leota. Turn left. At the corner of Leota and Oak Street, continue straight into the park. The north side park is the Happy Hound Retreat, located at 301 West 18th. Go north on Dewey Street until it joins with Jeffers Street. Continue north on Jeffers past Highway 30 to 18th Street. Turn left. You can find reviews of North Platte’s two dog parks at www.dogparkusa.com.

Buffalo Bill State Historical Park Col. Wm. F. Cody, “Buffalo Bill,” built his North Platte home during the heyday of his famous Wild West Show, which debuted in North Platte as the “Old Glory Blowout” on July 4th, 1882. Cody owned some 4,000 acres here, and in 1886, built the large Victorian mansion at a cost of $3,900. Sixteen acres of his ranch, appropriately named “Scout’s Rest”, became a state historical park in 1965. Since that time, the house and barn have been restored and a wealth of Cody memorabilia has been acquired. Guided tours available by appointment. March 24-Memorial Day 10am-4pm weekdays, closed weekends Memorial Day – Labor Day 9am-5pm daily Labor Day – Oct 24 10am-4pm weekdays, closed weekends Fee: State Park Permit required for all vehicles Location: 2921 Scouts Rest Ranch Road 308-535-8035 www.ngpc.state.ne.us/cody.html

Cody Go-Karts Rides and games for the entire family – water slides, go-kart racetracks, bumper boats and miniature golf. Address: I-80 and Highway 83 interchange 805 Halligan Drive Phone: 308-534-8277 www.codygokarts.com Hours: Memorial Day to Labor Day 10:30am – 10:00pm Open weekends pre and post season. Admission: Admission charged. Please see ATTRACTIONS, Page 24


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Cody Park Railroad Museum For hands-on railroad enthusiasts, the Cody Park Railroad Museum is a must! The only Challenger 3900 series steam locomotive on public display is located right here in North Platte, a city born in 1866 when the Union Pacific stretched its rails across the prairie, racing to complete the first transcontinental railroad. Accompanying the 3977 is Unit 6922, one of the 6900 series diesel locomotives, the largest ever made. These two behemoths have a combined horsepower of more than 12,000! Also to be seen is a fully restored railroad depot, several rail cars and a caboose. Guided tours available by appointment, contact the visitor’s bureau for more information Address: 1400 North Jeffers Hours: May 1 through the end of September Every day 10am – 7pm

Cody Park Wild West Memorial It took an army of entertainers to pull off Buffalo Bill Cody’s Wild West Show. These entertainers, the cowboys and Indians, trick riders and shooters, are honored at the site of the precursor of the Wild West Show – the 1882 Old Glory Blowout hosted by Buffalo Bill in Cody Park. The centerpiece of the exhibit is the larger than life sized bronze statue of Buffalo Bill donated to the city of North Platte by the citizens of Great Britain. Surrounding the gazebo housing the statue are the flags of the states and foreign countries in which Cody performed with his Wild West Show. Address: 1400 North Jeffers Wild West Memorial open all year 24 hours a day.

Community Unity Tile Sculptures Five eight-foot tall sculptures arrayed with handpainted tiles created by community members. Veterans Memorial Park, 2811 S. Jeffers Centennial Park, Leota and Francis Streets Courthouse Square, 4th and Dewey Streets Memorial Park, East 4th and Bryan Streets Cody Park, 1400 North Jeffers St.

Dancing Leaf Cultural Learning Center The reconstructed earthen lodge is set in the spec-

The Cody Park Railroad Museum features the only Challenger 3900 series steam locomotive on public display.

tacular scenery of the Medicine Creek Valley in the Loess Hills 25 miles south of North Platte. Your hosts are local experts in the Upper Republican Culture that dates from 800-1300 years ago, and in the important archeological finds in the area. Dancing Leaf is located on 115 acres of cedar covered canyons along Medicine Creek and includes a spring fed lake, many scenic trails and natural springs. A 90-minute daily tour covers the earth lodge, historical and archeological information and artifacts and the medicine wheel. Overnight lodging is available in the earth lodge or in several modern cabins. Other activities include canoeing, hiking and guided plant and nature hikes. Open by reservation only. Available by reservation any time year round. Admission charged. Location: 6100 E. Opal Springs Rd. – Wellfleet, NE 69170 308-963-4233 www.DancingLeaf.com Please see ATTRACTIONS, Page 25


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Wine from Feather River Vineyards can be found in many local stores and restaurants. The vineyard is the largest in the state.

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Feather River Vineyards Located in the scenic and lush Loess Hills just south of North Platte, the vineyard is the largest in the state. Feather River is open for tastings, private parties and group tours. Address: 5700 SE State Farm Road Phone: 308-696-0078 www.feather-river.com Hours: Call for hours

Fort Cody Trading Post The highlight of a visit to the Fort Cody Trading Post is the animated twenty thousand piece hand carved miniature replica of the Wild West Show. The delightful show runs every half hour. The Old West Museum features some of the finest cowboy gear, Native American hand crafts, guns and much more Wild West memorabilia to be seen in this area, and all free of charge. Location: I-80 & U.S. Highway 83 Interchange – North Platte 308-532-8081 www.FortCody.com Hours of Operation: Summer Hours Memorial Day – Labor Day 9am-9pm seven days Winter hours: 9am to 5:30pm Monday-Sat, 12pm-5:30pm Sunday Please see ATTRACTIONS, Page 26

Thomas County Historical Society Museum Former: Chet & Ida Paxton Home. Located on Highway 2. Box 224, Thedford, Nebraska 69166 Open Memorial Day - Labor Day Mon - Fri 10am - 12pm • 2pm - 4pm Central Time Open by Request by Calling-

(308) 645-2477 . (308) 645-2489 FREE Admission

Museum of Nebraska Major League Baseball Photos, Artifacts, Trading Cards and More!

OPEN YEAR ROUND Weekdays 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Additional Summer Hours Memorial Day to Labor Day Saturdays 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Sundays by Appointment 619 Howard Ave.• St Paul, NE • (308)754-5558


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Fort McPherson National Cemetery Nebraska’s only National Cemetery, Fort McPherson is the final resting place of veterans of the Spanish American War, Indian Wars, World Wars I and II, Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf War and Iraq. Four Medal of Honor recipients rest here, three of whom served during the Indian Wars and one who served in Vietnam. Established in 1863, the original fort provided protection for the westward trails and the building of the railroad. On March 3, 1873, the Fort McPherson National Cemetery was established, and the remains resting in 23 frontier forts were reinterred here. Hours: Daily sunrise to sunset Self-guided tour book available at the CVB Office Location: 12004 S. Spur 56A – Maxwell, NE 69151 308-582-4433

Golden Spike Tower and Visitor’s Center A panoramic view of Union Pacific’s Bailey Yard will greet railfans from the two observation decks of the Golden Spike Tower. The eighth story fully enclosed viewing platform offers a 360 degree view of Bailey Yard and the Platte River valley. The seventh floor platform is open-air. The Visitor Center includes Union Pacific Railroad and Nebraska memorabilia and educational displays as well as a gift shop with a large selection of souvenirs. The Guinness Book of World Records certifies Bailey Yard as the world’s largest railroad yard, with a mind-boggling array of more than 315 miles of tracks, accommodating more than 150 trains a day. Address: 1249 N. Homestead Road Phone: 308-532-9920 www.GoldenSpikeTower.com Hours: May 1 through September 30: Monday through Saturday 9:00am to 7:00pm/Sunday 1:00pm to 7:00pm. October 1 through April 30: Monday through Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm/Sunday 1:00pm to 5:00pm. Please see ATTRACTIONS, Page 27

WANT TO KNOW EVEN MORE ABOUT OUR AREA?

www.VisitNorthPlatte.com

The Golden Spike Tower and Visitor’s Center is the perfect place to see Bailey Yard — the largest rail yard in the world — as well as the natural beauty of the landscape around North Platte.


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Lincoln County Historical Museum Early pioneer history is preserved in the Western Heritage Village which is home to restored buildings dating from the 1860’s Pony Express log cabin to the 1917 Country Church. Also included are the 1963 Fort McPherson headquarters, 1899 Fredericksen home, 1869 two story log home of the first homesteader in Lincoln County, 1900 barber shop, and the 1876 birthplace of William Jeffers, President of Union Pacific Railroad from 1937 through 1946. The Museum is also the home of the World War II North Platte Canteen, which served more than 6.5 million service men and women from Christmas Day 1941 through April first, 1946. Every day, as many as 5,000 service members visited the North Platte Canteen in the Union Pacific Depot. Many never forgot the ten minute stop, as 60 years of thank-you letters can attest.

Fee: Admission charged Guided tours available by appointment all year. May 1 through September 30 Sunday 1pm-5pm; Mon-Sat 9am-5pm Address: 2403 N. Buffalo Bill Ave. Phone: 308-534-5640 www.lincolncountymuseum.org Please see ATTRACTIONS, Page 28

The Lincoln County Historical Museum’s Pioneer Village is a trip back in time.

S O U V E N ILRES FRIDAY, JUNE 10 B

TIME

CAPSULE AVAILA B •Alumni Banquet AT SENIOR ALL OVER T O W N SATURDAY, JUNE 11 CENTER •Ethnic contests •Road Race •"Old time" corn shelling •Car Show •Road Rally •Beer Garden •Tractor Drive •Story tellers •Children's Events •Honored Citizens •"Ride the Bus" •Food vendors •Quilt Show •German food supper •Polka Band - Kenny Shuda Orchestra •Street Dance - Free Beer and Chicken

SUNDAY, JUNE 12

•Community Worship Service

FOOD : VENDORS & GERMAN N A C I R E AM

ROUND

B U S RDI-TTDREI PS

FROM COZA G O T H E N B U RD , G, ELWOOD & J OHNSON LAKE


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NEBRASKAland DAYS Buffalo Bill Cody’s legendary penchant for entertainment comes alive in North Platte during the NEBRASKAland DAYS celebration of our western heritage, held annually in June. The special blend of family fun, frontier history and western excitement has something for everyone. The four day PRCA Buffalo Bill Rodeo is one of the highlights of the celebration. There is also top musical entertainment, parades, shootouts, professional and amateur art exhibitions, the Frontier Revue, heritage events, barbecues and food events galore, and sports tournaments of all kinds. Location: Various venues throughout North Platte Special group rates on rodeo and Frontier Review tickets NEBRASKAland DAYS PO Box 706 – North Platte, NE 69103 308-532-7939 or 888-313-5606 nld@nebraskalanddays.com www.NebraskaLandDays.com

Neville Center for the Performing Arts The historic Fox Theater, originally built as a movie and vaudeville theater in 1929 is the home of the North Platte Community Playhouse, hosting many productions each year. Many performances of the Town Hall Lecture Series, Community Concert Series and special events are also regularly held at the Neville Center. Address: 301 East 5th Phone: 308-532-8559 www.northplattecommunityplayhouse.org Please see ATTRACTIONS, Page 29

The historic Fox Theater in downtown North Platte is home to the Neville Center for the Performing Arts.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON LOCAL ATTRACTIONS, CONTACT:

North Platte/Lincoln County Convention and Visitors Bureau

Nebraskaland Days features a wealth of traditions that celebrate the state’s western heritage.

1221 S. DEWEY, SUITE A, NORTH PLATTE, NE 69101 PHONE: 308-532-4729 TOLL-FREE: 800-955-4528 FAX: 308-532-5914 EMAIL: INFO@VISITNORTHPLATTE.COM


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North Platte Area Children’s Museum More than twenty-five exciting interactive exhibits will keep children six months to twelve years old entertained for hours. The Museum offers visitors a place to experience the wonders of science, technology, culture and the arts in a unique and interactive atmosphere. A member of the Association of Youth Museums, your local participating museum membership allows you free admission to the North Platte Area Children’s Museum. Exhibits include Experiencing Agriculture – Commerce Room – Laser Light Room – Media Center - Science Discovery – Reading Castle – Kid’s Corral – Bubble Experience Puppet Theater – Medical Center – Nebraska History – Construction House – Music Exploration – Transportation Area

The North Platte Area Children’s Museum is a great place to spend a fun and educational afternoon with your kids.

Address: 314 North Jeffers Street, North Platte Phone: (308) 532-3512 Days/Hours of Operation: Tuesday – Saturday 9:30am to 5:00pm Admission: Admission charged. www.northplattechildrensmuseum.com Please see ATTRACTIONS, Page 30


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TDF\ W [FFV NEBRASKA

CECFTDE M[ HOTEL/MOTEL MAP KEY Among Rail Fest’s many attractions is the chance to see rare and vintage locomotives from Union Pacific’s storied past.

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North Platte Rail Fest Held the third weekend in September each year, the North Platte Rail Fest celebrates the importance to North Platte of the Union Pacific Railroad and its more than 3,000 employees and retirees. Bus tours of Bailey Yard, Heritage and Steam locomotives, Union Pacific Family Day, Railroad exhibits and demonstrations, Model Train Show, Memorabilia and craft vendors and much more. www.nprailfest.com

Stones and Bones Gallery and Emporium Native American artifacts and much more… Stones and Bones is a unique gallery of art and artifacts, featuring an assemblage of western and wildlife art and a premier private collection of native Stone Age artifacts from rural western Nebraska. Address: 105 E. 2nd St., Hershey, NE 69143 Phone: 308-530-8626, 308-368-7400 www.stonesandbonesofnebrask.com Hours: Call ahead, usually 10:00am to 5:00pm daily


The North Platte Telegraph Travel Guide • 31



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