Have A Beach Day At Lake Minatare
When I mentioned Lake Minatare above, I was holding back. Yes, it has nice picnic spots, and the lighthouse is cool but the amazing thing about this lake is the beach. Its a huge sandy beach in Nebraska!
When we visited, the water was warm and calm, so it would have been perfect for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, or lounging on a float. With more time, we wouldve loved to spend a day hanging out there, relaxing on the sand. I have to imagine this is one of the best beaches in Nebraska, but its not like Ive been to any others. Regardless, if you visit Scottsbluff in the summer, make sure you save time for the beach!
Scottsbluff Hotels & Places To Stay
Some links in this post are affiliates, meaning we may earn a small commission if you make an reservation. Your cost is the same!
We used Airbnb in Scottsbluff and stayed with a couple who rents out two spare bedrooms now that theyre empty nesters. It was honestly one of the best Airbnb experiences weve had it really felt more like visiting friends, and we got to play with their adorable pup. Book your stay with them here .
Other options for Scottsbluff accommodations include a handful of hotel chains, some small motels, and a few nice-looking spots that are locally owned. If we were choosing hotels in Scottsbluff, wed go with one of these:
Arcadia Hotel: A renovated vintage hotel that looks like the best budget spot in town.
Monument Inn: A mid-range hotel, with staff who receive rave reviews.
Hotel 21 & Co: A brand new elegant hotel thats noted for its classic glam style.
There are also a few options for camping in Scottsbluff, including at Lake Minatare and at Riverside Campground right in town.
Or At Papa Moon Vineyards
The towns only winery is only open on the weekends, so we didnt get to visit and we were so disappointed, because the photos look absolutely gorgeous. In addition to wine, they also make mead and cider, as well as non-alcoholic cider. If we pass through Scottsbluff again, Papa Moon will be our first stop!
Read Also: What To Do Around Mystic Ct
How Did Hiram Scott Die
The story of Scotts death was first recorded by Warren A. Ferris, an employee of the American Fur Company, who traveled through the area in 1830. He related that during Scotts eastward journey, he had contracted a severe illness. Two comrades placed him in a boat and attempted to transport him downstream.
Monument Shadows Golf Course
If you love playing golf, then never miss a chance to visit the MonumentShadows Golf, an 18-hole golf course meant for beginners as well as Pros for aleague play. Several tournaments take place here throughout the year. Moreover,this is the only golf ground which is open to the public where you can attendfor a short while.
Enjoy golfing or spend some quality time observing your favorite game,youre going to love this place anyway.
Also Check: Things To Do In Berkeley Springs Wv
The Best Time Of The Year To Visit Gering Nebraska
The best time of the year to visit Gering, Nebraska is from July to October, which records average temperature and low humidity. When the weather is comparatively dry, you will clearly see the trails and the scenic beauty. Ride the trails at your own risk, but be meticulous in following the alerts attached to the roads.
Do you have any tips for visiting Gering, Nebraska? Leave a comment below, to let us know.
Western Nebraska Regional Airport
WELCOMES YOU TO SCOTTSBLUFF AND GERING
Where we pride ourselves on our quick lines, stress-free check ins, and a friendly atmosphere. Whether you are flying for business or pleasure, we are confident that we will exceed your expectations. Below you will find not only what you’ll love about our #BFFAIRPORT, but also the wonderful activities in the surrounding area.
Don’t Miss: Things To Do In Safety Harbor This Weekend
Agate Fossil Beds National Monument
When we mentioned visiting Agate Fossil Beds National Monument to people in Scottsbluff, they universally responded, Oh, thats in the middle of nowhere! Now, we all have different definitions of middle of nowhere, but Agate Fossil Beds is only about 50 minutes from town! So it makes an easy day trip, and apparently youll impress locals with your tenacity and its free to visit.
Agate Fossil Beds National Monument is known for the huge number of fossils found there, mostly long-extinct mammals like the 20-million-year-old bear dog. Today, the park has two fairly easy hiking trails: Daemonelix Trail, a one-mile gravel loop featuring very unusual spiralized fossils, and Fossil Hills Trail, which is a 2.8-mile paved trail that goes through an unexpected swamp and offers great views from the top.
The Visitor Center shows a film about fossil discoveries in the area, many of which are also on display. Even more interesting to us was the exhibit on the history and culture of the Oglala Lakota tribe and their decades-long relationship with the owners of a ranch near the fossil beds.
If you want to make this an overnight trip, theres a small private campground just past the monument thats known as an incredible stargazing spot .
Get Entertained At Bowl Arena
This is a place where you will get entertained along with your friendsand family. Its a great place to hang around, gobble some burgers and enjoybowling. You will love the chicken ranch pizzas served here. The food itemsserved are also reasonably priced.
You may choose from the range of shoes and bowling balls available onrent. Enjoy to your hearts content and be ready for the next attraction.
Don’t Miss: Kid Things To Do In Syracuse Ny
What Is There To Do In Scotts Bluff National Monument
There is plenty to do at Scotts Bluff National Monument in all seasons.Popular Things To Do Drive the Scotts Bluff Summit Road. Hiking Scotts Bluff National Monument. Scotts Bluff Ranger Programs. Viewing the William Henry Jackson Collection. Become a Scotts Bluff Junior Ranger. Stamp Your Passport Book.
Top Things To Do In Nebraska’s Panhandle
Around Scottsbluff, western Nebraskas largest town, natural attractions and state parks stud the former frontier. Escape to a Wild West landscape of grasslands and buttes.
Pandemic-related closures and restrictions may be in place. Please check destinations’ websites before making travel plans.
Badlands, big skies and a surprising spread of pine forests draw visitors through the Sandhills to the Panhandle in northwestern Nebraska.
Turn north off Interstate-80 at Grand Island to begin what is an antidote to the interstate treadmill. Follow the Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway for 272 miles past the grass-covered dunes rolling through central Nebraska. At the endpoint in Alliance, head north on the Gold Rush Byway toward Chadron .
Near Chadron, the forests and buttes of the Pine Ridge region rise up from the Sandhills like an expatriate mountain scene that encompasses Chadron State Park and the Nebraska National Forest .
Thirty miles west of Chadron, Fort Robinson State Park pops up in history from Crazy Horse to World War II. Today’s guests fill weekends with Jeep tours, horseback rides, Broadway-style shows and lodgings in old cavalry quarters.
Agate Fossil Beds National Monument Learn the history of the area’s Native Americans and about past and present wildlife at the site 47 miles north of Scottsbluff. nps.gov/agfo
Legend Buttes Golf Course Play nine holes at the base of the bluffs west of Crawford. crawfordnebraska.net
Stay
For more information visit
You May Like: Things To Do In Mystic Connecticut
What Is There To Do In Western Nebraska
This Natural Wonders Road Trip Will Show You Nebraska Like Youve Never Seen It Before Smith Falls State Park. TripAdvisor/pcdoctorjim. Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge. TripAdvisor/leahleah16. Snake River Falls. Pine Ridge. Toadstool Geologic Park. Scotts Bluff National Monument. Chimney Rock. Courthouse & Jail Rocks.
Imbibe At Flyover Brewing Company
The areas only brewery sits right in the center of downtown Scottsbluff. Flyover brews all the standards, plus some rotating options like the Cerise . Its also known for an extensive menu of wings and pizzas, and we loved the soft pretzels.
Sidebar: While we were sitting on the patio, a guy with a face tattoo walked by, carrying a half-gallon Mountain Dew jug and walking a puppy. He got all tangled in the leash, and we laughed along as he tried to get the puppy untangled. Then he came over toward the brewery, and the puppy Waldo slipped through the gate, and came over to play with us. The guy started talking to us about all sorts of things, including how Waldo likes to drink whiskey . Eventually, we handed him back over the gate, and they left.
But then they stopped in front of the business next door, where we could see a cardboard box of free stuff on the ground. He brought it back over to the patio and insisted we each take an item from the box. It left us wondering if HE is actually the Horseback Jesus of Scottsbluff and its how we ended up with these figurines.
Don’t Miss: Kid Friendly Things To Do In Cleveland Ohio
What Restaurants Are In Scottsbluff Nebraska
Limit search to Scottsbluff. The Tangled Tumbleweed. 90 reviewsClosed today. Cappuccino and Company. 67 reviewsClosed today. Flyover Brewing. 40 reviewsClosed Now. Backaracks Sports Bar & Grill. 102 reviewsCloses in 30 min. Platte Valley Creamery. 64 reviews. Ole. The Mixing Bowl Cafe. Wonderful House Restaurant.
Top 10 Things To Do In Gering Nebraska
Gering is a quaint town situated in the Nebraska region, USA and the county seat of Scotts Bluff County. The town, founded in 1887 and named after Martin Gering, will offer you all possible sightseeing and entertainment pleasures that you can think of. So if you are planning to visit one of the most scintillating cities in the US, which has a balance of historical importance and modernity. Gering, Nebraska is the place to be.
We have listed some exciting things to do in this read which you mayfollow while touring Gering, Nebraska to make your trip more enjoyable.
Recommended Reading: Things To Do In Ashland Va
Try The Local Specialty At Runza
If youre from Nebraska, youre probably going to Runza anyway. And if you arent, this is a fun opportunity to try the dish thats beloved across the state. A Midwestern version of a pasty, a runza is a bread pocket stuffed with beef and other fillings, served at the Nebraska-only fast-food chain of the same name. Theres actually one location of Runza in downtown Scottsbluff and another next door in Gering.
Have Dessert At A Local Institution
Platte Valley Creamery is awesome. Fine, maybe its not the absolute best ice cream Ive ever tasted, but its got to be the most beloved. This little shop has been open in Scottsbluff since 1932 , and it seems like everyone in town knows the current owner, whos manned it himself for over 40 years.
Hes super friendly, the ice cream is delicious and shockingly cheap, and theres clearly a ton of pride and nostalgia around this place. Just so youre prepared, the window is evidently a drive-thru, not a walk-up .
Recommended Reading: Fun Things To Do In Syracuse Ny This Weekend
Climb The Lake Minatare Lighthouse
You wouldnt think Nebraska would have a lighthouse, but it does! Lake Minatare is about 20 minutes from town, and the lighthouse sits on a peninsula that juts out into the water. A narrow 56-step staircase winds to the top, where youll get nice views over the lake. You can picnic near the base of the lighthouse, or use the carefully-placed selfie station to get a photo of yourself in front of it.
Things To Do At Scotts Bluff National Monument
Hike Saddle Rock Trail to the summit: This was easily the highlight of our visit. The 1.6-mile asphalt trail runs from the Visitor Center up to the top of the bluffs, with great views of unusual rock formations all the way up. The trail is steep-ish in parts, but generally not too difficult the most challenging thing is that theres very little shade. If you visit in the summer , make sure you start early in the morning.
Drive the Scotts Bluff Summit Road: During the summer, you can drive to the top instead, or take the Summit Shuttle. It only takes about 10 minutes each way, and the shuttle ride is narrated by a ranger. You can also hike one way and take the shuttle the other.
Walk on the Oregon Trail: The half-mile Oregon Trail Pathway starts across the street from the Visitor Center and takes you through Mitchell Pass, once known as the Devils Gap. Youll actually be walking on the old Oregon Trail a must for history lovers!
Hike in the backcountry: If you want something more offbeat, backcountry hiking is permitted in the South Bluff area of the monument. Ask for details at the Visitor Center.
You May Like: Things To Do In Germantown Tn
Popular Types Of Attractions In Scotts Bluff County
Start The Day At Cappuccino And Company
Cap N Co., as its known, is the perfect place to have your morning java in downtown Scottsbluff. Its got good coffee, a Free Little Library, and even a baby nook in the back .
Warning: dont get confused by the sign across the street that says Black Rifle Coffee Company, because its not a coffee shop its a place where you can sign up for shooting lessons and also purchase coffee beans. Strange, I know.
Also Check: Kid Friendly Things To Do In Cleveland Ohio
Where Is Chimney Rock On The Oregon Trail
Chimney Rock, located in the badlands of western Nebraska, is one of the most famous symbols of the old west. The rock itself is a towering geologic formation that looks like a hill that has a chimney. It towers some 300 feet above the North Platte River valley and lies at an elevation of 4,226 feet.
Is Scottsbluff Nebraska Dangerous
The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Scottsbluff is 1 in 30. Based on FBI crime data, Scottsbluff is not one of the safest communities in America. Relative to Nebraska, Scottsbluff has a crime rate that is higher than 98% of the states cities and towns of all sizes.
Also Check: Kid Things To Do In Syracuse Ny
Walk The Trail Along The North Platte River
The North Platte River runs right through Scottsbluff . A flat, concrete trail known as the Monument Valley Pathway runs alongside the river for about two miles, offering views over the water with the national monument in the background.
The trail starts at Riverside Park, home to another of Scottsbluffs top attractions: a zoo called the Riverside Discovery Center. I dont know anything about this zoo in particular, but we skipped it for all these reasons.
Learn Some History At The Legacy Of The Plains Museum
The highly-rated Legacy of the Plains Museum is one of the top attractions in Scottsbluff, and its the place to go for the history of the area. The many exhibits cover the history of farming, transportation, business, and daily life in the High Plains, and the art gallery showcases everything from paintings to beadwork to quilts. Allow at least two hours to see it all!
You May Like: Things To Do In Mystic Ct
The Town Of Scottsbluff May Not Be As Well Known As The National Monument That Shares Its Name But Charm And Convenience Make The Town A Smart Base For Exploring Northwest Nebraska
With proximity to national historic sites and monuments, a variety of accommodations and a charm all its own, Scottsbluff makes a good jumping-off point for any Northwest Nebraska journey. Go ahead and make your side trips to Gering and Bayard , but return to Scottsbluff to spot bison and tigers at Riverside Discovery Center, visit the grave of Mormon pioneer Rebecca Winters and enjoy a summertime farmers market and locally owned, original restaurants and shops.
Scotts Bluff National Monument
Visit this towering monument, 800 feet above the North Plate River,which once served as a landmark for people from Native America who immigratedto places like California, Oregon, and Mormon trails. The place, spread over3000 acres of land, is rich in geographical, paleontological and also humanhistory.
While viewing this monument recollect the history where people ofvarious culture and ethnicity marked Scotts Bluff as a landmark and mentionedin their diaries and journals. Pose for photos and selfies in this alluringlandscape which you may recall as a place of geographical importance.
You May Like: Things To Do In Mystic Ct
Drink At The Union Bar
Visit the bar in case you love the company of interesting people. Kenois a popular game played here by visitors. Order the food and beverage of yourchoice. Choose your drinks and enjoy bantering with hospitable, sensuouswaitresses. They have a varied menu of lunch and dinner to choose from, so makeyour choice wisely once you get there. You can also enjoy prime ribs onFridays.
Besides, here you will get to see a lot of interesting signage on the walls.
