Monowi Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hike, eat, and stay in Monowi, and learn about local customs, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Monowi

If you’re looking for a unique travel destination in the heart of the Great Plains, Monowi should be on your list. This small town in North Central Nebraska is famous for being the smallest incorporated town in the United States, with only one resident and one business.

Despite its size, Monowi has plenty to offer visitors, from historical landmarks to breathtaking natural scenery. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll highlight some of the best places to visit, hike, eat, and stay in Monowi, and provide tips for getting around and experiencing local culture.

List of Places to Visit in Monowi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Monowi may be small, but it has a rich history that visitors can explore through its museums and landmarks. Here are some must-see cultural attractions:

  • The Monowi Tavern: This iconic establishment is the heart of Monowi, owned and operated by its sole resident, Elsie Eiler. Inside, you’ll find a museum of sorts, with old signs, photographs, and artifacts that tell the story of Monowi’s past.
  • The Monowi Church: Dating back to 1902, this charming little church is still used for occasional services and events. It’s one of the few remaining buildings from the early days of Monowi.
  • The Monowi Schoolhouse: This one-room schoolhouse served the town’s children until it closed in 1963. Today, it’s a popular spot for photos and history lessons.

Natural Attractions of Monowi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Monowi is surrounded by some of the most beautiful countryside in the Great Plains. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a scenic drive, there’s something for everyone. Here are some natural attractions to add to your itinerary:

  • Niobrara State Park: Just a short drive from Monowi, this park offers hiking trails, horseback rides, and stunning views of the Missouri River. Be sure to check out the famous Niobrara River waterfalls.
  • Bone Creek Reservoir: Located southeast of Monowi, this peaceful lake is a great spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking. There’s also a nature trail that winds through the surrounding prairie.
  • Sandhills Scenic Byway: This 272-mile route takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Nebraska, including rolling hills, towering bluffs, and golden fields of wheat and corn. Monowi is just one of the many small towns you’ll pass through on this scenic drive.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Monowi

If you’re a fan of hiking or biking, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to get outside and explore in Monowi. Here are some of the best trails to check out:

  • Monowi Trail: This 3-mile loop takes you through scenic prairie landscapes and past historic landmarks like the Monowi Church and Schoolhouse. It’s an easy, family-friendly hike that’s perfect for a sunny afternoon.
  • Niobrara State Park Trails: With over 12 miles of hiking and biking trails, Niobrara State Park offers something for hikers and bikers of all skill levels. You’ll find everything from scenic overlooks to dense forests on these trails.
  • Cowboy Trail: This converted railbed stretches over 300 miles from Norfolk to Valentine, and passes through Monowi along the way. It’s a great option for long, leisurely bike rides, with plenty of scenic views and charming small towns to explore.

Best Things to Do in Monowi: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and exploring historical landmarks, there are plenty of other fun things to do in Monowi. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Visit Elsie at the Monowi Tavern: As we mentioned earlier, the Monowi Tavern is the heart of this tiny town, and Elsie Eiler is its sole proprietor. She’s always happy to chat with visitors and share stories about life in Monowi.
  • Attend a Potluck Dinner: If you happen to be in town on the first Saturday of the month, be sure to attend the potluck dinner at the Monowi Tavern. It’s a great chance to socialize with locals and enjoy some delicious home-cooked food.
  • Stargaze in the Nebraska Sky: Monowi is far from big cities and light pollution, which makes it a great spot for stargazing. Bring a blanket and a telescope and spend a peaceful night under the stars.

Week-Long Itinerary for Monowi

If you’re planning to spend a week in Monowi, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Monowi and check into your hotel.
2 Explore the Monowi Trail and historic landmarks.
3 Enjoy a day of fishing or boating at Bone Creek Reservoir.
4 Take a scenic drive along the Sandhills Scenic Byway.
5 Visit Niobrara State Park and hike the trails.
6 Attend a potluck dinner at the Monowi Tavern.
7 Stargaze and reflect on your wonderful week in Monowi.

Food and Drink Scene of Monowi

Despite its small size, Monowi has a surprisingly vibrant food and drink scene. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Burgers and Fries at the Monowi Tavern: This classic American diner serves up some of the best burgers and onion rings you’ll ever taste. Be sure to save room for a slice of homemade apple pie.
  • Nebraska-style Chili: Made with lots of ground beef and beans, this hearty chili is the ultimate comfort food on a cold winter night.
  • Corn on the Cob: Nebraska is known for its sweet, juicy corn, and Monowi is no exception. You’ll find it on menus throughout the town in the summer months.

Local Beverages

  • Budweiser: The Monowi Tavern is known for its love of Budweiser, and you’ll find it on tap here year-round.
  • Kool-Aid: Although it was invented in Hastings, Nebraska, Kool-Aid is beloved throughout the state and is often served at potluck dinners in Monowi.
  • Nebraska Wine: There are several wineries throughout Nebraska that produce delicious, locally-made wines. Try a bottle of red or white made from Nebraska grapes.

Where to Stay in Monowi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Since Monowi is such a small town, there aren’t many lodging options to choose from. However, there are a few charming guesthouses and hotels that are perfect for a relaxing stay. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Monowi Guesthouse: This quaint guesthouse is just a short walk from the Monowi Tavern and features cozy rooms with rustic decor.
  • Niobrara Lodge: Located in nearby Niobrara, this lodge offers comfortable rooms and spectacular views of the Missouri River.
  • Sandhills Guesthouse: This secluded retreat is nestled in the heart of the Sandhills and offers privacy and relaxation in a beautiful natural setting.

What to Buy in Monowi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs or gifts, Monowi has plenty to offer. Here are some of the best local products to bring home:

  • Monowi Tavern T-Shirts: Show your love for the smallest town in America with a stylish Monowi Tavern t-shirt.
  • Nebraska-made Crafts: Many local artisans create unique crafts and home decor using natural materials found in Nebraska.
  • Homemade Jams and Jellies: If you’re a foodie, be sure to stock up on homemade jams and jellies made with fresh Nebraska fruit.

Local Culture and Customs of Monowi

Despite its size, Monowi has a strong community spirit and a rich history that visitors can explore through its landmarks and conversations with locals. Here are some unique customs and traditions that you might encounter:

  • Potluck Dinners: Monowi residents love their potluck dinners, where everyone brings a dish to share and enjoys a meal together.
  • Friendly Neighbors: Monowi is known for its friendly, welcoming residents who are always happy to chat with visitors and share stories about life in the town.
  • Deep Connection to the Land: The Nebraska prairie is a defining feature of Monowi and the surrounding area, and residents have a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of the Great Plains.

Best Time to Visit Monowi

Monowi can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. If you’re a fan of warm weather and outdoor activities, summer (June-August) is the ideal time to visit. Fall (September-November) is a great time to see the changing colors of the trees and enjoy cooler temperatures. Winter (December-February) can be bitterly cold, but it’s also a beautiful time to explore the snowy landscape. Spring (March-May) can be unpredictable, but it’s a good time to see wildflowers and baby animals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Monowi

Do:

  • Do ask locals for recommendations on things to do and places to eat.
  • Do respect the natural environment and wildlife.
  • Do try to attend a potluck dinner at the Monowi Tavern.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or leave trash in the natural areas.
  • Don’t take things from historical landmarks or monuments.
  • Don’t be rude or disrespectful to locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Monowi

Monowi is a very safe town, with little crime or accidents. However, it’s always important to practice basic safety precautions like locking your car and not leaving valuables in plain sight.

Health in Monowi

There are no medical facilities in Monowi itself, but nearby towns like Lynch and Niobrara have clinics and hospitals. Make sure to pack any necessary medications or first aid supplies.

Getting to Monowi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Monowi

The closest major airport to Monowi is Sioux Falls Regional Airport, which is about 2 hours away by car. Other nearby airports include Omaha Eppley Airfield (4 hours) and Denver International Airport (7 hours).

Bus Stations Near Monowi

There are no bus stations in Monowi, but Greyhound buses stop in nearby towns like Lynch and Niobrara.

Other Options

Renting a car is the most convenient way to get to and around Monowi, as public transportation is limited. Alternatively, you could bike or hike to the town as part of a longer trip along the Cowboy Trail or Sandhills Scenic Byway.

How to Get Around in Monowi

Since Monowi is so small, it’s easy to get around on foot or by bike. If you have a car, you’ll be able to explore the surrounding countryside more easily. There are no public transportation options in the town itself.

Where to Go Next from Monowi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to extend your trip beyond Monowi, there are several nearby destinations worth exploring. Here are some ideas:

  • Omaha, NE: This vibrant city is about 4 hours away by car and offers great museums, restaurants, and shopping.
  • Badlands National Park: Located in western South Dakota, this otherworldly landscape is about 6 hours away by car from Monowi.
  • Black Hills, SD: This scenic region is home to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and many other iconic American landmarks.

Conclusion

Regardless of your interests, Monowi has something to offer. From natural wonders to historical landmarks, this tiny town in the heart of the Great Plains is a fascinating place to explore. Whether you prefer hiking, fishing, or just soaking up the local culture, Monowi is sure to provide a unique and memorable experience.