Valentine Travel Guide

Discover the highlights of Valentine, Nebraska with our comprehensive travel guide that covers everything from natural attractions to cultural landmarks and local cuisine.


Introduction to Valentine

Valentine is a charming city located in the heart of North Central Nebraska. This small town is best known for its breathtaking natural beauty, world-class outdoor recreation opportunities, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors to Valentine will find a wealth of attractions and activities to enjoy, from hiking and biking scenic trails to exploring museums and historical landmarks, to sampling delicious local cuisine and immersing themselves in local customs and traditions.

List of Places to Visit in Valentine

Whether you’re traveling solo, with a group of friends, or with your family, Valentine has something for everyone. Here are some of the top places to visit in this vibrant and welcoming city.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cherry County Historical Society Museum: This museum is the perfect place to explore the fascinating history of Valentine and the surrounding area. With exhibits that cover everything from Native American history to the Wild West and beyond, it’s a must-visit for history buffs.
  • Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge: This wildlife sanctuary is home to a diverse array of animals and offers visitors the chance to observe them in their natural habitat. The refuge features hiking trails, a visitors’ center, and regular guided tours.

Natural Attractions of Valentine: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Valentine National Wildlife Refuge: This stunning natural area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, and pronghorn antelope. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing in this pristine wilderness setting.
  • Smith Falls State Park: This picturesque park is home to one of Nebraska’s most spectacular waterfalls. Visitors can hike to the falls, fish in the Niobrara River, or simply enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Valentine

Valentine is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Some of the top trails to explore include:

  • Cowboy Trail: This 195-mile trail follows an abandoned railroad bed and offers breathtaking views of the Sandhills and the Niobrara River Valley.
  • Niobrara State Park Trails: These trails wind through the park’s rugged terrain and offer views of the river, forests, and wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Valentine: Activities and Tours

Valentine is home to a variety of fun and exciting activities and tours. Here are some of the best things to do in this vibrant city:

  • Canoeing and kayaking on the Niobrara River: The Niobrara River is a popular destination for canoeing and kayaking, with crystal-clear water and stunning scenery to enjoy.
  • Sandhill Crane Tours: Every spring, thousands of Sandhill Cranes migrate to the Platte River Valley. Visitors can take guided tours to see these majestic birds up close.

Week-Long Itinerary for Valentine

For visitors who plan to spend a week or more in Valentine, here’s a sample itinerary that covers the highlights of this beautiful city:

Day Activity
1 Visit Cherry County Historical Society Museum, Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge
2 Explore Valentine National Wildlife Refuge, hike or bike the Cowboy Trail
3 Visit Smith Falls State Park, hike the park’s trails
4 Canoe or kayak on the Niobrara River, take a Sandhill Crane Tour
5 Enjoy a day of fishing on the Niobrara River
6 Take a hot air balloon ride over the Sandhills
7 Sample local cuisine and explore local shops before departing

Food and Drink Scene of Valentine

Valentine is home to a variety of delicious local dishes and beverages. Here are some must-try items:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bison Burger: This hearty burger features locally sourced bison meat and is a must-try for meat lovers.
  • Cherry County Steak: This mouth-watering steak features beef from Cherry County, Nebraska, and is a favorite of locals and visitors alike.

Local Beverages

  • Sandhills Wine: This award-winning winery produces a variety of delicious wines using grapes grown in the Sandhills region.
  • Craft Beer: Valentine is home to several microbreweries that serve up tasty craft beers, perfect for a night out with friends.

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

Valentine offers a variety of accommodations to fit any budget or preference. Here are some of the top choices:

  • Trade Winds Motel: This affordable and comfortable motel offers clean and cozy rooms and is located close to downtown Valentine.
  • Niobrara Lodge: This upscale lodge offers a variety of amenities and is the perfect choice for those looking for a luxurious stay.

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

Valentine is home to a variety of unique local products and souvenirs. Here are some top picks:

  • Cherry Products: Cherry County is known for its delicious cherries, and visitors can find a variety of cherry products to bring home, including jams, jellies, and pies.
  • Handmade Crafts: Valentine is home to several local artisans who create unique and beautiful handmade crafts, including pottery, jewelry, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Valentine

Valentine is home to a proud and vibrant community with a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can immerse themselves in local customs and traditions by attending local events and festivals, such as the Cherry County Fair and the Annual Bull Bash Rodeo.

Best Time to Visit Valentine

Valentine is a great destination to visit year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests and preferences. The summer months offer the best weather for outdoor activities, while the fall is a great time to see the changing leaves and enjoy seasonal events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Valentine

Do:

  • Enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the area.
  • Sample local cuisine and beverages.
  • Immerse yourself in local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Leave litter or damage natural areas.
  • Ignore safety guidelines when participating in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Valentine

Valentine is a safe and welcoming city, but visitors should exercise the same caution as they would in any unfamiliar destination. It’s a good idea to keep valuables secure and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

Health in Valentine

Valentine has several medical facilities, including a hospital and clinics. Visitors should take precautions to prevent tick and mosquito bites when participating in outdoor activities.

Getting to Valentine: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Valentine

Valentine is served by the nearby Miller Field Airport, located just a few miles from the city center. The airport offers several daily flights to nearby destinations.

Bus Stations Near Valentine

Greyhound operates several daily bus routes to and from nearby destinations, including Omaha and Denver.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or take a taxi from nearby airports or bus stations.

How to Get Around in Valentine

Valentine is a small city that is easily walkable, but visitors can also rent bicycles or motorbikes to explore the area in more depth. Taxis and public transportation are also available.

Where to Go Next from Valentine: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Valentine is located in the heart of some of Nebraska’s most beautiful and interesting destinations. Here are some top picks for nearby excursions:

  • Badlands National Park: This stunning national park is located just across the border in South Dakota and is known for its dramatic landscapes and fascinating wildlife.
  • Black Hills National Forest: This nearby forest offers hiking, campgrounds, and scenic drives through rugged canyons and granite spires.

Conclusion

Valentine is a hidden gem in the heart of North Central Nebraska, offering visitors a wealth of attractions and activities to explore. From its stunning natural scenery to its rich cultural heritage, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and welcoming city. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the best of Valentine!

Main Street Main Street