Holdrege Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Holdrege, Nebraska. Explore the cultural and natural attractions, local cuisine, and nearby destinations with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Holdrege

Holdrege, located in South Central Nebraska, is a city full of surprises. Offering something for everyone, Holdrege is a blend of rich history and exciting modern-day attractions. Explore museums and historical places, scenic parks and hiking trails, local cuisine, and much more. This city, situated in the heart of the Great Plains, is sure to leave visitors with unforgettable memories. In this travel guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about Holdrege to plan your perfect trip.

List of Places to Visit in Holdrege

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Holdrege is proud of its heritage and offers plenty of cultural attractions for visitors to explore. Here are some of the must-visit museums and historical sites:

  1. Nebraska Prairie Museum - This museum showcases life on the Great Plains over the years and houses exhibits on old cars, farm equipment, and even a one-room schoolhouse.
  2. Holdrege Area Public Library and Heritage Center - This library displays various exhibits and collections of the history and heritage of Holdrege and the surrounding area.
  3. Phelps County Historical Society Museum - This museum tells the story of the county’s history through its artefacts and displays that feature the early pioneers and the everyday lives of the locals.

Natural Attractions of Holdrege: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re looking for a break in nature, Holdrege has got you covered. Here are some natural attractions that are worth visiting:

  1. Brewster Park - This park features a small lake that’s perfect for fishing, swimming, and boating. There are also picnic shelters and playgrounds for kids.
  2. Southside Park - This park is a favourite spot for jogging, walking, and cycling. It features a half-mile paved trail that winds through the park’s wooded area and along the Sandy Creek.
  3. Davis Creek Recreation Area - This park offers hiking and biking trails, campsites, pond fishing opportunities, as well as paddle boats and kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Holdrege

Holdrege’s natural beauty can best be explored through its hiking and biking trails. Here are some popular routes:

  1. Davis Creek Trail - The trail runs along the creek for almost two miles, providing a beautiful view of the surrounding hills and the creek.
  2. Southside Park Trail - This trail offers a pleasant walk through the wooded area in the Southside Park.
  3. Holdrege Bike Route - This twelve-mile trail offers a scenic view of the countryside and is a fun way to see the area’s farms and wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Holdrege: Activities and Tours

Holdrege has something for everyone, from exciting outdoor activities to leisurely tours of its unique attractions. Here are some ideas to get you started:

  1. Visit the local museums and historical places.
  2. Take a walk along the scenic parks and nature trails.
  3. Go fishing or boating at Brewster Lake.
  4. Try the local cuisine at one of the city’s many restaurants.
  5. Attend a local event, such as the Phelps County Fair or the Annual Iron Horse Festival.

Week-Long Itinerary for Holdrege

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Nebraska Prairie Museum and take a walk through the Davis Creek Trail.
Day 2 Spend the day at Southside Park and try the biking and hiking trails.
Day 3 Head to the Phelps County Historical Society and learn about the region’s history and culture.
Day 4 Go fishing and swimming at Brewster Park.
Day 5 Take a bike ride on Holdrege Bike Route and enjoy the countryside and wildlife.
Day 6 Visit the Holdrege Area Public Library and Heritage Center and learn more about Holdrege’s culture.
Day 7 Relax at the Davis Creek Recreation Area and enjoy the natural beauty of Holdrege.

Food and Drink Scene of Holdrege

Holdrege offers a variety of local cuisine, ranging from traditional to modern. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Nebraska-style Runza Sandwich - This sandwich is a traditional dish of the region and consists of a baked roll filled with ground beef, onion, and cabbage.
  2. Kool-Aid Pie - This dish is a sweet and tangy dessert that’s made with Kool-Aid powder, cream cheese, and whipped cream.
  3. Corn on the Cob - Nebraska is famous for its Golden Corn, which is rich and flavourful.

Local Beverages

  1. Kool-Aid - This flavoured drink was invented in Hastings, Nebraska, and is available in many flavours in Holdrege.
  2. Nebraska Wines - Nebraska offers a variety of unique wines produced in local vineyards.

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

Holdrege has several lodging options to choose from, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of the best options:

  1. The Victorian Inn - This hotel offers comfortable rooms and is located in the heart of the city, close to attractions and restaurants.
  2. AmericInn by Wyndham - This hotel offers modern amenities, including an indoor pool and hot tub, and is located near the local airport.
  3. Cobblestone Hotel and Suites - This hotel offers spacious rooms and a variety of amenities, including a fitness center and a 24-hour front desk.

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

Holdrege offers several local products and souvenirs that are worth taking home. Here are some of the unique items you can buy in Holdrege:

  1. Nebraska Cornhusker merchandise - Show your support for the local football team by purchasing merchandise from the local stores.
  2. Handmade crafts - You can find a variety of handmade crafts, including pottery, quilts, and jewellery, at local markets and shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Holdrege

Holdrege is a friendly and welcoming city that is proud of its local culture and customs. Residents value hard work, community, and a simple way of life.

Best Time to Visit Holdrege

Holdrege experiences warm summers and cold winters, so the best time to visit is from May to September. During this time, the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Holdrege

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Explore the city’s natural and cultural attractions.
  • Visit local restaurants to try regional cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public spaces.
  • Overlook the safety precautions when engaging in outdoor adventures.
  • Ignore the traffic rules and regulations.

Safety and Health

Safety in Holdrege

Holdrege is a safe city with low crime rates. However, visitors should take the usual precautions when travelling to any new place. Do not leave your valuables unattended and stay aware of your surroundings.

Health in Holdrege

Holdrege has several medical centres, including Phelps Memorial Health Centre, offering quality health care services to its residents and visitors.

Getting to Holdrege: Transportation Options and Logistics

Holdrege is well-connected with other cities through different transit options. Here are some ways to get to Holdrege:

Airports Near Holdrege

  • Central Nebraska Regional Airport – Kearney, NE (41 miles).
  • North Platte Regional Airport – North Platte, NE (87.8 miles).
  • Lincoln Airport – Lincoln, NE (138 miles).

Bus Stations Near Holdrege

  • Arrow Stage Lines – 1230 Burlington Street, Holdrege, NE.
  • Greyhound Bus Lines – 401 E 15th St, Kearney, NE.

Other Options

Car rental services are also available from nearby cities, including Omaha and Lincoln.

How to Get Around in Holdrege

Holdrege is a small city, and most of its attractions are conveniently located within walking distance. Visitors can also rent bikes or cars to explore the city or rely on local taxi services.

Where to Go Next from Holdrege: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Holdrege is surrounded by several interesting destinations and excursions, including:

  • Fort Kearney State Historical Park.
  • Scotts Bluff National Monument.
  • Chimney Rock National Historic Site.

Conclusion

Holdrege offers natural beauty, unique attractions, and a welcoming atmosphere to make it a memorable destination for any traveler. We hope this travel guide has provided you with everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Holdrege, Nebraska.