Ogallala Travel Guide

Explore the best that Ogallala, Nebraska has to offer with this comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the top attractions, outdoor adventures, delicious food, accommodations, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Ogallala

Nestled in the heart of South Central Nebraska, Ogallala is a charming town that boasts an array of cultural and natural attractions, making it a fantastic travel destination for all kinds of travelers. Located in the Great Plains region of the United States, Ogallala has a rich history dating back to the pioneer days and offers visitors a glimpse into the past. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, history, or local cuisine, Ogallala won’t disappoint you.

List of Places to Visit in Ogallala

If you’re looking for things to do in Ogallala, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of attractions to explore and discover. Here are our top picks:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Front Street: This historic district features 19th-century buildings that have been preserved to reflect what life was like in Ogallala during the pioneer days. Visitors can take a guided tour, step inside the old-fashioned saloons, and even see an old-time movie at the local theater.
  • Petrified Wood and Art Gallery: This unique attraction showcases the largest collection of petrified wood in the United States, as well as a variety of art pieces, including sculptures and carvings.
  • Lake McConaughy Visitor and Water Interpretive Center: This center offers visitors a chance to learn about the history, geology, and wildlife of the area. It also has an impressive collection of fish and waterfowl mounts, and a theater that plays educational films.

Natural Attractions of Ogallala: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake McConaughy: This massive lake covers over 30,000 acres and offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, including swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking. Visitors can also soak up the stunning views of the surrounding sand hills.
  • Ash Hollow State Historical Park: This picturesque park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and campsites, as well as several historical sites that date back to the pioneer days. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park to learn about its history and geology.
  • Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area: This scenic area is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It offers excellent fishing, hiking, and birdwatching, as well as plenty of campsites for overnight stays.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ogallala

Ogallala has a variety of hiking and biking trails that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are a few of the best:

  • Lake Ogallala Trail: This scenic trail is just over 4 miles long and offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding sand hills.
  • Ogallala Nature Trail: This 3-mile trail winds through the picturesque countryside and offers great opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
  • Ash Hollow State Historical Park Trail: This easy 1-mile trail leads visitors past several historical sites and stunning rock formations.

Best Things to Do in Ogallala: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for more activities to enjoy in Ogallala, you won’t be disappointed. Here are a few of the best:

  • Horseback Riding: Several local ranches offer horseback riding tours that allow visitors to see the stunning countryside from a different perspective.
  • Golfing: Ogallala has a few top-notch golf courses that are perfect for a relaxing day out on the green.
  • Wine Tasting: Ogallala has a few wineries in the area that offer wine tasting tours, allowing visitors to sample some of the best local wines.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ogallala

For those looking to explore all that Ogallala has to offer, here’s a week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Tour Front Street
Day 2 Visit Petrified Wood and Art Gallery
Day 3 Explore Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area
Day 4 Take a guided tour of Ash Hollow State Historical Park
Day 5 Enjoy horseback riding or golfing
Day 6 Spend the day at Lake McConaughy
Day 7 Go wine tasting at a local winery

Food and Drink Scene of Ogallala

No trip to Ogallala is complete without indulging in some of the delicious local cuisine and beverages. Here are a few must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Midwest-style BBQ: Ogallala has a few excellent BBQ restaurants that serve up some of the best meat in the Midwest.
  • Nebraska-style chili: This hearty chili is made with ground beef, beans, and a variety of spices and is a must-try for anyone visiting Ogallala.
  • Bison burgers: Bison is a local delicacy in the area and can be found on many restaurant menus.

Local Beverages

  • Kinkaider Brewing Company: Kinkaider Brewing Company has a few locations in Nebraska, including one in Ogallala, and serves up some of the best craft beers in the area.
  • Junto Wine: Junto Wine is a local winery that specializes in handcrafted wines made from locally grown grapes.

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

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a cozy guesthouse, Ogallala has plenty of accommodations to choose from. Here are a few of our top picks:

  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites: This modern hotel features an indoor pool, fitness center, and free breakfast.
  • Comfort Inn: This budget-friendly hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms, as well as a complimentary breakfast.
  • Motel 6: This no-frills motel offers budget-friendly rooms and is a great option for those looking to save money on accommodations.

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

If you’re looking to bring home a piece of Ogallala with you, there are plenty of local products and souvenirs to choose from. Here are a few of the best:

  • Petrified wood: Petrified wood is a popular souvenir in the area and can be found at several local shops and galleries.
  • Bison meat: Bison meat is a local delicacy and can be purchased at several local meat shops and markets.
  • Local wines: Junto Wine is a local winery that produces some of the best wine in the area and is a great gift for wine lovers.

Local Culture and Customs of Ogallala

Ogallala has a rich history and culture that is still evident today. Visitors should be respectful of the local customs and traditions and take the time to learn about the local history and heritage.

Best Time to Visit Ogallala

The best time to visit Ogallala is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, spring and fall are also great times to visit, as the weather is mild, and there tend to be fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ogallala

Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Ogallala:

Do:

  • Take the time to explore the local history and culture.
  • Sample the delicious local cuisine.
  • Engage with the friendly locals.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions.
  • Litter or damage the natural attractions.
  • Travel alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ogallala

Ogallala is a relatively safe town, but visitors should take common-sense precautions to ensure their safety. Be aware of your surroundings, don’t leave valuables in your car, and keep your doors locked at night.

Health in Ogallala

Ogallala has a few medical facilities in the area, in case of emergency. Visitors should also drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen to avoid dehydration and sunburn.

Getting to Ogallala: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are a few transportation options for getting to Ogallala:

Airports Near Ogallala

  • Central Nebraska Regional Airport: This airport is located about 172 miles from Ogallala and offers both domestic and international flights.
  • Denver International Airport: This major airport is located about 191 miles from Ogallala and offers a wide range of international flights.

Bus Stations Near Ogallala

  • Jefferson Lines: This bus company offers direct service to and from Ogallala.

Other Options

  • Driving is also a popular option for getting to Ogallala, as it’s located near major highways and is easily accessible by car.

How to Get Around in Ogallala

The best way to get around Ogallala is by car, as it allows for easy exploration of the surrounding countryside. However, visitors can also rent bikes or take a taxi to get around town.

Where to Go Next from Ogallala: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are a few nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Scotts Bluff National Monument: This stunning national monument is located about an hour and a half from Ogallala and offers stunning views and plenty of hiking opportunities.
  • Chimney Rock National Historic Site: This historic site is located about an hour from Ogallala and is home to a towering rock formation that was an important landmark for pioneers heading west.
  • North Platte, Nebraska: This charming town is located about an hour from Ogallala and offers plenty of history, shopping, and dining opportunities.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, Ogallala has something to offer everyone. With its variety of cultural and natural attractions, delicious cuisine, and comfortable accommodations, Ogallala is the perfect travel destination for your next adventure.