Kearney, NE - 2003 Community Profile

The pride of Kearney shows in the Great Platte River Road Archway Monument, the only historical-educational monument that spans an interstate. The structure commemorates the trails, river and region, along with their place in American history.

Visit Pioneer Village for a unique experience. The village is one of Nebraska’s leading attractions, featuring 50,000 historical items that follow America’s progress since 1830. You’ll find 350 antique automobiles and trucks, 100 vintage tractors, steam-powered carousels, historic flying machines, and much more!

The Frank House, on the National Register of Historic Sites, features Tiffany stained-glass windows, hand-carved oak woodwork and tiled fireplaces.

Fort Kearny was an oasis during a hard journey for thousands of pioneer wagon trains. For outdoor fun and relaxation, be an eyewitness to the story by walking through the interpretive center, the blacksmith- carpenter shop, powder magazine and split stockade. The fort is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.

Fort Kearny State Recreation Area is 152 acres of outdoor beaches, swimming, fishing, camping, picnicking and the 1.8-mile Fort Kearny Hike/Bike Trail. Showers and changing rooms are available. The area is located just 1 mile east of the historical park. A Nebraska State Park Permit is required.

Kearney is also home to Cabela’s, an outdoorsman’s paradise. Along with outdoor equipment from the world’s foremost outfitters, you will find one of the most impressive trophy collections of deer, elk, moose, bobcats, cougars and fish west of the Smithsonian.

The first signs that spring is coming are the sights and sounds of nearly half a million sandhill cranes. This is the largest gathering of sandhill cranes in the world. The cranes stop at the Platte River during their annual northern migration from their wintering areas in the southern United States and Mexico. There are also geese, ducks, other waterfowl and bald eagles to be observed in wetland areas. Audubon Nebraska’s Rowe Sanctuary is central Nebraska’s only wildlife sanctuary located on the main channel of the Platte River.

Visitors view cranes from enclosed observation blinds on guided field trips during March and early April. Serious nature photographers may use one of three photo blinds set up close to the major crane roost sites on the river. A Rivers and Wildlife Celebration (Spring River Conference) is held in Kearney in March. The conference provides the opportunity to learn more about the Platte River, cranes, prairies and conservation efforts.

Fossil records indicate that the cranes have been visiting the Platte River region for millions of years. For six weeks each spring, visitors have the opportunity to experience the sights and sounds of 90 percent of the world’s sandhill cranes, when they stay long enough to build up the strength to continue their migration.

Do you like classic cars? Then Chevyland U.S.A. is for you. The site contains one of America’s largest and best collections of vintage Chevrolets from 1914 to 1975 and also 50 collectible motorcycles.

One of the unique attractions in Kearney is Cookbooks by Morris Press, one of the nation’s largest cookbook publishers, founded in 1933. Browse through thousands of cookbooks from all 50 states, regional favorites and specialty books at outlet prices. A free cookbook is given to all visitors.

The Frank House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and was built by George W. Frank in 1889. The house is constructed of red Colorado sandstone with English oak paneling and is furnished with authentic Victorian period pieces, including many of the Frank’s original furnishings. Open Tuesday thru Sunday, 1–5 pm. Admission is $3. Call (308) 865-8284 for more information.

The Tri-City Arena is located in Kearney right off Interstate 80, the most traveled interstate in Nebraska. Opened in the fall of 2000, the 5,000-seat venue has been host to the United States Hockey League’s Tri-City Storm; the home of the National Indoor Football League’s Tri-City Diesel team; and has welcomed big-name concerts and special events bringing in thousands of spectators. With over 54,000 square feet of exhibit space, it is the prime location for a variety of entertainment functions and meetings which hundreds of thousands of people utilize for fun and for work.

Annual events in the area include the Gateway Farm Expo, Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic, National Antique Tractor Pull and Toy Show, monster truck show, outstanding rodeos, Buffalo County Fair, 3rd of July Fireworks Extravaganza, and much more!

As you can see, Kearney and Buffalo County have plenty to offer when it’s time to relax and enjoy.