Discover the outdoor delights and rich cowboy heritage of North Platte, a railroad town at the heart of Western Nebraska. Nestled in the fork of the roaring Platte River, this town has been an important trading crossroads since its founding in 1868. Visit today to learn about its Wild West legends and importance during World War II.
One of North Platte’s most famous inhabitants was William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody, a 19th-century buffalo hunter who popularized the idea of America’s Wild West on a global scale. Learn about his travelling Wild West-themed shows at the Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, where his Victorian-style mansion still stands. Explore the surrounding grounds to see an authentic 19th-century barn and watch bison herds grazing.
Delve further into the town’s history at the Fort Cody Trading Post, a stockade from the days of the Wild West. Browse exhibits of 19th-century artifacts and treat yourself to boiled candies. Afterwards, take a tour of the region’s archaeological discoveries at the Dancing Leaf Cultural Learning Center.
Take the kids to Cody Park, where modern amusement rides provide hours of fun for the whole family. Visit the Cody Park Railroad Museum to inspect trains of yesteryear, including a restored Hershey diesel locomotive. Nearby, see deer, peafowl and geese grazing at a small zoo.
Visit Bailey Yard, one of the world’s largest rail yards, to learn more about North Platte’s importance as a crossroads. Thousands of troops and supply shipments passed through this yard during World War II, facilitating the effective American war machine. Climb the Golden Spike Tower for expansive views over the yard.
Get to North Platte via a 3.5 hour drive west from Lincoln, Nebraska’s capital. Get between attractions most easily by car.
For an invigorating experience in the Nebraskan outdoors, take an overnight trip to the Lake Maloney State Recreation Area. Go boating on the lake’s picturesque waters, fish for walleye and then camp under a gorgeous star-filled sky.
