Nebraskaland

50 Nebraskaland • August-September 2019 PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NEBRASKA TOURISM COMMISSION MIXED BAG By Emerson Belitz, Nebraska Tourism Commission VISIT KNOX COUNTY Knox County in northeastern Nebraska is full of unique attractions and rich history. Journey through the County along Nebraska Highway 12, designated the Outlaw Trail Scenic Byway that stretches 231 miles across the state, for hidden gems, hole-in-the-wall eateries, historical sites and cultural experiences such as powwows. One of Knox County's largest attractions, Niobrara State Park, boasts an itinerary of fun events and activities. Spend an evening at a buffalo cookout, take a horseback trail ride or learn about the park at the J. Alan Cramer Interpretive Center. From swimming and boating to hiking and biking, there's something for everyone. Nearby is the Ponca Tribal Museum, where you can learn about the culture and history of the Ponca Tribe. Traditional headdresses, jewelry and artifacts will open your eyes to the history of a proud and enduring nation. Learn about Lewis and Clark's expedition west at the Lewis and Clark Visitor Center overlooking the Missouri River. Located on the banks of the 15-mile-long Lewis and Clark Lake, the center offers camping, modern cabins, beach fun and a top-notch marina. Golfers love the challenging and picturesque terrain of Tatanka Golf Resort in Niobrara. Tatanka was voted 2015 'Best New U.S. Resort Course' in Golf Magazine. Ohiya Resort and Casino, Nebraska's first of its kind, is just east of Niobrara. This attraction, owned and operated by the Santee Sioux Nation, features lodging and more than 400 machines. At Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park, more than 350 complete skeletons and fossils of 25,000 specimens were preserved after a prehistoric volcanic eruption. Observe the ongoing excavation in the Hubbard Rhino Barn, and you may even get to talk to one of the paleontologists working at the site. Get a taste of country cooking at Green Gables, which offers home cooking in a casual dining atmosphere and a gift shop carrying antiques, clothing and accessories. Save room for a delicious dessert. Stop in Verdigre for a kolach at the Verdigre Bakery or homemade meals, pie and soft serve ice cream at the Cozy Corner Cafe. Sportsmen's Bar & Grill and Two Rivers Hotel in Niobrara provide a nostalgic Old West saloon atmosphere with exceptional steakhouse dishes. Spend the night at the Historic Argo Hotel in Crofton; built in 1912, this beautifully restored hotel is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Interested in hunting? The county features three state wildlife management areas, two of which are on the Missouri River. Swanson Hunting Lodge and Whitetail River Lodge offer lodging as well as controlled hunting grounds. See what all of the "buzz" is about at The Hive in Bloomfield. This family-owned restaurant serves a variety of lunch items and offers an extensive espresso menu. The Hive carries a wide variety of wines and beers, many of which were brewed in Nebraska, so pick up a bottle or two after your meal. Stop by LemonDrop Boutique, conveniently located above The Hive, for a selection of women's clothing and accessories. In addition, this café and shop is also a 2019 Nebraska Passport stop. Knox county offers adventure for all, whether you search for it in a brewery, in history, or in the great outdoors. More vacation resources are available at visitnebraska.com.

• Cover