NEBRASKAland Magazine is dedicated to outstanding photography and informative writing with an engaging mix of articles and photos highlighting Nebraska’s outdoor activities, parklands, wildlife, history and people.
Issue link: http://mag.outdoornebraska.gov/i/831879
10 NEBRASKAland • JUNE 2017 Buffalo Bill to Big Mac Road Trip By Hannah Hundley, Nebraska Tourism Commission PHOTO BY JULIE GEISER I mmerse yourself in the history of western Nebraska and travel along the same path the cowboys did on the Pony Express. This month's Nebraska road trip takes the traveler on a short trip from the famous Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park to the family vacation destination of Lake McConaughy. Along the way visitors can stop for a bite to eat at a local restaurant in Paxton affectionately referred to as Ole's. Ole's Big Game Steakhouse and Lounge is a comfortable and interesting destination that provides friends and family a place they can enjoy each other's company and admire mementos of Ole's worldwide safaris. After enjoying time at Ole's, visitors can move on to Ogallala, a historical town located on the old Pony Express route and transcontinental railroad. Ogallala, originally gaining fame by being part of the Great Western Trails used for cattle drives, is now known for its rich old-west history and family friendly community. Named after the Ogallala Sioux tribe, this town is home to a number of historical landmarks and attractions. Visitors are welcome and encouraged to check out the Cowboy museum, the Mansion on a Hill, and the Petrified Wood and Art Gallery. Be a part of Old West history and stop by Front Street. This replica of an old western town has been designated as the "cowboy capital" of Nebraska. Stay a little later to enjoy a performance recreating life in an Old West cattle town. The Mansion on a Hill offers a glimpse into what a classic Victorian style home looked like. Visitors can also view hidden gems, minerals and Native American Artifacts at the Petrified Wood and Art Gallery. After spending time in Ogallala, visitors can then make their way over to the largest reservoir in Nebraska, Lake McConaughy. Named after Mayor Charles W. McConaughy of Holdrege, Nebraska, this reservoir provided 1,500 people jobs during the Depression-era from 1936 to 1941. This man-made body of water is one of Nebraska's most popular locations for fishing, boating, water sports, camping and hunting. Round up the family or some friends and enjoy your leisure time cooling off near the water and viewing the natural wonder that is western Nebraska. ■ Ole's Big Game Steakhouse in Paxton is a unique stopover for travelers. Brittany Daugherty poses on the cliff rocks at Lake McConaughy near sunset. While in North Platte Travelogue PHOTO BY JULIE GEISER Visit the Lincoln County Historical Museum that is rich in local history including the famous North Platte Canteen, which served 6 million troops during World War II. lincolncountymuseum.org. A permanent memorial dedicated to the military men and women of the United States who served their country is on display at the 20th Century Veterans Memorial. Celebrate Nebraska during Nebraskaland Days, June 14 - 24, 2017 with rodeos, dances, concerts, art shows and more. nebraskalanddays.com Check out visitnorthplatte.com for a list of attractions and a monthly calendar of events.