17 Fun Things to Do in North Platte, Nebraska (7 Are Free)

You probably don’t know that North Platte is home to the world’s largest railroad classification yard, where over 10,000 rail cars roll through daily. This Nebraska gem offers 17 exciting activities that won’t drain your wallet—nearly half are completely free. Whether you’re drawn to Wild West history, outdoor adventures, or family-friendly attractions, you’ll discover surprises around every corner. The best part? You can experience most of what this railroad town offers without spending much money.

Explore Memorial Park’s Family Recreation Areas

Memorial Park serves as North Platte’s go-to destination for affordable family fun, offering everything you need for a perfect day out without breaking the bank.

You’ll find a large playground that’ll keep kids entertained for hours, plus an invigorating splash pad that’s perfect during Nebraska’s hot summer months.

The park’s open spaces are ideal for picnics – just pack your lunch and claim a shaded spot.

If you’re into sports, you can use the two tennis courts or try the available pickleball court. The well-maintained picnic areas include tables and benches, making family gatherings effortless.

With public restrooms, ample parking, and regular community events throughout the year, Memorial Park delivers maximum entertainment value at zero cost. For more information about Memorial Park and other attractions, you can contact Visit North Platte at (800) 955-4528 or visit their office at 101 Halligan Dr.

Discover Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park

Step into the Wild West at Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, where you’ll explore the authentic 4,000-acre estate that once belonged to legendary showman William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody.

Experience the authentic Wild West on Buffalo Bill Cody’s original 4,000-acre ranch turned state historical park.

You’ll tour his elegant Second Empire house and massive barn, both filled with 19th-century artifacts and memorabilia from his famous Wild West shows.

The park offers guided tours and living history events that bring Buffalo Bill’s era to life.

You’ll discover exhibits showcasing frontier farming and the showman’s extraordinary career. The museum provides educational insights perfect for families. This National Historic Landmark recognizes Buffalo Bill Cody’s profound influence on Wild West entertainment and popular culture.

Entry requires a state park permit—$7 for Nebraska residents, $14 for others. You can purchase permits online beforehand.

The grounds stay open from 8 a.m. until sunset year-round, and nearby camping and fishing opportunities extend your adventure.

Hit the Mountain Biking Trails at Potter’s Pasture

When you’re ready to tackle some serious terrain, Potter’s Pasture delivers nearly 100 miles of mountain biking trails that’ll shatter any preconceptions about Nebraska being flat and boring.

Located just three miles south of I-80 exit 199 on Brady-Moorefield road, you’ll find over 45 singletrack trails winding through hills, canyons, and thick tree groves.

Whether you’re a beginner or experienced rider, there’s something here for your skill level. The trails aren’t just for mountain biking either – you can hike, trail run, or bring your e-bike.

With varying trail lengths and difficulties, you’ll have options for quick rides or all-day adventures. Trail maps are available to help you navigate this impressive network that showcases Nebraska’s surprising natural diversity. You can also check trail popularity levels through color-coded displays that show which routes are most frequently used by other riders.

Visit Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center

While most people associate Nebraska with endless cornfields, you’ll discover one of the world’s largest rail yards right from the comfort of an eight-story observation tower at Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center.

Beyond Nebraska’s iconic cornfields lies an unexpected marvel: witness the world’s largest rail yard from an impressive eight-story observation tower.

At $12 for adults ($6 for kids), you’ll witness over 10,000 rail cars being sorted daily across Bailey Yard’s massive 2,850-acre operation.

Here’s what makes this attraction worth your time:

1. Two observation decks offering panoramic views of 400+ miles of tracks
2. Interactive kiosks explaining hump yard operations in detail
3. Guided insights from former Bailey Yard employees
4. Outdoor flag walk featuring all state flags

The facility is open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm CST, with extended hours until 7:00pm from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Plan at least 30 minutes for your visit, and consider buying advance tickets to guarantee entry during peak times.

Experience the World’s Largest Train Yard at Bailey Yard

After admiring Bailey Yard from above, you can head down to experience the world’s largest railroad classification yard up close.

This massive 2,850-acre facility processes 10,000 railroad cars daily across its eight-mile stretch. You’ll witness an incredible operation with 139 trains moving through 315 miles of track and 985 switches every single day.

The sheer scale and constant activity create an astonishing sensory experience – the noise alone will amaze you.

Train watching here attracts rail fans from across the country, and it’s easy to see why. You’re observing advanced logistics technology in action as cars get sorted, split, and merged across 24 different tracks. The facility employs over 2,600 people to keep this massive operation running smoothly around the clock.

It’s educational entertainment that costs nothing but offers insights into how America’s goods keep moving around the clock.

Learn History at Lincoln County Historical Museum

History buffs will find a treasure trove of local stories at the Lincoln County Historical Museum, where five major eras of North Platte’s past come alive through hands-on exhibits and authentic artifacts.

You’ll explore railroad history, old west heritage, pioneer life, agricultural evolution, and WWII stories—including the famous North Platte Canteen that served over 6.5 million service members.

The Western Heritage Village showcases restored buildings from the 1860s through early 1900s, featuring everything from a Pony Express cabin to Lincoln County’s first homesteader house.

Interactive experiences make history engaging:

1. Cowboy Fast Draw demonstrations
2. Native American Dancing performances
3. Hands-on agricultural activities like hay bailing
4. Antique farm machinery displays with working tractors

The museum’s collection contains over 40,000 artifacts that preserve local history from the 1850s to the present day.

Open May through September, Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 1pm-5pm. Call (308) 534-5640 for details.

Enjoy Family Fun at Cody Park

Families seeking affordable entertainment will discover a gem at Cody Park, where you’ll find everything from exotic animals to vintage carnival rides without spending a dime on admission.

Free admission to Cody Park means families can enjoy exotic animals, vintage carnival rides, and endless entertainment without breaking the budget.

You’ll encounter deer, elk, burros, llamas, geese, and peacocks at the wildlife sanctuary, with vending machines available for animal feeding experiences.

The park offers year-round activities including pickleball courts, horseshoe pits, disc golf, baseball fields, and tennis courts.

During warmer months, you can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, antique carousel, and children’s rides. The free Railroad Museum showcases impressive train displays. When the summer heat becomes too much, you can cool off by visiting the nearby North Platte River.

Pack a picnic and use the barbecue pits, or grab snacks from the concession stand.

With campgrounds available for overnight stays, Cody Park delivers maximum family fun on any budget.

Go Horseback Riding on Local Trails

Beyond the park’s attractions, you’ll find authentic Western adventure awaits on horseback through North Platte’s scenic countryside.

Dusty Trails LLC operates at Buffalo Bill State Historical Park, offering trail rides along the North Platte River through native grasslands where you’ll spot wildlife like bald eagles and deer. With nearly 20 years of service, they’ve established themselves as the premier outdoor adventure destination in the area.

Your riding options include:

1. 10-minute pony rides for kids ages 3-5 ($10/person)
2. 1-hour trail rides covering 3 miles for ages 6+ ($26/person)
3. Group discounts for 5+ riders ($21/person plus booking fee)
4. Petting zoo access included with rides (non-riders pay $5)

All rides accommodate beginners at walking pace.

You’ll need reservations by calling 308-530-0048 or booking online. They’re open seven days weekly by appointment, making scheduling flexible for your North Platte visit.

Race Go-Karts at Cody Go-Karts

When you’re craving high-speed thrills without breaking the bank, Cody Go-Karts delivers family-friendly racing excitement right off I-80 at 805 Halligan Drive.

You’ll find two unique tracks—a Figure 8 course and Slick Track—that’ll test your driving skills without emptying your wallet since you only pay per activity.

Beyond go-karts, you can cool off on waterslides, navigate bumper boats, or challenge friends at adventure golf.

Beyond racing thrills, dive into waterslides, bump around in boats, or putt your way through challenging adventure golf courses.

The fully lit lot means fun doesn’t stop at sunset, and supervised rides guarantee everyone stays safe.

Visit Memorial Day through Labor Day from 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM, with reduced hours after school starts. The waterslides operate on a daily schedule from 1 PM to 6 PM throughout the summer season.

Call 402-416-8313 for weather updates or group bookings—North Platte’s perfect pit stop for affordable family entertainment.

Play and Learn at North Platte Children’s Museum

While go-kart racing gets your adrenaline pumping, the North Platte Children’s Museum at 314 N. Jeffers St offers a completely different but equally engaging experience.

This interactive museum features 10 themed exhibits designed for hands-on learning and imaginative play.

Your kids can explore:

1. Pirate World – Navigate ship-themed adventures
2. Medical World – Play doctor with realistic gear
3. Union Pacific Railroad – Engineer train tracks and role-play
4. Farming Exhibit – Experience tractors and market play

At $8 for children and $6 for adults, it’s budget-friendly entertainment.

The museum’s open Tuesday through Sunday with varying hours, so you’ll want to check before visiting.

With consistently positive reviews from families, it’s perfect for children ages 1-12 and offers family memberships for frequent visitors. Recognized as North Platte’s #1 family attraction since 2017, the museum has established itself as the top destination for families in the area.

Dine and Game at Axes & Aces

Looking for a place where you can throw axes, play pickleball, and grab a burger all under one roof? Axes & Aces delivers exactly that experience at 101 Halligan Dr in North Platte.

You’ll find four axe throwing lanes, three indoor pickleball courts, and two golf simulators for entertainment.

The kitchen serves pizza, burgers, sandwiches, salads, and wings, plus there’s a full-service bar. As North Platte’s newest entertainment center, Axes & Aces focuses on providing a diverse recreational experience for visitors.

Sunday brunch runs from 9 AM to 9 PM, while Tuesday through Saturday hours are 11 AM to 10 PM. Activities operate 10 AM to 9 PM, Tuesday through Sunday.

Don’t miss the local Double Dips ice cream for dessert.

Book your activities online or call 308-221-1040. The outdoor courtyard works great for events too.

Celebrate at NEBRASKAland Days Festival

Every June, North Platte transforms into Nebraska’s ultimate celebration during the ten-day NEBRASKAland Days Festival—the state’s official party that’s been running since 1968.

You’ll experience authentic Western culture in Buffalo Bill Cody’s former stomping grounds, where his Scout’s Rest Ranch once stood.

The festival offers something for every budget:

1. PRCA Rodeo Action – Watch professional cowboys compete in thrilling events
2. Colorful Parades – Enjoy free entertainment featuring Nebraska-themed floats throughout town
3. Viaero Wireless Summer Jam – Catch major country artists like Bailey Zimmerman and Luke Bryan (June 27-28, 2025)
4. Community Events – Participate in various local activities spread across North Platte

The celebration also honors Hollywood legends through the prestigious Buffalo Bill Award, which has attracted stars like Charlton Heston and Henry Fonda to the festivities.

This premier music festival and rodeo draws crowds nationwide, greatly boosting the local economy while celebrating Nebraska’s rich heritage.

Relax at APEShip Brewing’s Unique Boat-Bar

After all that festival excitement, you’ll want to unwind somewhere uniquely North Platte—and APEShip Brewing delivers exactly that experience.

Located in the historic 1889 Dickey Building downtown, this brewery features an actual boat-turned-bar that’s as Instagram-worthy as it’s functional.

You’ll find European-inspired craft beers alongside budget-friendly options like homemade root beer and kombucha. The building actually served as the North Platte National Bank when it was first constructed, adding another layer of history to your drinking experience.

The owners, Joel and Liz Bennett, have created a family-friendly spot where kids can enjoy root beer floats while adults sample traditional German-style brews.

Their food menu won’t break the bank—think sandwiches, bratwurst, and nachos that pair perfectly with your drinks.

Open Wednesday through Saturday with extended weekend hours, it’s North Platte’s quirkiest hangout that successfully blends nautical charm with serious brewing craftsmanship.

Walk the Free Trails and Outdoor Spaces

Whether you’re working off that APEShip bratwurst or simply craving fresh air, North Platte’s extensive trail network won’t cost you a dime.

With over 20 miles of free trails, you’ll find options for every fitness level and interest.

With over 20 miles of free trails, there’s something perfect for every fitness level and outdoor adventure preference.

Here are four standout trails to explore:

1. Lake Maloney Trail – Paved path along the lake’s west side, perfect for scenic walks
2. Potter’s Pasture – Nearly 100 miles of free trails on private land, from easy to technical
3. Centennial Park Trail – Popular walking and biking route through town
4. South Willow Trail – Another excellent option for walking and cycling

Download free digital trail maps before you head out, and keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife along the way.

Trail enthusiasts can get involved by attending monthly meetings held on the first Monday of every month at NebraskaLand Bank’s Husker Room at noon.

Attend Seasonal Community Events and Festivals

North Platte’s calendar bursts with community celebrations that’ll give you authentic small-town experiences without breaking the bank.

June’s NebraskaLand Days Festival transforms the city into Nebraska’s official state celebration, featuring professional PRCA rodeo action, country concerts, and parades at Wild West Arena.

You’ll find affordable family fun at July’s Lincoln County Fair with 4-H exhibits, livestock shows, and demolition derbies.

September brings Cody Park’s Arts & Crafts Festival showcasing hundreds of artisans, plus free Thursday evening concerts from June through August.

Don’t miss Brady Days in early August for unique water fights and trap shoot competitions.

Year-round dirt track racing at Lincoln County Raceway offers budget-friendly motorsports entertainment from April through September, often paired with festival weekends. The community calendar receives regular updates to ensure you have current information about all upcoming events and activities.

Explore Historical Markers Around Town

Between community celebrations, you’ll discover that North Platte’s streets tell compelling stories through dozens of historical markers scattered throughout the city.

These free educational gems highlight everything from Fort McPherson’s 1863 hotel to the Oregon Trail’s westward expansion routes.

You can create your own self-guided walking tour to explore:

1. Fort McPherson Road markers – Follow the original 1913 alignment and learn about frontier military history
2. Oregon Trail sites – Discover how North Platte served as a significant stopover for pioneers
3. Memorial markers – Visit community-preserved sites like Conroy’s Grave, marked by the Brady Lions Club
4. Geological markers – Understand the area’s natural history and landscape formation

Local historical societies maintain these markers, ensuring you’ll find well-preserved, informative displays that make history accessible without spending a dime. For planning your historical marker exploration, contact the Visit North Platte office at (800) 955-4528 for detailed maps and additional information about specific locations throughout the city.

Take Railroad-Themed Tours and Special Events

Few cities showcase their railroad heritage as impressively as North Platte, where you can explore massive steam locomotives and witness the world’s largest rail yard in action.

Start at Cody Park Railroad Museum, where you’ll find the world’s only Challenger 3900 series steam locomotive on public display. You can climb aboard Steam Locomotive Number 3977 for an authentic engineer’s perspective and explore historic rail cars filled with memorabilia.

Head to Golden Spike Tower for panoramic views of Bailey Yard, where approximately 20,000 railcars pass through daily. The museum offers free admission with ample parking for RVs.

Throughout the year, you’ll find railroad-themed festivals, educational programs, and historical reenactments that bring North Platte’s transcontinental railroad legacy to life. For more information about these events and attractions, contact the visitor center at (800) 955-4528.

Recap

You’ve discovered North Platte’s best-kept secrets, but there’s one thing we haven’t told you yet. With seven completely free attractions and ten budget-friendly options, you can easily spend an entire weekend here without breaking the bank. But here’s the catch – once you experience the small-town charm and rich railroad history, you’ll find yourself planning your next visit before you’ve even left. Ready to pack your bags?