Historic Attractions

Arbor Lodge State Historical Park
2300 2nd Ave – Encompassing 72 acres of wooded rolling hills, this state historical park offers visitors plenty to explore—inside and out. The 52-room Arbor Lodge mansion, home of J. Sterling Morton (founder of Arbor Day), gives a glimpse back in time. And the park grounds, open year-round from dawn to dusk, feature more than 200 varieties of lilacs, an Italian terraced garden, a whispering bench, and a walking trail lined with trees planted by the Morton family.

Mansion open Apr 15–May 27, 11am–5pm; May 28–Sept 5, 10am–5pm; Sept 6–Oct 24, 11am–5pm
Admission: $3 for adults, $1 for children aged 3–12
State Park Permit required
402-873-7222
www.ngpc.state.ne.us

Mayhew Cabin and Historical Village
2012 4th Corso – This is the only site in Nebraska on the National Park Service Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. Visitors can tour the cabin and cave as well as the historical village.

Open Apr 28–Oct 31, Mon–Sat, 11am–5:30pm; Sun, 12–5pm
Admission: $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, $3 for children, Free for children aged 2 and under
402-873-3115
www.mayhewcabin.com

Missouri River Basin Lewis & Clark Interpretive Trail & Visitor Center
100 Valmont Dr – Complete with an authentic replica of Lewis and Clark’s keelboat and plenty of hands-on activities, this interactive experience focuses on the more than 300 flora, fauna, and scientific discoveries made on the historic Corps of Discovery Journey. Visitors also have the opportunity to meet Pee Dee, the resident prairie dog.

Open May–Sept, Mon–Sat, 9am–6pm; Sun, 9–5pm; Oct–Apr, Mon-Sat, 10am–4pm; Sun, 12–4pm
Donations accepted
402-874-9900
www.mrb-lewisandclarkcenter.org

Wildwood Historic Home and Art Gallery
420 Steinhart Park Rd – This ten-room period home contains many Victorian pieces. The historic barn serves as an art gallery and a gift shop showcasing regional artists.

Open Apr 28–Oct 31, Mon–Sat, 10am–5pm; Sun, 1–5pm
Admission: $3 for adults, $1 for children
402-873-6340

Farmers Bank & Trust Company
202 S. 8th St – Listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its architectural significance, this Richardsonian-style structure began its service in 1886 as the Nebraska City Post Office. A complete renovation in the late 1980s preserved many of its historic features. Visitors are welcome during business hours, and free guided group tours are available by appointment.

402-873-5573
www.farmersbanknc.com

Morton-James Public Library
923 1st Corso – Visitors can browse through more than books at this architectural wonder. The Kimmel Gallery, located in the library, also frequently features exhibits open to the public.

Open June–Aug, Mon–Thurs, 10am–6pm; Fri–Sat, 9am–5pm; Sept–May, Mon–Wed, 10am–6pm; Thurs, 10am–7pm; Fri–Sat, 9am–5pm
Closed New Year’s Day, Arbor Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Veteran’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day
402-873-5609
www.morton-jamespubliclibrary.com

Otoe County Courthouse
1021 Central Ave – This two-story, Georgian brick structure is the oldest public building in the state of Nebraska still in use. The building was completed in 1865 when Otoe County was formed and Nebraska City was named the county seat. Inside, several photos and displays portray the building’s history.

(402) 873-9500
www.co.otoe.ne.us