Looking for a peaceful getaway with rich history and prairie charm? Head to Beatrice! Nestled in southeastern Nebraska, Beatrice offers scenic parks, museums, and access to Homestead National Historical Park. It's an ideal destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and small-town explorers.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Beatrice is from late spring to early fall (May through October). Expect pleasant weather for outdoor activities, walking tours, and attending local festivals.
How to Get There
- By Car: Beatrice is located along U.S. Route 77, about 40 miles south of Lincoln, Nebraska.
- By Plane: The nearest major airport is Lincoln Airport (LNK), roughly a 45-minute drive from Beatrice. Omaha’s Eppley Airfield (OMA) is about 1 hour and 45 minutes away.
- By Bus: Limited regional bus services are available; renting a car is recommended for convenience.
Where to Stay
- Victorian Inn – Clean, affordable lodging with modern amenities and easy access to local attractions.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Beatrice – Comfortable stay with complimentary breakfast and indoor pool.
- Capri Inn & Suites – A cozy, budget-friendly option located near downtown and Homestead Park.
Top Attractions
⮕ Explore America's Pioneer Legacy at Homestead National Historical Park
Homestead National Historical Park commemorates the lives and achievements of pioneers and the changes brought about as a result of The Homestead Act. With a cry of “free land,” the act has both an immediate effect and an enduring one on the country that can still be felt today. Visitors at the site can explore the Homestead Heritage Center, which is home to an interactive museum about American homesteading, homesteading genealogy research, and the Land of Dreams film. Outside the center is the Palmer-Epard Cabin. Homestead National Historical Park is open daily with free admission.
8523 W NE-4, Beatrice, NE 68310, Phone: 402-223-3514
⮕ Step Into Local History at the Gage County Historical Society and Museum
Gage County Historical Society Museum provides a look at the agricultural and medical history of Nebraska’s Gage County, as well as the industries, railroads, genealogy, and people of the county. Among the many displays throughout the museum are exhibits about Kees Manufacturing, Beatrice Foods, and Dempster windmills, as well as displays about famous local people, such as John P. Fulton, Gene L. Coon, Janet Shaw, and Robert Taylor. Housed inside a historic freight and passenger station of the Burlington-Northern Railroad dating back to 1906, the Gage County Historical Society Museum is also home to a remodeled 1906 CB & Q Caboose.
101 N 2nd St, Beatrice, NE 68310, Phone: 402-228-1679
⮕ Get Active and Involved at the Beatrice Mary Family YMCA
The Beatrice Mary Family YMCA in the city of Beatrice, Nebraska is a full-service modern fitness and wellness facility that members and guests can visit year-round for fitness and recreational activities. Possible activities at the YMCA facility include strength training in the Wellness Center, a game of basketball or volleyball in the gym, swimming in the indoor heated pool, and aerobic training on elliptical cross trainers, stairmasters, treadmills, stationary bicycles, and the indoor impact absorbing track. The Beatrice Mary Family YMCA is open Monday to Friday from 5:00am, Saturdays from 7:00am, and Sundays from 12:00pm.
1801 Scott St, Beatrice, NE 68310, Phone: 402-223-5266
If you are craving something sweet:
⮕ Treat Yourself to Gourmet Cakes at the Beatrice Bakery Company
Open Monday to Friday, the Beatrice Bakery Company produces some of the best dessert items and fruitcakes around. While the old-fashioned fruitcake is certainly the most popular item made by the company, the bakery also makes an array of artisan cakes, coffee cakes, breakfast breads, and liqueur cakes. The “Grandma's Original Fruitcake,” a traditional holiday fruitcake, is a demonstration of the Beatrice Bakery Company’s commitment to baking high quality, handmade fruitcakes, made with only the best ingredients available. The fruitcake features rich flavors of almonds, raisins, pineapple, and cherries with the perfect amount of brandy, rum, and bourbon.
201 S 5th St, Beatrice, NE 68310, Phone: 402-223-2358
If you are a first time visitor:
- Chautauqua Park – Enjoy wooded trails, picnic areas, sports courts, and a scenic riverfront location.
- Riverside Park & Big Indian Lake – Go fishing, boating, or take a peaceful stroll by the water.
- Beatrice Speedway – Watch dirt-track racing action at this local favorite venue during racing season.
Where to Eat
- Black Crow – Cozy bistro in a historic building with steak, seafood, and creative seasonal dishes.
- Playa Azul – Casual Mexican restaurant known for generous portions, margaritas, and friendly service.
- 4 One 8 Bar & Grill – Great burgers, wings, and classic bar eats in a relaxed downtown setting.
If you are interested in local events:
- Homestead Days (June) – Celebrate pioneer heritage with parades, craft shows, live music, and historic reenactments.
- Beatrice Farmers Market (May–October) – Shop local produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts downtown every Thursday.
- Holiday Lighted Parade (December) – A festive downtown tradition with holiday floats, lights, and community cheer.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Beatrice, Nebraska:
- Wymore (20 min) – Visit the Welsh Heritage Centre or stroll peaceful small-town streets.
- Blue Springs (25 min) – Explore the Blue River Trail or enjoy nature at local parks.
- Odell (30 min) – Step back in time at the Odell United Methodist Church Museum or take scenic drives through farmland.
- Virginia (30 min) – Visit quaint countryside and enjoy a quiet break from city life.
- Pickrell (15–20 min) – A quick drive for small-town charm and rural landscapes, ideal for a peaceful outing.
- Rockford Lake State Recreation Area (30 min) – Fish, boat, or hike around this relaxing reservoir and park area.
FAQ
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Where is Beatrice, Nebraska located?
- Set on the scenic Big Blue River just south of bustling Lincoln, the pleasant city of Beatrice, Nebraska offers several things to do surrounded by a peaceful countryside setting.
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What historical sites can visitors explore in Beatrice?
- Fans of national landmarks can check out the Homestead National Historical Park, while history buffs can explore the Gage County Historical Society Museum.
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Where can visitors enjoy great food in Beatrice?
- Lovers of mouthwatering barbecue can head over to the Back Alley Eatery and top off their dinner with some sweet desserts from the Beatrice Bakery Company.
Plan Your Trip