Explore Nebraska’s Five Historic Downtowns Worth Visiting
Historic Downtown District/Railside – Grand Island, NE
Grand Island’s origins trace back to the mid‑1800s, when pioneering settlers transformed the region into a thriving hub that would later host the Union Pacific Railroad and the historic Lincoln Highway.
The late 1800s saw continued growth fueled by railroad expansion and the arrival of new industries across south‑central Nebraska. By 2018, downtown Grand Island stood among only three Nebraska cities listed on the National Register of Historic Places, with three of its buildings earning individual recognition.
Today, the downtown area—now widely known as Railside—serves as the premier destination for residents and visitors to savor specialty cuisine, shop boutique retailers, and immerse themselves in local art and culture.
Things to do:
- Enjoy a film at the newly renovated Grand Theatre, originally built in 1937. Despite decades of challenges, it continues to screen movies on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings.
- Discover unique treasures along Third Street, exploring antique shops and the boutique J. Elizabeth, where every item is a one‑of‑a‑kind work of art.
- Participate in Railside’s annual events: enjoy free live music from local bands during the Hear Grand Island Concert Series, sample specialty drinks on Third Thursdays, or catch a screening at the Prairie Lights Film Festival.
Historic Haymarket District – Lincoln, NE
Since Lincoln’s founding, the Haymarket has been a cornerstone of the community, originally serving as a livestock and produce market, campground, and feed post.
The early 1980s saw the district added to the National Register of Historic Places, prompting a revitalization effort that restored its historic buildings.
Today, the Historic Haymarket remains the heartbeat of Lincoln’s social scene, featuring blocks of restaurants, bars, and businesses, and located just a short stroll from The Railyard, offering family‑friendly entertainment.
Things to do:
- Experience the culture at art galleries and theatres: admire contemporary and one‑of‑a‑kind art at the Burkholder Project and JONLOVESART Gallery or laugh it up at one of The Comedy Loft’s shows.
- Get a taste of Lincoln with a variety of local restaurants: feast on an authentic Italian meal at Vincenzo’s Risorante or browse the country’s largest selection of licorice and other gourmet candy at Licorice International.
- Grab a drink at one of downtown Lincoln’s breweries and taprooms: sip on one of Boiler Brewing Company’s craft brews in the boiler room of the historic Grand Manse or savor an ale or lager at Nebraska’s oldest craft brewery, Empyrean Brewing Co.
River Point – Norfolk, NE
Norfolk’s origins lie in its fertile land and abundant water resources, reflected in its name derived from the “North Fork” of the Elkhorn River. In its early days, the downtown district hosted thriving stores and trading posts, and the 1870s Black Hills Gold Rush spurred a surge in commerce.
Today, downtown Norfolk remains lively and vibrant, preserving its historic charm while offering an array of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences within the revitalized River Point district.
Things to do:
- Treat your taste buds at any of River Point’s restaurants: spoil yourself with a trip to Black Cow Fat Pig Pub & Steak for gourmet American‑style fare and refreshing domestic and craft beers, or indulge in genuine Italian cuisine at Napoli’s Italian Restaurant.
- Shop the latest trends in clothing, décor and more: check out Statement by 318 for trendy and timeless pieces to add to your wardrobe or browse beautiful home décor and furnishings at Magnolias.
- Pay homage to Johnny Carson: appreciate the life and legend of Norfolk‑native Johnny Carson by visiting the large mural dedicated to him and all of the positive contributions Carson made to the community. Follow Johnny’s story in the newly redesigned Johnny Carson Gallery at the Elkhorn Valley Museum.
Old Market – Omaha, NE
At the turn of the 20th century, Omaha emerged as a bustling hub for the newly completed railroad system, produce traders, and transportation. The Old Market faced significant decline in the 1950s, prompting visionary Sam Mercer to undertake a bold renovation and repurposing effort—a move deemed naïve by many. Mercer famously compared demolishing historic structures for modern replacements to “painting over the Mona Lisa.”
Today, the Old Market preserves its storied past through a vibrant mix of restaurants, shops, and galleries that animate its historic cobblestone streets.
Things to do:
- Immerse yourself in arts and culture: learn more about the area’s rich history at The Durham Museum or enter an open space for your mind at the art and exhibition gallery, KANEKO.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth: savor the homemade flavor at Ted and Wally’s ice cream parlor or behold with childlike wonder the area’s largest selection of candy and collectables at Hollywood Candy.
- Relax and take in the history: experience a traditional horse‑drawn carriage ride down the brick‑paved roads or visit the historic sites and buildings with the “Omaha’s Old Market Walking Tour” podcast.
Historic Downtown Sidney – Sidney, NE
As the oldest community in western Nebraska, Sidney originated as a base for soldiers tasked with safeguarding railroad crews during construction. The gold rush and railroad expansion spurred a population boom, transforming Sidney into a bustling Old‑West town that even housed the world’s first 24‑hour theater. Known as “The Toughest Town on the Tracks,” it welcomed travelers with over 80 saloons lining Front Street, serving as a vital stop for adventurers and settlers.
Today, Sidney’s Main Street stands as one of only two western Nebraska downtown districts on the National Register of Historic Places, with its rich history celebrated through iconic late‑19th‑century architecture.
Things to do:
- Relish the taste of good, home‑cookin’: dig into a juicy steak and fresh seafood at Dude’s Steakhouse or dine in at Grandma Jo’s for hearty, made‑from‑scratch meals (and make sure to save some room for pie).
- Follow in history’s footsteps: uncover the stories of soldiers and civilians in the late 1800s at Fort Sidney Museum and Post Commander’s Home.
- Walk a mile in their boots: venture to Sidney’s Boot Hill Cemetery and discover the location’s haunting past and the tough life on the western frontier.
