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Ponca Tribe of Nebraska

The Ponca tribal headquarters are in Niobrara. The Usni (Cold) Ponca Tribe of Nebraska are believed to have been part of the Omaha Tribe, having separated by the time Lewis and Clark came upon them in 1804. At that time, they were situated along Ponca Creek, in Knox County, near present-day Verdel. They lived in earth lodges and were primarily horticulturists, but also made seasonal hunting trips. They were on such a trip when Lewis and Clark came upon their village. Although the tribe’s exact origin is unknown, some scholars believed the Ponca migrated from an area along the Red River near Lake Winnipeg. However, by the early 1700s, the warring Sioux had forced them to relocate to the west bank of the Missouri River. The tribe holds a Powwow every August at the Powwow grounds in Niobrara.

Ponca Tribal Museum

The Ponca Museum and Library houses artifacts, historical archives, a Tribal Library, and a Community Learning Center, and Culture Department offices. Next to the Museum is the tribal Education Trail where you can experience the elements and understand the interrelatedness of the Ponca culture and the land. Ponca Tribal Museum and Library 88915 521 Avenue Niobrara NE 68760 402-857-3519 Monday – Friday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm

Village of Niobrara

Niobrara, Nebraska is a small, progressive town, located in the far northeastern corner of Nebraska at the confluence of the Niobrara and Missouri rivers. It is the headquarters of the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska and home of Niobrara State Park. Native Americans gave the town its name, which means "running water."

Niobrara River National Scenic Waterway

76 miles of Free-Flowing Fun With a little something for everyone, the Niobrara National Scenic River is a destination for crossing adventures off your bucket list. Most popular for river recreation, you can float the Niobrara River on a canoe, tube, or kayak as a beginner and have a blast. Hiking, biking, and wildlife watching keep our visitors busy. Oh! And we haven't even told you about the waterfalls yet.

Niobrara State Park

Niobrara, Nebraska is a small, progressive town, located in the far northeastern corner of Nebraska at the confluence of the Niobrara and Missouri rivers. It is the headquarters of the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska and home of Niobrara State Park. Native Americans gave the town its name, which means "running water."

The Barn at God's Country

The Barn at God’s Country is an event venue just outside of Center, Nebraska. The location offers scenic views, lots of wildlife, and a feeling of peace.

Ohiya Casino

Located just a few minutes east of Niobrara, Nebraska, Ohiya Casino & Resort fulfills every entertainment and relaxation need with the hottest casino filled with the most modern machines!

OUTLAW TRAIL SCENIC BYWAY

Highway 12 is known as the Outlaw Trail, because of outlaws like horse thief Doc Middleton who used to roam the area. Some also believe Jesse James and his gang hid from authorities deep in the woods of what's called Devil's Nest near Crofton.

Niobrara Valley Golf Course

This level course sits in the middle of old Niobrara. Niobrara was moved south to higher ground in 1975 due to persistent swamp like conditions from Missouri River overflow. Features: Putting Green, Chipping Green, Driving Range, Rental Clubs, Rental Cars, Pull Carts, Snack Bar, Meeting Room, Nebraska Golf Association Member 402-857-3412

Lewis and Clark Recreation Area

Lewis and Clark Lake, 25 miles east of Niobrara, is one of the state park system's most popular resort parks. Three separate campgrounds comprise this modern recreation area, attracting visitors from throughout the Midwest. Modern resort facilities - from marinas to camping cabins to sandy beaches - attract water lovers to Lewis and Clark.

The 8 most incredible Natural Attractions in Nebraska

Nebraska is, at its heart, an untamed frontier land just bursting with natural beauty. We’ve got some spectacular human-made sights to see, but we think our natural attractions really steal the show. These are 8 of them that everyone – resident AND visitor – needs to check out at least once.

Ponca State Park

Of Nebraska’s eight state parks and many other state recreation areas, state historical parks, and countless other places to have fun outdoors, Ponca State Park stands out as one of the jewels in the state’s crown. Located in extreme northeast Nebraska, the park is one of the most visited – and most beloved – attractions in this part of the state.

Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park

A short drive from Niobrara finds you at an active paleontology dig in volcanic ash with prehistoric animal skeletons, open to the public. 86930 517th Ave Royal, NE 68773 (402) 893-2000 Open ⋅ Closes 4:30 PM

Nissen Wines - Winery

Less than an hour to the east from Niobrara is Nissen Wines. The closest winery to the Bear Home. 88973 NE-57 Hartington, NE 68739 (402) 254-3426 Closes 6 PM

Daze of Wine - Wine store

In the small town of Atkinson, on HWY 20 is a great little wine shop. If your travels take you around there be sure and stop in. 204 S Main St Suite 2 Atkinson, NE 68713 (402) 925-8311 Open M-F 9-5 : Sat 9-4 : closed Sun

Food & Beverages

Niobrara has several restaurants and bars near by. The Country Cafe offers home style country cooking. Located at the junction of hwy 12 and 14. 402-229-3226 Monday – Tuesday: Closed Wednesday – Sunday: 6am - 8pm Jimmy Dean's Lounge - great place for a beer and burger. Or sometimes a very good Chicken Fettuccini. 254 Spruce Ave #1, Niobrara, NE 68760 Open everyday - 11AM-1AM 402-857-9928 The Sportsman Bar - is a great place for a great steak and a cocktail. 25411 Park Ave, Niobrara, NE 68760 Open everyday - 11AM-1AM 402-857-3340 Lindy Country Club - Restaurant - good steaks here too! 53891 890 Way N Bloomfield, NE 68718 (402) 373-2440 Closes 10 PM Niobrara Market - Niobrara's grocery store. Small store with a great selection. https://www.niobraramarket.com 25410 Park Ave, Niobrara NE 68760 402.857.3468