Kearney and Buffalo County Have an Experience for All!

Kearney is the Sandhill Crane Capital of the World, with one million Sandhill Cranes stopping in the Platter River Valley each spring on their northern migration. Do-it-yourselfers can utilize this Crane Watch Guide, while the Rowe Sanctuary offers guided tours. 

The Kearney Water Trail is a unique adventure not to be found in just about any city across the country. The 2.3-mile trail follows the Kearney Canal and allows for thrilling experiences for all levels of experience. Families and novices can meander along peaceful water and take out before the whitewater park for expert kayakers.

Several State Recreation Areas are present throughout Buffalo County, such as Fort Kearney State Recreation Area, War Axe State Recreation Area and Windmill State Recreation Area. Each presents fishing, camping and other outdoor activities.

Buffalo County has a collection of exciting teams and events for sports enthusiasts. The University of Nebraska - Kearney offers year-round NCAA-level competitions across numerous men’s and women’s sports.

The Tri-City Storm, a USHL professional hockey team, skates at Kearney’s Viaero Center, which hosts concerts, conventions and other events.

Construction is underway on a $34 million, 204,000-square-foot Kearney Indoor Sports Complex to have 60,000 square feet of gymnasiums, 66,000 square feet of turf fields, 24,000 square feet of walking/running track and 9,000 square feet of pickleball courts. The facility will be available to the entire Kearney community and attract state and regional visitors for weekend athletic events. The community approved construction with a 2022 vote, stipulating a 1% restaurant sales tax to help fund the project. State tourism tax incentives from area businesses are expected to generate approximately half the construction costs.

The Archway is a ‘can’t-miss’ experience in Buffalo County. History comes alive in the exhibit that literally spans over I-80! The Museum of Nebraska Art (MONA) is the official art collection of the State of Nebraska, holding sculptures, artwork and more in a beautiful Renaissance revival building. A $4 million expansion will heighten the experience by the summer of 2023. Music lovers appreciate the Kearney Symphony Orchestra at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. The Crane River Theater is a professional theater production company offering a venue combining nationally-known and local artists.

Buffalo County has plenty for those seeking a relaxing day, strolling along quaint shops, the mall scene or grabbing a bite or libation at many restaurants and breweries. 

Kearney is a food connoisseur’s delight, with everything from local Nebraska fare to every imaginable international cuisine. Most notable include:

Cunningham's Journal and Cunnigham’s on the Lake are separate locations with unique ambiance but phenomenal dining experiences. The ever-expanding microbrew scene has found a home in Kearney, with excellent options in McCue’s Nebraska Taproom, Thunderhead Brewing and Upper Room Brewery.

For shopping, downtown Kearney has many unique stores and boutiques, most owned and operated by local entrepreneurs. Those seeking more mainstream providers and national stores can visit the Hilltop Mall.