Discover Five Creative Districts in Nebraska’s Heartland
In Nebraska’s Sandhills and southwest region, creativity fuels small towns and historic downtowns alike. Five certified Creative Districts are turning the heartland into a surprisingly cool destination, perfect for road trips, hidden gems and one-of-a-kind experiences.
McCook Creative District
Right between Denver and Omaha, McCook is more than a pit stop; it’s a creative hotspot in southwest Nebraska. Known for its warm summers (literally and metaphorically), McCook leans into storytelling, grit and originality. The Buffalo Commons Festival, sparked by an old theory that the land should be “returned to the buffalo,” is a decades-long celebration of the people and stories that have shaped this vibrant community.
The walkable historic downtown McCook is full of charm, from the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Sutton House to Embers Bakery & Cafe. Catch a show at the Fox Theater, shop for premium fabric at Sew Blessed or enjoy a moment of connection in Norris Alley, the district’s newest creative space. Don’t miss the McCook Community Mural, a public art project created by over 100 locals.
The North Platte Canteen District
North Platte made history during World War II with the legendary North Platte Canteen, where local volunteers served six million troops. That legacy of hospitality and community is alive and well in the Canteen District, one of Nebraska’s best examples of historic preservation and revitalization.
Today, the downtown North Platte area features charming brick streets, glowing lights and an array of locally owned restaurants, shops and art galleries. Enjoy a pint at APEShip Brewing, catch a show at the North Platte Community Playhouse in the historic FOX Theater, or explore local art at the Prairie Arts Center. Add in stops at Double Dips Ice Creamery, The Espresso Shop by Caravan and The Cedar Room, and you’ve got a whole weekend getaway planned!
Western Trails Creative District
In Ogallala, Western heritage meets artistic expression. The Western Trails Creative District sits where the Texas Trail and four National Historic Trails converge, making it a key destination along the Nebraska frontier. Experience this wild past through the Crystal Palace Revue at Front Street, Nebraska’s longest-running summer stock show.
Located near Lake McConaughy, Ogallala attracts visitors with its mix of historic landmarks, craft beer culture and vibrant live music scene. Enjoy boutique shopping, explore the quirky Petrified Wood & Art Gallery, and soak up the town’s blend of small-town warmth and cowboy flair.
Valley County Creative District
Tucked in the Bohemian Alps of Central Nebraska, the Valley County Creative District covers the towns of Ord, Arcadia, North Loup and Elyria. This region is full of energy and passion for the arts—from cowboy poetry and opera to handmade goods and locally brewed beer.
Catch a concert or film at The Golden Husk, sample craft brews at Scratchtown Brewing Company, or dive into the state’s biggest junking event, Nebraska’s Junk Jaunt. The district thrives on collaboration, connection and creativity.
Heart City Creative District
Valentine is more than a dot on the map, it’s the Heart City of Nebraska, surrounded by the rolling beauty of the Sandhills and steeped in Lakota Sioux culture and cowboy traditions. In the Heart City Creative District, you’ll find western art, live music and a downtown full of personality.
Shop local at Broken Spoke Boutique, sip small-batch beer at Bolo Beer Co., or dig into smoked BBQ at Bulldoggers. Nearby, explore the Niobrara National Scenic River, hike Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area or attend local festivals like Old West Days, Bull Bash and the Niobrara River Races. This is one of the most scenic places to visit in Nebraska.
