Overview

Ogallala, known as “Cowboy Capital” is a city in Keith County, Nebraska. It is located in the south central part of the state and is accessible through four major thoroughfares: Nebraska Highway 61, U.S. Highways 26 and 30, and Interstate 80. Incorporated in 1930, the city was once a stop on the Pony Express, the fastest way of mail communication before the telegraph. Ogallala is a city steeped in old-west history, being the terminus for cattle drives that came from Texas, more than a thousand miles away. With interesting attractions, endless recreational opportunities, a friendly atmosphere and rich history, Ogallala is a great place to visit, work or live in.

Things to Do

Almost limitless recreational opportunities await visitors in Ogallala, with plenty for the lover of the great outdoors. Camping is a popular past time in the city, with plenty of campgrounds that cater to adventurers almost anytime of the year. If you’d like to explore the city in old cowboy fashion, take a horseback riding tour through the streets and the surrounding areas. Golf enthusiasts may go for a game or two of golf in any of the courses in the city while those who’d like to get active while staying indoors can play bowling at the Cornhusker Lanes. Jet skiing, boating, fishing and other pursuits in the water are also popular at Lake McConaughy.

Accommodation Tips

Aside from excellent campgrounds, you have plenty of places to spend the night in Ogallala. If you’d like to be close to Lake McConaughy, stay at the Holiday Inn Express Ogallala. The hotel serves complimentary Express Start breakfasts and offers free high-speed Internet access. Guestrooms in this property tend to get fully booked during holidays so book ahead if you’re visiting during these times. Another good choice of accommodations is the Best Western Stagecoach Inn. It is located next to the Golden Spur Saloon where you can enjoy delicious meals and a few good beers. Other good lodging options in the area include the Super 8 Ogallala, Ogallala-Days Inn and Rodeway Inn. Book your Ogallala Hotels with Reservations.com.

Tourist Attractions

There are several attractions that lure visitors to Ogallala every year. The most popular of these attractions is Lake McConaughy, a 35,700-acre manmade lake that is considered as Nebraska’s largest reservoir. The lake is a favorite recreational area for residents in the city and neighboring areas, with miles of white sandy beaches and fish that grow into trophy proportions. The Mansion on the Hill, a Victorian-style home, is another noteworthy attraction in the city. It tells the story of an intriguing past, having been built as a gift from a gentleman to his sweetheart, only to find out that she married another man. The city’s Front Street is famous for its authentic Old West atmosphere.

Best Dining Spots

There are a lot of good places to eat in and around Ogallala. The Front Street Steakhouse is a favorite among locals and visitors. It’s a great place for Nebraska raised steaks and live entertainment. There is a Valentino’s on River Road where you can have your fill of what might be the best pizza and pasta in the city. Other great pizza joints in Ogallala include Pizza Hut, and Godfather’s Pizza. If you’re fond of burgers and sandwiches, there are Runza and Subway branches in the city.