Visitor centers across America are some of the most underrated tourist stops. From bustling cities to serene national parks, these centers serve as gateways to exploration, education, and adventure. Each visitor center is a unique portal, offering a glimpse into the rich history, culture, and natural wonders that define the United States. The best part, in my opinion, is that every visitor center is wildly unique in its own right. Take the Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center as the perfect example. This incredible visitor center in North Platte features a tower over 100 feet in the air, overlooking the largest rail yard in the world. Could this be the coolest visitor center in Nebraska?

The Golden Spike Tower Visitor Center is a popular tourist attraction located in North Platte, Nebraska.
Tripadvisor Rita B
It is closely associated with the Golden Spike National Historic Site, commemorating the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in the United States.
The visitor center is named after the "golden spike" that was ceremonially driven into the ground on May 10, 1869, at Promontory Summit in Utah.
Facebook Golden Spike Tower & Visitor Center
This spike marked the completion of the First Transcontinental Railroad, connecting the Central Pacific Railroad from the west and the Union Pacific Railroad from the east.
The Golden Spike Tower offers visitors an elevated observation platform that overlooks Bailey Yard, one of the world's largest railroad classification yards.
Tripadvisor Steve H
Bailey Yard is operated by the Union Pacific Railroad and is a hub for train operations, maintenance, and repairs.
Visitors at the tower can witness the impressive scale of the railroad operations, watch trains being sorted and assembled, and learn about the history of the railroad through exhibits and displays.
Tripadvisor romanpiekosz

Related Stories

Experience A New Side Of Nebraska On This One-Of-A-Kind Adventure

Experience A New Side Of Nebraska On This One-Of-A-Kind Adventure

 Crossing This 90-Year-Old Bridge In Nebraska Is Like Walking Through History

Crossing This 90-Year-Old Bridge In Nebraska Is Like Walking Through History

 Everyone In Nebraska Should Check Out These 9 Tourist Attractions, According To Locals

Everyone In Nebraska Should Check Out These 9 Tourist Attractions, According To Locals
The visitor center provides educational and informative experiences related to the history of railroads, the significance of the transcontinental railroad, and the role of North Platte in developing the railroad industry.
Facebook Golden Spike Tower & Visitor Center
Explore further by visiting the expansive gift shop, strolling the outdoor flag walk, or taking the elevator to the indoor observation deck on the 8th floor for an elevated view of the rail yard.
Facebook Golden Spike Tower & Visitor Center
Chat with friendly guides, some of whom have firsthand experience at Bailey Yard, as they share cool "behind the scenes" stories. Learn how everything works with interactive kiosks, or kick back and enjoy the relaxing sounds of trains passing by.
Tripadvisor RailfanMotels
At 104 feet in the air, either via elevator or 168 steps, enjoy one of the coolest visitor centers in Nebraska - The Golden Spike Tower.
Flickr Road Travel America

What do you think about this spot? Would you enjoy a day trip to the coolest visitor center in Nebraska exploring a two-for-one adventure? Sound off in the comments section! Or if you want to learn more about planning a visit here, then check out the Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center website or Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center Facebook Page.

Are you ready to see more iconic Nebraska landmarks? There are so much more than you might expect! If you want to see as many as you can in one fell swoop, then find a few overnight Nebraska accommodations to make this an incredible road trip.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Nebraska

Featured Addresses
Golden Spike Tower, 1249 N Homestead Rd, North Platte, NE 69101, USA