Take A Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride, Then Tour A Christmas-Themed Historic Home For A Holly Jolly Nebraska Adventure
By Delana Lefevers|Published December 07, 2022
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Delana Lefevers
Author
As a lifelong Nebraskan, Delana loves discovering the many hidden treasures of her state. She has worked as a writer and editor since 2007. Delana's work has been featured on more than a dozen websites and in Nebraska Life Magazine.
Some towns go all out for the holiday season with endless events, imaginative decorations, and brightly colored lights. North Platte is one of those towns, and the holiday celebrations you’ll find there are truly some of the most memorable in Nebraska. Pack up the whole family and take a trip to this western Nebraska city to enjoy these family-friendly holiday events in North Platte this year.
Nothing says winter fun like a horse-drawn carriage through the snow. Even if there's no snow this year, you can still feel like royalty (or at least like you've got your own personal chauffeur) when you take one of the Christmas rides from Dusty Trails.
Dusty Trails is an outdoor adventure company in North Platte. In the winter, it outfits some of its horses in the finest holiday attire and hitches them to a Cinderella-type carriage or a haywagon. You can book one of three experiences this holiday season to enjoy a memorable journey.
Take the Cinderella carriage through North Platte's historic downtown area, a ride that lasts about 15 minutes and will make you feel like a celebrity as you roll down the street, admiring the town's jolly decorations.
But the two other options are even more exciting. You can book a ride on either the carriage or wagon for a tour of the historic Buffalo Bill Ranch and the delightful Christmas Village at the Lincoln County Historical Museum.
The Christmas Village is one of the sweetest displays ever, and it's wildly popular each year. There are usually long lines to get into the display, but when you ride in on a carriage or wagon, you get to skip all of that waiting.
The beloved Western Heritage Village is transformed into a wonderland of lights, decorations, and memorable experiences. Rock out to some Christmas tunes as you gaze upon the whimsical, wondrous world.
After your ride, return to Buffalo Bill State Historical Park for another Christmas treat. Through December 20th, the ranch will be draped in colorful lights and full of fun activities. All of the buildings on the property will be decorated with exterior lights, and if you get there at the right time, you may even get to chat with Santa, Mrs. Claus, or even Buffalo Bill himself.
The 1886 mansion will also be decorated inside, giving you a glimpse of a very old-fashioned Christmas. Wander the rooms to see the decadent displays, including 18 lighted and decorated Christmas trees.
There will be outdoor fun, too! Warm up with hot cocoa and cookies and try some chestnuts roasted over an open fire. It's an unforgettable experience that the whole family will love.
The rest of North Platte is dressed up for the holidays, as well. Check out the city’s website for more information on the other activities and displays scheduled this Christmas season. Visit the Dusty Trails site to learn more about the carriage and wagon rides and to book your own seats. You won’t regret spending an evening enjoying all of the family-friendly holiday events in North Platte this year!
