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.
Today, the small western Nebraska town of Ogallala is a quiet place populated with friendly folks. But back in the days of the Wild West, it was considered a rough-and-tumble cowboy haven where cattlemen stopped in to rest after a long cattle drive. It was full of excitement, action, and even danger. Ogallala has kept its cowboy charm, but it’s now a much tamer place where you can even bring the family.
Ogallala is still known as the "Cowboy Capital of Nebraska," and the town embraces this fun, quirky identity.
Front Street, the town's main tourist attraction, is a recreated Wild West cowboy town. It looks a lot like it would have back in its early days, featuring building facades with labels like "Undertaker" and "Tonsorial Palace."
The town is populated - at least part of the time - with gunslingers and cowpokes. Don't worry about being caught in the middle of a barroom brawl, though; these folks are just acting the parts to bring the Old West theme to life.
One of the best places to be in Ogallala is the Crystal Palace Revue. From Memorial Day through mid-August, performers put on genuine Old West shows complete with music, dancing, and some fun Western action.
After the show, enjoy a meal at the Front Street Steakhouse. It serves up old favorites, including a bunch of creative burgers and a whole lot of other beef options.
There are even some non-beef options for folks who don't really consider themselves cowpokes.
During the summer season, you'll even get to see a recreated gunfight in the street every evening. The performers take on the identities of Wild West characters and really make every visit memorable.
The Cowboy Museum is one of the town's must-see attractions. It displays items from Ogallala's early days along with other period-appropriate objects and artifacts.
The collection of cowboy gear is especially fascinating. The best part is that the museum is totally free to visit.
Continue your visit to Ogallala's past with a visit to the Mansion on the Hill. This historic home is now outfitted with period furniture, and you can take a guided or self-guided tour to see it all.
Cowboys and others who met their untimely ends in the town - often due to real barroom brawls and street shootouts - were once buried here. Most of the bodies have been moved, but some unidentified remains are still interred here.
While not exactly cowboy-related, the Petrified Wood Gallery is one of Ogallala's treasures. It focuses on natural history, particularly petrified wood and fossils from around the world.
You'll even see some incredible art pieces made from petrified wood. This place is truly unlike anywhere else you've ever visited.
And, of course, visits to Lake McConaughy and Ogallala State Recreation Area are in order. Whether you camp here on the beach, bring along your RV, or stay in a more modern accommodation nearby, these unbelievably scenic recreation areas will reignite your love of nature.
So what do you think – are you ready to embrace your inner cowboy? Learn more about Front Street on its website. Have you ever visited the Cowboy Capital? What was your favorite attraction or experience there? Share with your fellow readers in the comments!
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