24 Aug, Thursday
The journey from Valentine, NE, to North Platte, NE
We packed up, left the RV park around 1030, and headed toward North Platte down US-83 through the Sand Hills. This desolate area reminded me of the Sahara Desert, but with grass on the dunes. The gently rolling hills had very few crops, and we drove through very few towns, where we mostly just saw cows and windmills along the way. It was a very unique landscape.
The highway was in excellent condition, and it took about two and a half hours to get to North Platte and the Holiday RV Park and Campground.
Holiday RV Park and Campground
The campground was right next to I-80, but it was not too noisy. The front office was friendly, and although I arrived before their check-in hours, they did not seem upset. A large bucket in the lobby had several small chickens and a small duck. They told me that a previous customer left them, so they raised them. We got a full hookup pull-through site, but because of the location of the power and sewage, we had to place the camper near the middle, which did not leave us much room for the truck. There were lots of shade trees, which was nice, and the park had a pool, laundry, and restrooms, but we did not take a very close look at them.
Historic Canteen Area
After setting up, we headed into the Historic Canteen Area of North Platte, where we stopped for a delicious treat at Double Dips Ice Creamery. This part of town is part of a revitalized downtown district that has preserved its historical charm while embracing modern touches. The streets are lined with brick, and many buildings retain their classic architecture, offering a glimpse into the area’s past while contributing to a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
With its cozy yet stylish industrial design, Double Dips Ice Creamery was a delightful stop. The interior had a mix of exposed brick, metal accents, and rustic charm, making the space feel inviting and trendy. We were served our ice cream in glass cups, adding a nice class touch to the experience. The selection of flavors was impressive, and the ice cream was rich, creamy, and refreshing—an ideal treat after a day of traveling. Whether you’re enjoying a classic scoop or trying a unique flavor, it’s easy to see why the shop is a local favorite.
The surrounding historic district offered a pleasant atmosphere for a leisurely walk, with nearby shops, cafes, and attractions making it a charming area to explore. The blend of old and new and the warm ambiance made it the perfect place to relax and take in the sights.
Golden Spike Tower
Afterward, we went straight to the Golden Spike Tower, an eight-story observation tower that provides a commanding view of the Union Pacific’s Bailey Yard—the largest rail yard in the world. Spanning 2,850 acres and stretching eight miles long, the yard processes around 10,000 railcars daily, with roughly 3,000 cars sorted in its two massive hump yards. The tower’s first floor housed a gift shop, and admission to the observation platforms on the seventh and eighth floors was $8.
We began on the eighth floor, where large windows offered a panoramic view of the sprawling rail yard. A knowledgeable volunteer spent over an hour with us, sharing insights about the yard’s operations, the role of hump yards in sorting railcars, and the history of the Union Pacific Railroad. Watching the seamless coordination of trains being sorted and dispatched was mesmerizing and educational, highlighting the scale and efficiency of modern rail transportation.
The seventh floor featured multimedia exhibits detailing the history of the railroad, including stories of the orphan trains, which relocated thousands of children to foster homes in rural areas, and the North Platte Canteen, a World War II initiative. This floor also had an outdoor observation deck where we could step out and enjoy unobstructed views of the bustling yard below, with the sounds of trains adding to the immersive experience.
After several hours, we returned to the first-floor gift shop and watched a poignant documentary about the North Platte Canteen. Starting on Christmas Day in 1941, volunteers from 125 nearby communities came together to provide coffee, sandwiches, and treats to over six million soldiers passing through North Platte during the war. The sheer scale of their generosity and the heartfelt testimonials from soldiers deeply moved me, underscoring the lasting impact of their kindness. The Golden Spike Tower was a fascinating glimpse into modern rail operations and a touching reminder of how communities once came together to support the troops during a pivotal time in history.
Pals Brewing
Afterward, we headed to Pals Brewing for dinner and to sample their local brews. Located just outside of town, Pals Brewing is a family-owned brewery known for its welcoming atmosphere, wide selection of craft beers, and delicious menu items. The place was bustling when we arrived, and the only available seating was on the covered patio. While the weather was tolerable, the flies were relentless, which detracted from the experience. However, the attentive host went out of their way to find us a table inside as soon as one became available, which was a much-appreciated gesture.
Once seated, we browsed the menu and decided on a flight of their signature beers to get a full taste of what they offered. Each brew was distinct, with highlights including their creamy porter and a refreshing wheat beer with hints of citrus. We paired the flight with an order of baked curds, which were perfectly crisp and gooey—an excellent complement to the beer.
The service was exceptional throughout the evening, with several staff members stopping by to chat, share details about the beers, and ensure we were having a good time. Their friendliness and passion for their craft added to the overall experience, making us feel right at home.
We left Pals Brewing and returned to the RV park around 7:00 p.m. It was the perfect way to end the day.
25 Aug, Friday
Today, we were moving to a campground near Henderson, NE, to attend the Nebraska State Fair the next day. After we packed up the trailer, we left it in the RV park while exploring a few things nearby.
Fort Cody Trading Post
Our first stop was the Fort Cody Trading Post, a beloved roadside attraction and piece of Americana that has been entertaining visitors since 1963. The building is designed to resemble an old wooden frontier fort, complete with mannequins “guarding” the ramparts, giving it an authentic Old West feel.
Inside, the trading post was a treasure trove of souvenirs and knick-knacks, ranging from kitschy trinkets to traditional Western-themed items like cowboy hats, moccasins, and Native American crafts. It had something for everyone, whether you were looking for a quirky keepsake or a unique gift. One corner of the store housed a small museum featuring glass cases filled with fascinating Old West artifacts, including vintage tools, clothing, and memorabilia. Among the curiosities was a stuffed two-headed calf that drew plenty of attention.
The standout feature was the incredible diorama of Buffalo Bill’s Wild West show. This intricate display comprised 20,000 hand-carved miniature pieces depicting scenes from the famous traveling show. Every half hour, the exhibit came to life with lights, movement, and a narrated description of the show’s history and highlights, bringing the spectacle to life in an engaging way.
The outdoor area was just as interesting. The courtyard featured a towering muffler-man Indian statue, adding a bit of vintage roadside flair. There were also covered wagons, a log cabin filled with rustic artifacts, and a giant wooden chair perfect for playful photo opportunities. A small bandstand and picnic tables indicated that the space was used for events or live performances during the warmer months.
There was also a small playground for travelers with children to keep the little ones entertained while adults explored the grounds. The trading post also offers snacks and refreshments, making it a convenient place to rest and refuel. Fort Cody Trading Post wasn’t just a stop to stretch our legs—it was a full-on experience, blending history, entertainment, and good old-fashioned roadside charm.
20th Century Veterans Memorial
Next, we visited the 20th Century Veterans Memorial, located a short drive away in a peaceful setting near a quiet lake. This beautifully designed memorial serves as a powerful tribute to the men and women who served the nation throughout the 20th century. At its heart is the Walk of Honor, a path paved with commemorative bricks engraved with the names of veterans. Each brick tells a personal story, collectively creating a testament to bravery and sacrifice. Flanking the walkway are life-sized bronze statues of servicemen, representing the different branches of the military and capturing their strength and resolve.
At the end of the path, we encountered an impressive 42-foot-long brick mural that vividly depicted five major conflicts: World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Persian Gulf War. The mural also celebrated the contributions of women in service and highlighted the vital roles played by diverse ethnic groups, offering a comprehensive narrative of sacrifice and unity.
Nearby, a memorial honored police officers who have served and protected their communities, underscoring the connection between military and civilian service. Another poignant feature was the statue dedicated to the “canteen girls,” commemorating the women who selflessly volunteered at the North Platte Canteen during World War II. These women provided meals, coffee, and comfort to over six million soldiers passing through North Platte, leaving a lasting impression on the troops they served.
The memorial also included benches and shaded areas, inviting visitors to reflect on the sacrifices made by so many. The site’s serene surroundings enhanced its atmosphere of reverence and remembrance, making it a moving and deeply meaningful stop on our journey.
We returned to the camper, hooked up, and headed toward Henderson, NE.