Feel like a local.
Visit the Ord, Arcadia, North Loup and Elyria, Nebraska area and you’ll experience welcoming hospitality that warms your soul, lively events that create priceless memories and unique destinations that fuel your sense of adventure, desire for relaxation, or both.
Book your lodging and download or order a free travel guide to start planning your weekend getaway or week-long retreat.
We know you’ll enjoy your time in our community and the next time to venture to Valley County, you’ll feel like you’re returning home.
TOP 7 REASONS TO VISIT VALLEY COUNTY
#1 Prime Fishing at Davis Creek Reservoir
A 1,140-acre playground for water sports, Davis Creek Reservoir’s prime fishing season begins in April. Whether you’re after walleye, largemouth bass, catfish, northern pike or other schools of fish, you’ll enjoy your time out on the water.
You’ll also find abundant wildlife in the Davis Creek Wildlife Management Area including wild turkeys, white tail and mule deer, prairie chickens, ducks, geese and other nongame shorebirds that attract bird watchers from across the United States. You also have public hunting access in the Wildlife Management Area.
Book a campsite at Davis Creek so you can sleep under the starts and be right there, ready to go for your next day of fishing, water skiing and boating at the Reservoir.
#2 Spring Bird Migration
Wildlife is abundant in Valley County with plenty of opportunity to observe Central Flyway migratory bird species. Over 400 species of birds are present in the Valley County area – from bald eagles and prairie chickens to cardinals and blue jays.
Hot spots for bird watching are Anderson Island, Davis Creek Reservoir, Fort Hartsuff State Historical Park and anywhere along the Loup Rivers Scenic Byway. The adventure in finding and identifying as many species as possible during your visit is an activity the whole family will enjoy.
Several Valley County lodging options are located in rural areas, some along the rivers, which make for even more bird watching spots as you sip your morning coffee and begin your next day of adventure in Valley County.
#3 Step Back in Time
For the history buffs and anyone who wants to explore the rich culture of the Valley County area, Fort Hartsuff State Historical Park is a great spot to spend an afternoon exploring the original Post Headquarters, Barracks, Officers Quarters, Post Hospital and Post Bakery among other structures. Plan your trip during a Spring Muster or another living history event featuring reenactors and canon firings.
The Valley County Museum in downtown Ord is also a great hub of stories and information about the history of Fort Hartsuff, Evelyn Sharp and Valley County.
#4 Hit the Greens
The Ord Golf Club is one of the top golf destinations in the area that beginners and skilled golfers will enjoy. The nine-hole course offers a great spot to test your skills with mature trees, changes in elevation and Dane Creek running through the greens.
#5 River Trails
Whether it’s lounging in the water off the shore of Anderson Island in Ord or the Garden Club Park in Arcadia, the North and Middle Loup Rivers that flow through Valley County are also perfect for an afternoon of kayaking.
As you make your way down the river you’ll view breathtaking Central Nebraska landscapes and abundant wildlife.
#6 Beer Trails
Step off of the river trail and onto the Sandhills Beer Trail. Make your first stop at Scratchtown Brewing Company in downtown Ord, the Nebraska Sandhills’ finest and first brewery.
Their nationally acclaimed beers are made with four simple ingredients – water, malt, hops and yeast – which never tasted so good after a day out exploring Valley County.
#7 World Class Performing Arts
From world-famous performers to community theatre groups, you’ll find incredible talent on the stage at The Golden Husk Performing Arts Theatre in downtown Ord. Named for it’s iconic corn husk walls, The Golden Husk offers a space for residents and visitors of all ages to enjoy a variety of arts and cultural experiences.
So what are you waiting for? Come find your fun. Grab a free travel guide, book your stay and we’ll see you in Valley County!
