Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride, Then Tour a Christmas-Themed Historic Home for a Holly Jolly Nebraska Adventure

Winter in North Platte, Nebraska, is something special. Most people think of the Sandhill Crane migration when they picture this part of Nebraska, but the city has plenty going on long before the cranes return. Some towns really lean into the holiday season with lights, decorations, and community traditions—and North Platte is definitely one of those towns. If you’re looking for an easy, family-friendly winter outing to celebrate Christmas in Nebraska, this is a perfect place.

A Dusty Trails Christmas

A horse-drawn ride always feels cozy in winter, and Dusty Trails makes it even better. The company dresses up its horses for the holiday season and offers rides on a Cinderella-style carriage or a wagon. The tour takes you through Buffalo Bill Ranch at Buffalo Bill State Historical Park while it’s lit up for the holidays, then continues to the Lincoln County Historical Museum for a look at the Christmas Village display.

One perk: riding in means you get to skip the long line to enter Christmas Village. If you want something more private, you can book a full carriage for up to six people or reserve the larger wagon for a family group. While you wait for your ride, you can warm up with hot cocoa, enjoy a treat, or visit the petting zoo, which is included with your ticket. Rides last around 20–30 minutes, and kids 4 and under ride free. If you just want to stop by for the petting zoo, it’s $5 per person.

Just a quick note: This ride includes access to the Buffalo Bill Ranch grounds and the Christmas Village at the Lincoln County Historical Museum, but it does not include admission to Christmas at the Cody’s at Buffalo Bill State Historical Park. That event is separate and has its own schedule and admission.

• When: Dec. 12–21, 2025, 6–9 p.m.
• Where: Dusty Trails LLC, 2717 N. Buffalo Bill Ave., North Platte, NE 69101

You can see available times and book online at Dusty Trails, and learn more about the Christmas Village at the Lincoln County Historical Museum.

Christmas at the Cody’s

To continue the festive celebrations, Buffalo Bill State Historical Park hosts Christmas at the Cody’s, a long-standing local favorite. Buffalo Bill and his wife Louisa loved hosting Christmas, and the tradition continues today. Their 1886 mansion is fully decorated—trees, lights, and festive touches in every room—so visitors can walk through and enjoy an old-fashioned holiday atmosphere.

The barn and grounds are decorated too, with carolers, cider, cookies, and even roasted chestnuts. It’s relaxed, warm, and welcoming—exactly the kind of holiday outing that feels good at the end of the year.

• When: Dec. 19–23, 2025, 5:30–8:30 p.m.
• Where: Buffalo Bill State Historical Park, 2921 Scouts Rest Ranch Road, North Platte, NE 69101 
• Admission: Adults $8; kids 4–12 $5; ages 4 and under free
• Veterans/Active Duty: Free on December 20
• Parking: A Nebraska Game and Parks Permit is required and sold on-site

Learn more and check details on the Visit North Platte page for Christmas at the Cody’s.

Plan Your Holiday Visit

North Platte goes all out for the holidays—from community events to cheerful downtown decorations—so these two attractions are just the start. The Downtown Canteen District, for example, is hosting a festive “Downtown Parade of Lights”, adding even more sparkle to the season.

Check out the website of Visit North Platte to plan your trip and learn more about the area. For a full list of holiday activities, be sure to visit the Visit North Platte events page.

Bundle up, bring the family, and enjoy a cozy winter evening in one of the most festive small towns in Nebraska. Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.