In northeast Nebraska, the ghost of a grand dream sits silent and empty. Devils Nest, an area so named for the outlaws who hid there in the 1800s, sits at the banks of the Lewis and Clark River. In the 1960s, a group of developers decided that this unique location would be the perfect place for an upscale ski resort and recreation area.
(Special thanks to GhostsofNorthAmerica.com for allowing us to use their photographs of Devils Nest!)
Devils Nest Co. was legally formed in 1962 with the sole purpose of developing the area into the recreation wonderland the developers envisioned.
The $100 million planned complex was to include a 25-floor luxury hotel, a golf course, tennis courts, a ski and hunting lodge, an equestrian center, a dozen ski slopes, yacht club, dining and dance hall, campgrounds, and more.
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Beautiful resort homes were also planned as part of the development. Lots were platted and sold, but like much of the development, the plans did not meet with reality in the end.
The Devils Nest development broke ground in 1970. At the time, eight houses, the dining and dance hall, yacht club, and equestrian center were built.
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Artificial snow machines were installed, pulling treated water from the Missouri River to drop, frozen, onto the slopes. The ski lift seen in these pictures was built for skiers to take advantage of the slopes.
In 1972, the resort opened to much fanfare. The opening festivities drew big crowds, though visitorship quickly dwindled after that.
Sadly, in 1974 the resort closed for good and was foreclosed on for non-payment of taxes. In 1977, the property was put up for sale.
Some of the land was purchased in 1981, with the buyer saying that he planned to reopen Devils Nest. Unfortunately, the economic climate never seemed right for such a large undertaking, and the land has sat unused, the buildings and machinery decaying, for decades.
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Today, the old ski lift is a lonely reminder of the all too brief good times enjoyed here. The buildings have been filled with graffiti and garbage from people who have ventured onto the property over the years.
A new group of investors stepped up to buy the property in 2008. Instead of resurrecting the dream of the opulent ski resort, however, they plan to develop the land into homes.
One-acre lots have been platted and listed for sale, and the owners are working with engineers to develop a marina for the area.
It should be mentioned that, while the ski resort land sits abandoned, there are occupied homes nearby. The area is far from barren, and it remains a naturally lovely part of Nebraska.
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Part of the problem with the ski resort may have been an overestimation of just how much interest there would be in a ski resort in the region. Then there was the financial overreach of the investors who seemed to want to go too big, too soon.
The new group of investors, on the other hand, is taking the housing development more slowly and trying to build a community that will benefit northeast Nebraska.
Only time will tell what happens to the Devils Nest development. Lots are selling, homes are being built, and the future looks promising. But no matter what becomes of it, Devils Nest will always be remembered by some as the glorious resort that it almost was.
Although the abandoned Devils Nest ski resort is an undeniably fascinating place, it is private property and no trespassing is allowed. Please do not enter the property without the owners' permission.
Did you ever visit Devils Nest when it was in operation? What do you remember about the experience? Tell us your stories in the comments!
Nebraska is a truly underrated state. Most people are aware of its gorgeous landscapes, charming small towns, and abundance of midwestern charm. Yet few people realize that Nebraska is an excellent place to find luxury resorts, award-winning hotels, and one-of-a-kind stays. For proof of this, we've compiled a list of the best hotels and resorts in Nebraska. You'll find quite a variety on this list -- there's truly something for everyone!
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Best Unique Hotels to Stay in Nebraska
Rather than staying in a generic hotel, why not opt for something truly unique? That's exactly what you'll find when you peruse our list of some of the nicest hotels in Nebraska that offer a little something extra.
The Farnam Hotel opened as recently in 2021, and it's already made a name for itself. Not only is it an excellent wedding venue, but it's also perfect for couples and families. The rooms are elegant and creative, offering stunning views of the downtown. It's within walking distance of the city's most visit-worthy destinations, too, ensuring you won't miss out on anything.
Amenities: Lake view, patio, fire pit, pet-friendly
Ratings: 4.9
Only in Nebraska will you find an authentic corn crib cottage that's been repurposed into a stunning Airbnb. This adorable guesthouse overlooks a 34-acre private lake and offers stunning views of the sunset. Plus, there's a fire pit that's perfect for gathering around when the weather is mild. This unique guesthouse in Nebraska is ideal for two travelers.
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3. Whispering Pines Bed & Breakfast, Nebraska City
When you're looking for unique places to stay in Nebraska, sometimes, it's best to go with the classic bed and breakfast experience. That's exactly what you'll find at Whispering Pines Bed & Breakfast, an utterly charming inn located in Nebraska City. This 1878 Victorian Italianate-style farmhouse also features six acres of water and flower gardens on the property. It's truly magical in every season! The best part of all? There's a hot tub!
Best Hotel Pools in Nebraska
Do you enjoy a good swim when you're on vacation? You're not alone! Many travelers research the best hotel pools in Nebraska when they're looking for a great place to stay. Fortunately, we've done the work for you and have pinpointed some of the very best hotel pools in Nebraska. Don't forget to pack your swimsuit!
Address: 2700 Sylvan Rd, Nebraska City, NE 68410-3381
Price: $172
Amenities: Olympic-sized pool, patio, bar/lounge, restaurant, fitness center
Ratings: 4.5
This 260-acre Arbor Day Farm in Nebraska City is a bucket-list-worthy place to stay in Nebraska. Not only is it one of the top hotels in Nebraska, but it also happens to be perfect for the entire family. It's a nature-inspired retreat with so much to do -- swimming, fitness, nearby hiking trails -- that you'll really never need to leave the premises! You'll quickly discover what makes Lied Lodge such an amazing place to stay.
Amenities: Pool, kid-friendly, hot tub, bar/restaurant, lounge
Ratings: 4.0
The Holiday Inn Kearny, an IHG Hotel, is a bit of a hidden gem. Just two miles from downtown Kearny, this hotel is quite convenient. Plus, you'd never expect the kid-friendly waterpark inside as well as the hot tub that will surely melt your cares and stresses away.
Best Luxury Hotels in Nebraska
If you're looking for a luxurious getaway, you'll be pleased to hear that Nebraska has no shortage of options. At the following hotels, you'll discover unparalleled attention to detail and that little something special that will make your stay an unforgettable one. Without further ado, here are some of the best luxury hotels in Nebraska.
Travel back in time in the best possible way when you visit the Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel. The building dates back to 1916, offering guests an unforgettable combination of historic and contemporary. From creative cocktails to a curated art collection, this hotel exudes luxury in an elegant way. Not to mention the rooms, which are appointed with everything you'll need for a comfortable getaway.
Amenities: Fitness center, bar/lounge, family-friendly activities, pet-friendly
Ratings: 4.5
If excellent location is important to you, you'll love the convenience that the Peregrine Omaha Downtown has to offer. It's just next door to the famous Woodman Tower and within walking distance of the best that downtown Omaha has to offer. If you're vacationing with the family, be sure to plan a trip to the Henry Doorly Zoo, a 10-minute drive from the hotel. Of course, there's so much to enjoy inside the hotel, too, such as the two restaurants on-site.
The Graduate Lincoln can be found in the Historic Haymarket Entertainment District. Needless to say, there's no shortage of fun and entertaining things to do in the area! Guests can look forward to a unique atmosphere with spotless rooms, a delicious restaurant, and friendly hotel staff.
Best Boutique Hotels in Nebraska
While chain hotels often offer consistency and predictability, there's something fun about opting for a boutique hotel. By definition, these properties have something unique to offer and tend to go above and beyond for their guests' experience. Here are a handful of boutique hotels in Nebraska that we think you'll love!
Amenities: Fitness center, bar/lounge, free airport transportation
Ratings: 4.5
Just an 8-minute walk from Old Town, the Magnolia Hotel is situated in a historic building dating back to the 1920s. The rooms are elegant and sophisticated, and many of them offer beautiful views of the city. If you opt for a suite, you can look forward to added amenities such as whirlpool tubs.
Amenities: Bar/lounge, fitness center, airport transportation
Ratings: 4
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Categorized as a luxury boutique hotel in Nebraska, the Hotel Deco is situated in a beautiful, stately building. The moment you step inside, you'll notice the exquisite attention to detail, from the flooring to the wallpaper and unique artwork that adorns the space. Perks of staying here include visiting a speakeasy adjacent to the lobby as well as other exciting destinations all within walking distance.
Best Resorts in Nebraska
Looking for the very best resorts in Nebraska? We've pinpointed a couple of them that promise to give you an extraordinarily unique stay.
Address: 72898 648a Ave, Brownville, NE 68321-6065
Price: $180
Amenities: Breakfast, in-room refrigerator, water views
Ratings: 4.5
The River Inn Resort may just take the cake for the most unique resort in Nebraska. It offers guests the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stay in a floating bed & breakfast on the Missouri River! The rooms are modest yet impeccably clean and comfortable. Many rooms include Adirondack chairs for admiring the water view. Plus, there's often entertainment at night for guests to enjoy, such as a murder mystery production.
Amenities: Free breakfast, pool, fitness center, free airport transportation, game room
Ratings: 4
Not far from the Haymarket District, Embassy Suites Lincoln is the perfect destination for enjoying all that Lincoln, Nebraska has to offer. This grand hotel has luxurious rooms and suites with everything you'll need. Perhaps the most impressive part of your stay will be the made-to-order breakfast. And the best part of all? It's free!
What are some other hotels and resorts in Nebraska that you would recommend? Feel free to share them with us in the comments below -- we would love to hear from you!
There's a historic hotel in Nebraska with a story that stretches back all the way to 1916. In that time, so much has happened there that it has become an inextricable part of the city's history. Let's take a trip to the Blackstone District in Omaha to visit this one-of-a-kind accommodation.
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The towering building at 36th and Farnam Streets was once known as the Blackstone Hotel.
Or stop in at the Orleans Room for a decadent breakfast, a quick lunch, or a nightcap.
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But perhaps the hotel's most notable feature is the Cottonwood Room, a swanky bar with an element that you'll never forget: there's a massive cottonwood tree in the middle of the circular bar.
From the lighting to the linens, everything in the rooms is simply beautiful.
If you're lucky, you'll score a room with a view like this of the surrounding Blackstone District, an area of Omaha that was named after the famous hotel.
The neighborhood is very walkable and boasts some of the city's most remarkable restaurants and bars - not to mention the legendary Coneflower Creamery.
If the weather's nice, head to the gorgeous pool for a swim or a leisurely day of enjoying the sun.
There's also a poolside bar serving small bites and tasty drinks!
Given its beauty and history, it's no surprise that the modern iteration of the Blackstone Hotel in Omaha is a premier spot for events, such as weddings and business conferences. Visit the Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel's Hotels.com listing for information on booking your own room, hosting an event, or stopping by for a drink or a meal. What would you call the best hotels in Nebraska? Let us know in the comments. Want some ideas for fun stuff to do around the Kimpton Cottonwood? Check out all the cool options on Viator.
Want to experience another Blackstone District legend? Coneflower Creamery is much younger than Kimpton Cottonwood, but it's managed to become a beloved Omaha icon nonetheless.
