The Charming Small Town In Nebraska That Was Home To Larry The Cable Guy Once Upon A Time
By Delana Lefevers|Published September 07, 2022
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Delana Lefevers
Author
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.
If you watched television anytime in the late ’90s to the early ’00s, you’re probably familiar with the name Larry the Cable Guy. The comedian seemed to be everywhere for a while, including stand-up tours, commercials, movies, and TV shows. There’s no doubt he’s had a successful career – but did you know that Larry the Cable Guy’s birthplace is right here in Nebraska?
Larry the Cable Guy, whose real name is Dan Whitney, was born in the tiny town of Pawnee City. His popular style of comedy poked fun at the "redneck" stereotype that so many people seem to have of Nebraskans, and he rocketed to stardom.
Although he achieved star status a long time ago, Whitney has never forgotten his Nebraska roots. He remains an avid Cornhuskers fan, often putting his career on pause during football season so he can attend home games.
But Whitney is more than that fake Southern accent and his "git-r-done" catchphrase. Since becoming so successful in his Hollywood career, the Nebraska native has become something of an unexpected philanthropist.
He's given back to his hometown by donating theater equipment to the local high school, and he pledged all of the proceeds from a Lincoln standup show to aid Nebraskans affected by the 2019 floods. He is known for donating to a variety of charities through his Git R Done Foundation.
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Although its most famous native has gone on to become a superstar, Pawnee City has remained largely unchanged. Walk through the downtown area and you'll see a smattering of local shops and popular hangout spots.
Shirley's is more of a typical Midwestern diner, while The Blazin' Bull is a bar that also serves terrific food.
One of Pawnee City's most underrated hidden gems is the Pedal Clinic, where you can see more than 500 vintage pedal toys of all types lining the walls of a former church. It's a surreal experience that everyone in the family can enjoy.
The attraction features several restored buildings and a wide variety of displays that show what life in Pawnee City was like in Nebraska's homesteader days. Visitors regularly say that the museum is even better than they expected, so we rate it as a must-visit in Pawnee City.
Whether you're there to see the place "Larry" grew up or simply to enjoy one of Nebraska's many adorable small towns, you'll find that Pawnee City is an outstanding day-trip destination.
