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.
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - DECEMBER 08: Larry The Cable Guy poses backstage at Celebrity Theatre on December 08, 2018 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Daniel Knighton/Getty Images)
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.
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 01: Larry the Cable Guy speaks during a press conference for the Prilosec Madden Protectors Award at at the Super Bowl XLVI Media Canter in the J.W. Marriott Indianapolis on February 1, 2012 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Scott Halleran/Getty Images)
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.
Ammodramus, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
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.
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.
Ammodramus, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
If you're hungry, you can't go wrong with the locally-owned restaurants, including Shirley's Place (pictured) and The Blazin' Bull.
Gary R/TripAdvisor
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.
Ryan D/Google Reviews
The town's other big draw is the Pawnee City Historical Society & Museum.
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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.
Ammodramus, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Have you ever visited this sweet little Pawnee County town? Tell us your favorite part of Pawnee City in the comments!

If you’re looking for more fun activities while you’re in the area, check out SchillingBridge Winery & Microbrewery, the country’s first farm, winery, and microbrewery combination.

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Pawnee City, NE 68420, USA