The One Nebraska Town Everyone Must Visit Come Fall
Nebraska’s small towns are beyond adorable, and there’s always a new one to discover. If you haven’t yet taken a trip to Plattsmouth in Cass County, fall is the perfect time to explore this historic community.
This community of around 6,500 people is, as you might guess, located at the point where the Platte River veers away from the Missouri River. It's surrounded by rich farmland, lush trees, and the gently rolling hills characteristic of this part of Nebraska.
Google Maps
It's one of the oldest cities in the state, having been founded in 1855. Its location right at the confluence of two rivers made it a major center of commerce and transportation. In fact, it was first established as a trading post. Steamboats were a common sight on the river banks in the early days.
The historic Plattsmouth bridge, built in 1929, now provides transportation over the Missouri between Plattsmouth in the west and Mills County, Iowa to the east.
It's a toll bridge and will cost you at least $1.50 (the price depends on the type of vehicle you're driving), but if you have the chance to cross into Plattsmouth from the east over the bridge, it's definitely worth it. The bridge itself is gorgeous, and the wooded area you drive into is breathtaking.
Plattsmouth's historic Main Street has enjoyed a massive revitalization over the past decade or so. There are 45 buildings here on the National Register of Historic Places, and the facades and streets have been restored to their vintage charm.
Driving through really does feel like visiting home... even if this isn't your hometown. There's something about the hilly town that exudes familiarity and comfort.
The Cass County Courthouse is here, and in this writer's opinion it's one of the most beautiful courthouse buildings in the area. It dates back to 1892 and is just as stately and grand as the day it was completed.
This tight-knit community holds festivals throughout the year. It seems like there's always a party going on, and the entire town turns out to celebrate and visit with one another.
Fall's big event is the Plattsmouth Harvest Festival, which will take place September 7-10th, 2017. You can expect a parade, carnival rides, a talent show, a corn eating contest, fireworks, and lots more. It's the perfect kickoff to harvest season.
The city's long history has left behind some stunning examples of early 20th century architecture. Do a little driving around and you'll see some stately historic homes that have been beautifully preserved.
The city has become a bedroom community for people working at Offutt AFB and in Bellevue, Omaha, and other surrounding communities. Folks don't mind the commute when they can live in an affordable, safe, beautiful city like Plattsmouth.
The local business scene in Plattsmouth is alive and thriving. You'll find just about everything you need here, including grocery stores, a family bakery, attorneys, a library, lots of little specialty shops, and so many options for great food. Including Babe's Hometown BBQ...
The delightfully creepy Museum of Shadows recently relocated to Plattsmouth from Elmwood, and autumn is an especially perfect time to visit this unique attraction. Get the pants scared off of you right before Halloween this year!
The gorgeous city parks are perfect for fun days out or family functions all year round, but in the fall they explode into spectacular colors that give the whole city an even more picturesque look.
Have you visited Plattsmouth in the fall? What was your favorite part of this charming river town? Tell us about your experiences in the comments!
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.
