When we think of historic hotels in Nebraska, one immediately jumps to mind. The beautiful Argo Hotel in Crofton has a long history that's not only fascinating...it's a little eerie as well.
The Argo is located in Crofton, a tiny town of 726 people just a stone's throw from Yankton, South Dakota.
The hotel's long history stretches all the way back to 1911, when local businessman Nick Michaelis saw the need for a comfortable hotel in this bustling railroad town.
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Over the next 80 or so years, the Argo changed hands and functions several times.
Just 12 years after it was built, the hotel changed hands and became known as the New Meridian Hotel. In 1940, the hotel became the New Meridian Clinic. It served the people of the area for many years, with its doctors treating illnesses and injuries of all types. As can be expected at any medical clinic, some patients passed away within these walls.
In the 1960s, a doctor moved his practice in the Argo/New Meridian.
The doctor's office, exam rooms, and living space were all located on the ground floor. The second floor was sealed off and unused. The practice was successful for many years, but when the doctor moved out, no one took over the building. It sat empty until the 1990s.
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In 1994, new owners brought the Argo back to life.
They restored the building's former purpose and revitalized the interior, turning it once again into a comfortable stop for weary travelers. It was at this time that stories of the building's supposed hauntings began to gain attention.
Some strange things were discovered during the remodeling.
As a wall was being removed, a bag of small bones was revealed. At the time, it was thought to be the bones of an infant. Later examination revealed the skeleton to be that of an animal, which was a relief to all involved...though a bag of animal bones in the wall is still quite creepy. A mysterious painting was also discovered during the renovation. It appeared to be completely black, even under bright lights.
One of the most persistent haunting stories from the Argo is that of a young mother who roams the building, crying and mourning the loss of her baby.
As far as we know, no records have been discovered that reference a specific death in the clinic. It's quite possible that a woman and her baby died here a very long time ago. The lady's ghost is known as Alice, and guests have reported seeing her in the basement bar. At some point, someone shined a flashlight on the aforementioned painting and the likeness of a young woman was revealed. This woman is believed to be Alice.
Guests have reported sightings of several apparitions in the bar and roaming the halls. Are they former gusts? Patients of the clinic who never recovered from their conditions? Or merely the products of some overactive imaginations?
Whether or not the stories of hauntings are true, the Historic Argo Hotel is an absolutely beautiful place with a fascinating history that is inextricably intertwined with that of Crofton. Guests continue to flock to the Argo for its stunning looks, comfortable rooms, and interesting stories. The hotel recently changed hands again and the new owners are busy at work restoring it to how it looked more than 100 years ago.
Interested in learning more? Check out the Historic Argo Hotel's Facebook page here.
If you can't get enough of Nebraska's hauntings, make plans to take this terrifying road trip to some of the state's most haunted places, including the Argo.
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.
