To go as far back as you can go in time in this city, visit Agate Fossil Beds National Monument. This 3,000-acre national monument is home to 19.2 million year-old fossils. The monument was once a part of Captain James H. Cook’s Agate Springs Ranch, and was also once a gathering place for Chief Red Cloud and other American Indians. Due to the ranch’s versatility, the museum also houses the Cook Collection of American Indian Artifacts! After digging up fossils and learning from various artifacts, soak up the outdoors at Chimney Rock National Historic Site. Pioneers were fascinated by this landmark as noted in their diaries on the Mormon, Oregon and California trails.
The Visitor Center at this site houses exhibits and an opportunity for you to pack a wagon to see how the pioneers once travelled and lived. Check out more of the outdoors by playing in the water at Lake Minatare State Recreation Area! If the Oregon Trail piqued your interest, head to the Legacy of the Plains Museum, which features a collection of pioneer and early community artifacts, antique tractors and farm implements. Better yet, the farmstead has striking views of Scotts Bluff National Monument. This national monument, the city it lives in and its county were named after Hiram Scott, the man who traversed his way to the bluffs. The museum at this site has an impressive collection of art from William Henry Jackson and outlines the history of the trails along the bluffs. When you book with Choice Hotels in Scottsbluff, NE, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a bygone era and a unique Nebraska city. Book online now!