The Official Newsletter of the Route 6 Tourist Association
Category: Nebraska Directory Page
Friends, I hope you are ready for an adventure! If walls of history could talk, I imagine the old Route 6 pavement would tell some fascinating stories about life on the open road decades ago. While modern highways whisk us across the Cornhusker state at rapid speeds, isolating us from the surrounding landscape, this crumbling two-lane blacktop invites us to slow down and discover Nebraska as the travelers of yesteryear did – at a leisurely pace with plenty of opportunities to take in the dramatic vistas and charming small towns along the way. Within this post, I aim to provide a brief introduction to this legendary early auto trail and share a few of the highlights you may encounter if you set out to explore pieces of its original path that remain intact today. Strap on your walking shoes or jump aboard your trusty bicycles – it’s time to hit the open road like it’s 1919!
Building on the success of our first feature, Hidden in Plain Sight: Underrated Attractions You’ll Love on Route 6, we’re excited to bring you another shareable highlight for our Social Media Ambassadors.
This latest article, Greenwood Fun Day 2024: A Celebration Sparking a Tradition, captures the heart of a small-town festival that continues to inspire community pride year after year. Like the first feature, it’s formatted for easy sharing—links for Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Reddit, and YouTube Community are ready to copy and paste directly into your channels.
By sharing this story, you’ll help showcase how local celebrations along Route 6 create lasting traditions and invite travelers to experience authentic American heritage.
Greenwood Fun Day 2024, held on August 17, 2024, was more than just a summer gathering—it was a testament to the enduring spirit of Greenwood, Nebraska, and its deep connection to historic U.S. Route 6. As families filled the streets and the sound of laughter echoed through the heart of town, it became clear that this day wasn’t simply a festival; it was the foundation for a tradition that will inspire the community for years to come.
The 2024 celebration brought together a remarkable mix of activities that showcased Greenwood’s small-town charm and big-hearted hospitality. From vibrant craft booths lining the sidewalks to classic car displays honoring Route 6’s legacy, every corner of the event celebrated both history and community pride. Local food vendors offered everything from homestyle comfort foods to refreshing summer treats, while live music and family games turned the day into an unforgettable gathering place for residents and visitors alike.
What stood out most was the overwhelming community participation. Residents young and old came together—not just to attend, but to volunteer, organize, and welcome travelers exploring America’s longest continuous highway. Visitors along Route 6 found themselves swept up in the town’s enthusiasm, discovering a piece of Nebraska hospitality they will remember long after their road trip ends.
The success of Greenwood Fun Day 2024 planted the seed for something bigger. Its positive energy and community turnout directly inspired plans for Greenwood Fun Day 2025, set for August 16. Organizers aim to build on last year’s momentum by expanding attractions, drawing more Route 6 travelers, and adding fresh experiences—like regional music acts, interactive history exhibits, and enhanced kid-friendly zones.
Looking forward, Greenwood’s Fun Day has the potential to become a cornerstone event not only for the town but for travelers across Route 6 seeking authentic local culture. Each year promises to strengthen the bond between Greenwood’s heritage and its bright future, ensuring that this small Nebraska town continues to shine as a welcoming stop along one of America’s great historic highways.
Tucked into the rolling plains of south-central Nebraska lies Hastings, a town brimming with Midwestern hospitality and historic charm. But what truly sets it apart is its location on one of America’s most iconic highways—US Route 6, the Grand Army of the Republic Highway. As you follow this legendary coast-to-coast route, Hastings emerges as a must-visit stop where stories of America’s past echo along brick-lined streets and vibrant community attractions await modern adventurers.
US Route 6: America’s Longest Continuous Highway
Originally commissioned in 1926, US Route 6 once held the title of the longest transcontinental highway in the United States. Spanning over 3,200 miles from Massachusetts to California, it was dubbed the Grand Army of the Republic Highway to honor Union Civil War veterans. Though its western end now officially stops in Bishop, California, its historic legacy lives on—especially in towns like Hastings, Nebraska, where the spirit of the highway is alive and well.
Top Attractions in Hastings Along Route 6
1. The Hastings Museum:
Home to exhibits on local history, natural science, and even Kool-Aid (invented here in 1927!), this museum is a treasure trove for curious travelers.
2. Historic Downtown Hastings:
Wander among restored buildings, local boutiques, and inviting eateries. The historic charm paired with modern touches makes it a favorite for both locals and out-of-towners.
3. Route 6 Landmarks and Murals:
As you explore the town, keep an eye out for Route 6 markers and murals that celebrate the highway’s legacy. These artistic nods serve as both photo ops and storytelling pieces.
4. Hastings College Campus:
This picturesque college grounds offers an added cultural dimension, with art installations, community lectures, and musical events open to the public.
Travel Tips for Visiting Hastings
Plan a stop at the Hastings Visitor Center for maps, brochures, and warm welcomes.
Time your visit with one of the town’s festivals like Celebration of Kool-Aid Days in August.
Explore by foot or bike to take in downtown’s unique architecture and Route 6 plaques.
Support local businesses—many are proud stewards of Route 6 heritage and have great stories to share.
Follow the US Route 6 Tourist Association online for updates, guides, and travel resources.
Conclusion:
Hastings, Nebraska is more than a dot along US Route 6—it’s a living chapter in the American road trip story. With its historical roots, active preservation efforts, and welcoming community, this town invites you to slow down, take in the scenery, and rediscover the joy of the journey. So whether you’re tracing the old highway across the country or simply passing through Nebraska, make time for Hastings—you won’t regret it.
Emerald, Nebraska, is a small unincorporated community in Lancaster County, notable for its rich history and rural charm. With a population of just 45 as of the 2020 census, Emerald offers a glimpse into Nebraska’s past and the enduring spirit of its small towns.(Kiddle)
Origins and Name
Established with a post office in 1884, which operated until 1943, Emerald was named for its lush, green landscape—said to be as vibrant as the gemstone itself. This verdant setting made it a picturesque spot along the D-L-D Highway, an early transcontinental route that connected Detroit, Lincoln, and Denver. (Kiddle, llcgs.info)
️ Historical Significance
Emerald’s history is preserved through landmarks like St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church and its adjoining cemetery, reflecting the community’s deep-rooted cultural and religious heritage. The church, active from 1871 to 1953, served as a central gathering place for residents. (stjohnsemeraldne.com, stjohnsemeraldne.com)
Transportation Legacy
The community’s location along the D-L-D Highway and proximity to railroad lines played a crucial role in its development. These transportation routes facilitated trade and movement, contributing to Emerald’s growth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. (llcgs.info)
️ Natural Beauty
Emerald’s scenic landscapes, characterized by rolling hills and open fields, continue to define its identity. The area’s natural beauty not only inspired its name but also remains a point of pride for residents and visitors alike.
Further Exploration
For those interested in delving deeper into Emerald’s history, the book The History of Emerald, Nebraska 1862–2012 offers a comprehensive look at the community’s evolution over 150 years.
Emerald stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of small-town America, where history, community, and natural beauty intertwine to create a unique and memorable place.
Embark on a journey along U.S. Route 6 through Nebraska, where history, culture, and scenic beauty converge. This guide highlights walkable towns, museums, scenic viewpoints, and historic landmarks directly along the route, moving from east to west.
Nebraska City
Arbor Lodge State Historical Park
2600 Arbor Ave, Nebraska City, NE 68410
Explore the 52-room mansion of J. Sterling Morton, founder of Arbor Day. The estate features Victorian furnishings, a Tiffany skylight, and expansive arboretum grounds. Wikipedia
Kregel Windmill Factory Museum
1416 Central Ave, Nebraska City, NE 68410
Visit the only intact historic windmill factory in the U.S., offering insights into early 20th-century manufacturing. Nebraska City Museum Association
Ashland
Downtown Ashland
Stroll along Silver Street, the original path of Route 6, lined with art galleries, boutiques, and cafes. Getaway Mavens
Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum
28210 W Park Hwy, Ashland, NE 68003
Discover aviation history with exhibits on aircraft and space exploration.Wikipedia
Lincoln
Nebraska State Capitol
1445 K St, Lincoln, NE 68508
Marvel at the 400-foot tower, adorned with murals and mosaics depicting Nebraska’s history.
Shoemaker’s Travel Center
151 SW 48th St, Lincoln, NE 68522
A nostalgic stop featuring Route 6 memorabilia and a classic diner experience.
Hastings
Hastings Museum
1330 N Burlington Ave, Hastings, NE 68901
Home to the Kool-Aid exhibit, celebrating the drink’s invention in Hastings, along with natural and cultural history displays.Getaway Mavens
Minden
Harold Warp Pioneer Village
138 E Hwy 6, Minden, NE 68959
Explore over 50,000 artifacts across 26 buildings, showcasing American innovation from the 1830s onward.
Holdrege
Nebraska Prairie Museum
2701 Burlington St, Holdrege, NE 68949
Exhibits include a World War II German POW camp and prairie life artifacts.National Park Service
McCook
Frank Lloyd Wright Sutton House
602 Norris Ave, McCook, NE 69001
Admire one of Wright’s Prairie-style homes, reflecting early 20th-century architectural innovation.Wikipedia
Imperial
Downtown Imperial
A charming main street with local shops and eateries, offering a glimpse into small-town Nebraska life.
Ogallala
Front Street & Cowboy Museum
519 E 1st St, Ogallala, NE 69153
Experience the Wild West with exhibits on cowboys, outlaws, and the cattle drive era.
This guide offers a curated selection of Nebraska’s treasures along U.S. Route 6. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture aficionado, or simply seeking scenic vistas, this journey promises enriching experiences at every stop.
