The exterior of Homestead National Monument.

Scenic Byways

Heritage Highway

238 Miles | 4 Hours | U.S. 136 between Edison and Brownville

Traversing 10 counties, the Heritage Highway Scenic Byway transports road-trippers to communities where Nebraska history is preserved and worth exploring. Whether you start or end in historic Brownville, take time to explore the Missouri, America’s longest river.

Route Directions

From Edison:
28 miles east on US-136 to Alma (Harlan County Reservoir)
46 miles east on US-136 to Red Cloud • 25 miles east on US-136, south on NE-14 to Superior
36 miles north on NE-14, east on US-136 to Hebron • 24 miles east on US-136 to Fairbury
30 miles east on US-136 to Beatrice • 52 miles east on US-136 to Auburn
57 miles east on US-136 to Brownville

Stop 1

Willa Cather Childhood Home

Take a guided tour of the Willa Cather Childhood Home in Red Cloud.

Travel Tips

See photographs, furniture and other family artifacts at this National Historic Landmark where the famed author grew up.

A historical marker in front of the Willa Cather Childhood home.

Stop 2

Alexandria State Recreation Area

For a tranquil nature escape, try Alexandria State Recreation Area in Fairbury.

Travel Tips

With two lakes and 55 acres to explore, this recreation area is perfect for fishing, hiking and picnicking.

Campers will find 45 electric hookup sites and eight primitive campsites.

Stop 3

Homestead National Historical Park

Stop at the Homestead National Historical Park in Beatrice.

Travel Tips

Learn about the importance of the Homestead Act of 1862 in the expansion of the U.S.

The historical Palmer-Epard Cabin at Homestead National Monument.

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Stop 4

Superior Estates Winery

Stretch your lefts with a tranquil view at Superior Estates Winery.

Travel Tips

Take an extended break at this Superior winery, where vineyard views pair nicely with Nebraska wine.

A scenic view of the exterior of Superior Estates Winery.

Stop 5

Rock Creek Station State Historical Park

In Fairbury, explore the 350-acre Rock Creek Station State Historical Park.

Travel Tips

Among prairie hilltops, creek bottoms and rugged ravines, you’ll discover deep ruts carved by wagons that traveled the Oregon and California trails.

A historical building and covered wagons at Rock Creek Station State Historical Park.

Small-Town Stops

Brownville

With a population of about 150, this quaint historic town is filled with landmarks, shops, bookstores and an ice cream parlor.

Travel Tips

Visit Whiskey Run Creek Vineyard & Winery for delicious wine in a historic location.

Stroll historic downtown Brownville for boutiques, galleries and sweet treats.

Savor the ever-changing menu at Lyceum Restaurant and Bookstore.

Cruise aboard the Spirit of Brownville and retire to a floating bed-and-breakfast at River Inn Resort.

Exterior of Whiskey Run Creek Vineyard & Winery with guests gathered on the patio over a pond.

Beatrice

Along with Homestead National Historical Park, you’ll discover pioneer history and countless outdoor recreation opportunities around this southeastern Nebraska city.

Travel Tips

Rockford Lake State Recreation Area offers 450 acres of outdoor adventure. The area is popular for fishing, boating, swimming and camping.

Trek the 37-mile Chief Standing Bear Trail, a rails-to-trails development that follows a similar path to the historic trail of Chief Standing Bear and the Ponca Tribe.

Cool off with water slides, diving boards, fountains and a 9,000-square-foot zero-entry pool at Big Blue Water Park.

Cedar Creek Pottery is a must for art lovers. Browse the works of local Ervin Dixon, from pots to tableware, inside a former church built in the late 1800s.

A woman touring the exhibits inside the Homestead National Monument of America.

Historical displays along a path at Willa Cather Memorial Prairie. Photo by Philip A Daubman Photography

Journey Along the Historical Heritage Highway

On Highway 136, you'll travel from the banks of the Missouri River to Homestead National Historical Park to the home of Nebraska author Willa Cather. Keep your eyes peeled for roadside attractions, scenic nature spaces and fascinating museums along the way.

View the Heritage Highway Trip Itinerary