Tale Trail Passport Tour

Explore cozy bookshops and visit spots tied to beloved authors, where words come to life and history is written between the shelves. Whether you're a bookworm or love a good story, this tour celebrates the magic of literature and the places that inspire it.

Tale Trail is one of 10 tours on the 2025 Passport program. Visit NebraskaPassport.com for more information on the tours!

The Cenacle Bookstore and Cafe

1304 Courthouse Ave

Auburn

402-414-5070

Hours

Mon-Thurs 10a.m.-2p.m.; Fri-Sat 10a.m.-6p.m.

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This family-owned spot offers espresso, pastries, gelato and seasonal sandwiches or soups. Browse a wide selection of books and gifts and explore local art in the in-house gallery at a cozy setting.

the cenacle bookstore and cafe

Bess Streeter Aldrich House

204 East F St

Elmwood

402-994-3855

Hours

Wed-Thurs, Sat-Sun 1-4p.m.

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Tour the stunning 1922 prairie mansion of Nebraska Hall of Fame author Bess Streeter Aldrich. Explore original artifacts, educational exhibits, the Aldrich Gardens, Aldrich Park and the nearby MoPac Trail.

bess streeter aldrich house

Bryant Books & Music

625 W 2nd St

Hastings

402-303-8554

Hours

Mon-Wed 10a.m.-5:30p.m.; Thurs 10a.m.-8p.m.; Fri 10a.m.-5:30p.m. Sat 10a.m.-4p.m.

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Explore our curated selection of new books, sheet music, vinyl records and gifts. Surrounded by original architecture, local art and live music, it’s the perfect place to meet friends, find a gift or discover your next favorite read. 

bryant books and music
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Elleinad Books

5930 S 58th St, Ste S

Lincoln

605-261-9711

Hours

Tues-Fri 9a.m.-4p.m.; Sat 9a.m.-2p.m.

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Check out Nebraska’s only dedicated children’s bookstore. With blocks, puzzles, coloring pages and games, it’s the perfect destination to relax. The store offers books for all ages, from young children to young adult.

elleinad books

Sower Books

914 N 70th St

Lincoln

402-937-9571

Hours

Mon-Wed, Fri-Sat 10a.m.-6p.m.; Sun 12-4p.m.

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It’s more than a bookstore! Come see adoptable kitties that are kept separate from the sales floor, or enjoy plenty of space to hang out with friends while playing games and reading. The atmosphere is proudly Nebraskan and strives to be open and inclusive to all.

sower books

The Next Chapter Books

2508 Farnam St

Omaha

531-218-7996

Hours

Tues-Sat 10a.m.-6p.m.; Sun 11a.m.-4p.m.

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A cozy haven for book lovers and gift seekers. Offering a curated selection of new books across genres. Visitors can relax with a drink by the fireplace or on the patio with their next great read.

next chapter books

Hotel Garber

346 N Webster Rd

Red Cloud

903-819-0798

Hours

Open 24 hours

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Escape to where history, literature, and hospitality meet. Nestled in the landscapes that inspired Willa Cather’s works, this boutique hotel offers modern comforts and a deep connection to Nebraska’s heritage.

Hotel Garber