Itinerary: Enjoy Picnics, Galleries, Wine & Theatre in Historic Brownville

When Brownville, Nebraska's oldest community, was founded in 1854, it was called the "Cultural Outpost of the West." Today, the riverside village charms with seven historic museums, six art galleries and more. Come see for yourself and discover something new.

A Brownville, Nebraska bucket list

A Brownville, Nebraska bucket list

Local's Tip

Visiting Brownville in the Christmas season? Don't miss lighted displays inside the Governor Furnas Arboretum.

Day 1
Explore the Steamboat Trace Trail

Park at the intersection of 5th & Plum Streets
Brownville, NE
United States

Enjoy a morning walk and soak in nature along the historic Steamboat Trace Trail. For a shorter date with nature, stroll along the Whiskey Run Creek Nature Trail at Governor Furnas Arboretum (located between 1st and 7th Streets). Or, take your time and combine the Steamboat Trace and Whiskey Run Creek trails — they connect!

Grab Lunch at The Bluebird

121 Main St.
Brownville, NE
United States

The Bluebird's menu represents partnerships with regional and statewide producers. Get a taste of the local bounty with a Two Picnic pack — locals love these ready-made lunches perfect for two people — and hand-crafted ice cream.

Unwind at Whiskey Run Creek Winery & Distillery

702 Main
Brownville, NE
United States

Relax in the afternoon at Whiskey Run Creek Winery & Distillery. Sit on the deck and enjoy wines and distilled spirits produced onsite, or explore the cave on the grounds. 

See a show at Brownville Village Theatre

222 Water St.
Brownville, NE
United States

Brownville Village Theatre (BVT) is one of the oldest repertory theatres in Nebraska. See what's playing — maybe a comedy, drama or summer production featuring a troupe of theatre artists from across the Midwest. Bonus: The theatre’s home is a century-old church, preserved and transformed to stage BVT productions. 

Check into River Inn Resort

72898 648A Ave.
Brownville, NE
United States

This floating bed-and-breakfast on the Missouri River is surrounded by the natural beauty of the river valley. Enjoy the peaceful environment with stately trees and a hiking trail nearby.

Brownville, Nebraska's Steamboat Trace Trail

Steamboat Trace Trail

Day 2
Launch a Historic Museum Tour

Brownville, NE
United States

After breakfast at River Inn Resort, take in one (or more!) of Brownville's seven historic museums. Contact Brownville Cultural Center to schedule group or private tours of historic sites including 19th-century homes and cabins, museums and more. 

Picnic at Governor Furnas Arboretum

5th & Main Streets
Brownville, NE
United States

In a show of botanic art, more than 200 trees, shrubs and flowers extend from 7th Street to the Missouri River along the Whiskey Run Creek Nature Trail through Governor Furnas Arboretum. You'll also discover a life-size sculpture of Governor Furnas and other sculptural displays on the themes of art in nature and nature in art.

Watch an artist at work at River View Glass

129 Main St.
Brownville, NE
United States

Opportunities are offered daily to view the owner/artist in action — even ask questions about the flame-blowing process — and shop for works of art that can only be found in the unique boutiques of Brownville. 

Gallery-hop

Brownville , NE
United States

Discover Brownville's additional art galleries to meet artists-in-residence and collect a few more unique pieces. 

A Brownville, Nebraska art gallery

A Brownville art gallery