Greater Grand Island Official Visitor Guide

Grand Island

Official VisitOr Guide NOV 2011-april 201 2

Your guide to activities, shopping, lodging and services inGrand Island, Doniphan, Cairo, Alda, Wood River and surrounding communities.

The Greater

[Nebraska] Area

SANDHILL CRANE SPRING MIGRATION photo by Rick Rasmussen, PlatteRiverPhotography.com

SINGING CHRISTMAS TREE STUHR MUSEUM OF THE PRAIRIE PIONEER FONNER PARK

VisitGrandIsland.com ContentsSpring Migration 4

Attractions 5

Shopping 11

Lodging 15

Downtown 17

City Map 18

Dining 21

Recreation 24

The Arts 25

Community Events 26

Christmas Events 28

Local Resources 29

Grand Island / Hall County Convention & Visitors Bureau2424 S Locust St Ste C Grand Island, NE 68801

308-382-4400 800-658-3178 [email protected]

VisitGrandIsland.com

Located four miles north of I-80 Exit 314, open Monday through

Visit us at online at VisitGrandIsland.com

Facebook.com/GrandIslandCVB

Twitter.com/GrandIslandCVB

Tourist Information CabooseBosselman’s Travel Center at I-80 Exit 312

The caboose will open March 1-April 15 for the annual Spring Migration. Beginning Memorial Day, it will be open Tuesday through Saturday 9-5pm, and Sunday noon-5pm, through September.

StaffReneé Seifert Executive DirectorTricia Beem Assistant DirectorLiz Gerberding Convention ServicesPaul Nielsen Marketing Manager

Visitor Information CenterKimberly Alex, Stephanie Saylor, Eileen Steinbeck

Convention RegistrationsSharon Dankert, Shirley Lingo, Phyl Kostbahn, Jackie Pesek, Cathy Reher

Island/Hall County Convention & Visitors Bureau.

For current information about advertising and distribution, call The Grand Island Independent at 308-382-1000.

Twitter.com/TheIndependent

Produced and Published by

Welcome to theGreater Grand Island Area!

Where hospitality is a way of life.

We’re glad you’re here!

Spring Migration

Wings over the prairie “It’s been called ‘The Great American Desert,’ with a less-than-subtle note of derision. But the comment betrays a lack of subtlety on the part of the commentators, because while the mountains may shout and the seacoasts roar, the prairie whispers. Clearly, south central Nebraska is part of the private collection of a superior artist, the images saved for the cognoscenti with the more-developed level of consciousness, those prepared to see beyond the featured lots in the catalog.”

“In the chill of the hour before dawn, I sat in a pickup truck waiting to catch the mating dance of the lesser prairie chicken: a garish affair, during which the male puffs up a crimson throat sac and struts about seeking to attract some predictably blasé female. We were on a dirt road alongside the huge Taylor family ranch, started by ancestors who felt the rolling grasslands would be ideal for raising sheep. It was beef, however, not lamb, that prevailed here and much of the prairie was

“As light broke over the sand hills to my east, we sat by an old sheep

the dance that did not come. I guess the mating dance the day before had been productive and they were sleeping in this morning. But I had no inclination toward disappointment. To the north and south of the road, the grasslands were turning shades of warm colors in the rising sun and, while my eye was initially drawn to the blazing ball of orange creeping above the hills in the east, it was the soft brush of pink on the opposite horizon and the swath of powder blue above it that held me

have been simply a foreground to what was, in fact, the real show. Amazing. There just ain’t nothin’ plane about the plains. Which brings me to the cranes.”

pick about the cornrows, their round, grey bodies bobbing about atop black-stick legs, their heron-like necks darting toward the ground, intent upon fattening up for the journey to Canada, Alaska and as far away as Siberia. Their concentration is interrupted periodically by a bouncy, wing-spreading dance. But the perception of awkwardness disappeared when I saw them, an hour before sunset, in V formations breaking off

into strings of black pearl against a reddening sky, winter-bare trees studies in black in the distance, cornrows accented in snow running to the edges of my vision. Now they seemed like musical notes across a heavenly staff.”

Such is our Nebraska in the spring. To read more of this and other travel articles by Tony Tedeschi visit NaturalTraveler.com

Hastings Museum Burwell chamber

Spring Migration

Forbes FYI has designated this area the #1 place in the world for birdwatchers, and for good reason! Arriving in March, over 450,000 sandhill cranes – the largest congregation of cranes anywhere on the planet – turn the central Platte Valley into a raucous spectacle of birds and people. Combine the cranes with millions of ducks, geese and shorebirds, and the region becomes a birders’ paradise. The Nebraska Nature and Visitors Center offers information on guided

“hotspots.”

Take the journey to get nose to nose with both nature and history and

experience life close up!

1330 N. Burlington • Hastings, NebraskaHastingsMuseum.org

Escape to

& Calamus Lake Area

Order a FREE Burwell Travel Guide Today888-328-7935 • www.VisitBurwell.org

VisitGrandIsland.com Attractions

Lincoln Highway

Tfrom New York City to San Francisco, stretching almost 3,400 miles coast to coast. Beginning in 1913, the road was completed in 1935 and cuts directly across Nebraska as US Highway 30 and directly through the historic downtown area of Grand Island.

Sandhills Journey SandhillsJourney.com

Charles Kuralt called the stretch of US Highway 2 from Grand Island to Alliance “One of the Nation’s twenty most spectacular roads.” This 323-mile Nebraska byway takes you through the largest area of grass-covered sand dunes in the Western hemisphere, some of the most remote and breathtaking countryside you’ll ever see. The terrain

gently rolling hills of cattle country to plentiful marshes and wetlands.

Loup Rivers Scenic Byway

From the pristine rolling farmland and hills to the immense and silent solitude of the Sandhills, the Loup Rivers Scenic Byway is truly a treat for the eyes, mind and soul. 141 miles of small towns, scenic beauty, local events, history and friendly people await you as you travel through one of the most beautiful landscapes in America. For those wanting to

It’s also home of the famous 300+ mile Junk Jaunt, which begins in Grand Island.

Nebraska Nature & Visitor Center

photo Rick Rasmussen

The Sandhills photo Terri Licking

5

whooping crane makes regular stops in the area. Even if you’re not fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of a whooper, the early to mid-April timeframe is the peak of the “booming” season of the greater prairie chicken, one of the most entertaining bird shows on Earth. We’ll direct you where to view “chicken dances” that inspired Native Americans.

Nebraska Nature & Visitor Center

Located immediately south of I-80 at exit #305, NNVC offers free public access to prairie, river and wooded habitats. The interpretive center houses exhibits on cranes, waterfowl, birds and mammals of the region, plus the Hornady Art Gallery highlighting works of local artists and photographers. The Crimson Crown Gift Shop features an extensive array of crane and nature-related artwork, clothing and other merchandise. Behind the center, visitors may walk a handicapped-accessible paved trail to a channel of the Platte River; two footbridges cross the Platte, allowing access onto 240 acres of prairie. Programs,

guided sandhill crane tours during March and early April place you in the middle of the sandhill crane migration.

are available from March 2 to April 8th. Tours start at 5 or 6am/pm depending on the date and tour you select.

Sunset and sunrise are the most magical times to experience the cranes

placed along the Platte and give you the opportunity to see the cranes on the river either in the morning or evening.

We also lead evening foot-bridge tours near our Center on the weekends. Tours are not recommended for children under the age of twelve. Visitors may leave the foot-bridge whenever desired during tour; blind tours last about 2 1/2 hours. Each guided tour opens with a short presentation.

NebraskaNature.org or call 308-382-1820.

Stuhr half page ad

Island Oasis Water Park

Island Oasis offers over six acres of refreshing family fun! Brave the wave pool, relax in the 750-foot lazy river, scream down two six-story high-speed slides or tackle four giant 150-foot slides. Children will love the zero depth areas that include spraying fountains and a wacky wet otter slide. Build sand castles, stroll across the lily pads or test your skills on the log walk before enjoying some sand volleyball. Open May-August.

Stolley Park and Kids Kingdom

This 33 acre park includes a disc golf course, arboretum, historical home, a miniature rail line, horseshoes and a wading pool. A baseball

on the property. Picnic shelters and restrooms are available.

The adjacent Kids Kingdom is a community-built playground, designed by Grand Island children. Play elements include a castle, pirate ship, viking ship, slides, swings and an obstacle course. 2,400 volunteers spent 27,000 hours building the 28,000 square foot park in 2003.

Pier Park and Skate park

courts and a lake. A paved bike trail goes through the property, and a 14,000 square foot skate park — including a launch box, wall ride, bank ramp, quarter pipes, half pipe, two pyramids and a street spine — rests on the west side of the property.

Island Oasis — photo Nebraska DED

Kids Kingdom

Living 1890’s Railroad Town with realbusinesses, historic homes andworking businessesBeautiful main Stuhr Building withchanging exhibits, art shows andunique gift shop

Historic classes, research center andspecial events all yearOver 100 buildings and 200 acres offun for young and old!

Pioneer, Old West & Native AmericanexhibitsSeasonal Events and exhibits suchas “Christmas Past & Present,” andthe “Fantasy of Trees”

3133 W. Highway 34, Grand Island, NEAdmission is $6 for adults and $4 for children Open 9 am - 5 pm Mon - Sat, Noon - 5 Sunwww.stuhrmuseum.org

More than a Museum...A Living History Experience!


Heartland Public Shooting Park

AttractionsStuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer3133 W Highway 34 308-385-5316 StuhrMuseum.org Call for hours and admission which vary by season and event.

Nestled on 200 acres of Nebraska prairie, Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer is a unique living history experience. It has been prasied as “The best living history museum of the west” by True West magazine and named “one of the top ten places to re-live America’s past” by Good Housekeeping magazine.

Stuhr Museum offers an experience that tells the story of how early

The 1890s Railroad Town comes to life from May 1-September 5. Four historical homes grace Railroad Town, including the cottage where Henry Fonda was born in 1905. The “residents” of Railroad Town, in period costume, bring history to life for visitors. As you walk the wooden boardwalk you’ll hear the clang of the blacksmith’s hammer, catch the scent of freshly cut wood from the planing mill or see hats being fashioned at the millinery for the next gala. Shop for handmade tin, iron and wooden items at the Mercantile or play an old-fashioned game in the street.

South of Railroad Town is a turn of the century farm, charming rural church and authentic one-room schoolhouse. To the north, log cabins give a true taste of early settlements on the Plains.

The Stuhr Building, open year-round, includes period exhibits such as tools, household articles and furnishings. The building’s lower level features changing exhibits and art shows. The Gus Fonner Memorial Rotunda houses an extensive collection of Native American and Old West artifacts. A reconstructed Pawnee Earth Lodge provides a hands-on experience of early life on the prairie, and the Antique Farm Machinery and Auto Exhibit features over 200 pieces of steam and gas powered tractors and vintage automobiles.

Stuhr Gallery ExhibitsNovember 1-6, 2011, Grand Island Art & Sketch Club Art Exhibit

November 25-December 31, 2011, Fantasy of Trees Display

January 13-February 5, 2012, Quilt Exhibit & Contest: Opposites

Attract

February 17-April 1, 2012, Wings Over the Platte Exhibition & Sale

April 6-28, 2012, Hall County Student Art Show

May 11-31, 2012, The Famous and Infamous of Hall County

The Townsley-Murdock Site

Have you broken a wagon wheel recently? The classic video game Oregon Trail is back thanks to Facebook. Just west of Grand Island, you can see the remnants of an actual — not virtual — wagon trail.

This 2.4 acre site has never been plowed. Here you’ll see some of the only remaining ruts on the Mormon Trail. Upon leaving the Wood River Crossing, travelers were funneled onto a narrow ridge. Every traveler on this trail was forced onto this narrow pathway, creating the wide and shallow swale, which remains today.

located at the intersection of Alda Road and Guenther Road, in between US Highway 30 and Exit 305 along Interstate 80.

Heartland Public Shooting Park6788 W Husker Hwy 308-385-5048

The 420 acre Heartland Public Shooting Park includes six lighted skeet ranges, four lighted trap ranges, a 10-station sporting clay

and 600 yards. A complete Archery 3D Range is also available.

The park also boasts an activity center complete with a deck, WiFi and a meeting/class room that can hold up to 60 people.

Eight RV pads are available with 50 amp electrical service. The RV park will eventually expand to 60 pads.

Heartland Public Shooting Park has hosted a number of national events including the Super Retriever Series Trials, National 4-H Shooting Championships and FMG Publications Industry Shooting Masters. The park is also home to Grand Island Senior High School, Northwest High School and Centura High School trap teams.

Stuhr Museum, Cowboy Night

Stuhr Museum, Christmas Past & Present

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In period costume at Stuhr Museum

Fonner Park

HEC

Trade Shows • Sporting Events • Conventions • Concerts

HEARTLAND EVENTS CENTER

700 E. Stolley Park Rd. • Grand Island, NE • 308.382.4515

Ag Shows • Regional & National Livestock • So Much More!

www.heartlandeventscenter.com | www.fonnerpark.com

Fonner Park’s Year-Round Action Entertainment Center

Nationwide Thoroughbred Racing

“Live” Draw KENO • Satellite SportsSpacious Seating • High Defi nition TVs

Daily Simulcasting from 20 premier tracks

Full Menu Dining & BarSnacks • Sandwiches • Salads • SteaksEnjoy Our Chef’s Daily Homestyle Specials including Fri.-Sat. Prime Rib & Sun. Fried Chicken

forFood & Fun!Finish Line

Restaurant & Sports Lounge

Race to the Finish Line!Direct Access: Fonner Park Entrance on South Locust • 308/382-4515 • www.fonnerpark.com

Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. • Sun. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Live Thoroughbred Racing at

Fonner Park

Coming Mid-February 2012

VisitGrandIsland.com AttractionsFonner Park

A February tradition continues in Grand Island when the gates open for the 2012 Fonner Park thoroughbred horse racing season Friday, February 24 at 2:00 PM. The thirty-one day season continues through Saturday, May 5 with “live” horse racing programs conducted Friday, Saturday and Sunday. (Exception: Easter Sunday April 8). Friday post time is 2:00 PM (3:00 PM beginning March 16) and 1:30 PM Saturday & Sunday. The prestigious Bosselman-Gus Fonner Stakes is April 28th and the “live” racing season closes on May 5th, with the simulcast of the Kentucky Derby.

In addition to “live” horse racing, Fonner Park conducts nationwide simulcasting from all of the top tracks in the country. Enjoy west coast action from Santa Anita in California, east coast racing at Aqueduct in New York, and everywhere in between! Simulcasting is conducted seven days a week and starts at 11:30 with racing conducted most evenings.

Park. Fast-paced Keno action is offered seven days a week with high

wagering is available at the Finish Line seven days a week.

Special events and promotions take place throughout the season. Contact Fonner park for more details.

Heartland Events Center

The Heartland Events Center is located in the heart of Fonner Park in Grand Island, Nebraska. It’s 30,000 sq. ft. Eihusen Arena provides all the necessary amenities for trade shows, conventions, sporting events, concerts, and more! The Bosselman Conference Center provides space for meetings of all sizes with the latest in technology to meet your

Upcoming 4th quarter events scheduled at the Events Center include the return of the Nebraska State Volleyball Championships, a Mannheim Steamroller concert in November and the Flatwater Fracas Wrestling Tournament in December. Ushering in 2012 is the return of the Central Nebraska Home Show, Heartland Hoops Classic, Nebraska High School Cheer and Dance, the Shrine Circus along with the return of the Danger Indoor Football League. In March, the US Custom Harvesters Convention returns for a second year and we will welcome

Stay tuned to HeartlandEventsCenter.com as new events are added to the calendar on a regular basis!

Nebraska State Fair

The second year of the Nebraska State Fair in Grand Island

and attendees were happy exploring the new, state-of-the-art agriculturatal facilities. The Kids Zone has been very popular with families, people of all ages love the combine rides and the midway is a thrill a minute! Make plans today to attend!

Dock Dogs at the State Fair

Mid-Nebraska Speedway

Featured in Speedway Illustrated magazine as “The best track you never heard of,” Mid-Nebraska Speedway is located 2 miles south of I-80 Exit 314 on South Locust Street. With seating for 4,500, this 3/8-mile dirt track has been a popular destination since the early 1970’s. 80-100 cars race Saturday nights April-September. Weekly races feature

Grand National Late Models. Drivers from all over the Midwest come to the Speedway in mid-July for the NCRA Late Model Nationals.

TrainsPlatte River Valley

Grand Island has a wealth of railroad activity. On average, 168 trains

of the newest locomotives can be seen here, and some old ones as well including Centennial 6936, the three E 9s and Challenger 3985.

scheduled to be widened to two tracks by 2014. The Boeing train, running from Topeka, KS, to Seattle, WA, hauls fuselages for Boeing aircrafts through town weekly.

The Great Plains Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society

near downtown Grand Island. A UP caboose has been donated to the upcoming project, which will also include a viewing platform as depicted in the above illustration. The platform will permit the safe viewing of UP and BNSF train operations by the many railfans that visit the Grand Island area from across the U.S. and around the world.

9

VisitGrandIsland.com AttractionsFonner Park

A February tradition continues in Grand Island when the gates open for the 2012 Fonner Park thoroughbred horse racing season Friday, February 24 at 2:00 PM. The thirty-one day season continues through Saturday, May 5 with “live” horse racing programs conducted Friday, Saturday and Sunday. (Exception: Easter Sunday April 8). Friday post time is 2:00 PM (3:00 PM beginning March 16) and 1:30 PM Saturday & Sunday. The prestigious Bosselman-Gus Fonner Stakes is April 28th and the “live” racing season closes on May 5th, with the simulcast of the Kentucky Derby.

In addition to “live” horse racing, Fonner Park conducts nationwide simulcasting from all of the top tracks in the country. Enjoy west coast action from Santa Anita in California, east coast racing at Aqueduct in New York, and everywhere in between! Simulcasting is conducted seven days a week and starts at 11:30 with racing conducted most evenings.

Park. Fast-paced Keno action is offered seven days a week with high

wagering is available at the Finish Line seven days a week.

Special events and promotions take place throughout the season. Contact Fonner park for more details.


The Heartland Events Center is located in the heart of Fonner Park in Grand Island, Nebraska. It’s 30,000 sq. ft. Eihusen Arena provides all the necessary amenities for trade shows, conventions, sporting events, concerts, and more! The Bosselman Conference Center provides space for meetings of all sizes with the latest in technology to meet your

Upcoming 4th quarter events scheduled at the Events Center include the return of the Nebraska State Volleyball Championships, a Mannheim Steamroller concert in November and the Flatwater Fracas Wrestling Tournament in December. Ushering in 2012 is the return of the Central Nebraska Home Show, Heartland Hoops Classic, Nebraska High School Cheer and Dance, the Shrine Circus along with the return of the Danger Indoor Football League. In March, the US Custom Harvesters Convention returns for a second year and we will welcome

Stay tuned to HeartlandEventsCenter.com as new events are added to the calendar on a regular basis!

Nebraska State Fair

The second year of the Nebraska State Fair in Grand Island

and attendees were happy exploring the new, state-of-the-art agriculturatal facilities. The Kids Zone has been very popular with families, people of all ages love the combine rides and the midway is a thrill a minute! Make plans today to attend!

Dock Dogs at the State Fair

Mid-Nebraska Speedway

Featured in Speedway Illustrated magazine as “The best track you never heard of,” Mid-Nebraska Speedway is located 2 miles south of I-80 Exit 314 on South Locust Street. With seating for 4,500, this 3/8-mile dirt track has been a popular destination since the early 1970’s. 80-100 cars race Saturday nights April-September. Weekly races feature

Grand National Late Models. Drivers from all over the Midwest come to the Speedway in mid-July for the NCRA Late Model Nationals.

TrainsPlatte River Valley

Grand Island has a wealth of railroad activity. On average, 168 trains

of the newest locomotives can be seen here, and some old ones as well including Centennial 6936, the three E 9s and Challenger 3985.

scheduled to be widened to two tracks by 2014. The Boeing train, running from Topeka, KS, to Seattle, WA, hauls fuselages for Boeing aircrafts through town weekly.

The Great Plains Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society

near downtown Grand Island. A UP caboose has been donated to the upcoming project, which will also include a viewing platform as depicted in the above illustration. The platform will permit the safe viewing of UP and BNSF train operations by the many railfans that visit the Grand Island area from across the U.S. and around the world.

9

Attractions

Walmart

Cedar Hills Vineyard

Cedar Hills vineyard and gardens are atop the hills overlooking the

jellies and pie. It specializes in fruit wines from strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, gooseberry and 12 varieties of wine and table grapes. Visitors are welcome to tour the farm and watch wildlife as well.

Miletta Vista Winery

Miletta Vista’s award wining wines will make your visit to their hilltop a refreshing experience with 150 acres of pasture and a view that will knock your socks off. The nine varieties of grapes raised provide

Moonlight Ridge

Moonlight Ridge Vineyard is a family-owned business featuring a beautiful tasting room with a cathedral ceiling showcasing a

Growing seven different varieties of wine grapes with plans of expanding more, Moonlight Ridge will feature these wines and others from around the world, allowing you to taste a variety of wines. Closed mid-December through March for winter.

Prairie Creek Vineyard

Prairie Creek Vineyard is a small family owned vineyard and winery located near Prairie Creek in Central Nebraska. They have been involved in the farming industry for many generations and now are turning their efforts into bringing you a “Taste of the Good Life.” Prairie Creek Vineyards is all about the total wine tasting experience. They take the time to make sure you enjoy your trip out to the winery.

Miletta Vineyard

milettavistawinery.com 308-754-44161732 Hwy 281 • St. Paul, Nebraska(Just 25 minutes north of Grand Island & 4 miles north of St. Paul, Over the river and up the hill to Miletta Vista you go!)

MILETTA VISTA WINERY

One of the Midwest’s most refreshing hilltop experiences. Open Wednesday thru Sunday, year round. Enjoy our international award winning wines with a meat and cheese tray, home-made breads, a sandwich plate or enjoy a meal Friday & Saturday evenings. Also, check for scheduled music events. More than a winery, Miletta Vista is an Experience you’ll Savor!

Your Destination for Fun

and Relaxation 2250 N. Diers AvenueGrand Island, NE

308-381-0333

3501 S. Locust StreetGrand Island, NE

308-381-4970


Silo Skate Shop

Shopping

Williamson Furni-ture

Sartor Hamann

Stefani’s Closet

As Central Nebraska’s leading retail trade center, the city offers national retail chains to small boutique shops with the latest fashions. Numerous specialty stores line the streets of Grand Island’s historic downtown.

offers abundant

clothing, jewelry, furniture, bath accessories, handmade objects, original artwork and much more. There are eight antique stores alone.

, along the Highway 281 corridor, is an area of Grand Island power shoppers won’t want to miss. It features two enclosed malls. Conestoga Mall includes notable national chains along with numerous boutique shops. Both the Conestoga and Grand Island Mall have movie theaters.

Numerous national retailers are also located along Merchandise Mile. New shops and restaurants are always popping up along the Mile. Plenty of restaurants are nestled right in between these shopping havens.

11

Visit our showroom for an extensive selection of contemporary and classic furniture to personalize every room in your home.

Our friendly, knowlegeable staff can help you achieve a coordinated look in a style that refl ects your own good taste.

Crystal, Tammy, Rita… Design Consultants

DaveManager

• Sofas & Love Seats • Reclining Chairs• Motion Furniture • Entertainment Units• Dinettes in Every Size • Complete Dining Rooms• Occasional Tables • Livingroom Group

We Make You Feel Right at Home!

110 East 3rd • Downtown Grand Island • 382-7327www.williamsonsinteriors.com

Mon. - Fri. 10:00-5:30 • Sat. 10:00-5:00 • Open Until 8:00 Wed. • Closed Sun.

Stop in and visit our

Custom Design Team

Conestoga Mall • Grand Island • 308-382-5850

Award Winning

“When you Think of Diamonds Think of

Sartor Hamann”

Exclusive Dealer for Hearts on Fire Diamonds

Ritanimade in the USA

Custom Designs Available

Bridal Sets

Engagement Rings

Anniversary Bands

BESTOF

GRAND ISLAND

2011

theindependent.com

“an everyday FASHION boutique”

Unique Handbags

Distinctive Clothing

Fashionable Jewelry

1016 Diers Ave., Suite 123 • Grand Island • 382-1957Next to Whiskey Creek • www.stefaniscloset.com

William’s Flowers

Plain Jane’z Can-dles

Concrete CrittersAuntie Em’sBridal Collection

Conestoga Mall

Drapery Den

Conestoga Mall • Grand Island308-381-4700

www.auntieemsonline.com

*Someexlusionsapply.

20% off *

One Item

Monday-Saturday 10-9 • Sunday 12-6

Good through May 1, 2012

Hwy 281 & 13th Street • Grand Island • 308-382-4210 • www.shopconestogamall.com

Where there is something for everyone!

SHOP AT CONESTOGA MALL!

CONCRETE CRITTERS1103 S. Locust • Grand Island

384-5820

Nebraska’s Unique

Hundreds of items to choose from!

• Animals• Benches & Tables• Garden & Flower Animals• Memorial Stones

Much, Much More!

Stop In Today!

• 90+ Fragrances hand-poured at our store• Decorative Warmers & Wax Melts• Gifts & Home Decor

with Candles & Unique Decorative Accessories

Warmth to yourBring

2418 N. Webb Rd, Suite PGrand Island• 308-381-1644

Schedule your group for an easy, convenient & profi table fundraiser.

Home

3104 Old Potash Highway Grand Island • 308-382-5706

Kearney • 308-237-2511

Let Us Help Give Your Home a Decorative Edge!

Unique Accessories including Artwork, Lamps, Clocks,

Furniture and More

Design Gallery

Fresh Flower Bouquets

& Greenhouse Plants

www.williamsflowersgi.comOpen 7 Days

FollowUs On:

Visit our unique Gift Shop at FOUR SeaSOnS

COUPON

Find the gown of your dreams• Bridesmaids• Tuxedos• Prom Gowns• Accessories

308-398-0445 • 1016 N. Diers Ave. • Suite 120

Bring in this Coupon & Receive

FREE SHOES OR

JEWELRYWith Purchase Of Bridal Gown Or Prom Gown

Expires 05/01/2012

www.thebridalcollection.net

The Candy StoreFor Teachers!

Ph: 308-398-7010 • Fax: 398-70111504 S. Locust • Grand Island

Between Casey’s and Pizza Hutwww.teachersloungeschoolsupply.com

Dawnita Buck - Owner

Parents Love It Too!

VisitGrandIsland.com Shopping

Sam’s Club

Lil Pride and Joy

Silhouette boutique photo Jen Nielsen

Are you a traveling quilter? Visit Grand Island for your fabric needs! JoAnn’s Fabric is in Conestoga Mall, Nana’s Quilt Shop is downtown and Material Girl along Merchandise Mile. If quilting isn’t your hobby of choice, visit one of the other shops in the area for your painting,

excercise your creative juices!

Don’t miss out on the small town charm of other communities in the Greater Grand Island Area, including Doniphan, Wood River, Cairo and Alda, each with their own unique shopping opportunites.

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New mural in downtown Cairo

Conestoga Mall

Grand Island • 382-5510

• Baby & Children’s Clothing up to size 6• Maternity Clothing • Baby Furniture• Toys • Educational Toys• Gift Items • A Variety of Specialty Items

Featuring New & Consignment ItemsGrand Island’s Exclusive Baby and Maternity Store

VISIT US IN OUR NEW LOCATION:2108 Lawrence Lane, Grand Island

South of Little Caesar’s Pizza

Call 308-390-0291 to make a consignment appointment

Savings Made Simple

1510 N DIERS AVE

GRAND ISLAND, NE 68803

Phone (308) 384-0622

Fax (308) 384-1574

Samsclub.com

USA Inns

Super 8/Best Western

Island InnRodeway Inn

Go To: I-80 Exit 314 North 3 miles on east side of S. Locust Street

• Free Hi Speed Wireless Internet

• Super Start Plus Breakfast

• Guest Laundry Facilities

• Suites Available

• Pets Allowed

2603 S. Locust St.Grand Island, NE

308-384-4380

• RV or Truck Parking

• Indoor Pool/Spa

• HBO and Cable

• Fitness Center

• Children under 12 stay FREE

• Handicapped Accessible

Go To: I-80 Exit 314 North 4 miles on east side of S. Locust Street

• Complimentary Hot Breakfast Buffet

• Refrigerators and Microwaves

• Newly Built May 2010

• 37” Flat Screen TV

• Indoor Pool, Spa, Fitness Room

Grand Island Inn & Suites

2707 S. LOCUST ST.Grand Island, NE • 308-381-8855

Coffee & Rolls

BESTlocationin town!

2311 S. Locust Street • Grand Island, NE • 308-382-1815Reservations: 800-646-6869 • www.islandinngi.com

• No Pets • All rooms are 100% non-smoking • Full size refrigerator and internet access in every room • New HDTVs in all rooms

Continental BreakfastWireless Internet

Pet FriendlyLarge Vehicle Parking

Next to Mormon Island State Park

You don’t have to spend a ton to get a lot.

I-80 & S. Hwy 281 • Grand Island, NE • 308-381-0111Toll Free: 1-800-658-4096

Easy Access From I-80

Exit 312

3205 S. Locust Street • Grand Island308-384-1333 • 800-766-1706

Single Non-Smoking Room View From Our Deck Area

• Continental Breakfast• Wireless/Highspeed Internet• Pet Friendly• Refrigerator In All Rooms• Large Vehicle Parking• Fishing Available

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60 rooms rooms

Sleep Inn

63 rooms rooms

Super 8

rooms

rooms

USA Inns of America

80 rooms rooms

I-80 Days Inn

rooms

& Conference Center

Motel 6

26 rooms

George Clayton/Hall Cty Park

15

Pick

to stay!

Free Hot Breakfast • Indoor Pool & Hot TubFitness Center • Free Internet & Business Center

Reservations on line at www. hamptoninn.comToll Free Reservations at 1-800-HAMPTON • 308-384-9777 • Fax 308-384-9778

from I-80 North on Highway 281 to Faidley Avenue 504 N. Diers Avenue • Grand Island, NE 68803

Days Inn

Howard Johnson

Just

Des

serts

Mas

ter S

tylis

ts

Downtown Development

Grand Island Beet Sugar PalaceThe Grand Island Beet Sugar Palace was temporarily located in the 200 Block of Northeast Front Street from September 1-26, 1890. It celebrated the opening of the Grand Island Sugar Factory, which was

Along with 33 others, it’s the subject of a new book by Rod Evans, “Palaces On The Prairie.” Included in the six pages dedicated to Grand Island are the following facts: The palace was 200 square feet and 150 foot high, the exterior was sugar barrels to provide a soft round look and decorative interior materials were dipped in solution of alum and ground glass to give them a sparkly appearance similar to sugar.

The sugar beet factory was expected to spawn a distillery and chewing gum industry if statewide prohibition were to be repealed. The Sugar Palace concept was abandoned after

(Photo courtesy of Fred Roeser).

New Historic Marker

Historic courthouse

GARDEN CAFEOpen 7 days a week!

Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

• Indoor Pool • High-Speed Internet • Jacuzzi • Exercise Room • Lounge • Business Center• Children under 18 - Free (with parent)

1 mile from Stuhr Museum1 mile from Fonner Park &

Island Oasis Water Park

Phone: 308-384-5150Toll Free: 800-446-4656

[email protected]

RIVERSIDE INNHotel and Convention CenterLocated at the corner of Hwy 34

and South Locust St. Grand Island

Exit 314 off I-80

2620 North Diers Avenue • Grand Island, NE 68803

TOLL FREE: 1-888-325-2525308-384-8624

www.daysinn.com

I-80 EXIT 312 NORTHLEFT ON CAPITAL AVENUE

Coffee MakersIn All Rooms

Microwaves and Refrigerators Available

Deluxe Continental Breakfast

High Speed Internet

• Wedding Cakes• Theme Cakes• Cupcakes• Delicious

Pastries

Open: Tues.-Fri. 9-5:30 • Sat. 9-12 Noon

DianneParmley, Owner

206 N. Locust • Grand Island308-384-2764 • justdessertsgi.com

Downtown Business Improvement District

www.downtowngi.com

Downtown Grand Island: A Main Street Community

SHOP

DINE

Live

LEARN

• Hair Sculpting• Color/High Lights• Perms• Manicures• Pedicures

• Facials• Tanning• Sculptured

Acrylic Nails• Permanent Makeup

Your Total Image SalonDowntown Grand Island • 114 West 3rd St. • 308-384-8279

Visit us while you’re in town! Monday - Friday 9-8 • Saturday 9-4

www.masterstylistsgi.com


Stroll historic Grand Old Town as you shop for antiques, gifts, clothing, jewelry, furniture, crafts, books and original artwork. Dine in one of the locally owned restaurants, take in a movie at the historic Grand Theatre or stop in the martini bar. Nearly 150 retail stores, businesses and organizations call downtown home, where parking is free anywhere.

A self-guided walking tour brochure and downtown maps are available upon request. Visit downtown online at DowntownGI.com.

Historic Grand Theatre

On May 7th, 1937, hundreds of people lined up along 3rd Street outside the new Grand Theatre. The largest neon sign in Grand Island graced the facade, built entirely of colored glass. The marquee proclaimed “Nebraska’s Finest and Most Modern Theatre!”

The historic Grand Theatre in downtown Grand Island will be 75 years old on May 6th, 2012. In honor of this special occasion, the facade will be returned to its original Grand appearance with beautiful colored

glass tile. The ticket booth will be returned to the center of the entry, and the projection booth will house a new digital projector. Come

enjoy a grand experience at the Grand Theatre, where prices are low and service is high.

Seedling Mile

Just east of downtown Grand Island is the only remaining section of a paved Seedling Mile in the United States. Seedling

Miles were sections of the Lincoln Highway poured by the cities the highway was planned to go through.

Nearby, the Kensinger Filling Station has been open since 1933, and the quaint Shady Bend Cabin Camp. Shady Bend was known for its swimming pool, tennis courts and a roaming herd of buffalo. It’s Mediterrannean architecture was inspired by a trip to Arizona.

The Shady Bend building recently reopened as an Italian restaurant. It’s still owned by the same family who built the camp in 1929. The owners plan to sell some of the same kinds of candy out of the vintage

17

Howard’s JewelryUnique Downtown EateriesThe Chocolate Bar, coming December 2011!

Sin City Grill, 1950s Las Vegas theme

J Alfred Prufrock, swank martini bar

Sutter Deli, railroad-themed sandwiches in a 1930s dairy

Coney Island, award-winning chili, conies & malts since 1935

Nathan Detroit, amazing food in a beautiful building

Wave Pizza Co,Chicken Coop, serving local microbrews

and many more to suit your taste!

Upscale Downtown Shopping, everything for the quilter!

, well-crafted furniturePriarie Winds Art Center, local artisansAzteca Market,

Silhouette,8 antique stores, chic to shabby

Venue Art Gallery, top Nebraska artistsUniquely You, upscale boutique for children

Just Desserts, scrumptous homemade pastries & cakes

From

engagement

rings to

freshwater

pearls,

gemstones

and precious

metals...

Howard’s

Jewelry offers

a breathtaking

selection of fine

jewelry.

Superior in

style, quality

and value.

We offer the highest quality customer service for a lasting relationship.

Our customers come to us for our extensive knowledge, our attention to

detail and our caring service.

303 West Third, Downtown Grand Island308-381-1225

and Doniphan, Mid-NEBR Speedway

Hall County Park

L.E. Ray Lake

Riverside G.C.

Stolley Park

Indianhead G.C.

Fonner View G.C.

Pier Park

BuechlerPark

PioneerPark

BroadwellPark

Ryder Park

LincolnPark

LionsPark

GraceAbbottPark

AshleyPark

Veteran’sPark

EagleScoutPark

GeorgePark

JackrabbitRun G.C.

SucksLake

Veteran’s AthleticField Complex

CollegePark

CentralCommunityCollege

StarrE.S.

BarrM.S.

StolleyPark E.S.

GatesE.S.

HeartlandLutheran H.S.

WestridgeM.S.

ShoemakerE.S.

EnglemanE.S.

Grand IslandNorthwest H.S.

WestlawnE.S.

Grand IslandSeniorHigh

WalnutM.S.

NewellE.S.

Grand IslandCentralCatholic

JeffersonE.S.

HowardE.S.

KnickrehmE.S.

LincolnE.S.

WasmerE.S.

DodgeE.S.

SeedlingMile E.S.

ConestogaMall

Grand IslandMall

NebraskaVeteransHome

VA MedicalCenter

PublicLibrary

Grand IslandIndependent

CityHall

PostOffice

YMCA

HallCountyJail

Island OasisWater ParkYWCA

Fonner Park/Nebraska State Fair

StuhrMuseum

Platte GeneratingStation

CentralNebraskaRegionalAirport

H Downtown(see inset)

Hall CountyConventionand VisitorsBureau

Soldiers and Sailors Cemetery

Grand IslandCemetery

WestlawnMemorialCemetery

WestsideLanes Super Bowl

Law EnforcementCenter

LawEnforcementTrainingCenter

CAPITAL AVE.

STATE ST.

13th ST.

FAIDLEY AVE.

OLD POTASH HWY.

STOLLEY PARK RD.

SCHIMMER DR.

WILDWOOD DR.

BISMARK RD.

AIRPORT RD.

2nd ST. 1st ST.

4th ST.

FONNER PARK RD.

WEB

B R

D.

NO

RTH

RD

.

ENG

LEM

AN

RD

.

CU

STER

AV

E.

BLA

INE

ST.

BR

OA

DW

ELL

AV

E.

EDD

Y ST.

SHA

DY

BEN

D R

D.

STU

HR

RD.

S. L

OC

UST

ST.

ST. P

AU

L RD

.

HUSKER HWY.

STOLLEY PARK RD.

CAPITAL AVE.

STOLLEY PARK RD.

SCHIMMER DR.

AIRPORT RD.

SKY

PA

RK R

D.

SHA

DY

BEN

D R

D.

SYCAM

ORE ST.

ANNA ST.

WEB

B R

D.

WEB

B R

D.

OLD HIGHWAY 30

STOLLEY PARK RD.

S. L

OC

UST

ST.

30

30

30

281

281

281

2

34

34

2

281

2

ToI-80Exit 312

ToI-80Exit 314

ToHastings

ToKearney

ToBroken Bow

ToSt. Paul

ToCentralCity

ToAurora

281

234

ToVisitorinformationCaboose

ToGrand IslandRifle Club

BURLINGTON NORTHERN RR

UN

ION

PACIFIC OLD

BRAN

CH RR

UNION PACIFIC RR

UNION PACIFIC RR

BURLINGTON NORTHERN RR

UN

ION

PAC

IFIC

ST.

JOSE

PH B

RACH

RR

Main roads/highwayCity streetHike/bike trailRail roadsParkLakeCity limitsDowntownGolf courseSchoolAttractionsBowling alleys

LEGEND

www.visitgrandisland.com(308) 382-4400 or (800) 658-3178

Main office: 2424 S. Locust St., Suite CCaboose: located at entrance of

Bosselman’s Travel Center at I-80 Exit 312

The Grand Island

PioneerPark

PublicLibrary

CityHall

PostOffice

YMCA

1st ST.

4th ST.

EDD

Y ST.

SYCAM

ORE ST.

PINE ST.

S. LOCU

ST ST.

WH

EELER ST.W

ALN

UT ST.

CEDA

R ST.

ELM ST.

CLEBURN

ST.

CLARK ST.

2nd ST.

3rd ST.

SOUTH FRONT ST.

GREEN

WICH

ST.

SOUTH FRONT ST.

NORTH FRONT ST.

NORTH FRONT ST.

2nd ST.

ONE WAY

ONE WAY

EDDY ST.UNDERPASS

SYCAMORE ST.UNDERPASS

30

GRAND ISLAND PULL-OUT MAP

DOWNTOWN

GRAND ISLANDN E B R A S K A

and Cairo

To Wood River and Alda,Husker Harvest Days andHeartland Public Shooting Park

To Nebraska Nature and Visitor Center and Doniphan


Here are a few photos submitted to the Convention & Visitor Bureau’s Summer Photo Contest. The contest was judged by local wildlife photographer Rick Rasmussen; see his own work at PlatteRiverPhotography.com. Other submissions from the contest, which was sponsored by Best Buy of Grand Island, can be found throughout this Visitors guide.

Thanks to Best Buy of Grand Island for sponsoring the Summer Photo Contest!

PhotosNebraska State Fair photo Daniel Nielsen

Nebraska State Fair

Nebraska State Fair

The Grand Theatre

photo Curtis Fogg

19

Central

Red Lobster

Wasabi

Shady Bend

Arbys

Fuji Steakhouse

Subway

Perkins

Garden Cafe and Tiki Lounge

3609 E. Hwy. 3 • Grand Island • 384-7071Open Tues.-Sat. 11 am-10 pm • Sun. 4-10 pm

SHADY BEND Restaurant

Shady Bend…established 1929A place “Where the Buffalo once roamed!”

SHADY BEND Restaurant

Come on in to Shady Bend and you’ll think you’ve stepped back in time!

With our large selection of menu items including Appetizers, Salads, Soups, Sandwiches, Steaks, Pasta, Desserts & Beverages including Sioux City Sodas,

you’ll fi nd something for everyone.

Webb Road • South Locust • Hwy 281 & I-80

BREAKFAST IS JUST THE BEGINNING

On the Corner of Hwy 281 & Old Potash • Grand Island

Open Sunday-Thursday 5:30 am - MidnightFriday & Saturday - 24 Hours

Voted Best Breakfast,Brunch & Dessert!

Offer expires April 30, 2012

FREE SUB!Buy any 6" sub and ANY drinkand get a regular 6" sub of equalor lesser price FREE!

Limited time only at participating restaurants. Not valid in Omaha-Council Bluffs area SUBWAY® restaurants. Excludes Premium Subs. Additional charge for extras or substitution of sides or drinks. Plus tax, where applicable. No cash value. One coupon per customer, per visit. May not be combined with other offers, coupons or discount cards. Coupon must be surrendered with purchase. ©2011 Doctor’s Associates Inc. SUBWAY® is a registered trademark of Doctor’s Associates Inc. “Coca-Cola” and the Dynamic Ribbon are registered trademarks of The Coca-Cola Company. Market #082

Great Service.Great Seafood.

3430 West 13th StreetGrand Island, NE

(308)382-8879Hours of Operation:

Sun - Thurs 11am - 10pmFri - Sat 11am - 11pm

Nine miles north of I-80 on Hwy 281 at the

Conestoga Mall

raremedium-rare

mediummedium-well

Always well-done

1828 N. Webb RdGrand Island

Open Dailyat

11 a.m.

404 3rd AveKearney

Home of Amazing Food at Great Prices

Make your trip to Burwell complete with lunch and dinner at the Sandstone Grill. Featuring fresh salads and homemade soups, inventive sandwiches and burgers, grilled steak, pork chops, shrimp and chicken. Save room for homemade dessert. Full wine, liquor and beer selection. Catering and party room available for special events. Experience the food. Explore the history.

Mon-Thu, 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m. • Fri-Sat, 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.Sunday Brunch – fi rst Sunday of each month

www.sandstonegrill.com

Owners: Tenise Jarecke & Tammy Schmaljohn

416 Grand Ave. • Burwell • 308-346-4582

Find us on Facebook!


Riverfront Grille

DiningHwy 281 Corridor

Balz Sports Bar

Big Apple Bagels

Buffet House

Century Buffet

Dairy Queen

Hunans

HyVee Deli

Mongolian Grille

Peking Palace

Perkins Restaurant

Pizza Hut

Runza

Sonic

Taco Bell

USA Steak Buffet


WestlawnE.S.

WalnutM.S.

NewellE.S.

ConestogaMall

Grand IslandMall

NebraskaVeteransHome

H

Soldiers and Sailors Cemetery

CAPITAL AVE.

STATE ST.

13th ST.

FAIDLEY AVE.

WEB

B R

D.

CU

STER

AV

E.

WEB

B R

D.

281

2

281

21

USA Steak Buffet

Sandstone Grill

GodfathersLee’s Family Restaurant

Texas T-Bone

Nobody Gives You More Steak Choices... NOBODY!

Express Lunch 11:30 am - 3 pm Mon-FriDinner Menu served 3 pm - 10 pm Mon-Fri • 12 noon - 10 pm Sat-Sun

1201 S. Locust • Grand Island, NE • 308-382-94742 LOCATIONS IN COLORADO SPRINGS

★ Self Service ★ No Tipping ★ Great Prices

EXPRESS LUNCHIntroducing

2920 W. Hwy 30 • Grand Island • 308-384-7844Open 7 Days A Week • 6 am to 9 pm

BESTOF

GRAND ISLAND

2011

theindependent.com

… Food so good you’ll think we stole your Mom!1916 S. Locust • Grand Island

Dine-In • Carryout • DeliveryLunch Buffet • Open Daily At 11 AM

Wednesday Night Buffet 5-8 PMUse Convenient Drive Thru!

$1099For OnlyMedium Combo

308-384-9090

· · · Bring This Ad In · · ·

Get A Second One$700

For Only

Expires4-30-2012

Fuji JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE SEAFOOD & SUSHI BAR

Full BarService

Professionally trained Chef prepares and cooks food in front of you with entertainment.

Let the whole family be entertained by tastes sights and sounds as your chef prepares your one of a kind meal.

Delicious Fun for the Entire Family!

1004 Diers Ave., Suite 200 | Grand Island, NEHours: Monday - Thursday: 11am to 2:30pm, 4:30pm to 9:30pm;

Friday: 11am to 2:30pm, 4:30pm to 10pm; Saturday: 11am to 10pm; Sunday: 11am to 9pm. Lunch Special: Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2:30pm

Large kitchen selectionSteak, Chicken, Shrimp, Lobster, Scallops, Sushi and more.

Largest and freshest Sushi selectionin the area

Special Catering, Party, Kids Menu and Sweet List Available

Affordable Express LunchIn a hurry? We offer a quick and easy

lunch menu at economical prices!

Call (308)381-1888• Dine In • Take Out• Catering North Walmart

WASBIBISTRO

• Traditional Japanese, Chinese & Thai• Full Sushi Bar, Beer, Wine & Mixed Drinks

2435 N. Diers Ave. (Across from North Walmart)382-1722 • www.wasabibistrous.com

ASIAN CUISINE • SUSHI • SAKE BAR

Garden Cafe Open Daily

Mon.-Fri. 6 am-2 pm & 5 pm-9 pmSat. 7 am-2 pm & 5 pm-9 pm

Sun. 7 am-2 pm

Tiki Lounge Open Daily4 pm to 1 am

Garden Cafe & Tiki Lounge(308) 384-2178

Hwy 34 & South Locust • Grand Island, NELocated inside Howard Johnson

TIKILoungeinside Howard Johnson


Sin City Grill

Sutter Deli & Cookie Co.

Upper Deck Sports Bar & Grill

Vientiane Restaurant

Travel Centers of America

Dining

South Locust St.

Dairy Queen

Restaurant & Lounge

Pizza Hut

Runza

Sonic

Tacos Las Plamas

Terrace Restaurant

Texas T-Bone

Cafe


Fonner View G.C.

StarrE.S.

BarrM.S.

Island OasisWater ParkYWCA

Fonner Park/Nebraska State Fair

Hall CountyConventionand VisitorsBureau

FONNER PARK RD.

STU

HR

RD.

STOLLEY PARK RD.

S. L

OC

UST

ST.

34 2

23

Downtown Dining

La Mexicana

Pizza Hut

Pier Park

PioneerPark

LionsPark

JeffersonE.S.

HowardE.S.

WasmerE.S.

DodgeE.S.

PublicLibrary

Grand IslandIndependent

CityHall

PostOffice

YMCA

Downtown(see inset)

2nd ST. 1st ST.

4th ST.

EDD

Y ST.

ANNA ST.

A Grand Island classic returns!

The Chocolate Bar, coming to downtown in Dec 2011

The Boat House

Grand Island Field House525 E Fonner Park Rd

Grand Island Racquet Center2204 Bellewood Dr 308-385-5306

Heartland Public Shooting Park(see attractions, page 7)

Heartland Events Center/Fonner Park

(see attractions, page 7)

Veteran’s Athletic Complex3050 N Broadwell

Ashley Park220 W Capital Ave

restrooms

Augustine Park500 S Blaine St

Broadwell Park2003 W 6th St

Buechler Park2316 W Division

Cedar Hills Park2909 S North Rd

Eagle Scout Park3050 N Broadwell St

restrooms

George Park2221 Independence Ave

Grace Abbott Park601 W State St

wading pools

L.E. Ray Park3315 S Blaine

Lincoln Park715 Beal Rd

wading pool

Lions Club Park511 N Sycamore St

Memorial Park2000 W 3rd

Pier Park & Skate Park500 South Oak

Pioneer Park615 W 2nd

Ryder Park202 N Custer or 121 N Piper

Shoemaker Park370 Redwood Rd

playground

Sothman Park2315 Brentwood Blvd

Stolley Park(see Attractions, page 6)

Sucks Lake809 S Harrison

playgroundSee the map on page 18 for hike &

bike trails in Grand Island.

Water RecreationIsland Oasis(see attractions, page 6)

Mormon Island SRAI-80 & Hwy 281, Exit 312 308-385-6211Sandy beach area for unsupervised swimming, non-

this 42-acre lake surrounded by a 35 acre park. State park permit required.

Lincoln Pool8th & Lambert St 308-385-5458Outdoor facility with a 150-foot slide and lifeguards. Open 12-6pm; pool rental available after hours.

Wading Pools, Grand Island308-385-5444 ext 290 Open 10-8pmWading pools can be found at Stolley, Grace Abbott, Lincoln and Pier Park.

Wood River Country Club1937 W Holling Rd 308-583-2225Outdoor pool, open to the public.

Andy’s Isle of Fun2310 N Webb Road 308-382-8335

Skate Island2310 N Webb Road 308-382-8270

Cairo Bowl322-324 S High St, Cairo 308-485-4111

Super Bowl Family Fun Plex308-382-5200

Westside Bowling Lanes112 Kaufmann Ave 308-381-0300

Golf CoursesCentura Hills Golf Club

Public 18-hole countryside golf course with putting green, driving range, rental/pull carts, snack bar.

Fonner View Golf Course

Public 9-hole course. Cart/pull cart rental available.

Indianhead Golf Club

IndianHeadgolf.comPublic 18-hole course with full line pro shop and snack bar.

Jackrabbit Run Golf Course

JackRabbitRunGolf.com18-hole course awarded 3.5 stars by Golf Digest. Call for tee times.

Prairieland

Public, 9-hole, par 3 course open club house, rental carts/clubs and camping available upon request.

Wood River Country Club

Public 9-hole course with full ser-vice restaurant and a swimming pool. Call for tee times or Club Memberships.

Recreation

Bartenbach Galleries & VenueStudio

A gallery of original artworks along with a commercial and

The Milestone Gallery

A family affair inlcuding paint on canvas and china, sculpture jewelry and photography.

Prairie Winds Art Center

An architectural jewel offering high quality paintings, sculptures, photography, pottery, glassware and jewelry.

www.theboathousegi.com

3515 N. Hwy 281Grand Island, NE308-382-5074

• Tackle• Ammunition• Pontoons• Used Boats• Sporting Goods

• Repairs• Winterizing• Storage• Trailers• Motors

Your complete marinestore since 1956!

LIVE BAIT

• Hunting Supplies


TheaterGrand Island Little Theatre

December 7-11 “The Best Christmas Pageant EverFebruary 10-12 and February 17-19, “Guys and Dolls”April 13-15 and April 20-22, “Nickel and Dimed”

Big Band Dance with DJ Jack Mack

November 20, 2011, FreeDecember 18, 2011, Free

ConcertsGrand Island Concert Association

November 9, 2011, International Chamber SoloistsFebruary 7, 2012, Voces8 OctetApril 12, 2012, Red Star Red Army Chorus & Dance EnsembleApril 24, 2012, The Lowe Family

Wood River Concerts

November 20, 2011, Nebraska Brass 2pmJanuary 28, 2012, The Toasted Ponies 7pmApril 13 & 14, 2012, All School Play 7:30pmApril 20, 2012, “Voices from Ellis Island” 7pm

Great Plains Children’s Choir Concerts

Fall: November 19, 2011, 7pmWinter: December 30, 2011, 5pm & 8pm

Joseph Hall, Elvis, Tribute Artist

November 20, 2011

Wasmer Middle School

Dec 5-6, 2011, Christmas Program

The Arts, LiveGrand Island Senior High Concerts

February 27, 2012, Senior High Band Mid-Winter, 7pmMarch 26, 2012, Jazz Ensembles, 7:30pmApril 27, 2012 Big Band Night, 7-10pmMay 7, 2012, Senior High Band Spring Concert, 7pm

The Rumbles in concert

March 24, 2012

Prairie Winds Art Center

November 4, 2011, Opening Reception: Nature’s BountyDecember 4, 2011, Opening Reception: In the SpiritJanuary (TBA), Opening Reception: TBAFebruary 3, 2012, Opening Reception: Regional Photography ShowMarch 2, Opening Reception: Spirit of the CranesApril 6, Opening Reception: All Creatures Great and Small

Humanities“Voices of the Past” Hall County Historical Society

November 13, 2011, Working at the North Platte CanteenOther programs on the 2nd Sunday of the month

Moonshell Arts and Humanities Council

November 10, 2011, Munch and Learn Series: “The Creative Spirit”January 12, 2012, Munch and Learn Series: Faye Friesen, A blackhomesteader in Nebraska’

April 12, 2012, Munch and Learn Series: The Titanic’-in recognitionof the 100th Anniversary of the disaster

The Pawnee Arts Centers

November 13, 2011, Charles Trimble of Omaha to speak at 1:30pm

Weekend Friendship Gatherings Series

January 21, 2012, HyVee Dietician and the Nu-Val™ System

Altrusa International

November 13, 2011, Portugal 7: Cruising Douro Valley, 2pmMarch 18, 2012, TBAApril 15, 2012, TBA

for current information.

Prairie Winds Art Gallery

25

Custom Framing, Art Classes(children & adult), Art Consultants,Pottery, Silks, Jewelry, Glass, Sculpture, Wood Turned Vessels, Paintings,Gallery Tours, Gift Certifi cates Available

112 W. 3rdGrand Island, NE 68801(308) 381-4001www.prairiewindsart.comMon.-Sat. 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. or by appointment

, Artist Reception, Prairie Winds Art Center

, Antique Avenue Open House, Downtown Grand Island

, International Chamber Soloists, Grand Island Senior High Auditorium

, Moonshell Lunch and Learn, Grand Theatre

, Raptor Recovery Nebraska, Nebraska Nature & Visitor Center

, Voices From the Past, Plum Street Station

, ACAP Children’s Festival, Fonner Park Concourse

, Altrusa presents “Portugal 7: Cruising Douro Valley” by Clint Denn, Grand Theatre

, The Pawnee Arts Center Speakers Series, Charles Trimble of Omaha to speak, (details to follow) Dannebrog Fire Hall

, Old Fashioned Downtown Christmas, Downtown Grand Island

, “One Knight at the Oscars®”, Grand Island Central Catholic

, Holiday Gift Show and Bake Sale, Northwest High School

, Great Plains Children’s Choir fall concert, Northwest High School

, “Mannheim Steamroller”, Heartland Events Center

, Big Band Dance w/DJ Jack Mack, YWCA

, Joseph Hall in Concert, Grand Theatre

, Nebraska Brass, Wood River High School Theater

, Stolley House Open, Stolley Park

, Santa Arrives at the Mall, Conestoga Mall

, LaCamerata Madrigal Singers, Balz Reception Hall

, Christmas Past & Present, Stuhr Museum

, Tour of Homes, Grand Island and Riverside Golf Club

, Singing Christmas Tree, Evangelical Free Church

, Grand Island City Singers Christmas Concert, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church

, Antique Christmas Decorations, Stolley House

, Artist Reception, Prairie Winds Art Center

, Habitat for Humanity Cookie Walk, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church

, Live Nativity Scene and Soup Supper, Big Red Barn and 4-H Café

, Wasmer Christmas Program, Grand Theatre

, GILT presents “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever”, College Park


Breakfast with Santa, Conestoga Mall



, 11th Annual Grand Island YMCA Holiday Classic Tournament, YMCA


, Big Band Dance w/DJ Jack Mack, YWCA

, Stolley House Open, Stolley Park

, GISH Winter Band Concert, Grand Island Senior High

, Annual Community Christmas Day Dinner, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church

, Great Plains Children’s Choir winter concert, Northwest High School

, Project Evergreen, Conestoga Mall

, Model Airplane Auction, Fonner Park 4-H Café


, Winter Sidewalk Sales, Conestoga Mall

, Central NE Home Show, Heartland Events Center

, Weekend Friendship Gatherings featuring Hy-Vee dietician and the Nu-Val™ System, Wood River High School

, Pub Night, Stuhr Museum

, RV and Boat Show, Exhibition Building

, The Toasted Ponies, Wood River High School Theater

, Opposites Attract Quilt Show, Stuhr Museum

, Voces8 Octet, Grand Island Senior High Auditorium

, GILT presents “Guys and Dolls”, College Park


, Habitat for Humanity Charity Auction, Bosselman Conference Center

, GILT presents “Guys and Dolls”, College Park

, Prairie Princess Party, Stuhr Museum

, Tri-City Street rods Auto Show, Exhibition Building

, Big Brothers/Big Sisters GlamorousGenerosity, Conestoga Mall

, Big Brothers/Big Sisters Glamorous Generosity, Conestoga Mall

, GISH Band Mid-Winter Concert, Grand Island Senior High

, Shrine Circus, Heartland Events Center

, Family Game Night, Stuhr Museum

, Arts/Crafts Show, Conestoga Mall

, Big Brothers/Big Sisters Glamorous Generosity

, Floral Design with Nina Skeen, Wood River High School

, Karnival Kapers, Grand Island Central Catholic

, Altrusa, Grand Theatre

, Central Catholic High School Major Production, Grand Island Central Catholic



, NSAA Girls’ State Volleyball Championships, Grand Island and Hastings

, Dodgeball Tournament sponsored by Central NE Council on Alcoholism & Addictions, Racquet Center of Grand Island

, 3rd Annual Central Plains Youth Volleyball Tournament, Grand Island YMCA & Grand Island Central Catholic

, Fellowship of Christian Athletes Banquet, Heartland Events Center

, Harvester Shoot, Third City Archers indoor range

, Flatwater Fracas Wrestling, Heartland Events Center

, Appleseed Shoot,Heartland Public Shooting Park

, Appleseed Shoot,Heartland Public Shooting Park


amateur sports in the

Actor Henry Fonda

Henry’s relationship with his home state is

, Monster Truck Winter Nationals Show, Heartland Events Center

, Heartland Hoops Classic, Heartland Events Center

, NE State High School Cheer and Dance Championships, Heartland Events Center

, Hoops Mania, Various Schools around GI

, tentative date for Helping Hoops-Leadership Tomorrow project for Special Olympics

, Nebraska USA State Wrestling Tournament, Heartland Events Center

, Mid NEBR Speedway Show, Conestoga Mall

, 2nd Annual Race for Grace, Downtown Grand Island/Grand Theatre

, Bosselman Day at the Races, Fonner Park

, “The Rumbles” in concert, Fonner Park Concourse

, GISH Jazz Ensembles Concert, Grand Island Senior High

, Project Hunger Easter Basket Extravaganza, Conestoga Mall

, Wood River Community Choir Easter Cantata

, Red Star Red Army Chorus & Dance Ensemble, Grand Island Senior High Auditorium


, All School Play, Wood River High School

, GILT presents “Nickel and Dimed”, College Park

, Altrusa, Grand Theatre

, 2012 Futurity Show and Sales Alpaca Show, Cattle, Sheep, Swine Barns & Livestock Arena

, “Voices from Ellis Island”, Wood River High School Theater

, American Kennel Club Dog Show, Exhibition Building

, The Lowe Family, Grand Island Senior High Auditorium

, Big Band Night, Grand Island Senior High

, Nebraska Antique Dealers Association Show, Swine Barn

27

Christmas Past & Present

visitors explore a lantern-lit Railroad Town where

more.

Cleary Farmhouse (they always have

your way to the Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church

horse-drawn wagon rides

Christmas CelebrationsDowntown Christmas

in laughter & song, sweet treats, storytellers, sleigh rides, caroling & costumed strollers, musical groups in stores & on street corners and of course – Mr. & Mrs. Claus.

Mannheim Steamroller

Santa Arrives at Conestoga Mall Conestoga mall

LaCamerata Madrigal Singers’ “Merry Ole Yuletide Feast” 308-390-7467

This holiday production of a Merry Ole 16th Century Yuletide Feast provides guests with a unique experience. Join the singers for feasting, music, merriment and more!

Community Caroling

Local community groups, schools and churches will help usher in the Holiday Season bringing joyful music to holiday shoppers.

The Singing Christmas Tree

A well-known local tradition, for which visitors should plan ahead.

Christmas tree. The audience experiences the story of Jesus Christ through music, narration and actors. The church holds a drawing every November from mailed in requests for seats to the performances.

Grand Island City Singers Christmas Concert

Another popular Grand Island holiday tradition is the Grand Island City Singers Christmas Concert. Celebrate the holiday season with traditional and contemporary songs.

Stuhr Museum’s Christmas Past & Present

admissionExperience this classic event as lanterns light your way for this magical look at holiday traditions.

Antique Christmas Decorations

Live Manger Scene

Soup supper to follow in the 4-H Café – charge for the meal.

Breakfast with SantaDecember 10 Conestoga Mall 308-382-4210

Annual Community Christmas Dinner

Singing Christmas Tree



Hospital & ClinicsSaint Francis Medical Center2620 W Faidley Ave 308-384-4600 StFrancisGI.org

Open 24 hours a day

Physicians Immediate Care425 Diers Ave 308-389-3278

Grand Island Clinic2444 W Faidley Ave 308-382-1100

Prompt Care1300 S Locust St 308-381-3800

Central Nebraska RegionalAirport (GRI)

FlyGrandIsland.comSimplify traveling with short check-in, security and baggage lines, easy access and free parking!

American Eagle operates daily nonstop regional jet service between Central Nebraska Regional Airport (GRI) and Dallas/Fort Worth Intl Airport (DFW).

Fly nonstop to Las Vegas (LAS) or Phoenix-Mesa (AZA) on Allegiant. Visit AllegiantAir.com for package deals or speak with an Allegiant rep at 702-505-8888.

Check out Afternooner’s restaurant in the airport terminal. Enjoy the Breakfast Buffet on Saturday-Sunday from 9-1:30pm.

Car RentalBudget Rent-A-Car

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

National Alamo Car Rental

Thrifty Car Rental

PublicTransportation

Action Cab & Courier308-381-1010

Arrow/Trailways Lines

BurlingtonOnTrailways.comBus and motorcoach charter and rental company

Eppley Express

EppleyExpres.comShuttle service between Omaha and Kearney with stops along the way.

Hall County Transportation308-385-5324Public shuttle service for the Greater Grand Island Area

Grand Island Dermatology

Firs

t Bap

tist

Runza

Central Nebraska Regional Airport

29

Runza® is a registered trademark of Runza® National, Inc.

A Nebraska tradition for over 60 years!

Serving made-to-order burgers,famous Runza® Sandwiches, salads,

chicken sandwiches, ice cream and more!

1812 N. Webb Road & 2004 S. Locust in Grand Island

Diagnosis & Treatment of Diseases of Skin, Nails & Skin Cancer

New Esthetician - Tiffani Broyles, available for: facials, waxing and skincare consultations

Dermatologic & Cosmetic Surgery/Pediatric DermatologyBotox • Juvederm • Restylane/Perlane • Chemical Peels

DiamondTome MicrodermabrasionLaser Treatments • Leg & Facial Veins

Telangiectias • Rosacea & Redness • Skin TighteningPhoto Rejuvenation Therapy

Sun Damaged Skin, Brown Spots & WrinklesLaser Hair Removal

Fast, permanent easy removal of unsightly & unwanted hairPhototherapy - PhotoDynamic TherapyNew Fractional Resurfacing Laser

505 N. Diers Ave. | Grand Island, NEwww.gidermatology.com

New Patients Welcome • 308-384-9300

Jennifer H. Alberts, M.D. • Susan H. Corey, M.D.Board Certifi ed Dermatologists

Jackie K. Beaver P.A.-C • Laura A. Fox P.A.-C • Alisha N. Lautenschlager P.A.-C

Primera Iglesia BautistaAn American Baptist Church

811 West 10th St.Grand Island, NE308/382-6129Sunday School ...............................9:30 amSunday Worship .......................... 10:30 amWednesday Bible Study .................7:00 pmThursday Worship ........................ 6:30 pm

Domingo Adoracion ....................... 1:00 pmMartes Oracion ..............................7:00 pmJueves Est. Biblico ........................7:00 pm

First Baptist Church

fbcgri.info

Grand Island Clinic

Five Points Bank

Vineyards in NebraskaMyth: Grapes only grow in CaliforniaGrapevines love Nebraska soil. They also like rolling hills with water far below, but within reach. And wind; brisk winds keep unwanted intruders away. These are all the ingredients for growing grapes that make award-winning wine.

This is Nebraska, and it is wine country.

A lot of French-American hybrids or American varietals are grown here. Some of these grapes, which are winter hardy and have shorter growing seasons, include Edelweiss, LaCrosse, St. Croix, and Vignoles. Grape types are selected to survive Nebraska’s winter — temperatures sometimes drop to 20–30 degrees below zero.

1800s in Nebraska. World War I, Prohibitrion and the Great Depression uprooted this industry, though, until a few visionaries dared to plant grapes among the corn and soybeans again in the 1980s.

For more information, visit NebraskaWines.com

Thanks for visiting our

communities!

Doctors of Medicine Since 1922

2444 W. Faidley Ave. • Grand Island, NE • www.grandislandclinic.com

Our PHONE IsAnswered 24-Hours

A Day!

Hours: M-F 8:30-5:30Sat A.M. 8:30-11:30

(by appointment)

308-382-1100INTERNAL MEDICINE:William J. Landis, M.D.

PEDIATRICS:Agnes Gomes, M.D.

Karen M. Higgins, M.D.Janice M. Kutilek, M.D.Douglas A. Boon, M.D.

Timothy A. Gardner, M.D.

OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY:John P. Reilly, M.D.

Matthew J. Brennan, M.D.Molly A. Johnson, M.D.

Kathryn M. Kenna, M.D.Erica L. Haake, M.D.

FAMILY PRACTICE:William J. Lawton, M.D.Thomas F. Werner, M.D.Douglas J. Herbek, M.D.Jared C. Pehrson, M.D.

Adam B. Brosz, M.D.

For all of your primary caremedical needs, come to the healthcare professionals with the right focus: you

There is a reason more small businesses do their banking with Five Points Bank than any other bank in Central Nebraska. We are

uniquely equipped to provide products and state of the art banking services to help your business grow and prosper.

Five Points Bank’s success with small business is due to each commercial customer having an experienced local banker with a

local banking team of customer service and technology people to make sure they get the very best in commercial banking.

We want to prove to you we are “The Better Bank!” especially when it comes to small business banking!

Safe, Sound and Secure Banking…That’s what you can expect from Five Points Bank!

Tim Wojcik – President

Grand Island Clinic

Five Points Bank

Vineyards in NebraskaMyth: Grapes only grow in CaliforniaGrapevines love Nebraska soil. They also like rolling hills with water far below, but within reach. And wind; brisk winds keep unwanted intruders away. These are all the ingredients for growing grapes that make award-winning wine.

This is Nebraska, and it is wine country.

A lot of French-American hybrids or American varietals are grown here. Some of these grapes, which are winter hardy and have shorter growing seasons, include Edelweiss, LaCrosse, St. Croix, and Vignoles. Grape types are selected to survive Nebraska’s winter — temperatures sometimes drop to 20–30 degrees below zero.

1800s in Nebraska. World War I, Prohibitrion and the Great Depression uprooted this industry, though, until a few visionaries dared to plant grapes among the corn and soybeans again in the 1980s.

For more information, visit NebraskaWines.com

Thanks for visiting our

communities!

Doctors of Medicine Since 1922

2444 W. Faidley Ave. • Grand Island, NE • www.grandislandclinic.com

Our PHONE IsAnswered 24-Hours

A Day!

Hours: M-F 8:30-5:30Sat A.M. 8:30-11:30

(by appointment)

308-382-1100INTERNAL MEDICINE:William J. Landis, M.D.

PEDIATRICS:Agnes Gomes, M.D.

Karen M. Higgins, M.D.Janice M. Kutilek, M.D.Douglas A. Boon, M.D.

Timothy A. Gardner, M.D.

OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY:John P. Reilly, M.D.

Matthew J. Brennan, M.D.Molly A. Johnson, M.D.

Kathryn M. Kenna, M.D.Erica L. Haake, M.D.

FAMILY PRACTICE:William J. Lawton, M.D.Thomas F. Werner, M.D.Douglas J. Herbek, M.D.Jared C. Pehrson, M.D.

Adam B. Brosz, M.D.

For all of your primary caremedical needs, come to the healthcare professionals with the right focus: you

There is a reason more small businesses do their banking with Five Points Bank than any other bank in Central Nebraska. We are

uniquely equipped to provide products and state of the art banking services to help your business grow and prosper.

Five Points Bank’s success with small business is due to each commercial customer having an experienced local banker with a

local banking team of customer service and technology people to make sure they get the very best in commercial banking.

We want to prove to you we are “The Better Bank!” especially when it comes to small business banking!

Safe, Sound and Secure Banking…That’s what you can expect from Five Points Bank!

Tim Wojcik – President

VisitGrandIsland.com Local ResourcesGrand Island/Hall County InfoLocation: Grand Island is the county seat of Hall County. Other towns located in Hall County include Alda, Cairo, Doniphan and Wood River.Population: Grand Island is the fourth largest city in the state with a population of nearly 50,000. Hall County residents number 58,000 plus.Elevation: 1,841 feet above sea level.Climate: Average daily temperatures range from the average lows of January at 11 degrees to the average highs of July at 90 degrees.Precipitation: Average annual precipitation is 24.9 inches.Industry: Grand Island’s top three industries are agriculture, manufacturing and tourism.

Helpful Phone Numbers (Area code 308)Convention & Visitors Bureau 382-4400City Hall 385-5444Corrections Administration 385-5206County Courthouse 385-5135

Grand Island Police 385-5400Hall County Sheriff 385-5200Hospital (emergency) 384-4600Road conditions 511

CentralCommunityCollege

Pro Hearing Aid

Didn’t find what you were

looking for in this guide?

Call 800-658-3178 or visit

VisitGrandIsland.com.

Economic Development

31

819 Diers Avenue, Suite 1Grand Island, NE(308)395-8107 • (866)395-8107

We offer the latest in digital hearing and technology to help you hear what you’ve been missing.

Owners:Tom & Lynda Tambling

Let us help you fi nd the perfect hearing-aid to meet your hearing needs.

Your hearing is our main concern.

www.prohearingaids.net

-Complete line of hearing-aids-Custom Fitting-Free Hearing Test-Free Otoscope Ear Exam-Service on all major brands-Hearing-aid supplies and accessories

Provider owned Family Business with over 25 years experience.

P. O . B o x 1 1 5 1 • G r a n d I s l a n d , N E 6 8 8 0 2 • P : 8 0 0 . 6 5 8 . 4 2 8 3 • F : 3 0 8 . 3 9 8 . 7 2 0 5

www.grandisland.org

Room to Grow

G R A N D I S L A N D , N E B R A S K A

Two Industrial Parks to Suit Your Needs!The Platte Valley Industrial Park or the Platte Valley Industrial Park East is perfectly situated for your warehouse and distribution operation with all utilities and infrastructure already in place.

• Close to Interstate 80• Allows for right hand turns• All infrastructure in place• Rail served• Adjacent to a four-lane highway (US Highway 281)• Designated Blighted and Substandard (TIF)

It’s about doing good business—made even better with our central location, excellent workforce, incentives, and a community that supports economic development.

Showroom Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sunday 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.

2211 N. Webb RoadGrand Island, NE

308-382-6112www.kensappliancegi.com

A kitchen so inviting,your friends might showup uninvited.The new GE Café kitchen. Perfect for preparing a fabulous meal for spur-of-the-moment friends. With the range's two ovens, you can bake a souffl é and dessert simultaneously. Let the refrigerator chill your chardonnay in under 20 minutes, just in time for dinner. Use the microwave's soften feature for ice cream to complete your á la mode dessert. Even cleanup is easier with the Café dishwasher, where you load detergent once every 30 cycles. It's a kitchen that's so comfortable and easy to use, it does the inviting for you. www.geappliances.com/café

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