Under Two Hours From Omaha Is A Midwestern City With Historic Charm, A Museum, And Camping

Nebraska is not exactly known for being a crowded place — even in the cities. But if the comparatively mild bustle of, say, Omaha is still just too much noise, there's a town about an hour and 20 minutes west from Eppley Airfield that bundles the historic charm of an older town with a rural flair that's all its own. Tree-lined streets, century-old buildings, and sparkling lakes and ponds punctuate neighborhoods that look like something from an old Norman Rockwell painting.

Schuyler (pronounced SKY-ler) is something like Omaha's little sister, with just over 6,500 people calling it home. Interestingly, according to Census Reporter, Schuyler's population is 75% Hispanic, which is unusual for Nebraska as a whole. The town owes this uniquely Latino heritage to generations of migrant workers who arrived decades ago for work, established roots, and made it home.

Over the years, the town's culture has grown to reflect this, with a plethora of Mexican-owned restaurants and businesses. There are a few things that draw visitors to this small town: its atypical diversity, historic character (including a fascinating museum intimately chronicling local history), and unique outdoor opportunities, such as a town campground. And if you do find yourself in nearby Omaha, you'll want to check out the scenic nature destination there, proving there's more to the city than its boring reputation.

Most of Schuyler's modern history begins in 1883, following a catastrophic fire that tore through downtown, destroying almost everything in its path. The downtown we know today was rebuilt on 12th Street. 

Schuyler's shortlist of historic spots is far from brief; as of this writing, nearly 50 buildings constructed between the late 1800s and mid-1900s still stand, according to the official Nebraska Government website. Of those structures, several are on the National Register of Historic Places. For instance, the Colfax County Courthouse was built in 1921 and is still in use today. Another excellent example is the town's Oak Ballroom, which was completed in 1937. It, too, is still open today as a community center and event hall.

One avenue over from downtown Schuyler, on 11th Street, is the Schuyler/Colfax County Museum, which details these local stories and others in intriguing detail. You'll find artifacts from the old Wells Abbott Nieman Mill that survived the fire (which began at the mill), as well as lots of other items relevant to town lore. There are also collections of Civil War, World War I, and World War II items, along with Native American artifacts from tribes indigenous to the area. Immerse yourself in local history and gain a whole new appreciation for this little Nebraska hideaway. It's open on Wednesdays from 1 to 5 p.m. and by appointment at all other times. If you just can't get enough local history, nearby Bellevue, the "Birthplace of Nebraska," is the state's oldest town, with charm, forest adventures, and historic roots.

Schuyler is known for another thing beyond its well-documented historical sites: There's a scenic campground in town, and it's open to everyone, with no reservations required. Simply show up! Located just off Colfax Street south of downtown, it's open from April 1 to November 1. It's just as amenity-packed as one might expect from any established campground. Hook up to an electrical site and charge your electronics while enjoying the convenience of on-site shower and bathroom facilities. For longer stays, opt for water and sewer hookups and take advantage of the on-site dump station. Or, if the mood strikes, simply set up a tent at one of the primitive camping spots and sleep under the stars.

Visit the official Schuyler campground website for the most up-to-date fees and payment information. The campground is on the western side of Schuyler City Lake. Bring your fishing tackle — fishing at the lake is permitted. Expect to catch some bass, catfish, or crappie. Then, once you're ready to pack up camp, if you're craving another suburb to explore, Nebraska's Omaha suburb with small-town vibes is a fast-growing economic hub with a charming downtown.