The Archway - Kearney 

This is such an impressive structure, especially when seen in the distance as you approach.  The interchange on I-80 makes it very easy to get to compared to from the first few years when you had to drive several miles east, from Kearney.  I remember the first time I saw it, driving west, "OMG, what's that!!!".  We've really enjoyed the Archway and have been here a few times before.  It seems like it must be unique in the country, to put a pioneer history museum over the Interstate highway.  

Moving through the museum from start to finish is to take a tour along the timeline of settlement in the West.  It seems fitting to put it over I-80 sort of signifying the Westward expansion over America's coast-to-coast highway.  It's also interactive as you move along, with sound effects and narrative as you come close to the displays.  

When we walked in, we were greeted by an old timer.  He directed us to where we needed to go and take the best photo with him in the entry.  The escalator takes you to the actual museum which appears like you're entering into a covered wagon at the top.

Outside there are several displays, one of the biggest is the bison.  For those who have never seen one in real-life, this is much bigger than a live one.  I hope you all enjoy it.

Barista's Coffee House - Grand Island 

Very neat little place to enjoy a drink and snack.  This coffee house looked so much like a regular house that I wasn't sure we were at the right location.   

There are a couple drive up windows to order and be on your way.  It's a very attractive location.

We placed our order at an inside counter.  When we got our order, we went outside and sat in a nice patio complete with a beautiful built in fireplace for cold weather, with a pergola and lights.  Attached to the patio, they have another building with indoor seating and restrooms. Okay, you all know how much Cindy likes her coffee. This time she ordered a Strawberry Smoothie with extra strawberry which is what I ordered.  They also have pastries and other baked items. I ordered a brown butter rice crispy bar.  I like the taste of brown butter when ever I run across it in a recipe so I wanted to give this a try.  We sat in the patio area to enjoy our drinks and rice crispy bar and then headed off to our next stop.  The Strawberry Smoothies were excellent and Cindy didn't even miss her coffee this time. The rice crispy bar is as good as it sounded to me.  

Stop sometime, get a coffee, smoothie or something else to drink or eat and relax on the patio. It's a beautiful place to take a break and enjoy a some quiet time.

Lakeside in Louisville SRA - Louisville 

 This is a private business inside the Louisville State Recreation Area.  The store is really well stocked for day use visitors and campers.  I'd be surprised if anyone couldn't find what they need right here.  However, if that's the case, the town of Louisville is just across the highway from the entrance.  

They also have an ice cream room and gift shop. Quite a few gift idea such as the photos above.  Cindy bought a cute, tiny little turtle to put on her shelf with her other miniatures.  We also enjoyed visiting with the owner who was very friendly and told us about the area and the store.

There are over 200 campsites here plus a lot of space for families and play areas for children.

Werner Park - Papillion 

We've been here a couple times in the past when our employer, Memorial Health Care Systems, hosted a night out for employees and family.  Food was provided plus there are lots of other concessions available.

It was always a lot of fun to attend a game with a bunch of friends from work.  It sure was different to see the stadium empty, and quiet! 

When we entered, we were immediately greeted by Michelle (I sure hope I remembered her name right.  Apologies if I didn't)  and a couple others.  She allowed us to go into the stadium to look around a little bit.

The merchandise store is really well stocked.  Werner Park is home for the Triple-A baseball team, the Omaha Storm Chasers and Nebraska's only professional soccer team, Union Omaha.

James Arthur Vineyards - Raymond

 

We had the pleasure of going to James Arthur Vineyard with Frank's sister, Vicki and her friend Sandy. That was very special for us. 

It's  among rolling hills and beautiful grasslands near Raymond and close to Lincoln, NE. James Arthur Vineyard was established in 1997. It was founded by Jim and Neenie Jeffers and their family. They have a fantastic tasting room, gift shop, party room and you can see a view of their production facilities. 

We took a walk around the grounds and saw covered decks surrounded by beautiful plants and flowers and a small water feature. There were a lot of people there enjoying the beautiful scenery and also enjoying their drinks. 

Of course, we each did 6 wine tastings, except for Frank. He did take a few tiny sips of my wine but he ended up drinking a Coke. We also found out they have Hard Ciders, Beer, Bourbon and Whiskey.  they have quite a selection of wines to choose from.

We all had a lot of fun visiting with each other, tasting the wines, seeing the production facilities and finding about all the events they have.

You can go to their website www.jamesarthurvineyard.com to see all the amazing events they have coming up. We were treated to live music when we were there.

If you can't make it to the Winery by Raymond, they also have a store in the Haymarket in Lincoln. You can relax and enjoya wine tasting there, as well.

Even if you are not a wine drinker, it's worth the trip to see the beautiful scenery and rows of grapes.