Land Adventures at National Willa Cather Center
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; light walking involved
Overview
Discover the scenic prairie landscape and historic sites around the National Willa Cather Center through engaging outdoor adventures. Experience the natural beauty and cultural stories that shaped one of America's great writers.
Country Tour
All Ages! • 3 Hours • Up to 15 people!
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Driving tour with your own vehicle
Duration
3 hours
About
The Country Tour highlights twenty historic sites related to the life and writing of Willa Cather. You may schedule a guided tour of these sites by contacting the Willa Cather Foundation, or you may purchase a detailed Country Tour Book for a self-guided tour. On the Country Tour, visitors drive themselves through roughly fifty miles of the Webster County countryside, including settings from My Ántonia, O Pioneers!, One of Ours, short stories ""Neighbour Rosicky"" and ""Peter,"" and others, as well as many scenes from Cather's own life—the Cather homesteads and the prairies and river where the Cather children played and explored. Roads are not always passable during inclement weather, so please plan accordingly.
""As I looked about me I felt that the grass was the country, as the water is the sea...and there was so much motion in it, the whole country seemed somehow, to be running."" — My Ántonia
More Info
We encourage all guests to download our National Willa Cather Center mobile app to access additional information and book passages related to our tours.
Adventure Tips
Bring binoculars
Use binoculars for birdwatching to spot wildlife across the expansive plains.
Wear comfortable shoes
Proper footwear will help you navigate uneven terrain during the tour.
Pack sun protection
Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for protection from the sun during outdoor activities.
Stay hydrated
Carry water to stay refreshed while exploring this wide-open landscape.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Red fox
- Western meadowlark
History
The area served as a backdrop for Willa Cather's early stories, reflecting the life of Nebraska's pioneering families.
Conservation
Efforts are in place to preserve native prairie grasses and protect local wildlife habitats.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in North Platte
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for exploring the historic grounds and scenic trails comfortably.
Sun protection
Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses shield you from prolonged sun exposure.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during your outdoor exploration.
Binoculars
Enhance wildlife viewing opportunities in the area.