< Back | Home

WEEKEND GETAWAY: BROWNVILLE, NE

Oldest town in Nebraska offers old world charm and alternative to listlessness

By: Maggie Phelan & Cassie Smith

Posted: 2/10/10

Ten percent of college kids have been diagnosed with depression, according to a recent national college health survey. (Campuscalm.com) These students feel incredibly listless and hopeless, at times unable to function. How can we prevent this listlessness? Weekend boredom is common enough, but taking a road trip is a great way to expand your horizons, sample new experiences, and have fun.

Brownville, Nebraska, the oldest city in the state, transplants its residents and visitors to 1854. Located next to the Missouri River, Brownville offers more entertainment than many small towns.

Visitors can walk or boat along the Missouri River, view a play at the Brownville Village Theatre, peruse the four bookshops, or view the seven art galleries. Known as the International Book Town, Brownville offers old-world charm within these quaint book shops.

For music-minded individuals there are live concerts at the Concert Hall, featuring folk and other styles. Besides music there is Whiskey Run Creek Vineyard & Winery which includes all-brick historic caves, a large relaxing deck beside a waterfall, and fantastic wine. The business offers tours, tastings, a gift shop, and naturally many wines to choose from. Among them are Maréchal Foch, St. Croix, DeChaunac, Edelweiss, Apple, and Apple-Raspberry.

Brownville, Mo. is located just 10 minutes west of I-29, take Exit 110, on US 136, reasonable distance from St. Joseph, Omaha, Kansas City, and Lincoln. With college and life, stress and anxiety is simply unavoidable. Traveling, even an hour away, can offer new perspectives and experiences. Wherever you go, keep an open mind and toss out college listlessness and boredom.


© Copyright 2010 Heartland View