When someone says “there’s nothing to do” in Blair, Nebraska, they might be surprised by the passionate responses of local residents. Recently, when asked about activities within a 10-mile radius of Blair, community members shared dozens of possibilities that don’t require a trip to Omaha. From outdoor adventures to unique dining experiences, cultural activities to seasonal entertainment, Blair and its surrounding areas offer more than meets the eye. Here’s what locals recommend:
OUTDOOR RECREATION & NATURE
- Boyer Chutes and Fort Atkinson provide historic walking trails and outdoor exploration opportunities
- DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge offers wildlife watching and fishing opportunities
- Rivers Wild Golf Club welcomes golfers of all skill levels
- Neihardt Park features walking trails and disc golf
- A skate park near the Blair pool caters to action sports enthusiasts
- Tennis courts by the high school are open for public use
- Trap shooting facilities north of DQ offer target practice
- The YMCA hosts regular pickleball games and activities
SEASONAL ACTIVITIES
- Blair Pool provides summer swimming and recreation
- Generation Park’s splash pad will offer free water play for families
- Blair Cruise Night (first Saturday of May) brings classic cars and community together
- Super Bee Orchard welcomes apple pickers in season
- Camp Fontanelle and Fontanelle Pumpkin Patch offer fall activities
- Blair Cub baseball brings sports entertainment to the community
ENTERTAINMENT & DINING
- Just Mary’s has become a local hotspot featuring live bands and Thursday trivia nights
- Local restaurants offer diverse dining options:
- Butch’s Rock n Roll for casual dining
- El Vallarta for Mexican cuisine
- Mandarin House for Asian fare
- Blair Classic for traditional American
- George’s Tavern for pub atmosphere
- Lighthouse for casual dining
- Red Brick for dining and drinks
- Dulce Vida for breakfast and lunch
- Marina for steak and seafood dining
- Kelly’s Fish for seafood
- Lois’s Driftwood, noted for their quality steaks
CULTURAL & EDUCATIONAL
- Blair Library & Technology Center hosts regular events for all ages and interests
- Washington County Museum in Fort Calhoun preserves local history
- Creative Connection Studio Gallery provides art and music lessons
- Washington County Genealogy holds monthly meetings
- Bridge clubs welcome players of all skill levels
- ACME quilt shop offers sewing classes and community
- Orion Archery Club provides instruction and practice facilities
UNIQUE LOCAL EXPERIENCES
- Farm visits to see mini Highland cows at Sara Moore Kirkpatrick’s property
- Alpacas of the Heartland hosts special events
- Local boutiques offer shopping experiences
- V. Ferme provides craft classes
- Turning Pointe Dance Arts offers dance instruction
- Blair hospital hosts free exercise classes three times weekly (Monday, Wednesday, Friday)
COMING ATTRACTIONS
- A mobile bookstore is planned for 2025, adding to Blair’s growing list of amenities
