Golden Spike Tower
Anyone who’s ever loved the railroad or been interested in trains will instantly understand why the Golden Spike Tower gets Buffalo Bill’s Buffalo of Approval. The tower offers the best view in the world of the world’s largest rail yard, the Union Pacific’s Bailey Yard, where every day approximately 10,000 railcars are sorted and sent on to their next destination. The tower also includes multimedia exhibits on the history of the railroad as well as the orphan trains and the North Platte Canteen, but the real treasure here is the volunteers.
Every day you’ll find friendly volunteers, in almost every case a retired Union Pacific employee, manning the tower ready to enlighten visitors about the logistics and choreography that happens every day at Bailey Yard. Visitors will find that these knowledgeable volunteers can explain just about everything that’s happening down on the rail yard and how it affects the big picture of getting raw materials and consumer goods where they need to go. This is no small task either, it’s been said that you can get a pretty good picture of how the entire U.S. economy is doing by paying attention to Bailey Yard because of the sheer quantity of freight that is shipped through this yard.
With everything going on, from the exhibits, to the knowledgeable volunteers, and even the unique gift shop, it’s no wonder that the Golden Spike Tower gets Buffalo Bill’s coveted Buffalo of approval. So if you’re planning on coming through North Platte make sure you stop at the Golden Spike Tower.
Seniors 62+: $8
Students Ages 6-16: $6
5 and Under: Free
Annual & Seasonal Events Happening Here
This 3-day event features a wide variety of events that are a highlight for anyone who loves trains and the railroad. Rail Days will be taking place the first weekend in August!
Buffalo Bill Ranch
It’s Buffalo Bill’s ranch, of course it gets his Buffalo of Approval. You…
Cody Park
You know why Cody Park, including the carousel and children’s rides, get the coveted Buffalo…
Grain Bin Antique Town
As a man of taste and distinction it’s no wonder that Buffalo Bill does his shopping at Grain…
Horseback Riding & Trail Rides
You don’t have to be a master horseman to experience everything that North Platte has to…
Sandhill Cranes
Each spring the most incredible migration event in the world passes through the North Platte…
Things To Do With Kids
You’ll need to keep up your strength for this adventure, so start out right with a visit…
Trains & Railroads
North Platte has been central to the transcontinental Railroad since it has existed. From the…