Literary Landscapes: Exploring Willa Cather’s Red Cloud, Nebraska
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Have you heard of Willa Cather? Even if the name doesn’t ring a bell, you may have come across one of her novels. She authored twelve in her lifetime, with My Ántonia, O Pioneers!, and The Song of the Lark being among the most well-known. Hailing from Red Cloud, Nebraska, Willa Cather’s legacy is woven into the fabric of the town. This place served as the inspiration and setting for many of her Nebraska-based novels and short stories.
I recently spent 24 hours in Red Cloud and quickly realized I could have easily extended my visit into a whole weekend. Visit Red Cloud hosted my visit, but as always, all opinions are my own.
As a female author myself, I felt inspired to walk in Willa Cather’s footsteps and explore the history surrounding her life and work. Red Cloud is a small town with a population of just over a thousand, but it is a hidden gem of charm, history, and hospitality.
Where to Stay: The Hotel Garber
Hotel Garber is a newer boutique hotel situated in downtown Red Cloud. It is a beautifully renovated building featuring 26 rooms, a lounge, and a restaurant. They also have a 2-bedroom loft available for larger parties. I stayed there during my trip and dined at Forrester’s Restaurant & Lounge (I’ll discuss that delicious experience in more detail later).
The king room I stayed in was spacious and comfortable. A large bathroom provided the best hot shower with a curved shower curtain rod (it’s the little things that make a big difference—nobody likes a shower curtain clinging to them!). The room had plenty of space to store my luggage and a vanity separate from the shower. My favorite parts of the room included the coffee maker and fridge, the workstation, the comfortable bed, and the numerous USB ports throughout the room.
In addition to the Hotel Garber, there are a few Willa Cather-inspired vacation rentals in town, including the Cather Second Home Guest House, the Town Center Red Cloud Loft, Hoff’s House, and the new Garber’s Grove in Red Cloud.
Touring Willa Cather’s Hometown
I visited Red Cloud with a small group of fellow travel writers. We spent the afternoon immersed in history through a guided tour hosted by the Willa Cather Foundation. Tours are drivable by vehicle and include several historic sites, including Willa Cather’s childhood home, the Opera House, historic churches, a train depot, a bank, and a museum. There are one, three, and seven building tours available.
The Farmers and Merchants Bank, in particular, features a museum exhibit on its lower level. The Red Cloud Opera House, still active today, regularly hosts events, performances, and even weddings. Several venues are scattered around town, including spaces within the Hotel Garber. Red Cloud is ideal for conferences and gatherings.
Attached to the Opera House is an additional museum and a gift shop housed in the Willa Cather Foundation building, all within easy walking distance of the hotel.
One tip: be mindful that many establishments are closed on Sundays.
A Walk Through the Prairie
One of the most peaceful parts of my visit was exploring the Willa Cather Memorial Prairie – a breathtaking 600-acre stretch of untouched land. We arrived at dusk, just in time to see the golden hour wash over the horizon. Hearing the distant sounds of cattle added to the atmosphere.
Historic signs provide context about the prairie’s importance, and the Willa Cather Foundation works to preserve its natural ecosystem. Trails allow visitors to wander the land (just don’t forget your bug spray!).
Bonus: Right across the street, don’t miss a selfie at the iconic “Welcome to Nebraska” sign. It is located along the Kansas-Nebraska border.
More Photo Ops & Hidden Gems
Between Red Cloud and the prairie, you’ll spot a bison mural painted on a silo. An unexpected and fun photo op! I’ve seen my fair share of bison on this western trip, but this was my first time capturing one in mural form.
We made a quick visit to the Geographic Center of the Continental United States in Lebanon, Kansas. It is just 19 miles south of Red Cloud. This simple site includes a charming little chapel and a shaded picnic area. It’s a peaceful spot with wide-open countryside views, perfect for a packed lunch. (You can grab it at Red Cloud’s local grocery, Hometown Market.)
Dinner at Forrester’s
Our day wrapped up with dinner back at the Forrester’s Restaurant & Lounge inside the hotel. I ordered the pork carnitas, and the entire meal was gluten-free and expertly prepared by the in-house chef. It was one of the best meals of my trip.
Coffee, Books, and Boutique Finds
Just across the street from the hotel is The Corner Nook, a charming spot that combines a coffee shop, bookstore, and boutique, which are all of my favorite things under one roof! I sipped a cozy chai latte while browsing their book selection. Housed in a historic building that was once only a bookstore, The Corner Nook has preserved the literary charm of its origins.
Breakfast at Alley Cats
If you haven’t had breakfast in a bowling alley, have you really experienced the Midwest? In Red Cloud, Alley Cats is a cozy, community-driven spot where home-cooked meals and small-town charm come standard in a bowling alley. Opened in 2024, Alley Cats isn’t just a bowling alley; it’s your go-to for hearty breakfast and lunch, a full-service bar, and a laid-back place to roll a few frames or shoot some pool. Plus, it’s family-owned and operated.
After-Hours in Red Cloud
For the evening, we headed to On The Brix Tasting Room, a local welcoming craft bar. Whether you’re a wine lover, a craft beer enthusiast, or someone who just appreciates a well-made cocktail, this is the kind of place that invites you to slow down and savor. Not interested in alcohol? No problem. Their mocktails are every bit as flavorful. Even better? The prices are refreshingly reasonable.
Red Cloud may be small in size, but it’s big on heart, history, and hospitality. Whether you’re a fan of literature, a history buff, or just looking for a peaceful escape, Red Cloud has something unique to offer. I left feeling inspired by Willa Cather’s legacy, the natural beauty of the prairie, and the effort to keep her spirit alive in Red Cloud.
