Holdrege is the largest community in Phelps County. Approximately 5,500 residents call the community south of the Platte River home. Swedish immigrants founded the community in the 1880s and it was named for CB&Q Railroad Co. manager George Holdrege. Holdrege is home to a collection of historic buildings and a trove of area history known as the Nebraska Prairie Museum.
Outdoor activities abound in the area around Holdrege. Pheasant, grouse, deer, geese and turkey live in the surrounding hills and valleys. Sandy Channels State Recreation Area is adjacent to the Platte River north of Holdrege. Six lakes provide hunting, fishing and family memory opportunities. North Park Lake in Holdrege’s North Park is a popular destination for town fishing trips while visitors walk the park’s trail. Look for the Promise of the Prairie statue when you are there. Swans and ducks are often seen on the lake as fishermen cast for lunkers.
For more information about Holdrege, contact the Phelps County Visitors Committee at visitphelpscounty.com or (308) 995-4444.
