Experience the Majesty of the Golden Spike Tower
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history of railroads at the Golden Spike Tower, the ultimate destination for train enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
The Golden Spike Tower, a remarkable tourist attraction, is a celebration of American railroad history and offers an unparalleled view of the Union Pacific Railroad's Bailey Yard—an engineering marvel and the largest rail yard in the world. Towering at eight stories high, the observation deck provides visitors with sweeping vistas of the bustling rail yard, where you can observe the intricate operations of freight trains. The experience is enhanced by informative exhibits that delve into the history and significance of the railroad in shaping the nation’s transportation landscape. In addition to the stunning views and educational displays, the Golden Spike Tower features a delightful gift shop. Here, visitors can find unique memorabilia and souvenirs that capture the essence of their visit, making it a perfect spot to pick up a piece of railroad history to take home. The tower is operated as a non-profit organization, highlighting its dedication to preserving and showcasing the rich heritage associated with railroads in America. Whether you're a train enthusiast or simply seeking a unique experience, a visit to the Golden Spike Tower promises to leave a lasting impression. The friendly staff is always eager to provide insights and answer questions, ensuring that your experience is both enjoyable and informative. Open daily from 9 AM to 7 PM, the tower invites tourists to step into the fascinating world of railroads and witness the legacy that continues to drive America forward.
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Don’t miss the informative displays on the history of the railroad, which enhance the viewing experience.
- Check out the gift shop for unique railroad-themed souvenirs to remember your visit.
- Bring binoculars for an even more detailed view of the trains and yard activities.
A brief summary to Golden Spike Tower
- 1249 N Homestead Rd, North Platte, Nebraska, 69101, US
- +1308-532-9920
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
- Thursday 9 am-7 pm
- Friday 9 am-7 pm
- Saturday 9 am-7 pm
- Sunday 9 am-7 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start from any point in Lake McConaughy. Head west on NE-92 W toward Ogallala. Continue on NE-92 W for approximately 27 miles. When you reach North Platte, take the exit for I-80 E toward Omaha. Merge onto I-80 E and continue for about 5 miles. Take exit 177 for US-83 N toward North Platte. Follow US-83 N for about 3 miles, then take the exit for N Homestead Rd. Turn right onto N Homestead Rd, and the Golden Spike Tower will be on your left at 1249 N Homestead Rd, North Platte, NE 69101. Note that parking is available on-site, but check for any potential parking fees.
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Public Transportation
Using public transportation from Lake McConaughy to Golden Spike Tower can be more complicated, as direct services may not be available. First, check with local bus services to see if there are routes from Lake McConaughy to North Platte. If there is a service, you will likely need to disembark at a central location in North Platte. From there, you can use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to get to Golden Spike Tower, which is approximately 5 miles away. Be sure to check the schedule ahead of time, as public transport may not run frequently. Costs will vary based on the bus service and rideshare rates.
