North Platte: Nebraska's Historic Heartland

• HelloHowdy
  [hau-dee]
• GoodbyeSo long
  [so long]
• YesYup
  [yuhp]
• NoNope
  [nohp]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No worries
  [please / noh wur-eez]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dn mee / mah bad]
• How are you?Howdy
  [hau-dee]
• Fine. And you?Fine. You?
  [fahyn. yuh?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speak ing-glish]
• I don't understandI ain't catchin' on
  [ahy ent kach-in awn]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the grub list, please
  [ahyd lyk tew see thee gruhb list, please]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat cow
  [ahy dohnt eet kaw]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheerz]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'd like to settle up, please
  [ahyd lyk tew set-l up, please]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
• Call the Police!Ring up the cops!
  [ring up the cops]
• Call a doctor!Call the doc!
  [call the doc]
• I'm lostI'm turned around
  [ahy'm turnd uh-round]
• I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [ahy'm feel-in poor-lee]

• I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to purchase...
  [ahy'm fik-sin' tuh pur-chuhs...]
• I'm just lookingI'm just browsin'
  [ahy'm just brow-zin']
• How much is it?How much fer that?
  [how much fur that?]
• That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [thatz uh bit steep]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya knock a bit off?
  [can yuh nok uh bit awf?]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats thee tahym?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its wun]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [half past (10)]
• MorningMornin'
  [morn-in']
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [even-in']
• YesterdayYesterdee
  [yes-ter-dee]
• TodayToday
  [toh-day]
• TomorrowTomorra
  [tuh-maw-ruh]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [for]
• 5Five
  [fahyv]
• 6Six
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [sev-uhn]
• 8Eight
  [ayt]
• 9Nine
  [nahyn]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...
  [wheres thee]
• What's the address?What's the addy?
  [whats thee ad-ee]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out (on the map)?
  [can yuh point it out (on thee map)]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens thee nekst (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [uh tik-it (tew)]

North Platte was founded in 1866, following the construction of the Union Pacific Railroad. It was originally established as a railroad town and became a significant hub for the transportation of goods and people across the country. The city's location at the confluence of the North and South Platte Rivers made it a natural junction for the expanding rail network.

During World War II, North Platte became famous for the North Platte Canteen, which operated from December 25, 1941, to April 1, 1946. The Canteen provided food, coffee, and hospitality to over six million servicemen and women passing through on troop trains. It was a massive volunteer effort, drawing contributions and participation from the entire region.

North Platte was the home of William F. 'Buffalo Bill' Cody, one of the most famous figures of the American West. Cody's ranch, Scout's Rest Ranch, served as a base for his Wild West Show, which toured the world and brought the legends of the American frontier to life. The ranch is now a state historical park, preserving Cody's legacy and contributions.

Located south of North Platte, Fort McPherson was established in 1863 to protect settlers and railroad workers from potential conflicts with Native American tribes. The fort played a crucial role in the Indian Wars and in maintaining peace in the area during the westward expansion. Today, the Fort McPherson National Cemetery is located on the site, serving as a resting place for many who served in the armed forces.

The Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center offers an unparalleled view of the world's largest rail yard, Bailey Yard. This eight-story tower provides visitors with a panoramic view of the yard's operations, where thousands of rail cars are sorted daily. The tower also features exhibits on the history of the Union Pacific Railroad and its impact on North Platte.

Cody Park is a popular recreational area in North Platte, named after Buffalo Bill Cody. The park features a variety of attractions, including a small amusement park, a zoo, and historical exhibits. It also hosts the annual Rail Fest, celebrating North Platte's rich railroad heritage with events, displays, and family-friendly activities.

The Lincoln County Historical Museum offers a deep dive into the history of North Platte and the surrounding region. The museum's exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from pioneer life and the impact of the railroad to the story of the North Platte Canteen. The museum also includes a recreated 19th-century village, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of early settlers.

North Platte is located in west-central Nebraska. The nearest major airport is North Platte Regional Airport (LBF), which offers flights from Denver International Airport (DEN). Alternatively, you can fly into Lincoln Airport (LNK) or Omaha Eppley Airfield (OMA) and drive to North Platte. The city is also accessible by car via Interstate 80 and U.S. Highway 83. Amtrak’s California Zephyr line stops in nearby McCook, offering another travel option.

North Platte is a relatively small city, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Rental cars are available, and local taxi services can be called for short trips. The city does not have a public bus system, but there are shuttle services for specific areas. Biking is also a feasible option for getting around, with several bike-friendly routes and trails.

The official currency in North Platte, like the rest of the United States, is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout the city. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or in case of emergencies.

North Platte is generally a safe city for tourists, though it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. Some neighborhoods may have higher crime rates, but these are usually not areas frequented by tourists. It is always best to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. North Platte has a well-equipped police department and several medical facilities, including Great Plains Health. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress casually and comfortably. Avoid overly revealing clothing in public places. Religion: Do respect local religious customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches and religious sites. Public Transport: Do use taxis and shuttle services respectfully. Don't expect extensive public transport options. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or handshake. Don't be overly formal. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and visit local diners. Don't forget to tip; 15-20% is customary in restaurants.

To experience North Platte like a local, visit the historic Cody Park, which offers a glimpse into the city’s railroad history. Participate in local events such as the annual Nebraskaland Days. For a unique experience, explore the Golden Spike Tower & Visitor Center, which provides panoramic views of the world’s largest rail yard. Engage with locals at coffee shops and diners to hear stories about the city's rich history.