NEBRASKA -- The application to become a stop on the 2025 Nebraska Passport is now open.

The Passport program, which celebrated its 15th year in 2024, helps travelers to discover Nebraska's hidden gems, as well as benefits the 70 chosen stops through increased visitor traffic, sales and visibility.

The 2024 Nebraska Passport program includes stops in Sidney of Beans & Steams Coffee House, Cheyenne County Museum and Post Commander's Home, Hangar 39 - Flyover Brewing Company in Potter, Wildflour Baking Co. in Lodgepole, Chimney Rock Museum in Bayard, and Bean Broker Coffee House and Pub in Chadron.

Beulah's Emporium in Chappell and Sam and Louie's New York Pizzeria Home of Boss City Brewing Co. in Sidney were on the 2023 list of stops.

Some of the requirements for Nebraska Passport stops are:

  • Offer an exceptional, unique visitor experience.
  • Display excellent customer service. Be available at all times to greet Passport visitors and stamp Passport booklets.
  • Be open regular, reasonable, consistent hours (including at least one weekend day) during the Nebraska Passport season (May 1 to September 30). Note: Hours of operation are very important. Preference is given to destinations that have hours that are convenient for travelers.
  • Keep the same hours of operation throughout the Passport season. Chosen Passport stops submit their hours in February and Passport booklets are printed in March.
  • Abide by Nebraska state law that prohibits charging participants for admission in order to receive a stamp. Many tourists will naturally invest money in things they wish to see, buy, eat, or experience, but our state laws prevent us from forcing Passport participants to pay for something at each stop.
  • Be a good tourism ambassador for your region. Talk to travelers about other tourism destinations, restaurants, retail stores, etc. in your area that they may be interested in visiting.

Agritourism & Adventure Travel Workshop

Nebraska Tourism will be joining forces with South Dakota Tourism & Nebraska Extension November 5-7 to offer a three-day workshop catering to agritourism entrepreneurs and small business owners. The workshop will feature an evening welcome event and two full days of site visits where attendees will learn firsthand what it takes for a variety of tourism businesses to not just survive but thrive!

On the evening of November 5th, folk musician, writer and rancher Eliza Blue will keynote and perform live while attendees mingle and enjoy the tastes of South Dakota & Nebraska by sampling regional wine, beer, produce and crafts. The following two days will be dedicated to bus tours visiting a handful of northeast Nebraska's and southeast South Dakota's most successful and unique agritourism and adventure attractions.