Scottsbluff was named after Hiram Scott, a fur trader in the 1800s. Mortally wounded during his travels, Scott was abandoned by his companions and left to perish alone at the foot of the bluffs along the North Platte River. Thus the name "Scotts Bluff".

A legendary link of the Oregon, California and Mormon Trails, Scottsbluff is steeped in history and filled with memorabilia from a time when more than 350,000 people forged westward on a perilous journey in search of a better life.

The Scotts Bluff National Monument houses mounds of historical information about the area and its people, as well as artwork and photographs of the West by frontiersman William Henry Jackson. It's a definite must for anyone wanting to learn more about the town and its place in American history.

The 10,000-square-foot North Platte Valley Museum in nearby Gering is another lesson in pioneer life. Exhibits include everything from an authentic sod house to artifacts from the state's first lady doctor. Other points of interest include: Chimney Rock, Riverside Zoo, Agate Fossil Beds, and Farm & Ranch Museum.

There's one 18-hole golf course in town and three others within the county. There are also 10 lighted tennis courts and several fishing holes that are open to the public. At J.C. Pond and Zoo Pond at Riverside Zoo, rainbow trout is the usual catch. Fishing at certain private creeks is allowed (with permission) and generally have high yields of trout.

The Monument Valley Pathways has a 2.8-mile trail that keeps hikers, bikers and skaters in shape. The Skate Park at Northwood Park also offers excellent facilities for skateboarding, roller skating, and blading.

A few miles away at Lake Minatare, motor boating, horseback riding, and camping are available. Nature viewing is also popular. And about 9 miles from town, some challenging hiking trails are found at Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area.

Scottsbluff, a dynamic link to America's past and present, is located in the western panhandle of The Cornhusker State.