Discovery Welcome Center

Corps of Discovery Welcome Center

                       Overlooking the Scenic Recreational Missouri River Valley

The Corps of Discovery Welcome Center was opened to the public May 26, 2001. It is in operation where two historic pathways, The Lewis & Clark Trail and The Pan American Highway (US 81), intersect. This new facility features a knowledgeable staff to provide information about things to see and do in the area. Hours for the Corps of Discovery Welcome Center from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.  Non- seasonal hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The center closes on some holidays.

The Corps of Discovery Welcome Center is a 501(c)3  non-profit venture, leasing a limited area of land at an established Nebraska Department of Roads scenic overlook. It is dependent on funds provided by memberships, donations, proceeds secured by sale of gifts and souvenirs, and fund raisers. Members receive space to display, or are included on a “What's Happening” calendar.  A recent addition, The Corps of Discovery Welcome Center Friends Organization, contributes financial support without seeking advertising space. Fund-raising efforts are ongoing.

Ample parking spaces are available for a variety of vehicles, including tour busses and recreational vehicles. Modern rest room facilities, with changing tables in both rest rooms, have been included. The building is handicap accessible.

Visitors and regional residents are provided with:

  • A variety of monthly activities
  • Motor coach tours leaving & returning to the Center
  • Traveling exhibits
  • Interpretive information inside & out
  • Artist displays & book signings
  • Educational presentations & workshops
Travelers have the opportunity to purchase regional items, including:
  • Lewis & Clark memorabilia
  • Regional products
  • Native American artwork and crafts
  • A Variety of Unique and Beautiful Gifts
The Corps of Discovery Welcome Center was started by the Northeast Nebraska Resource Conservation & Development (RC&D) Council and was strengthened by partnering with the Lewis & Clark Natural Resource District (NRD) in  Nebraska, and the Lower James RC & D in South Dakota. The planning committee worked over four years toward success, and has created a governing board of directors called The Corps of Discovery Welcome Center Council. Articles of Incorporation have been filed with the state of Nebraska.

We believe this opportunity to reach visitors makes sense. It “connects” with those who've already decided that traveling on US 81 (Pan American Highway) is a much more interesting way to travel. In the Spring of 2002 The Nebraska Rural Development Commission recognized it as one of the Top 10 Rural Initiatives.

The people behind this project live and work in the area and understand the value of making visitors feel welcome. The smartly designed building offers almost 3,000 square feet of floor space to showcase all that's important to travelers. The National Park Service will provide interior displays, and exterior interpretive panels.


For more information

Corps of Discovery Welcome Center
89705 US Highway 81
Crofton, NE. 68730

Phone: (402) 667-6557
Fax:  (402) 667-5536
e-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

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Last Updated ( Thursday, 19 May 2011 10:26 )