Rowe Sanctuary was created in 1974 by the National Audubon Society to protect habitat for sandhill cranes and other wildlife, and includes nearly 1,450 acres of river channel, upland and agricultural lands.

The Iain Nicolson Audubon Center is the second largest strawbale constructed building in the United States. It has many energy saving features and uses wood or other materials obtained from Nebraska or nearby states. The center has interpretive displays, a gift shop and an amazing view of nearly four miles of the Platte River.

During March and early April, the sanctuary's four miles of wide and treeless channels attract as many as 60,000 sandhill cranes plus numerous geese, ducks, eagles and shorebirds. The Center's large windows and viewing hall offer a clear view of the river.

During crane season, experienced sanctuary staff and volunteers guide visitors to secluded outdoor blinds to see the cranes return to their river roosts at sunset and leave after dawn.

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Other Area Attractions:
Cabela's
Fort Kearney State Historical Park
George Spencer Vineyard
Great Platte River Road Archway
Hastings Museum
Minden Opera House
Morris Press
Museum of Nebraska Art (MONA)
Nebraska's Platte River Valley
Nebraska's Rainwater Basin