Cities and Towns in Adams County, Nebraska
Founded in 1867, Adams County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Adams County was formed from unorganized territory. The city of Hastings is the county seat. With FIPS code of 1, Adams County has a population of 31,027 and area of 563 square miles (1,458 km²).
List of all cities in Adams County, NE alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Assumption, NE | 68955 | 402 |
| Ayr, NE | 68925 | 402 |
| Denman, NE | 68956 | 402 |
| Denver, NE | 68950 | 402 |
| Good Samaritan Village, NE | 68901 | 402 |
| Hansen, NE | 68901 | 402 |
| Hastings, NE | 68901 | 402 |
| 68902 | 402 | |
| Hastings Imperial Mall, NE | 68901 | 402 |
| Hastings Municipal Airport, NE | 68901 | 402 |
| Hayland, NE | 68955 | 402 |
| Holstein, NE | 68950 | 402 |
| Ingleside, NE | 68901 | 402 |
| Juniata, NE | 68955 | 402 |
| Kenesaw, NE | 68956 | 402 |
| Roseland, NE | 68973 | 402 |
| Silver Lake, NE | 68973 | 402 |
| Spencer Park, NE | 68901 | 402 |
| Wanda, NE | 68956 | 402 |
| West Blue, NE | 68901 | 402 |
| Zero, NE | 68925 | 402 |
Major Cities and Towns in Adams County, Nebraska
Hastings
Location and History
- Area: 16.48 square miles
- Population: 25,000 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 68901, 68902
- Latitude: 40.5833° N
- Longitude: 98.3833° W
Hastings, the county seat of Adams County, is located in south-central Nebraska. It was founded in 1872 and named after Colonel William O. Hastings, a prominent figure in the area’s early development. The city rapidly grew as a railroad hub, and its economy benefited from agriculture, including the production of wheat and corn. The city’s early history saw the establishment of local industries, and Hastings became known for its educational institutions and cultural offerings. Over the decades, the city has seen steady growth, driven by agriculture, healthcare, and education. It played a role in the development of Nebraska’s economic and cultural identity during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hastings is home to Hastings College, a liberal arts institution that was founded in 1882. It offers a variety of undergraduate programs and is well-regarded for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life. The Hastings Public Schools system includes several elementary, middle, and high schools, serving the city’s student population. Key landmarks in the city include the Bronco Statue at Hastings College, which symbolizes the spirit of the college’s mascot, and the Hastings Museum, which features exhibits related to local history, science, and culture. The Mary Lanning Healthcare is a central medical facility in the city, and the Central Community College-Hastings campus offers both technical and vocational training for students.
Grand Island
Location and History
- Area: 28.61 square miles
- Population: 51,000 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 68801, 68803
- Latitude: 40.9674° N
- Longitude: 98.3024° W
Grand Island is the largest city in central Nebraska and the third-largest in the state. The city is situated along the Platte River, which played a significant role in its establishment in the mid-1800s. It was named for an island in the river, “Grand Island,” which was an important landmark for settlers traveling westward. Originally established as a railroad town in the 1860s, Grand Island quickly became a commercial hub for agriculture and industry. The city’s proximity to fertile land and transportation routes fueled its growth, particularly with the arrival of Union Pacific Railroad. Grand Island became an incorporated city in 1872, and by the early 20th century, it had become an important regional economic center, especially in agriculture.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Grand Island is home to Central Catholic High School, a private institution known for its academic and athletic achievements. Public schools in Grand Island are managed by the Grand Island Public Schools district, which includes elementary through high schools. The city also hosts the University of Nebraska at Kearney – Grand Island Campus, which provides higher education options in fields such as nursing and business. Landmark sites include the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer, which preserves the history of pioneer life in Nebraska, and the Nickerson Gardens, a public park known for its beautiful landscaping. The Grand Island City Park and the Island Oasis Water Park are popular recreational spots for both locals and tourists. Additionally, the Cedar Hills Country Club offers a range of amenities for golf enthusiasts.
Cozad
Location and History
- Area: 2.08 square miles
- Population: 4,000 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 68930
- Latitude: 40.8695° N
- Longitude: 99.9875° W
Cozad is a small town located in the southwestern corner of Adams County, Nebraska. Founded in the 1870s, it was named after the town’s founder, John J. Cozad, a businessman who sought to create a community along the recently constructed railroad line. The town was strategically positioned as a supply point for travelers and settlers moving westward. Cozad’s growth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries was fueled by agriculture, particularly cattle ranching and farming, as well as by its role as a railroad stop. The town has experienced periods of growth and contraction, but it has maintained its rural charm and continues to serve as a hub for local agriculture.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cozad’s education system is managed by the Cozad Community Schools district, which includes an elementary school, middle school, and high school. The high school is known for its strong athletic programs, including football and basketball. Key landmarks in the town include the Cozad Museum, which showcases local history and pioneer artifacts, and the Cozad Water Tower, an iconic structure built in the early 20th century. The Cozad Country Club offers a scenic golf course, and the nearby Platte River provides opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and boating. The town also celebrates its pioneer heritage with local festivals and events that attract both residents and visitors alike.
Phillips
Location and History
- Area: 1.02 square miles
- Population: 1,000 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 68865
- Latitude: 40.5639° N
- Longitude: 98.3517° W
Phillips is a small village located in the eastern part of Adams County. Established in the late 1800s, Phillips was originally a farming community that benefited from its location near the Platte River. The village was named after J.W. Phillips, a local businessman and landowner. Over the years, Phillips remained a tight-knit community, with a primary focus on agriculture and related industries. While small in size, Phillips has maintained a sense of community pride and has supported agricultural development, including farming and livestock. The village has experienced some population decline in recent decades but remains an important part of Adams County’s rural fabric.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Phillips is part of the Central Valley School District, which provides educational services to both Phillips and neighboring communities. The town’s school system includes an elementary school and a high school, with a focus on academic and extracurricular success. Landmark sites in Phillips include the historic Phillips Depot, which served as a key stop along the railroad during the late 19th century and has since been preserved as part of the town’s history. The Phillips City Park offers recreational activities, including picnicking and sports facilities. The Phillips Public Library serves as a community hub, providing access to books and educational resources for residents of all ages. Despite its small size, Phillips maintains a strong sense of local identity, marked by its agricultural roots and commitment to preserving its heritage.
