308 Area Code

Area code 308 is a telephone area code in the state of Nebraska. It serves the majority of the western and central portions of the state, including the cities of Grand Island, Kearney, and North Platte. The area code was first established in 1954 as a split from the original 402 area code. Today, it covers 45 counties and is home to over 367,000 residents.

Cities and Counties that Use 308 Area Code

The 308 area code covers many of the state of Nebraska, including some of its most populous cities. The largest city in the area code is Grand Island, which has a population of approximately 51,000. Other major cities that use the 308 area code include Kearney, North Platte, Hastings, and Scottsbluff.

The 308 area code also covers many counties in the state. Some counties fully or partially covered by the area code include Hall, Buffalo, Adams, Dawson, Lincoln, and Keith. Each of these counties has unique characteristics and attractions, making the 308 area code a diverse and exciting place to live and visit.

All Cities & Towns that Use 308 Area Code

Approximately 300 cities and towns use the 308 area code in Nebraska. In addition to the major cities mentioned above, many smaller communities use this area code. Some notable cities and towns in the area code are

Broken Bow
Cozad
Gothenburg
Holdrege
McCook
Ogallala
Sidney
Valentine

The main reason for such a high number of cities and towns in this area code is the large geographic area it covers. The above area code covers over 60,000 square miles, making it the second-largest in Nebraska (behind the 402 area code).

This expansive area includes diverse landscapes, from the Sandhills region in the central part of the state to the rugged Pine Ridge region in the northwest.

Geography of 308 Area Code

The 308 area code spans over 45 counties in the state of Nebraska, covering an area of over 60,000 square miles. The terrain in this area code varies greatly, with the eastern part being mostly flat prairie land, while the western part is more rugged and hilly, with some mountainous areas in the northwest.

The area also has several major rivers, including the Platte, Loup, and Republican Rivers. These rivers provide irrigation and recreation opportunities and play a significant role in the area’s agriculture and economy.

The climate of 308 Area Code

Like most of Nebraska, the above area code has a semi-arid climate with four seasons. Summers tend to be hot and humid, with average temperatures in the high 80s and occasionally reaching over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Winters are cold, with average temperatures in the low 30s, and significant snowfall can sometimes be seen.

Spring and fall are the ideal times to visit the above area code, with milder temperatures and less extreme weather. However, be prepared for sudden weather changes, as Nebraska often experiences severe thunderstorms and tornados in the spring and summer.

Tourist Attractions in 308 Area Code

Although the 308 area code may not be as well-known as other areas in the United States, it is home to many unique and exciting attractions for visitors to explore. Some of the top tourist destinations in this area code include:

• Chimney Rock National Historic Site: This iconic rock formation is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the state and served as a mark for pioneers along the Oregon Trail.
• North Platte Rail Yard: The North Platte Rail Yard is one of the largest railroad yards in the world, covering over 2,850 acres. Visitors can tour the yard and learn about the history of the Union Pacific Railroad.
• Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer: This living history museum offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of the earliest settlers in Nebraska through demonstrations, exhibits, and interactive events.
• Carhenge: This quirky attraction replicates England’s Stonehenge, with cars instead of stones. It’s a must-see for any road trip through the above area code.
• Scotts Bluff National Monument: This imposing cliff formation was also a significant landmark on the Oregon Trail and now offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and a visitor center.

Education in 308 Area Code

The 308 area code is home to several reputable colleges and universities, providing educational opportunities for residents and visitors. Some top higher education institutions in this area code include the University of Nebraska-Kearney, Hastings College, and Central Community College.

In addition to these universities, the area code is home to many well-ranked high schools and elementary schools. These include Grand Island Senior High, Kearney High School, Lexington High School, and North Platte High School.

Healthcare

The above area code has several highly-regarded healthcare facilities providing quality medical care to residents and visitors. Some top hospitals in this area code include CHI Health St. Francis in Grand Island, CHI Health Good Samaritan in Kearney, and Great Plains Health in North Platte.

In addition to these larger hospitals, there are many smaller community clinics and healthcare centers throughout the area, ensuring that residents have access to quality healthcare no matter where they live.

Government and Administration

Most cities and towns in the 308 area code are governed by city councils or boards of trustees. Individual counties in the area code also have governing bodies, such as county commissioners.

As for the state level, the 308 area code is represented in the Nebraska Legislature by several senators. The Nebraska governor, Pete Ricketts, also represents the entire state, including the 308 area code.

Area Codes in Nebraska

Nebraska has a total of four area codes, with the addition of the 531 area code in 2011. The other three area codes are 308, 402, and 402.

Area code 402 was the original area code for the entire state and is still used for the eastern portion of Nebraska, including cities such as Omaha and Lincoln. As the state’s population grew, the 308 area code was created in 1954 to serve the western and central portions of the state.

In 2011, with the increase in demand for telephone numbers due to the rise of cell phones and other devices, the 308 area code was split into two parts, with the northern portion using the area code 308 and the southern portion using the new 531 area code.

Conclusion

The 308 area code covers a vast and diverse region of Nebraska, including major cities, small towns, and stunning natural landscapes. From the iconic Chimney Rock to the bustling North Platte Rail Yard, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this area code. Whether you live in the 308 area code or plan to visit, you will surely be impressed by its unique charm and friendly community.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What cities and towns are included in the 308 area code?

The 308 area code covers approximately 300 cities and towns in Nebraska, including Grand Island, Kearney, North Platte, and Hastings.

2. When was the 308 area code first established?

The 308 area code was first established in 1954 as a split from the original 402 area code.

3. What counties are included in the 308 area code?

The 308 area code covers 45 counties in Nebraska, including Hall, Buffalo, Adams, Dawson, Lincoln, and Keith.

4. How many people live in the 308 area code?

According to the latest census data, the 308 area code is home to over 367,000 residents.

5. What are some popular tourist attractions in the 308 area code?

Some popular tourist attractions in the 308 area code include Chimney Rock National Historic Site, the North Platte Rail Yard, and Carhenge.