Like many towns across America, downtown Alliance is the heart of this vibrant community. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Box Butte Avenue echoes the footsteps of the past, lined with beautiful brick buildings bearing names of past owners and early-1900 dates. If these buildings could talk, you’d hear stories of drought and grasshoppers, business booms and busts, and devastating fires.

The town’s history began in 1888 and has a long lineage of agriculture, industry, and railroad. Within eight weeks, 250 buildings were built, mostly of wood and tar paper, carried in by the railroad. Within five years, three fires had ravaged Alliance, leaving behind a healthy respect for bricks and an improved waterworks system. In the wake of devastation and rebirth, the adventurous pioneering spirit of Alliance prevailed.

Today, as you stroll through the historic downtown business district, you will find a diverse collection of boutiques, shops and restaurants, each with its own distinct character. If you happen to be visiting on a weekend, the smell of popcorn will be drifting in the air from the Alliance Theater, perhaps one of the most recognizable buildings on the brick-lined street. The art deco facade, colorful sidewalk, and glowing marquee are unique and unforgettable. Further down the street is the Box Butte County Courthouse. Constructed of brick and stone, evidence of a lesson learned after the early fires, the building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1990.

Though, what truly sets downtown Alliance apart is its genuine warmth and hospitality, something that can especially be felt during community events. Every July, businesses, residents, and visitors alike come together for Heritage Days, to celebrate and honor their beloved town and for some good old-fashioned fun! Throughout the weekend you can collect candy at the parade, enjoy some delicious food from street vendors, cheer on cowboys and cowgirls at team roping, or take a spin on the ferris wheel, along with many other activities that showcase the pioneering spirit of Alliance. Downtown is also home to Bands on the Bricks, a bi-weekly music festival held during the summer where you can cut a rug on the cobbled street while enjoying delicious food from street vendors.

Regardless of when you visit, you will feel the strength, integrity, and love for not only downtown Alliance, but the entire community.