Norfolk's downtown gems added to Nebraska passport program

NORFOLK, Neb. -- Two downtown Norfolk businesses have been added to the Nebraska Passport program, a move aimed at highlighting the city's unique offerings to both locals and tourists. V's Oddz and Endz and NOFO are now part of the popular guide that encourages travelers to explore Nebraska's attractions.

V's Oddz and Endz, described as a hidden gem of Northeast Nebraska, offers a wide array of consigned items, including clothing, decor, shoes, accessories, and purses. "We definitely have a little bit of everything in our store," said Elizabeth Vosburg, the store's operator. "Our motto is, 'You can find a lot in one place.'" In addition to shopping, customers can enjoy homemade food, with soups, sandwiches, and ice cream made from family recipes.

Just a short walk away, NOFO provides a unique dining experience with a focus on handmade, locally-sourced ingredients. "What makes us unique is we're making our own house-made Italian sausage, our milk, for example, comes from Hartington, and our coffee comes from Omaha," said NOFO owner Caleb Nihira. The restaurant prides itself on its commitment to quality, with all bread and pizza dough shaped and rolled by hand. The pizzas are cooked in a wood and gas-fired oven, requiring a dedicated person to manage the fast-cooking process.

Both stores are eager to welcome new customers and showcase their businesses through the Passport program. Nihira emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming atmosphere, hoping visitors will experience hospitality that extends throughout their visit to Norfolk. Vosburg echoes this sentiment, stating, "The biggest thing I want for customers is to make sure everyone feels safe and welcome."

The Passport will again feature 70 stops organized into 10 themed tours. Travelers will have from May 1 through September 30 to visit the attractions and collect their stamps.

Passporter’s can expect to find all sorts of new and unique destinations during their travels this year. Highlights include female-owned businesses, historic treasures, delicious eats and a tour dedicated to showcasing Nebraska's thriving Creative Districts.

Passports will be available at participating stops starting May 1 or can be pre-ordered at NebraskaPassport.com. Participants are encouraged to download the Nebraska Passport App on their smartphone for the option of digital stamps, supplementing the physical Passport booklet for convenience. Please note, the Passport app will be updated with the 2025 information on May 1. 

Those who used the mobile app last year will need to update the app to see the new program information. To download, search 'NE Passport 2025" in the Apple App Store or Google Play App Store.