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About the Overlook Café
A welcoming place to gather, connect, and enjoy fresh food at the Boys Town Visitors Center.
Our History
The Overlook Café began in 1946 as part of Venerable Father Flanagan’s vision to welcome visitors to Boys Town. As interest in the Village grew, dedicated spaces were created to serve travelers and guests.
In earlier years, bus routes along the Lincoln Highway brought passengers to Boys Town, where youth helped build a simple bus stop for waiting travelers. By 1949, a new Reception Center and café were in use, serving thousands of visitors each month.
Over time, as travel patterns changed and tourism increased, the space evolved from a small diner into a full-service café and gathering place. Through renovations and updates—including the addition of the Hall of History in the 1980s—the café continued to reflect the mission and story of Boys Town.
From Bus Stop to Gathering Place
What began as a simple bus stop for travelers has grown into a central gathering place within the Boys Town community.
In the early years, youth helped build and support the café, assisting with operations and welcoming visitors. Over time, the café became more than a place to eat—it served as a setting for community events, celebrations, and important milestones.
Today, the Overlook Café continues that tradition by providing a welcoming space for visitors, staff, and students to connect, share a meal, and experience the hospitality at the heart of Boys Town.
The Citizenship Ceremony
The Café is home to Boys Town’s Citizenship Ceremony, where new youth are formally welcomed into the Village. During this meaningful event, they pledge to study hard, play fair, and pray well throughout their time here.
A Tradition of Caring
The Overlook Café also shares a small but meaningful piece of Boys Town’s story. While Omaha is known for creating the famous Reuben sandwich, Boys Town has its own unrelated “Reuben” connection through a youth named Reuben Granger—one of the boys behind the well‑known phrase, “He ain’t heavy, Father; he’s my brother.” That simple expression reflects the spirit of caring for one another that still guides Boys Town today, and it’s the same welcoming spirit we bring to the Café.
Visiting Boys Town as Part of a Tour?
If you’re visiting Boys Town for a guided tour, museum stop, or group experience, the Overlook Café offers convenient dining options for groups of all sizes.
