Peru is located in Nemaha County between Nebraska City and Auburn, along Hwy 67, near Brownville State Recreation Area and the Missouri River.
Established in 1857. Peru was named after another community, Peru, Illinois.
Early settlers came to Fort Kearney, Nebraska but were turned away from the fort. These pioneers headed downstream from the fort and ended up at Sonora Island near today's Peru.
The Trace hiking/biking trail offers year-round outdoor experiences following the historic wooded bluffs and banks of the Missouri River where Lewis and Clark once plied the waters. Cross country skiing, fishing or hunting are also popular activities in Peru.
Peru State College offers business assistance and educational resources, plus cultural and recreational events and activities throughout the city of Peru.