Bellevue, Nebraska (Sarpy County) Travel Guide: 10 Fun Things To Do

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10 Fun Things To Do Near Bellevue, Nebraska (Sarpy County)

If you’re looking for a laid-back getaway near Omaha, Bellevue, Nebraska is a great place to start. It’s one of the oldest towns in the state, tucked right along the bluffs of the Missouri River in Sarpy County. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a weekend date, or just a day of exploring, there are plenty of fun things to do in and around Bellevue. Below are 10 things to do near Bellevue, NE that give you a mix of nature, history, good food, and local flavor.

1. Wander the Trails at Fontenelle Forest

If you only have time for one thing in Bellevue, make it Fontenelle Forest. This 1,400+ acre nature area feels like you’ve stepped into another world, even though you’re just a short drive from Omaha.
  • Miles of wooded hiking trails
  • Easy boardwalks for strollers and wheelchairs
  • Bird-watching, deer, and tons of woodland critters
  • Nature center with exhibits for kids
You can do a quick 30–45 minute loop, or spend half the day exploring. On a quiet morning, the only sounds you hear are the wind and the birds. It’s a perfect way to reset after a busy week. Tip: Bring bug spray in summer and sturdy shoes in spring and fall. The hills can be a little muddy after rain.

2. Get a Bird’s-Eye View from the TreeRush Adventure Park

Right next to Fontenelle Forest you’ll find TreeRush Adventures at Fontenelle Forest, a ropes and zipline park set high up in the trees. Think of it like an obstacle course in the sky:
  • Zip lines and rope bridges
  • Different difficulty levels for kids and adults
  • Harnesses and safety gear provided
If you’ve never tried a ropes course before, this is a fun place to start. You move at your own pace, so you can go slow at first and build up your courage. Older kids and teens especially love it because it feels like an adventure, not just a “family activity.” Good to know: Reservations are usually required, especially on weekends and holidays.

3. Step Back in Time at the Sarpy County Museum

Want to know what Bellevue and Sarpy County looked like 100+ years ago? Head to the Sarpy County Museum, right in Bellevue. Inside, you’ll find:
  • Old photos of Bellevue and early Nebraska life
  • Displays about Native American history and early settlers
  • Military and railroad history from the region
It’s a smaller museum, but that’s part of the charm. You can wander through without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. If you like local history or you’re traveling with kids who are learning about Nebraska in school, it’s a great stop. Bonus: It’s often free or low cost, which is easy on the travel budget.

4. Enjoy the Missouri River at Haworth Park

If you’d rather relax by the water, drive over to Haworth Park along the Missouri River. Here you’ll find:
  • River views and walking paths
  • Picnic areas and open green space
  • Boat ramp and river access
On a warm evening, it’s a nice spot to watch the sunset and listen to the water. Bring a blanket, a simple picnic, and just enjoy being outside. If you’re into photography, the river views and the bridge make for great photos, especially during golden hour.

5. Visit the Historic Omaha VA Medical Center Cemetery

For a peaceful, reflective stop, consider the Omaha National Cemetery and the nearby Offutt AFB and veteran-related sites in the area around Bellevue. This isn’t your typical tourist attraction, but many visitors find it meaningful:
  • Beautiful, quiet grounds
  • Memorials honoring U.S. veterans
  • Opportunities to teach kids about service and sacrifice
If you have a personal connection to the military or just want to pay your respects, this can be an important, grounding part of your trip.

6. Explore Offutt Air Force Base Area & Military Heritage

Bellevue is known for being home to Offutt Air Force Base, a major U.S. military installation. While access to the base itself is limited for security reasons, the area around it reflects a strong military community. What you can do nearby:
  • Visit local memorials and plaques honoring service members
  • Check community event calendars for air shows or public events
  • Support military-friendly cafes and restaurants in Bellevue
Even just driving around town, you get a sense of the pride and history tied to the base. If you’re from a military family, Bellevue often feels surprisingly familiar and welcoming.

7. Take the Kids to Zorinsky Lake & Area Parks (Short Drive)

While Bellevue has plenty of parks, you’re also close to some great outdoor spots in neighboring Sarpy County and the Omaha metro area. One popular option is Zorinsky Lake (a short drive northwest). At Zorinsky, you’ll find:
  • Walking and biking trails
  • Playgrounds for the kids
  • Fishing and boating (no-wake lake)
If you’ve been cooped up in the car on a road trip, this is a great place to stretch everyone’s legs. Pack a Frisbee or a soccer ball and let the kids run themselves tired.

8. Catch a Game or Event at Werner Park

Just west of Bellevue, still in Sarpy County, you’ll find Werner Park, home of the Omaha minor league baseball team. Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, minor league games are fun, low-stress, and very family-friendly. Expect:
  • Affordable tickets and concessions
  • Theme nights and fireworks on select games
  • A casual, local crowd
It’s the kind of place where you can show up in jeans and a T-shirt, grab a hot dog, and just enjoy a summer evening under the lights. Kids usually love the mascots and between-inning games. Tip: Check the team schedule online before you go—game times and special events change throughout the season.

9. Day Trip into Downtown Omaha (While Basing in Bellevue)

One of Bellevue’s biggest advantages is its location. You can stay in a quieter, more affordable area, then take a quick drive into downtown Omaha for big-city attractions. A few popular Omaha spots within easy reach:
  • Old Market District – cobblestone streets, shops, and restaurants
  • Heartland of America Park – walking paths and views of the river
  • The Durham Museum – history museum in a restored train station
Think of Bellevue as your home base. Sleep in a calm neighborhood, then spend a day or two exploring Omaha’s food, nightlife, and museums.

10. Eat Local: Diners, Cafes, and Classic Midwest Comfort Food

Exploring a place isn’t just about parks and museums. It’s also about the food. Bellevue has a nice mix of local spots where you can grab a bite before or after your adventures. You’ll find:
  • Classic American diners serving pancakes, burgers, and pie
  • Family-owned Mexican, Italian, and Asian restaurants
  • Casual coffee shops perfect for a mid-morning break
If you’re not sure where to go, ask a local cashier, barista, or park staff member, “Where do you go for breakfast?” or “What’s your favorite place for dinner around here?” Those simple questions often lead to the best hidden gems.

Planning Your Bellevue, Nebraska Getaway

Here’s a quick way to put it all together:
  • Nature lovers: Fontenelle Forest, Haworth Park, Zorinsky Lake
  • History fans: Sarpy County Museum, military heritage sites
  • Families: TreeRush Adventures, Werner Park, Omaha day trip
  • Relaxation: River views, local diners, quiet walks in the forest
Bellevue may not shout for attention the way bigger cities do, but that’s part of its charm. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, enjoy the outdoors, learn a little local history, and still have easy access to all the fun in nearby Omaha.

Share Your Bellevue Experience

Have you been to Bellevue, Nebraska or anywhere in Sarpy County?
  • Which park or trail did you like best?
  • Do you have a favorite local restaurant or coffee shop?
  • Any hidden gems I missed?
Drop your thoughts, tips, and questions in the comments below—your ideas can help other travelers plan their own trip. And if you found this list of things to do near Bellevue, NE helpful, please share it with a friend or on social media to spread the word about this underrated Nebraska town.
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