Looking for a charming, history-rich getaway near Omaha? Head to Bellevue, Nebraska! As Nebraska’s oldest city, Bellevue offers scenic riverfront views, military history, local parks, and easy access to the big city. It’s a laid-back destination with friendly Midwestern vibes and outdoor fun year-round.
Bellevue, NE Highlights:
- For History Buffs: Explore the Fontenelle Forest – Wander one of the country’s oldest conservation areas with boardwalks, wildlife, and a nature center.
- For Military Enthusiasts: Visit Offutt Air Force Base (view from afar) – Learn about U.S. Strategic Command’s home base and Bellevue’s strong military connection.
- For Families: Discover Haworth Park – Enjoy riverfront playgrounds, walking trails, and scenic Missouri River overlooks.
- For Nature Lovers: Hike Gifford Point Wildlife Management Area – Peaceful trails, birding, and open nature areas near the river.
- For Shoppers: Browse Olde Towne Bellevue – Stroll through antique shops, cafés, and historic buildings in the city’s original downtown district.
Best Time to Visit Bellevue, NE
The best time to visit Bellevue is from late spring to early fall (May to October), when the weather is ideal for hiking, exploring parks, and enjoying local festivals. Fall foliage adds vibrant color to local trails and river views.
How to Get to Bellevue, NE
- If you are traveling by car: Located just south of Omaha along US-75, Bellevue is about 15 minutes from downtown Omaha and 1 hour from Lincoln.
- By Plane: Fly into Eppley Airfield in Omaha (20–25 min drive) and rent a car or use ride-share services.
- By Bus: While there is no major bus station in Bellevue, nearby Omaha offers Greyhound and Megabus services with connections to Bellevue via taxi or rideshare.
Where to Stay in Bellevue, NE
- Courtyard by Marriott Omaha Bellevue – Stylish hotel with pool and fitness center, close to restaurants and Offutt AFB.
- Candlewood Suites Bellevue – Extended-stay option with kitchens, great for families or longer trips.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Bellevue – Reliable choice with free breakfast and convenient location.
Best Things to Do in Bellevue, NE
1. Fontenelle Forest Nature Center
Rating: ★★★★★
The Fontenelle Forest Nature Center in Bellevue, Nebraska encompasses more than two thousand acres of some of the state’s most beautiful lowland and upland forests. Guests are able to explore and hike over twenty-six miles of nature trails and the mile-long boardwalk, and take in stunning views of the waterways, lakes, and natural prairies. The nature center is also known for being home to a diverse range of animals and plants, with more than six hundred species, and features exhibits, demonstrations, and more. A place to visit year-round, the landscape of the Fontenelle Forest Nature Center changes dramatically with the seasons.
1111 Bellevue Blvd N, Bellevue, NE 68005, Phone: 402-731-3140
2. Bellevue Berry and Pumpkin Ranch
The Bellevue Berry and Pumpkin Ranch is located just outside of bustling Omaha and the town of Bellevue in Papillion, Nebraska. Visitors can pick their own pumpkins and berries, as well as view a variety of farm antiques and visit with livestock. For younger guests, the grounds include unique play areas in which kids can experience what life was like for children forty to one hundred years ago. In addition to vegetable and berry picking and the Great Pumpkin Roundup featuring more than twenty acres of pumpkins, several festivals take place at the ranch from spring through fall.
11001 S 48th St, Papillion, NE 68133, Phone: 402-331-5500
3. Sarpy County Museum
The Sarpy County Museum is operated by the Sarpy County Historical Society in Bellevue, providing locals and tourists alike with a historical overview of the town and the surrounding Sarpy County. While the museum is on the smaller side, it’s still worth a visit since there is no charge for admission. Visitors can learn about the history of Nebraska’s Sarpy County, dating back to the area’s original Native Americans up through present day. The museum is open from 10:00am until 4:00pm, Tuesday to Saturday, with the exception of New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
2402 Clay St, Bellevue, NE 68005, Phone: 402-292-1880
Where to Eat:
4. Stella's Bar & Grill
Stella’s Bar and Grill is particularly well known for locals in the Bellevue, Nebraska area for its “world famous hamburgers.” These fresh, hand-pressed burgers become the foundation for a skyscraper of possible toppings, ranging from the typical cheeses, grilled onions, and bacon to jelly, peanut butter, fried eggs, and jalapeno bacon. The restaurant has been featured by Business Insider, Gourmet Magazine, and UrbanSpoon, as well as voted by the Nebraska Beef Council as “Nebraska’s Best Burger.” Stella’s Bar and Grill is open Monday to Thursday from 11:00am until 8:00pm and from 11:00am until 9:00pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
106 Galvin Rd S, Bellevue, NE 68005, Phone: 402-291-6088
5. Lil' Burro Mexican Restaurant
The Lil' Burro Mexican Restaurant is a family-owned and operated eatery that has been a part of the Bellevue community for more than fifteen years. The goal of the restaurant is for staff to provide accurate, fast “service with a smile.” Lil’ Burro boasts being “picky” about the ingredients they use in their array of flavorful dishes, only using the best quality of ingredients possible, from the ground beef to the more than 100 pepper plants grown right outside the back door. Lil' Burro Mexican Restaurant is open for lunch and dinner from 11:00am until 8:30pm, Tuesday to Saturday.
12510 S 29th Ave, Bellevue, NE 68123, Phone: 402-292-0102
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