• Where is Gretna, Nebraska located?
    • The town of Gretna, Nebraska is a scenic and charming community.
    • It is located in close proximity to the larger cities of Omaha and Lincoln.
  • What makes Gretna a great place to visit?
    • While it is near larger cities, Gretna offers many things to do for both visitors and local residents.
    • The town features year-round attractions and seasonal events that draw in visitors.
  • What is Vala’s Pumpkin Patch?
    • During the fall season, many people visit Vala’s Pumpkin Patch.
    • It provides much more than just pumpkins, offering a fun and festive experience for families.
  • What is Gretna Days?
    • The town hosts several events, including the annual Gretna Days festival.
    • The festival takes place on Main Street every year in July.
    • It is full of family fun and a variety of activities for all ages.

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1. Vala's Pumpkin Patch

Vala's Pumpkin Patch

© Vala's Pumpkin Patch

  • What is Vala's Pumpkin Patch?
    • Vala's Pumpkin Patch is both a pumpkin farm and a fall festival destination for the entire family.
  • How large is Vala’s Pumpkin Patch?
    • The attraction spans over 150 acres, with more than 50 acres of pumpkins grown annually.
  • What is the Fall Festival at Vala’s?
    • Vala’s hosts a one-month fall festival each year, providing a fun and festive experience for visitors.
    • The festival runs from September to October.
  • What activities are available at Vala’s?
    • Visitors can search the pumpkin field to find their perfect pumpkin.
    • Take a ride on a tractor or enjoy a trip on the small train.
    • Explore attractions like the Spook Shed, Haunted House, Storybook Barn, and Pumpkin Mine.
    • Children can also have fun with pony rides.
  • Where is Vala's Pumpkin Patch located?
    • Address: 12102 S 180th St, Gretna, NE 68028
    • Phone: 402-332-4200

2. Holy Family Shrine

Holy Family Shrine

© Holy Family Shrine

  • What is the Holy Family Shrine?
    • The Holy Family Shrine is a glass chapel designed as a peaceful retreat for travelers.
    • It was created to provide visitors with a place to pray and discover the Catholic faith.
  • Where is the Holy Family Shrine located?
    • The shrine is found just off Interstate 80 in Gretna, Nebraska.
    • It is situated on approximately twenty-three acres overlooking the Platte Valley.
  • What makes the design of the shrine unique?
    • The chapel is made of glass, allowing for a breathtaking view of the surroundings.
    • The stone entry is framed by arching wooden beams, creating an inspiring architectural experience.
  • What is the significance of the shrine's appearance?
    • The shrine is designed to resemble “spirits in the heavens”, creating a sense of divine beauty.
    • The expansive glass walls provide a stunning view of the valley and prairie, embracing the natural landscape.
  • Where is the Holy Family Shrine located?
    • Address: 23132 Pflug Rd, Gretna, NE 68028
    • Phone: 402-332-4565

3. Cloisters on the Platte

Cloisters on the Platte

© Cloisters on the Platte

  • What is the Cloisters on the Platte?
    • The Cloisters on the Platte is a foundation that hosts spiritual retreats in Gretna, Nebraska.
    • It follows the 500-year tradition of St. Ignatius of Loyola.
  • What makes the Cloisters on the Platte special?
    • It offers a peaceful retreat set within the naturally beautiful Platte River Valley.
    • The experience provides guests with the “power of quiet reflection” for spiritual renewal.
  • Who established the Cloisters on the Platte?
    • The foundation was established by Joe Ricketts in 2014.
  • What is the Stations of the Cross?
    • Visitors can experience the Stations of the Cross, a 2,500-foot long walking tour.
    • The tour features audio meditations and 14 sculpture stations that represent the trail of Christ through his burial.
  • Where is the Cloisters on the Platte located?
    • Address: 23332 Fishery Rd, Gretna, NE 68028
    • Phone: 402-509-6250

4. Journey Church

Journey Church

© isara/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Journey Church?
    • Journey Church is a church founded in 2009 in Gretna, Nebraska.
    • It was created for people “who don’t usually like church” but still seek a faith-based community.
  • What is the mission of Journey Church?
    • The church recognizes that many people have not given up on God, but have given up on attending traditional church services.
    • It strives to be different from most churches and aims to help people on their own spiritual journey.
  • Who attends Journey Church?
    • The church is made up of people who have been on all different paths in their journey of faith.
    • Visitors and locals alike are welcome to join the community and explore their faith in a non-traditional church setting.
  • When are the church services?
    • Services are held every Sunday at 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM.
  • Where is Journey Church located?
    • Address: 11705 S 216th St, Gretna, NE 68028
    • Phone: 402-300-8090

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