Sarpy County lies between Omaha and Lincoln and offers access to Interstates 80 and 29. There’s plenty to explore, from forest trails and raptor conservation to river ecosystems, sports and history. A striking natural introduction is Fontenelle Forest in Bellevue, with 17 miles of maintained trails.
Forest Trails and Insights into Nature
At Fontenelle Forest, a network of trails goes hand in hand with a special look at wildlife conservation. The Forest operates the Raptor Woodland Refuge, a sanctuary for injured birds of prey. Along with the trails, visitors interested in habitats and their inhabitants can learn about this conservation work.
The Riverview Boardwalk at Fontenelle Forest is accessible to mobility aids and strollers. For a visit with children, Habitat Hollow offers another way to experience nature: its covered play area features sensory exhibits and hands-on activities. These offerings focus on different things—getting active on the boardwalk and discovering through play at Habitat Hollow.
Schramm Park: River and Wooded Hillsides
Schramm Park provides access to the Platte River water trail. The Schramm Education Center focuses on interactive exhibits about Nebraska’s aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Here, the river serves as a place to explore, while the state’s diverse habitats are presented through exhibits.
The two loop trails also offer different experiences: one loop is 1.5 miles long, while the longer loop, nearly 3 miles long, passes through wooded hillsides. Their lengths give you a clear comparison when planning how much time to set aside for walks. The park’s historic character is also reflected in the site of Nebraska’s oldest state fish hatchery.
Seasonal Experiences and Sports
Vala’s Pumpkin Patch is an agritainment farm in Sarpy County. A hayrack ride takes you to the pumpkin patch, where you can pick a pumpkin if you like. The property also features the Pumpkin Creek Train Ride, which operates seasonally. The three-acre corn maze offers another activity, with a design that changes every year. Since seasonal details may change, it’s worth checking with the operator about rides and activities before your visit.
In La Vista, Smash Park offers games, food and entertainment; offerings may change. Werner Park is the home field of the Omaha Storm Chasers and Union Omaha Soccer Club. The area’s entertainment options include both social activities and two teams that play their home games at Werner Park.
Recreational activities in Sarpy County include fishing, boating, hunting, camping, hiking and biking. The MoPac Trail is a key link in the 50-mile recreational trail between Omaha and Lincoln. Nature trails and longer recreational routes join other ways to explore the area actively.
History, Reflection and Regional Cuisine
The Fontenelle Bank was built in 1856 and is described as Nebraska’s oldest public commercial building. The Holy Family Shrine offers a quieter experience: it consists of a chapel and a visitor center and is intended for prayer and reflection. The Nebraska Vietnam Veterans Memorial Foundation’s “SHARE YOUR STORY” project features recorded interviews with veterans. The Sarpy County Fair is a popular event with a tradition dating back more than 80 years.
The dining options are also varied: Sarpy County’s food scene includes American and family restaurants, barbecue, buffets, pizza, international cuisine and frozen treats. Whiskey, wine and beer are also available. You can choose from familiar restaurant styles, international cuisine and sweet treats.
Discover more destinations: La Vista, Bellevue, Omaha, Papillion, Kimball County, Nuckolls County, Thayer County, Sheridan County.
For the broader travel overview: Nebraska.
