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26 Dec 2025
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7 Best Places for Weekend Trips From Bellevue, NE

Weekend Getaway from Bellevue, NE: History, Nature, and Discovery

This weekend itinerary takes you through a rich mix of historical sites, natural preserves, cultural landmarks, and world-class attractions all within easy reach of Bellevue. Start with a peaceful morning at Fontenelle Forest, where miles of trails, boardwalks, and birding opportunities immerse you in the region’s woodlands and wetlands. Move on to the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail–Visitor Center at Fort Atkinson to explore exhibits and reconstructed frontier buildings that tell the story of early American exploration and Native American interactions along the Missouri River.

Transition to urban culture in Omaha: wander the atmospheric Old Market district’s brick streets, galleries, and boutiques before touring Joslyn Castle to admire its Scottish Baronial architecture and period interiors. Garden lovers will enjoy Lauritzen Gardens, where themed displays and a conservatory offer year-round floral interest and photography opportunities. Cap the trip with family-friendly experiences at the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium—home to standout indoor exhibits—and the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum, which showcases historic aircraft and aerospace artifacts for aviation enthusiasts. Together these stops create a varied, engaging weekend filled with outdoor recreation, local history, horticulture, and hands-on learning.


Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail–Visitor Center (Fort Atkinson State Historical Park)

    Offers a well-preserved historic site where you can learn about the Lewis and Clark expedition, early 19th-century frontier military life, and Native American history; features interpretive exhibits, reconstructed buildings, guided programs, and scenic Missouri River overlooks—great for history lovers and families.
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  • Trip Point Pin2

    Fontenelle Forest Nature Center

    A large, diverse woodland and wetland preserve with miles of hiking trails, boardwalks, birdwatching hotspots, and educational programs; ideal for nature walks, wildlife viewing, seasonal programs (spring wildflowers, fall colors), and quiet outdoor recreation close to Bellevue.
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    Lauritzen Gardens Omaha's Botanical Center

    Beautiful, professionally maintained botanical gardens featuring themed plant collections, seasonal displays, a conservatory, and tranquil garden spaces; perfect for gardeners, photographers, and anyone seeking peaceful strolls, horticultural education, and year-round floral exhibits.
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  • Trip Point Pin4

    Joslyn Castle

    A stunning example of early 20th-century Scottish Baronial architecture set on landscaped grounds; offers guided tours showcasing historic interiors, period furnishings, and art—appealing to architecture buffs, history enthusiasts, and those who enjoy elegant historic homes and special events.
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  • Trip Point Pin5

    Old Market (Historic District)

    A vibrant, pedestrian-friendly historic district with preserved brick streets, unique boutiques, art galleries, and sidewalk cafes; great for strolling, shopping, live music, street performances, and sampling local culture and nightlife in an atmospheric, walkable area.
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  • Trip Point Pin6

    Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

    One of the world’s top zoos featuring extensive indoor exhibits like the Desert Dome and Lied Jungle, immersive aquariums, and global conservation programs; ideal for families and animal lovers who want close-up encounters, educational presentations, and diverse species under excellent care.
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  • Trip Point Pin7

    Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum

    Houses an extensive collection of historic military aircraft, spacecraft artifacts, and Cold War exhibits that trace the development of strategic air power and aerospace technology; offers interactive displays, restored bomber and fighter planes, educational programs, and outdoor aircraft viewing—great for aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, students, and families interested in hands-on learning about flight and national defense history.
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Restaurants

  • Restaurant Icon

    The Grey Plume in Omaha, Nebraska

    4.9

    The Grey Plume in Omaha, Nebraska

    Farm-to-table fine dining with a seasonal, ingredient-driven menu and a focus on local producers—great for a special-occasion meal after a day of sightseeing.
    4.9
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    Block 16 (Omaha, Nebraska)

    Block 16 (Omaha, Nebraska)

    Casual spot known for inventive comfort food and house-made burgers and sandwiches; perfect for a quick, flavorful bite in Omaha’s Old Market area.
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    V. Mertz

    4.7

    V. Mertz

    Intimate, award-winning restaurant offering creative multi-course tasting menus that spotlight regional ingredients—ideal for food lovers seeking a memorable dinner.
    4.7
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    Pitch Pizzeria

    Pitch Pizzeria

    Popular local pizzeria serving wood-fired pizzas with inventive toppings and a lively atmosphere—good for families and groups after visiting the zoo or museums.
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    Upstream Brewing Company

    4.3
    $$$$

    Upstream Brewing Company

    Riverside brewpub with a broad menu of brewery-fresh beers and upscale bar fare; a relaxed spot to enjoy local brews and shareable plates near the Old Market.
    4.3
    $$$$
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Hotels

  • Hotel Icon

    The Magnolia Hotel Omaha

    4.2

    The Magnolia Hotel Omaha

    Historic downtown hotel with upscale rooms and elegant decor, within walking distance of the Old Market and cultural attractions—great for a comfortable, central base.
    4.2
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    Courtyard by Marriott Omaha Downtown/Old Market Area

    4.3

    Courtyard by Marriott Omaha Downtown/Old Market Area

    Modern hotel offering reliable amenities and convenient access to the Old Market, Joslyn Castle, and nearby restaurants—good for families and business travelers.
    4.3
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    Hilton Omaha

    4.3

    Hilton Omaha

    Full-service hotel with spacious rooms, on-site dining, and easy access to major attractions and the riverfront—suitable for visitors wanting plenty of amenities.
    4.3
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    Residence Inn Omaha Downtown/Old Market Area

    4.4

    Residence Inn Omaha Downtown/Old Market Area

    Extended-stay suites with kitchenettes and complimentary breakfast, ideal for longer weekend stays and travelers seeking apartment-style comfort.
    4.4
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    Hampton Inn & Suites Omaha-Downtown

    3.9

    Hampton Inn & Suites Omaha-Downtown

    Reliable, budget-friendly option offering comfortable rooms and a convenient downtown location close to the Henry Doorly Zoo, Old Market, and dining options.
    3.9
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Dancing With The Stars: Live! - 2026 Tour

    Dancing With The Stars: Live! - 2026 Tour

    The event will take place at Orpheum Theater Omaha in Omaha.
    Map IconOrpheum Theater Omaha in Omaha (0.79 mi)
    Calendar Icon6 May 2026
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  • Event Icon

    Brad Williams: The Tall Tales Tour

    Brad Williams: The Tall Tales Tour

    The event will take place at Holland Performing Arts Center in Omaha.
    Map IconHolland Performing Arts Center in Omaha (1.12 mi)
    Calendar Icon18 Oct 2026
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  • Event Icon

    2025-26 Lil' Jays Club

    2025-26 Lil' Jays Club

    The event will take place at Morrison Stadium in Omaha.
    Map IconMorrison Stadium in Omaha (1.15 mi)
    Calendar Icon1 Jun 2026
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  • Event Icon

    Bad Self Portraits and Dedications

    Bad Self Portraits and Dedications

    The event will take place at Slowdown in Omaha.
    Map IconSlowdown in Omaha (1.16 mi)
    Calendar Icon27 Dec 2025
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  • Event Icon

    Yesterday and Today

    Yesterday and Today

    The event will take place at Slowdown in Omaha.
    Map IconSlowdown in Omaha (1.16 mi)
    Calendar Icon28 Dec 2025
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  • Event Icon

    New Years Eve at Slowdown (21+ Event, ID Required)

    New Years Eve at Slowdown (21+ Event, ID Required)

    The event will take place at Slowdown in Omaha.
    Map IconSlowdown in Omaha (1.16 mi)
    Calendar Icon1 Jan 2026
    Picture for New Years Eve at Slowdown (21+ Event, ID Required)
  • Event Icon

    Hotel Desperado

    Hotel Desperado

    The event will take place at Slowdown in Omaha.
    Map IconSlowdown in Omaha (1.16 mi)
    Calendar Icon11 Jan 2026
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    40 votes, 57 comments. What are really awesome places you would recommend a first-time tourist to visit in Omaha? Ideally something thats not too

    What are the best places to visit in Omaha for a first-time tourist?

    40 votes, 57 comments. What are really awesome places you would recommend a first-time tourist to visit in Omaha? Ideally something thats not too

    /r/Omaha
  • Reddit Icon

    Omaha has a great food, bar, and music scene. The zoo is amazing! The new heartland of America park, river front and luminarium(?) should be open, linking to the already outst...

    Is Omaha worth a 2-hour detour and extra day on my road trip?

    Omaha has a great food, bar, and music scene. The zoo is amazing! The new heartland of America park, river front and luminarium(?) should be open, linking to the already outst...

    /r/Omaha
  • Reddit Icon

    Lewis and Clark national historic trail downtown by the walking bridge, its part of the national parks. If you have children (or yourself) you can earn a jr national park rang...

    Omaha "Staycation" - what have I missed?

    Lewis and Clark national historic trail downtown by the walking bridge, its part of the national parks. If you have children (or yourself) you can earn a jr national park rang...

    /r/Omaha
  • Reddit Icon

    Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Stuhr Museum in Grand Island, Pioneer Village in Minden, Fort Kearny, the Pony Express station in Gothenburg (I think the museum is closed), Bailey Railya...

    Any suggestions of what to do along this route? Mainly NE and IA

    Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Stuhr Museum in Grand Island, Pioneer Village in Minden, Fort Kearny, the Pony Express station in Gothenburg (I think the museum is closed), Bailey Railya...

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    Check out Fort Atkinson, the first outpost of the west and where Lewis and Clark held the actual Council on the Bluffs with the native Americans. Great museum and the fort to ...

    Suggestions for honeymoon?

    Check out Fort Atkinson, the first outpost of the west and where Lewis and Clark held the actual Council on the Bluffs with the native Americans. Great museum and the fort to ...

    /r/Omaha
  • Reddit Icon

    No, Lewis & Clark Landing on the Omaha waterfront. It's built on the (capped) toxic land of the former Asarco lead refinery. https://steppingintothemap.com/anthropocene/i...

    What's the most underrated thing to check out while in Omaha?

    No, Lewis & Clark Landing on the Omaha waterfront. It's built on the (capped) toxic land of the former Asarco lead refinery. https://steppingintothemap.com/anthropocene/i...

    /r/Omaha
  • Reddit Icon

    The Strategic Air Command Museum is on I-80 between Omaha and Lincoln.

    Any suggestions for stops or small detours along this route?

    The Strategic Air Command Museum is on I-80 between Omaha and Lincoln.

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    Typically, its two adults and up to five kids. Looking at it, each library card holder can get a pass to Lauritzen Gardens once a year, Durham and Strategic Air Command twice ...

    What membership to an Omaha area attraction is absolutely worth it?

    Typically, its two adults and up to five kids. Looking at it, each library card holder can get a pass to Lauritzen Gardens once a year, Durham and Strategic Air Command twice ...

    /r/Omaha
  • Reddit Icon

    The Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines, IA with its large gold dome. Youll pass Lincoln, NE too if Capitol buildings are you thing. Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, NE, which is basic...

    Looking for stops to make in the Southern Midwest

    The Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines, IA with its large gold dome. Youll pass Lincoln, NE too if Capitol buildings are you thing. Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, NE, which is basic...

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    The Omaha Zoo is well worth the price of admission even in colder months. They've got a lot of buildings like an indoor jungle, aquarium, desert dome, etc, which are pret...

    things to do

    The Omaha Zoo is well worth the price of admission even in colder months. They've got a lot of buildings like an indoor jungle, aquarium, desert dome, etc, which are pret...

    /r/Nebraska
  • Reddit Icon

    The zoo is a must do, obviously. Check out the Gene Leahy Mall/Lewis & Clark Landing/Heartland of America Park that is downtown. Really nice park area with lots to do in the s...

    Tourist in Omaha

    The zoo is a must do, obviously. Check out the Gene Leahy Mall/Lewis & Clark Landing/Heartland of America Park that is downtown. Really nice park area with lots to do in the s...

    /r/Omaha
  • Reddit Icon

    Zoo, downtown/old market, catch a baseball game, Lauritzen Gardens, Aksarben, Fontenelle Forest, Coneflower for icecream. ... The Strategic Air Command (SAC) museum is great. ...

    July 2024 family trip - what to do and where so stay?

    Zoo, downtown/old market, catch a baseball game, Lauritzen Gardens, Aksarben, Fontenelle Forest, Coneflower for icecream. ... The Strategic Air Command (SAC) museum is great. ...

    /r/Omaha
  • Reddit Icon

    Fort Atkinson right outside of Omaha if you are history buffs. Its the first outpost of the west and the spot where Lewis and Clark held the meeting on the bluffs. Very over l...

    One week trip to Omaha with my wife - what do you suggest?

    Fort Atkinson right outside of Omaha if you are history buffs. Its the first outpost of the west and the spot where Lewis and Clark held the meeting on the bluffs. Very over l...

    /r/Omaha
  • Reddit Icon

    Luminarium, Childrens Museum, Strategic Air Command Museum (Ashland), Durham Museum, Lauritzen Gardens, Gene Leahy Mall playground, Fontanelle Forest (Bellevue) ... Funplex is...

    Besides zoo, other fun kid things to do? And best local coffee places or bookstores?

    Luminarium, Childrens Museum, Strategic Air Command Museum (Ashland), Durham Museum, Lauritzen Gardens, Gene Leahy Mall playground, Fontanelle Forest (Bellevue) ... Funplex is...

    /r/Omaha
  • Reddit Icon

    If this is your first visit to Omaha, the not so hidden gems might delight you :-) The usual suspects are the Henry Doorly Zoo, the Durham Museum, The Lauritzen Garden, Joslyn...

    Solo Traveling to Omaha

    If this is your first visit to Omaha, the not so hidden gems might delight you :-) The usual suspects are the Henry Doorly Zoo, the Durham Museum, The Lauritzen Garden, Joslyn...

    /r/Omaha
  • Reddit Icon

    Yoshitomo (sushi) is amazing and there's good places to get drinks/beer in the area. If you feel like/have time to go out of town at all, the SAC (Strategic Air Command) ...

    What are some less mainstream things to do in Omaha and the surrounding areas?

    Yoshitomo (sushi) is amazing and there's good places to get drinks/beer in the area. If you feel like/have time to go out of town at all, the SAC (Strategic Air Command) ...

    /r/Omaha
  • Reddit Icon

    The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha is one of the best in the country, but what I really like is the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum just southwest of Omaha of...

    Favorite non-touristy US city to visit for a weekend trip?

    The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha is one of the best in the country, but what I really like is the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum just southwest of Omaha of...

    /r/travel
  • Reddit Icon

    Most will include free passes to Fontenelle Forest and many other local attractions. ... Go to Henry dorly or the pedestrian bridge. Our forests are lame and look like normal ...

    Is Fontenelle Forest worth it?

    Most will include free passes to Fontenelle Forest and many other local attractions. ... Go to Henry dorly or the pedestrian bridge. Our forests are lame and look like normal ...

    /r/Omaha
  • Reddit Icon

    40 votes, 122 comments. My husband and I are empty nesters on a 26-year (so far) quest to spend time in every state. We are ticking off three states

    r/Nebraska on Reddit: Visiting Nebraska with no real plan. Any suggestions of things to see/do?

    40 votes, 122 comments. My husband and I are empty nesters on a 26-year (so far) quest to spend time in every state. We are ticking off three states

    /r/Nebraska

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    Warm, reflective track about returning to familiar places—sets a nostalgic tone for visiting hometown landmarks.
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  • Music Icon

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    Laid-back road-song with breezy tempo ideal for relaxed driving between stops.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    Classic upbeat tune celebrating travel and the joy of being on a journey—perfect for a weekend trip.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Upbeat, whimsical song that adds a cheerful, adventurous mood to daytime exploring.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Tom Petty - Wildflowers

    Tom Petty - Wildflowers

    Gentle, nature-themed ballad that complements visits to forests and botanical gardens.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    Energetic, driving anthem that keeps energy high during long drives and sightseeing.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Tracy Chapman - Fast Car

    Tracy Chapman - Fast Car

    Reflective, road-oriented story song that pairs well with scenic drives and contemplative moments.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Don McLean - American Pie

    Don McLean - American Pie

    Expansive, harmonious track that evokes open landscapes and the spirit of exploring national history.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    U2 - Beautiful Day

    U2 - Beautiful Day

    Optimistic, uplifting pop-rock that brightens mornings and outdoor activities throughout the trip.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Talking Heads - Road to Nowhere

    Talking Heads - Road to Nowhere

    Up-tempo yet thoughtful song about travel and discovery, suitable for winding down after a full day of touring.
    Listen on Spotify
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