Bellevue, Nebraska: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Bellevue, Nebraska, is a hidden gem in the Midwest. It offers a wide range of experiences for visitors. You can enjoy nature, learn about aviation history, and explore local delights.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the natural wonders of Fontenelle Forest Nature Center and immerse yourself in tranquility.
• Explore the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum to uncover the city's aviation legacy.
• Savor local flavors and charming shops in the vibrant Olde Towne Bellevue.
• Enjoy outdoor recreation and nature trails at Bellevue's picturesque parks.
• Attend the city's vibrant festivals and immerse yourself in the local art and culture scene.

Explore Fontenelle Forest Nature Center

Fontenelle Forest Nature Center is a hidden treasure in Bellevue. It covers over 2,000 acres, offering a home for many animals and a playground for outdoor lovers.

Immerse Yourself in Nature's Tranquility

When you enter Fontenelle Forest, you'll feel the calm of tall trees, winding paths, and nature's sounds. It's a perfect spot for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the outdoors.

Walk the trails and see native birds, deer, and other wildlife. Don't forget your binoculars to spot birds like the bald eagle.

Looking for a quiet walk, a tough hike, or just peace? Fontenelle Forest has it all. Admission is $15 for adults and $9 for kids, making it great for families and nature fans.

Leave the city behind and find peace at Fontenelle Forest Nature Center. Here, you can connect with nature and refresh your mind.

Discover Aviation History at Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum

Step into a world of aviation history at the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum in Bellevue, Nebraska. This place is a treasure trove for those who love aerospace technology and the U.S. Air Force's role.

The museum has an amazing collection of historic aircraft. Visitors can dive into the stories of these engineering wonders. You'll see everything from sleek fighter jets to huge bombers, showing the amazing progress in the skies.

Get ready to be amazed by the museum's interactive displays and educational exhibits. You'll learn about flight's technical side, key moments in aviation history, and the Strategic Air Command's importance. It's a great place for both aviation fans and curious visitors.

Walking through the museum's big galleries, you'll feel like you're back in a time when the skies were the frontier. The brave men and women of the U.S. Air Force showed what was possible. You'll see the rich heritage of American aviation and the tech breakthroughs that changed the industry.

The Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum is a top spot for anyone interested in aviation history. You'll be inspired, educated, and amazed by the stories that have shaped the skies.

Bellevue, Nebraska: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Explore the City's Highlights

Bellevue, Nebraska, is a lively city with lots to see and do. It has natural wonders, historical sites, a bustling downtown, and a rich arts scene. Dive into the city's highlights to experience its unique vibe and history.

Begin in Olde Towne Bellevue, a historic area filled with charm. Wander the streets, shop local, and try the city's varied food. Olde Towne Bellevue is full of local charm and energy.

Bellevue also has a vibrant arts and culture scene. Visit the Lied Activity Center for concerts, plays, and more. The city's public art shows off local talent.

• Immerse yourself in the city's rich history and heritage
• Indulge in unique shopping and dining experiences in Olde Towne Bellevue
• Explore the vibrant arts and culture scene, including the Lied Activity Center
• Enjoy the city's natural beauty through outdoor recreation and nature trails

Bellevue, Nebraska, offers fun for everyone, whether you're exploring the city or relaxing. Discover the best of this charming Nebraska spot.

Unwind at Lauritzen Gardens

Lauritzen Gardens is a peaceful spot in Bellevue, Nebraska. It's a 100-acre botanical garden that offers a calm escape from daily life. Here, you can enjoy beautiful flowers, quiet ponds, and paths that invite you to slow down.

Looking for a quiet walk or a day to relax? Lauritzen Gardens has it all. Its wide range of plants, from bright flowers to green leaves, makes a stunning view. It's a place where you can find peace and clarity in nature's beauty.

Lauritzen Gardens also hosts many events and activities. You can join guided tours, workshops, yoga sessions, or concerts. It's a great place to learn about botanical gardening, take a drawing class, or just find a quiet spot to unwind and reflect.

As you wander through, notice the garden's details. The paths, landscaping, and water features create a peaceful space. It's a perfect spot for locals and visitors to find relaxation and rejuvenation.

Explore the calm and beauty of Lauritzen Gardens in Bellevue, Nebraska. It's a peaceful place for locals and visitors to enjoy nature and relax.

Savor Local Flavors in Olde Towne Bellevue

Olde Towne Bellevue is the city's heart, full of life and flavors. It's a place where you can enjoy the best local food and find unique shops. Walking through its streets, you'll find boutiques and taste the diverse flavors that make Bellevue special.

Discover Charming Shops and Eateries

Olde Towne Bellevue has many dining spots, from cozy cafes to fancy restaurants. These places show off the local cuisine at its best. You can also explore local shops and boutiques, offering a shopping experience like no other.

The city's shopping and dining scenes reflect its vibrant community. With over 400 multicultural restaurants, Bellevue's food scene is rich and varied. You'll find everything from traditional dishes to new fusion flavors.

At night, Olde Towne Bellevue becomes even more lively. Meet up with friends at a local eatery or enjoy a craft cocktail in the charming atmosphere. This area truly shows the spirit of Olde Towne Bellevue.

Olde Towne Bellevue is great for a stroll, a food adventure, or a shopping trip. It's the perfect place to dive into the city's culture and find unique treasures.

Pick Your Own Berries at Bellevue Berry Farm

In the heart of Bellevue, Nebraska, the Bellevue Berry Farm is a favorite spot. It offers a fun farm experience. Visitors can pick their own fresh, juicy Bellevue Berry Farm berries. This creates lasting memories and connects people with the land.

The u-pick season starts in early June with strawberries. Later, blackberries are ready in July and August. It's wise to check the farm's schedule before you go.

The u-pick at the Bellevue Berry Farm costs $3.75 per pound. Some farms have extra fun like baby animal festivals. This makes the farm experience even better.

Remember to bring your own containers. The farm might have some, but extra is always good. The Bellevue Berry Farm also has other seasonal produce. It's perfect for a family outing or a calm day in the countryside.

"Picking our own berries at the Bellevue Berry Farm was a highlight of our summer. The kids loved connecting with the land and the farm's friendly atmosphere made it a truly memorable experience."

Enjoy Outdoor Recreation at Bellevue's Parks

Bellevue has a vast park system perfect for outdoor fun. You can hike, picnic, play sports, or just relax. These parks are great for families, fitness fans, and nature lovers.

Explore Nature Trails and Recreational Facilities

Bellevue has over 2,700 acres of parks. Mercer Slough Nature Park is a must-see for its wetlands and wildlife. The Bellevue Botanical Garden is another highlight, with its gardens and trails.

Kelsey Creek Farm offers a peek into Bellevue's past. It has historic barns and farm animals. For sports, try FootGolf at Crossroads Par 3 or golf at Bellevue Golf Course.

The Bellevue Zip Tour is thrilling, with seven ziplines high above the ground. Meydenbauer Bay Park is great for canoeing and kayaking. Larsen Lake Blueberry Farm is perfect for picking fresh blueberries.

"Bellevue's parks are a true oasis, offering something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're seeking a peaceful nature escape or an adrenaline-filled adventure, these green spaces are the perfect destination." - John Doe, Outdoor Enthusiast

Bellevue's parks offer a wide range of activities and natural beauty. They are ideal for outdoor adventures and relaxation. Explore, immerse yourself in nature, and make lasting memories.

Attend Vibrant Festivals and Events

Bellevue, Nebraska, is buzzing with community celebrations and festivals all year. You'll find music, art, and family fun. It's a great way to dive into local culture, try new foods, and meet the friendly people of Bellevue.

The Vala's Pumpkin Patch Bluegrass & BBQ Festival is a big hit. It lasts for two weeks and offers Nebraska barbecue, blueberry cobbler, and Bluegrass music. The Nebraska City Applejack Festival is also popular. It has a fun run, bull riding, water fights, a parade, and more.

Art lovers will enjoy Junkstock. It has over 250 vendors and 23 food trucks. The Crete Great Pumpkin Festival is free and has games, carving, a car show, and live music.

• Enjoy the vibrant Vala's Pumpkin Patch Bluegrass & BBQ Festival
• Experience the excitement of the Nebraska City Applejack Festival
• Discover the unique offerings at the Junkstock event
• Explore the free-admission Crete Great Pumpkin Festival

Bellevue's festivals and events are perfect for music fans, food lovers, or anyone wanting to experience local culture. They offer unforgettable moments.

Discover Local Art and Culture

Bellevue is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. The BAM ARTSfair, held since 1947, showcases over 300 artists. It attracts thousands of art lovers every year.

The Bellevue Downtown Arts Market, started by the Bellevue Downtown Association, features over a hundred artists. They come from all over the Pacific Northwest. This market offers a wide range of creative works.

Appreciate Creative Expressions

Bellevue's art scene goes beyond big events. It includes public art, theater, music, and dance. The city's streets are filled with murals and sculptures.

Local galleries and performance venues offer rich cultural experiences. Whether you love art or just want to explore, Bellevue has something for everyone. Its creative expressions will surely inspire you.

The love for art and culture is a big part of Bellevue's community. It makes the city a lively and enriching place for everyone. When you visit Bellevue, don't miss out on the unique art and cultural experiences it offers.