Points of Interest
You’ll find something to satisfy everyone in the family in Sarpy County. From high-flying jets and military history to community theatre to a state recreation area and aquarium, there’s always something to see and do.
Ak-Sar-Ben Aquarium/Schramm State Recreation Area
21004 NE Highway 31, I-80 Exit 432
Home to the exceptional Ak-Sar-Ben Aquarium, this 330-acre state recreation area located along the Platte River offers spectacular views, three miles of hiking paths, and an intersting history of fishing activity in Nebraska. The site of the state’s first fish hatchery (1882), the old hatch house is now a fishing management museum. Inside the aquarium, 12 viewing tanks offer an amazing glimpse into underwater wildlife. Outside, nature’s bounty provides the perfect spot for picnicking and exploring. (402) 332-3901
www.ngpc.state.ne.us/parks
Bellevue Little Theatre
203 Mission Avenue, Bellevue
For those in search of live perfomance art, the Bellevue Little Theatre—now in its 37th season—is a treasured find. Throughout the year, experience award-winning community theater set in the heart of Old Towne Bellevue. Perfomances are on weekends.
(402) 291-1554
CLAAS Omaha (Formerly Catepillar)
8401 S. 132nd Street, Omaha
Where better than the heart of the Midwest to see one of the nation’s leading combine assembly plants? Boasting air pallet mobile assembly lines and an engineering protoshop, CLAAS Omaha is the most modern combine facility in North America. The 200,000-square-foot facility also houses a Ride-and-Drive demonstration barn, theatre, and showroom. Public tours are available. Call to schedule a time. (402) 861-1041
Cabela's
12703 Westport Parkway LAVista
Worlds foremost outfitter, quality merchandise, 128,000 ft shoroom is an entertainment attraction with museum quality animal displays and trophy animals interacting in realistic re-creations of their natural habitats, also a huge aquarium. Lots. lots more! 402-861-4800
www.cabelas.com
Children's Lewis and Clark Interpretive Art Wall
Haworth Park, Bellevue
More than 700 handmade tiles of original children’s artwork are on display in this one-of-a-kind structure celebrating the significance of the Lewis and Clark Trail. Art tiles for the project were created by children from St. Louis to the Pacific Ocean as part of the “One trail . . . mini hands” initiative. Come discover our nation’s history from a child’s point of view. (402) 332-5771
Holy Family Shrine
23132 Pflug Road, Gretna
Situated high atop a hill overlooking the scenic Platte Valley, the Holy Family Shrine is a 23-acre site offering travelers a welcome spot for rest, relaxation, and reflection. Colorful gardens and stone paths surround the visitor’s center and chapel. Take Exit 432, turn south on U.S. Highway 30, and go 1 mile past the Flying J to Pflug Road. Turn west on Pflug Road. (402) 332-4565
www.holyfamilyshrine.org
Offutt Air Force Base
Fort Crook Road, Bellevue
The site of the U.S. Strategic Air Command (SAC), Offutt Air Force Base is regarded as one of the highest-level military installations in the nation. In fact, it was here that President Bush flew the day after the September 11 attacks in 2001. The base—home to the 55th Wing since 1966—supports several vital national defense organizations. The wing staff includes several hundred peole who provide support in a number of areas including communications, logistics, operations, and mission support.
www.offutt.af.mil
Soaring Wings Vineyard
17111 S. 138th Street, Springfield
Located on a high hill overlooking the picturesque Platte River Valley, Soaring Wings Vineyard is quickly becoming one of the best wineries in the Midwest. Stop by for tours and tasting and pick up a bottle of award-winning wine. Open Thursday through Sunday or by appointment. (402) 253-2479
www.soaringwingswine.com
Springfield Old Fashioned Soda Fountain
205 Main Street, Springfield
Chocolate and whipped cream and sprinkles, oh my! Dive into an old-fashioned ice-cream experience at Sarpy County’s only true soda fountain. Located in historic Springfield Drug, the charming atmosphere and delightful treats will satisfy the entire family. (402) 253-2000
Tiny Town Village
I-80 Exit 432, Nebraska Crossing Outlet Center
Discover big fun for the little ones! The kid-size world offers plenty to do with a train, fire engine, school bus, water playground, miniature interactive houses, crawling tunnels, and more. Located near Gretna, the children’s fun center is open daily, summer through fall. (866) 806-4902
www.tinytownvillage.com
Weiss Sculpture Garden and Studio
13603 Pflug Road, Springfield
Witness great art in the making while experiencing the natural beauty of this two-acre retreat. Formal and informal gardens showcase the work of Carl Weiss and several other local and regional artists. From fountains to furniture to amazing sculptures, a kaleidoscope of beauty awaits. (402) 680-0642
www.carlweissart.com
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