NEBRASKAland Magazine is dedicated to outstanding photography and informative writing with an engaging mix of articles and photos highlighting Nebraska’s outdoor activities, parklands, wildlife, history and people.
Issue link: http://mag.outdoornebraska.gov/i/1171334
50 Nebraskaland • October 2019 VALA'S PUMPKIN PATCH, PHOTO BY JEFF KURRUS MIXED BAG By Emerson Belitz, Nebraska Tourism Commission VISIT SARPY COUNTY Sarpy County, located in Nebraska's metro area, is filled to the brim with a wide variety of things to do, see and eat. Fontenelle Forest in Bellevue is one of the state's oldest conservation organizations. With its nature hikes, stunning boardwalk trails and new TreeRush Adventure course, Fontenelle is the perfect way to experience the natural world. Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch is a great place to spend an October afternoon. This pick-your-own farm offers hayrack rides, haunted attractions, trails and more. Or spend a day at Vala's Pumpkin Patch. With over 50 separate attractions, from the Pumpkinapolis 500 Carts to the Haunted Trail and Graveyard, you're in for a whole day of family fun. Take a trip to Gretna and visit the Schramm Education Center. This newly renovated interactive exhibit features 23 tanks and aquariums and is home to the world's largest common snapping turtle, Big Snap Daddy. Plan a full day at Papio Fun Plex located in Papillion. Featuring go-karts, laser tag and more, an outing here is sure to please younger family members. Or, visit La Vista's Beyond Golf to play indoors year round. Whether you're looking to practice during the off-season or just have a little fun, Beyond Golf offers over 250 simulated courses along with a bar and kitchen. Sarpy County is home to many unique breweries, wineries and distilleries, each with their own signature style. Sip on a handcrafted malt whiskey at Cut Spike Distillery or a barrel- aged ale at Lucky Bucket Brewing Company. Savor the taste of a California red at Wine Cellar 510 or the award-winning flavor of Kros Strain Brewing's Mosaic pale ale. If you're in search of great food at great prices, your next stop should be For the Love of Food Truck in Bellevue. Their menu, ranging from unique burritos to a legendary watermelon salad, will turn you into a food truck groupie. For fresh and delicious Japanese and Asian cuisine, head over to Hutong Sushi & Grill in La Vista. They serve signature items such as the Husker Roll, Nebraska Roll and La Vista Roll in addition to an extensive menu of sushi dishes. Visit We'll Smoke U BBQ in Gretna and enjoy their selection of pork, beef, turkey and chicken dishes, and make sure to try out their delicious Big A$$ Nachos. This small family-owned restaurant gives Kansas City barbecue a run for its money. Then top off your meal at Springfield Drug & Soda Fountain with a sundae, malt or traditional soda from the only true soda fountain in Sarpy County. Spend the night at your "home away from home" in Papillion at Cordes Cottage. This renovated 100-year-old house retains much of its original décor, and is a great place for retreats, meetings or weekend getaways. Sarpy County has multiple camping grounds that offer everything from primitive camping to glamping. Check out Falconwood Park Camping and Glamping, Walnut Creek Lake Recreation Area and KOA Omaha. Sarpy also offers a variety of more traditional hotels. For more vacation destinations and ideas in Sarpy County, see visitnebraska.com.