Family Fun in Omaha

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Our Top Ten Things We Love About Fall

A fall treeline with overlay text that reads, Top 10 Things WE Loved About Fall.

Fall is such a beautiful season and it is a favorite for many of us!  It fills our senses with so much to take in and enjoy.  We asked our readers: “In addition to going to Pumpkin Patches, what do you love about Fall?”.  We loved the responses and put them all together and called it:

Our Top Ten Things We Love About Fall

1. Sights

Changing colors of leaves, beauty of nature, seeing the leaves fall, beautiful fall colors

2. Sounds

Leaves crunching under your feet, crackle of campfire

3. Touch

Cool, crisp weather, cozy hooded sweatshirts, snuggly sweaters, fun jackets, favorite jeans

4. Smell

Campfires, kettle corn cooking, foods baking, roasted pumpkin seeds

5. Taste

Hot chocolate, chili and soup, baking, kettle corn, candy corn (and peanuts!), hotdogs and marshmallows cooked over bonfires, s’mores, apple picking and eating/making apple pies, apple crisp, caramel apples, and apple cider

6. Football

Football, especially Husker football!

7. Everything pumpkin

Decorating and carving pumpkins, roasting pumpkin seeds, pumpkin pie, pumpkin pie flavored Blizzards and Shakes, pumpkin spiced coffees and creamers, pumpkin everything!

8. Pumpkin Patches

Going to Pumpkin Patches and Fall Festivals and enjoying all they have to offer – hayrack rides, picking pumpkins and apples, duck races, corn pits, being outside, fun activities, yummy food

9. Halloween

Halloween is one of those holidays that we can celebrate all month long!  We love decorating, haunted houses, and finding the perfect costume

10. Family

Enjoying Fall and everything it has to offer with your family was by far the most mentioned!  We enjoy snuggling up with kids for a family movie night, all the things available for families to do together, hunting, fishing, yardwork, celebrating traditions and creating new ones, just hanging out with the family, enjoying holiday feeling, indoor activities, family dinners, craft fairs, and building leaf piles and jumping in them!  Fall brings a feeling and sense of family.

What do you love most about Fall?  Anything more you would add? 

10 Fun & Free Cabin Fever Relievers in Omaha

A snowy scene with trees and overlay text that reads, \"10 Fun and Free Cabin Fever Relievers in Omaha.\"

I am very excited to be guest posting at ParentSavvy, a wonderful resource of parenting and health information for local parents!

Got cabin fever?  Staying active and finding fun activities to do with your family can be a bit more challenging in the winter.  Fortunately, Omaha is a wonderful place to live and visit and is full of family-friendly activities and events, including many that are free!

Head on over to check out 10 Fun and Free Cabin Fever Relievers in Omaha!

How do you stay active with your kids in the winter?  

5 Excellent Reasons to Visit the Omaha Zoo in the Winter

A group of baby large cats at the Omaha Zoo.

We love to visit the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in the Winter.  Although wonderful to visit at all times of the year, visiting during the Winter offers a different experience than other times of the year.

5 Excellent Reasons to Visit the Omaha Zoo in the Winter:

Amazing Indoor Exhibits

Most of the Omaha Zoo’s major attractions are housed indoors, and are fairly close to one another.  Enjoy the balmy Desert Dome, Lied Jungle, and Butterfly Pavilion.  Stroll through the impressive Kingdoms of the Night.  Watch the gorillas play in Gorilla Valley.  Walk through the newly renovated Aquarium.  For a moment, you might just forget it is winter outside.

Less crowds

The Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium brought in record crowds last year, which will only continue to increase as more and more people come to visit the best zoo in the country!  In the Winter, there are many times we are the only visitors in an entire building.  The little ones can get up close to the windows and see all of the animals easily.  Additionally, with fewer crowds, it seems that the animals are actually more active.

IMAX Theater

With a zoo membership, the IMAX Theater is free!  Choose from 3 shows daily.

Peacefulness

With less crowds, there is less noise, less activity around you.  There is a wonderful sense of peacefulness, the sense you get when being out in nature.  The last time we visited, we walked through the entire Kingdoms of the Night exhibit by ourselves, not another person in sight.  We could clearly hear all of the wonderful sounds of the animals while walking through the swamp – it almost felt like we were really there.

Baby Animals

Five African lions cubs (pictured above), two males and three females, were born on December 29, 2012.  With smaller crowds, we were able to stay and watch the 2-week-old cubs up close, and observe one being fed from a bottle.  This is reason enough to visit this Winter!

Looking for more Winter fun?  Enjoy 80+ Things to Do in Omaha this Winter (Many Free!)!  New to the Zoo?  Be sure to read Helpful Tips for Visiting!

What do you love about visiting the Omaha Zoo in the Winter?  Please share in the comments below!

Family-Friendly Halloween Events in Omaha!

A graphic that reads, Family Friendly Halloween Events in Omaha.

**Check back soon for 2013 Halloween Events!

Halloween is one of my favorite holidays to celebrate with the kids.  In addition to trick-or-treating on October 31st, there are many fun family activities where kids can try out their costumes, participate in parades, listen to storytimes, carve pumpkins, and celebrate Halloween all month long!

***See also Halloween Deals at Krispy Kreme and Outback and Orange Leaf!

Free Halloween Events in Omaha

Lowe’s Free Build and Grow Clinics – 10/13 and 10/27, 10:00am

  • Lowe’s offers free Build and Grow clinics every other Saturday at 10am.  Bring the kids to any Lowe’s store to build fun projects. This is recommended for children in grades 1st-5th.  Registration opens a few weeks before each clinic’s date.
    • Ghoul Bus – 10/13
    • Creepy Keeper – 10/27

Mangelsen’s Witches Tea – 10/13, 11am-3pm

  • It’s our 35th Annual Witches Tea – a great Halloween Party in the parking lot that is fun for the whole family!  Ghoulish Games, Face Painting, Balloon Animals, Halloween Crafts, Jered the Incredible Magic Show @ 11:30am, and Costume Contest at 1:00pm  – 5 age categories, no pre-registration needed.

Harry Potter Halloween at Barnes & Noble Booksellers – 10/13, 7:00pm

  • Select Barnes & Noble stores will host a Harry Potter Halloween Party for ages 7 to 16 on Saturday, October 13. Dress up as your favorite Harry Potter character and join us for a scavenger hunt and costume contest.

Omaha Public Library Halloween Events – 10/18-11/5

  • Many events including storytimes, parades, crafts and more at Omaha Public Libraries.

Halloween Event 2012 at Bass Pro Shop – 10/19-10/31

  • Halloween Photo Opportunity, Crafts, Trick or Treating, Grab an Apple Activity, Halloween Scavenger Hunt, Costume Parade.  See website for exact dates and times of all activities.

Mav Kids Halloween Party – 10/20, 11am-2pm

  • UNO Campus Recreation is hosting the annual Mav Kids Halloween Party in the HPER Building.  The Halloween bash features a haunted house, games, prizes and candy.  The event is free and open to the UNO community and general public.  They will be collecting canned food for the local shelves and towels and blankets for Town and Country Humane Society.

Special Halloween Events at Omaha Community Centers – 10/24-10/31

  • Special Halloween Events will be held at the following Community Centers: Montclair, AV Sorenson, Camelot, Mockingbird, and Benson.  Click on link for details.

Halloween Safe Night and Fall Festival at Papillion-LaVista South High School – 10/25, 6:00-8:00pm

  • Events will include a costume contest, games, prizes, bounce houses and activities for all ages.  Admission is free with a canned or non perishable food item for one of the Sarpy County Food Pantries.

Halloween Trick-or-Treat at OneWorld Community Health Center – 10/26, 4:30-7:00pm

  •  Kids ages 12 and under can Trick-or-Treat in a fun and safe environment at OneWorld Community Health Center, 4920 South 30th Street (30th and L, in the  Historic Livestock Exchange Building).

Halloween Family Fun Night at your Local YMCA – 10/26

  • Council Bluffs YMCA – 10/26, 5:30-7:30pm – Games, musical chairs, and make and take crafts.  Friendly costumes welcome.  Free to the community!
  • Sarpy YMCA – 10/26, 6-7:30pm – Free to members, $10/family for non-members.  Trunk or Treat in the parking lot, followed by games and fun inside.  Sign-up ahead of time.
  • Maple Street YMCA – 10/26, 6:30-8pm – Free to members, $5/family for non-members.  A fun-filled Halloween party for all ages. Join us for games, crafts, and food. This year we have a new Trunk or Treat, too!

Monster Mash Bash at Oak View Mall – 10/26, 6-9pm

  • Kids and Parents – Come to Oak View Mall and Celebrate Halloween Inside!  Wear Your Costume and Trick or Treat Merchants throughout the Mall from 6-9 pm.  Treats, Dance Contest, Costume Contest, Craft Table, Watch a Movie.  We went to this last year and my kids loved it!

Westroads Mall Spooktacular Trick-or-Treat Event – 10/26, 6-8pm

  • Westroads Mall will give away Free Trick-or-Treat bags filled with candy, terrific retailer offers and a Free child admission pass to Rave Motion Pictures, while supplies last.  The line for the bags will form at the Food Court entrance on the lower level. Children will then be allowed to trick-or-treat inside the mall at the various participating retailers.  Also special appearances by McGruff and Johnny Justice, AAA Nebraska will provide safety tips and free face painting, and The Omaha Storm Chasers mascots Casey and Stormy will be on hand to visit with trick-or-treaters.

Omaha’s Great Pumpkin at Village Pointe – 10/27, 10am-2pm, 7-8pm

  • FREE Family Festival with Pumpkin Carving, Fun Kids’ Activities, and Professional & Celebrity Carvers.  Join Lutheran Family Services (LFS) at the Village Pointe roundabout where hundreds of pumpkins will be carved, making up Nebraska’s largest pumpkin sculpture, representing the children waiting for a home in Nebraska.  Be sure to come by that night at 7 pm when the tree of jack-o-lanterns will be lit up and remain lit through Halloween.

Benson Boo Bash and Trick or Treat on Maple Street – 10/27, 10:30am-1pm

  • Come in costume to enjoy games and prizes, treats, popcorn, and bounce house at the Benson Community Center, 6008 Maple Street.  Bring your own treat bag to trick or treat to businesses.

Trick-or-Treat at Nebraska Furniture Mart – 10/27, 11am-2pm

  • Join us Saturday, October 27, from 11am-2pm in your favorite Halloween Costume for trick-or-treating throughout the store.

SPOOKTACULAR at Saddlebrook – 10/27, 1-3pm

  • Join the Community Center and Library for our Spooktacular Halloween event!  Bring the whole family to join us for storytime, crafts, and gym fun!

Halloween Meet and Treat – 10/27, 4-8pm

  • The Southeast Precinct (25th and Vinton Street) of the Omaha Police Department is hosting the Halloween Meet and Treat on Saturday, October 27th. This is an opportunity for kids to meet officers, and have a safe trick-or-treating experience.  Thanks Momaha!

Fall Folk Festival at Dee-sign Landscaping and Garden Center – 10/28, 12-4pm

  •  Fall Folk Festival will be held at Dee-sign North Nursery, 5602 Read St. (3 blocks N. Sorenson).  Free admission with Live music, bake sale, nursery garage sale, pumpkin painting, scavenger hunt, games, bouncy house, henna tattoos.  Halloween costumes encouraged.

Halloween Hoopla at Shadow Lake Towne Center – 10/28, 1-3pm

  • Kids, wear your Halloween costumes a few days early for a fun afternoon at Shadow Lake Towne Center!  Safe trick-or-treating at participating Shadow Lake Towne Center merchants displaying an owl in the front window, and free Hayrack rides.

Old Market Trick or Treat – 10/28, 1-4pm

  • Free fun for the entire family.  Get in costume and stroll the Old Market where participating merchants will be handing out treats.  Interact with strolling characters.  Music, activities, and storytelling sites will be located throughout the Old Market.  Maps will be available the day of the event at 11th & Howard information booth.  New this year…”Books Are Treats”.  FREE books are available to all on the Metro Transit Book Bus.

Halloween Fun Day at Village Pointe – 10/28, 2-5pm

  • Kids can wear costumes and join us in Center Court for fun Halloween games, face painting and candy for everyone.  Enjoy trick-or-treating at Village Pointe merchants with bright orange pumpkin signs in participating store windows.  Bring along a canned food donation to benefit the Food Bank for the Heartland or a donation of new or gently-used coats to be eligible for a drawing for a $25 Village Pointe Gift Card. All coats will benefit the Omaha Salvation Army.

Trick or Trunk in Aksarben Village – 10/28, 3-5pm

  • POWER 106.9 PRESENTS TRICK OR TRUNK!  Please come to Aksarben Village and Stinson Park to Trick or Treat out of NEW vehicles with your little ones.  There will be TRUNKS filled with candy on Mercy Road. Food and drinks from Jones Bros. Cupcakes, Godfather’s Pizza, Mojo Smokehouse and Ales, Wohlner’s, Kettle Corn etc. and Aksarben Cinema will be handing out surprises…all in Stinson Park.  There will be face painting and balloon twisters, bounce houses, hay rack rides and other activites for the children.

Halloween Story Time at Pottery Barn Kids – 10/30, 11am

  • Come dressed in costume for extra fun as we enjoy Halloween stories, activities, and more.

Halloween Storytime at Barnes and Noble Stores – 10/30, 11am

  • Join us for a not-so-haunting Halloween Storytime. Some of our favorite books are about monsters and pumpkins, as well as a few other not-so-spooky creepy crawlie things.

Trick-or-Treat at Pacific Street Hy-vee – 10/30, 4-6pm

  • Bring your little ghost or goblin in to trick-or-treat at your Hy-Vee on Pacific anytime between 4-6pm!  Frankenstein and his friends will be here to entertain and we will have an awesome backdrop set up where you can take some awesome pictures of the kids!

Toddler Trick or Treat with Sump Memorial Library, Papillion – 10/31, 9:45am

  • Enjoy a story or two and then trick or treat around the library and downtown merchants.  It’s a parade – costumes welcome!  Thanks Omaha Area Kiddie Fun!

City of LaVista Halloween Safe Night – 10/31, 5:30-7:00pm

  • Trick-or-Treating, Spook House and more!  Free hot dogs (courtesy of the La Vista Volunteer Fire Department).  Pumpkin Decorating Contest – Drop off entries at the Community Center 8 am-9 pm either Monday, October 29 or Tuesday, October 30.

Pumpkin Patch Party at Salvation Army Kroc Center – 10/31, 5-6:30pm

  • Free to All!  Come in costume and celebrate Halloween at the Kroc Center’s Pumpkin Patch Party!  Including a Pumpkin Push, Monster Pop Toss, The Creepy-Crawl, a kid-friendly meal & drink, and a keepsake Halloween photo for each family.  The first 100 kids (age 12 & under) get a free treat bag.

Halloween Events with Admission

Cobweb Castle at Omaha Children’s Museum – 10/2-10/31

  • This Not-So-Scary Haunted House offers stories, activities, and games daily.  This kid-friendly castle will be open throughout the month of October and is free with admission or membership.

Haunted Safari at Wildlife Safari Park – 10/12-10/13, 6-9pm

  • Go on a haunted hike, take a spooky ride, enjoy supper, roast marshmallows and participate in ghostly games.  Wear your costume and dress warm as this is an outside activity.  Children must be accompanied by an adult.  Reservations are required and cost is $15.00 per person, which covers admission from 6-9pm only.

Halloween in the Parks – 10/13-10/27

Grab the halloween costumes and get the family to the Nebraska Parks (click on link for further details):

  • 14th Annual Hallowfest at Ponca State Park – 10/13, 10/20
  • Haunted Hollow at Indian Cave State Park – 10/13, 10/19, 10/20, 10/26, 10/27
  • Friends of Arbor Lodge presents: Enchanted Forest at Arbor Lodge – 10/16, 6-8pm
  • Halloween Event at Two Rivers State Recreation Area – 10/27, 2-7pm
  • 2nd Annual Fall Festival at Wildcat Hills – 10/27, 1pm

Wizards and Witches Potion Party at Saddlebrook Community Center – 10/16, 10-11:30am

  • Ages: 2 – 5 years, $2/Child.  Come in costume for a Halloween celebration including a fun story, crafts, and a ghostly snack!  Registration Deadline: Sunday 10/14.

Healthy Trick or Treat Night at Omaha Children’s Museum – 10/18, 10/25, 5:30-7:30pm

  • Come test out costumes before the big night! Head to the museum to “trick or treat” around the museum for healthy treats provided by Whole Foods Market and fun things from Oriental Trading Company!  These nights are offered free with museum membership or regular admission. In an effort to be green, kids are asked to bring a reusable trick-or-treat bag or basket.

Spooktacular at Omaha Zoo and Aquarium – 10/19, 10/20, 10/21, 10/26, 10/27 and 10/28, 6-9pm

  • When the sun goes down, what happens at the Zoo?  Visit the Lied Jungle to see the free flying bats or stop by Kingdoms of the Night to see the nocturnal animals during their daylight cycle. The evening includes admission to Omaha’s Zoo and Aquarium after hours,  trick or treating and fun activities like Boo Bowling or Penguin-Pickin-Apples.   Get up close and personal with different Animal Ambassadors, special animals used for educating visitors.  Purchase tickets in advance for $7.00/person for Omaha’s Zoo and Aquarium members or $8.00/person for non-members online or at Guest Services.  Children 2 and under are free and do not require a ticket.

Trick or Treat & Airplane Peek at Strategic Air and Space Museum – 10/27, 10am-1pm

  • Trick or Treating amongst our aircraft, educational activities, costume contest for all ages and spooktacular prizes (special prizes for the best robot costume)!  Members of the 501 Legion Star Wars Stormtroopers will be available for photographs.

Halloween at Hummel Park Nature Center – 10/27, 10:30am-12:00pm

  • Join us for our Halloween Party!  Play the great pumpkin splash, search for spiders, paint pumpkins, and enjoy many other family friendly activities!  Costumes encouraged!  Fee: $1.00 drop-in.

Ghoulish Garden Adventure at Lauritzen Gardens – 10/28, 12-4pm

  • Come to the garden in costume on Sunday, October 28 from 12-4pm, for our annual Ghoulish Garden Adventure. Hike through the garden, and enjoy trick or treating at five different activity stations throughout the garden. Learn about pumpkins, spiders and other creepy crawlies, and make a few ghoulish crafts to take home.  Children must be accompanied by an adult. This event is free with paid garden admission or membership.

Halloween at the Castle – 10/28, 3-8pm

  • Enjoy “Kids at the Kastle” with Halloween-themed basement tour for younger children, and a “spookier” option for older kids, face painting and pumpkin decorating, apple biting contest and costume contest, scavenger hunt and trick-or-treating, movie on the grounds, fire pit and witches cauldron.  Food will be available for purchase.  All young attendees must be accompanied by an adult.  Tickets are $15/family, and can be purchased in advance or cash only at the door.

It is always a good idea to verify the information with the business before visiting.

Do you have a Family Friendly Halloween Event to add?  Please leave a comment below and I will add it the list!

Other helpful resources:

Helpful Tips for Visiting Vala’s Pumpkin Patch!

A close up of a sign for Vala\'s Pumpkin Patch.

My family and I love visiting Vala’s Pumpkin Patch.  It is one of the best Pumpkin Patches in the country and we are lucky to have it right here in Gretna!  Last year, we purchased a family pass and visited at least once/week with my two young children.  My kids love it, although I am not sure who is more excited when we visit!

There is so much to see and do, be sure to plan several hours (if not the entire day!) to experience Vala’s.  Free parking is available, although it is best to arrive early on the weekends to avoid long lines.  Enjoy!

Be sure to also see:

HighlightsA group of people playing on a court at Vala\'s Pumpkin Patch.

  • There are many activities for all ages to enjoy.  44 Attractions and 3 Live Shows Daily all included in the admission price.
  • My young children love the Storybook Barn, Hayrack ride, the huge slide, petting corral, Bunnyville, Ducky Derby, Pedal Trikes, and the Barnyard Adventure Ride.
  • My favorites are the Pumpkin Jump, Corn Maze, Lost Pumpkin Mine, and Family Pedal Carts (I cannot stop laughing when I ride those!)
  • Older kids and teens enjoy all of the above plus Pumpkinapolis 500 Extreme track and Haunted Farmhouse
  • Many Play Areas are available including the Applewood Play Area, Hackberry Hideout, and the Corn Wagon Play Area.
  • Live Shows add to the fun!  The Pig Races (listen closely for the pig jokes!), Pumpkin Cannon, Pumpkin Eating Dragon Show, and the Barnyard Animal Band (my kids favorite!) are all enjoyable.
  • Ample shopping for pick-your-own pumpkins, gourds, jams, cider, candy, and baked goods (you get to smell these on the way out!)
  • Reserve a campfire and cook your own dinner or s’mores!

What to Bring

  • Sunscreen, water, good walking shoes, and a jacket for the cooler evenings.  
  • Strollers – If you have little ones, it is a good idea to bring a smaller stroller for when they get tired (since there is a lot of walking).  It is a little difficult to move the strollers through the dirt walkways, and so a lightweight stroller is best.

Admission and Special EventsA large colorful wooden shoe with cut out windows at Vala\'s Pumpkin Patch.

Current 2012 Admission:
  • Mondays – Thursdays – $9.99/person
  • Fridays – Sundays – $13.29/person
  • Ages 2 and under are FREE to enter Vala’s
  • Purchase tickets online here.
  • Season Passes are also available for $29.00/person.  A great option if you visit several times like we do!

Additional Costs:

  • Quarters for food in petting areas.
  • Pumpkin Creek Railroad Train Ride $3.00 per person
  • Pony Ride $5.00 per child
  • Paint Ball Shoot-out $2.00 per person, 10 shots $5.00 per person, 30 shots $7.50 per person, 50 shots
  • Apple Sling Shot $1.00 per person, 3 apples $5.00 per person, 18 apples
  • Water Blasters $1.00 per shot

Available Discounts and Coupons

  • SUPERPASS: Purchase tickets to Vala’s at any No Frills Supermarket or Bag ‘N Save for $13.29 each.  They contain a coupon for $2.50 off a pumpkin and a “Vala Buck” for $1.00.
  • Half-Price Tickets will be sold on local radio stations throughout the season (Sorry – all of these have sold out)!  Check here for more dates on Vala’s Promotions Page.
  • September 21st and 23rd – Military Appreciation Day.  Show your active military ID and each family member will receive a discounted admission price of $7.39 per person ($6.00 off the General Admission price).
  • September 29th – Q98-Five and No Frills Supermarkets are giving you the chance to win No Frills Super Passes to Vala’s Pumpkin Patch with fun games.  Join Sparker at No Frills on Saturday, September 29th, 10am-12pm. Location TBA.
  • October 31st – Happy Halloween Special: $7.00 per person admission
  • Check Vala’s Promotions Calendar for Military Appreciation Days, Girl Scout Days, Home School and Home Daycare Days, and other special discounts.

Details

  • Where:  12102 South 180th Street, Gretna, NE 68028 (South of Highway 370 on 180th Street –Directions)
  • When:  Friday, September 21st through Wednesday, October 31st, 2012
  • Hours:  Open 9am – 9pm Sunday-Thursday.  Open 9am – 10pm every Friday & Saturday.

What do you love about Vala’s Pumpkin Patch?  Do you have a helpful tip to share?  Please leave a comment below!

Free Fall Family Activities in Omaha

I love Fall in Omaha!  Perfect weather, changing colors, Football, Halloween events, Pumpkin Patches, Hayrack Rides, and campfires all make wonderful family memories.  What do you love most about Fall?

Enjoy these free or inexpensive family attractions and events this Fall in Omaha!

Concerts

Especially for Kids

  • Rec’s Kids Clubhouse is a year-round youth program for kids 6-12 that encourages active healthy lifestyles through crafts, games and sports, swimming, drama, special events and field trips.  It is held every day after school, with extended hours when school is out.
  • Nature Nook at Hummel Park Nature Center – Join us for class to learn about bugs, trees, and animals while doing a craft, singing songs, and exploring outside!  All ages welcome.  Every Wednesday and Thursday 10:00-10:45am, September 5th – December 20th.  Fee: $1.00 drop in per child (2 and older).
  • Jr. Adventure Club at Hummel Park Nature Center – Every Saturday morning, staff will lead kids in a variety of adventures that include hiking, games, stories, crafts, and more!  All ages welcome.  Saturdays 10:30-11:15am, September 8th – December 22nd.  Fee: $1.00 drop in per child (2 and older).

Farmer’s Markets 

Fall Festivals and Special Events

  • Museum Day Live! – 9/29 – Free Admission to Participating Museums with ticket
  • First Friday Old Market – Held the first Friday of each month, 6-9pm, First Friday is a free event celebrating local creativity in Omaha’s most historic neighborhood.
  • Food Day Omaha – 10/21, 9am-1pm, at the Omaha Farmers Market at Aksarben Village

Outdoor Activities at Gene Leahy Mall  – Mondays – Thursdays, 5/7-9/27

  • The Omaha Downtown Improvement District Association (DID) will offer FREE activities and mini events all summer at the Gene Leahy Mall! Activities will be held from 5:30-6:30 p.m., Mondays-Thursdays during the months of May, June, August and September at 14th & Farnam Streets.
    • Mondays – Family Fun
    • Tuesdays & Thursdays – Boot Camp Exercise Classes
    • Wednesdays – Arts & Culture

Special Events at Pumpkin Patches

  • Vala’s Pumpkin Patch – September 21st and 23rd – Military Appreciation Day.  Show your active military ID and each family member will receive a discounted admission price of $7.39 per person ($6.00 off the General Admission price).
  • Camp Fontanelle Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze – October 21st – Toys for Tots – Bring a girls or boys new toy valued at $5 or more and get free admission!  One toy = one free admission.  Marines will receive toys 2-5 pm.

Storytimes

Fall Printables

It is always a good idea to verify the information with the business before visiting.

Do you have a Free Fall Activity to add?  Please leave a comment below and I will add it the list!

Other helpful resources:

Omaha Area Pumpkin Patches and Fall Festivals

A pumpkin patch with overlay text that reads, Omaha Area Pumpkin Patches and Fall Festivals.

Visit updated Omaha Area Pumpkin Patches, Corn Mazes, and Fall Festivals here!

It is that time of year!  Cooler temperatures.  Changing colors.  Pumpkin patches, apple orchards, corn mazes, hayrack rides, and Fall Festivals have become a favorite Fall tradition for many local families.  There are so many to choose from in the Omaha and surrounding areas with something for everyone.  As always, it is a good idea to verify with the business before visiting.

If you know of any locations not on this list, or available discounts or coupons, please leave a comment below and I will add it to the list.  Enjoy!

See also:

 

Arbor Day Tree Farm Adventure

Where:  2611 Arbor Avenue, Nebraska City, NE 68410 (Directions)

Contact: (402) 873-8717, [email protected]

When: Open daily.

Hours:  Monday–Friday: 9:00am – 5:00pm, Saturday: 9:00 am – 6:00pm, Sunday: 10:00am – 6:00pm

Admission:  Adults $6.50, Children aged 3–12 $4.50, Children 2 and under FREE (includes a tree seedling to plant at home and your choice of a tree identification guide or children’s activity guide)  Buy Tickets Online here.

Highlights:  Includes 260 beautiful acres to enjoy.  Here you can climb a treehouse 50 feet high, hike miles of scenic nature trails, pick apples at apple orchards, walk through corn maze, enjoy the Discovery Ride, or stay at the Lied Lodge.

Special Events: September 15-16: Applejack Festival in Nebraska City

 

Bellevue Berry Farm and Pumpkin Ranch

Where: 11001 South 48th Street, Bellevue, NE  68133 (just off of S. 48th Street between Cornhusker & HWY 370 – Directions)

Contact: 402-331-5500, [email protected]

When: September 23rd for daytime hours, September 28th for evening hours, through October 31st

Hours: Mondays- closed except Columbus Day 10 a.m – 8 p.m., Tues-Thursday- 10am till 8pm, Fri- Saturday- 10am till 6pm (daytime) 6pm-11pm (nighttime), Sundays- 10am till 6pm (daytime) 6pm-10pm (nighttime)

Admission: Daytime admission is $6/person weekday, $8/person weekend with kids 2 and under free.  This includes everything the farm has to offer plus a hayrack ride.  Check website for evening packages.

Highlights: Old West ghost town, tree house, Ranch of Terror Haunted House, pumpkin picking, Pirate Caves, train ride, corn maze, pirates swing, and Pirate Ship.  The kids will enjoy How the West Was fun play area featuring a fun barn, slides, zip lines, climbing nets and swings.  See answers to your Frequently Asked Questions here.

New this year: Visitors can enjoy a new Carnevil Area (full of games and halloween fun).

 

Bloom Where You’re Planted Pumpkin Patch

Where:  911-108th Street, Avoca, Nebraska 68307 (35 miles south of Omaha, Directions)

Contact:  (402) 267-4104, [email protected]

When:  Sept. 15 – Oct. 28, 2012

Hours:  Fridays 1-6 p.m.  Saturdays & Sundays 10 a.m.- 6 p.m.

Admission:  $4.75/person (includes tax). Ages 2 & under FREE.

Highlights:  Enjoy family fun at this pumpkin patch and educational farm with activities including Hayrides, Nature Trails, Farm Animals, Corn Box, Play Areas, and Swings in a beautiful seasonal setting.

Special Events: Sept. 22 – Military Family Day. FREE admission to military personnel and their immediate family when presenting a valid military ID, plus Doggy Day (10/6), Ag Day (10/13), Goblin’s Egg Hunt (10/27), and Halloween Party (10/28).

*** Read the Review of our fun visit to Bloom Where You’re Planted Pumpkin Patch!

 

Camp Fontanelle Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze

Where:  9677 County Road 3, Fontanelle, NE 68044 (Directions)

Contact: General Hotline: (402) 478-4294, Phone: (402) 478-4296, [email protected]

When:  Sunday September 16, 2012 – Sunday November 4, 2012

Hours:  Saturdays and Sundays: 1 pm to 7 pm

Admission:  Children ages 3-11 $4.00, Adults ages 12+ $6.00, Cash or Check Only

Discounts / Coupons:  Coupon available by completing this form.

Highlights:  Farm animals, campfires, sandbox, hayride, trikes, and jumping pillow.

Special Events: Movie nights, Haunted maze, and Toys for Tots

 

Ditmar’s Orchard and Vineyard

Where:  19475 225th Street Council Bluffs, Iowa (Directions)

Contact: 712-256-7053, [email protected]

Hours:  Tuesday – Thursday: 10AM-6PM, Friday – Saturday: 10AM-8PM, Sunday: 11AM-5PM.  CLOSED MONDAYS

Admission:  Wristbands are $4 for children and $2 for adults.  Wristbands are required for access to the kids activities at Ditmars Orchard.

Highlights:  From their website, “Experience good old-fashioned outdoor fun at the Orchard.  Of course, coming to pick fruit and pumpkins is always a favorite activity, but we also offer several fun attractions that will entertain “kids” of all ages.”  Highlights include a 5-acre Corn Maze, Mini Maze, Prarie Ponies, Tractor rides (available on weekends only), corn box, and playground.  Check out a review here from a local family!

Special Events: September 7-9: Fields of Flight Hot Air Balloon Festival; September 22-23: Midwest Winds Kite Fliers

 

Gifford Farm Fall Festival 

Where:  700 Camp Gifford Road, Bellevue, NE 68005

Contact: (402) 597-4920

When:  Saturday, October 6, 10AM – 4PM; Sunday, October 7, 11AM – 4PM

Admission:  $5 includes hay rack ride and Gifford Farm programs.  All proceeds go towards Gifford Farm Missouri River Flood fund.

Highlights:  Enjoy a day of old fashioned fun on the farm!  Friendly farm animals, games, raffle prizes, pony rides, hay rack ride, food and much more!  Come and play in our brand new Outdoor Nature Classroom, too!

Kimmel Orchard

Where:  5995 G Rd, Nebraska City, NE 68410 (Directions)

Contact: (402) 873-5293, [email protected]

When:  Now through November 15, 2012

Hours:  Monday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00

Highlights:  U-pick or pre-picked apples.  Applejack Festival, September 14-16th.

 

Martin’s Hillside Orchard

Where:  2024 Ashland Road, Ceresco, NE  (about 45 miles west of Omaha, Directions)

Contact: 402-665-2140

Hours:  Fall Hours (Sept 4-end of Oct) Tues- Sat – 10 am-6 pm, Sundays – Noon-6pm

Admission:  Orchard Entry Fee – $4/person; $15/family (Under 2 yrs free).  Cash or check only.

Highlights:  Pick your own fruit, butterfly garden, discovery trail, corn maze, gourd cave, straw tower, tire mountain, bear tunnel, tractor trike track, corn tepee, climbing fort, tire swing, and wagon rides.

 

Pioneer Trail Orchard and Pumpkin Patch

Where:  21534 Chestnut Rd, Council Bluffs Ia 51503  (Directions)

Contact:  (712)366-1505, [email protected]

Hours:  Wednesday through Thursday – 5 pm to 9 pm, Friday – 5 pm to 10 pm, Saturday – 10 am to 10 pm, Sunday – noon to 7:00 pm

Admission:  Admission $5.00 per person, age 2 and under free

Highlights:  Pick Your Own Pumpkin Patch, Haunted House & Barn, Hay Rack Rides, Play Areas for the Kids, plus more.

 

Pooley’s Pumpkin Patch

Sadly, Pooley’s will not be open for the 2012 season.

 

Roca Berry Farm

Where:  16531 S 38th St, Roca, NE 68430 (South of Lincoln, Directions)

Contact:  (402) 421-2255, [email protected]

When:  Open daily Sept. 22nd – Oct. 31st

Hours:  9am – 7pm

Admission:  Weekday: $6.50/person (Kids Under 18 months FREE Mon-Fri), Weekend: $9.00/person (Kids Under 2 FREE on Weekends)

Highlights:  Farm Animals, 2 Trike Trails, Life-size Candyland Game, Bunnyville, Hayrack Ride to the Pumpkin Patch, Roca Berry Express Trackless Trains, Howling Hill 40 ft. Fun Slide, Corn Maze, Jumping Pillows, Racing slide, Prairie Dog Show, and Puzzle Mazes.

New this year: Apple House, New Roca 500, New Western Theme Trike Trail, Duck Races

 

Skinny Bones Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze

Where:  3935 Hwy 133, Blair, NE 68008 (Directions)

Contact:  402-426-2295, [email protected]

When:  Friday, September 14 – October 31, 2012

Hours:  Monday – Thursday: 10am-3pm; Friday – Saturday: 10am-10pm; Sunday: 10am-7pm

Admission:  General Pack $7, Bones Pack $13, Monster Pack $18.  Special pricing after dark.  See details here.

Highlights:  Corn Maze, Hayrack Ride, Mad Cow Ride, Eerie Trail, Petting Zoo, and Bounce Castle.

 

Vala’s Pumpkin Patch

Where:  12102 South 180th Street, Gretna, NE 68028 (South of Highway 370 on 180th Street – Directions)

Contact:  (402) 332-4200, [email protected]

When:  Friday, September 21st through Wednesday, October 31st, 2012

Hours:  Open 9am to 9pm Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday.  Open 9am to 10pm every Friday, & Saturday.

Admission:  Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays – $9.99/person.  Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays – $13.29/person.  Ages 2 and under are FREE to enter Vala’s.  Purchase tickets online here.  Season Passes are also available for $29.00/person.

Discounts / Coupons:  Pinpoint Rewards (an awesome free discount and rewards program in Omaha) has been running special Vala’s promotions all season.  Follow Pinpoint Rewards on Facebook for details.

SUPERPASS: You may also purchase tickets to Vala’s at any No Frills Supermarket or Bag ‘N Save in the greater Omaha area.  These “SUPERPASSES” are $13.29 each and contain a coupon for $2.50 off a pumpkin and a “Vala Buck” for $1.00. Total value of the SUPERPASS is $16.79! For a listing of store locations, go to www.nofrillssupermarkets.com.

Check Vala’s Event Calendar for Military Appreciation Days, Girl Scout Days, and other special discounts.

Highlights:  One of the best Pumpkin Patches in the country is right here in Gretna!  This family business is a favorite fall tradition.  Enjoy 49 attractions and 3 live shows daily, including Pig Races, Pumpkin Chuckin’ Cannon Show, Hayrack Rides, Barnyard Adventure Ride, Peddle Cars, Pumpkin Mine, Storybook Barn, 3-Acre Corn Maze, Applewood Play Area, Spook Shed, and the popular Great Pumpkin Jump.  Plan to spend an entire day here, and try to arrive early.  Great fun for the entire family!

Also see Helpful Tips for Visiting Vala’s and What’s New in 2012!

 

Wenninghoff’s Farm and Pumpkin Patch

Where: 6707 Wenninghoff Road, Omaha, NE  68122  (Corner of Wenninghoff Road and Sorensen Parkway – Directions)

Contact: 402-571-2057, [email protected]

When: Last weekend in September – October 31st

Hours: Saturday & Sunday: 10 am-7 pm; Monday-Friday: 9 am-7 pm.  *Hayrides do not run during school hours unless field trips are scheduled.

Admission: $6 per person includes ALL activities plus a hayride, petting zoo, corn maze & playground

Highlights:  From their website, “At Wenninghoff’s, the fall season is not about wicked witches, blood thirsty bats, or spooky goblins. It’s about the simple things in life like the fall harvest and having good old-fashioned, “playin’-in-the-dirt” kind of fun.”  This is a great place for younger kids and their families.  Some of the activities include a Dress Up Barn, Hula Hoop Toss, Bean Bag Toss, Hay Bale Climbing, Animals, Combine Slide, Tractors, and a fun Corn Maze.

 

If you know of any locations not on this list, or available discounts or coupons, please leave a comment below and I will add it to the list.  

What are your favorite activities to do at the pumpkin patch?  

PinPoint Rewards: Free Discount and Reward Program in Omaha!

Have you heard of PinPoint Rewards?  It is a Free and simple way to receive great coupons and wonderful rewards from popular Omaha stores and restaurants!  I love my Pinpoint Card, and use it often to save on dining and entertainment.

Highlights

Welcome Rewards – Upon enrolling, members will receive high value coupons such as Free Items and ‘Buy 1, Get 1 Free’ to favorite locations like Charlie’s on the Lake, Cold Stone Creamery, La Mesa, Vidlak’s, plus many popular Old Market restaurants!

Birthday and Anniversary Rewards – Celebrate with special birthday and anniversary rewards

Earn Points – Earn 1 point for every dollar spent at participating locations, with several merchants offering double or triple points on certain times and days of the week, which will earn you valuable Payback Rewards.

Mobile App now available where you can find participating merchants, access your PinPoint Card, and review and redeem your PinPoint Rewards.

Online Access – You may login and print your Pinpoint Card and Rewards online.

How It Works – One of our favorite restaurants is Spaghetti Works.  We received a Special Welcome Reward of ‘Free Entree with Purchase of an Entree’ and will receive another coupon for a Free Entree as a Birthday Reward.  Additionally, they offer Double Points from 11-4 every weekday, and $10 reward for every $50 spent!

New merchants are added regularly, and special discounts and prizes are offered at The PinPoint Rewards Facebook page.  See all of the participating merchants and available rewards here, and Frequently Asked Questions.  Sign up today!

Travel Tips: Saving Money and Traveling with Kids

Pink and blue suitcases with overlay text that reads, Travel Tips: Traveling with Kids on an Airplane.

Even though the summer is winding down, many people are taking one last vacation before the school year starts.  Here are some helpful tips for saving money and traveling with kids to make the trip easier and more enjoyable.

How to Save on Travel
  • Sign up to receive emails on daily deal sites with discounts in the city you will be visiting such as Groupon, Living Social, or local programs specific to that city like Daily Deal Omaha.  I know many people are hesitant about using these deal sites for travel – the key is to do your research on the hotel, tour, or attraction on sites like TripAdvisor.comto make sure that it comes highly recommended, and ask questions to clarify what is or is not included in the deal.
    • Hint: If you do not plan to participate in all activities that are part of the deal, ask if you can exchange one activity for another.  Most hotels and travel companies would be very happy to work with you.  We have used both Groupon and Living Social for travel deals and have been extremely happy, saved a lot of money, and found the hotels and travel companies very easy to work with.
  • Volunteer to give up your seat on oversold flights in exchange for a voucher for future travel.  Before giving up your seat, confirm that you have a seat on a later flight, ask for a meal voucher if your wait is long, and make sure you understand the conditions and amount of the voucher you will be receiving.  Recently, when we were travelling for my husband’s work (one and only work trip), we volunteered to get ‘bumped’ on our flight because it was too full.  We only had to wait two hours, and the airline gave us a voucher for a meal, and a voucher for future travel of $400 each!
  • Browse through many restaurants in the location you will be visiting at Restaurant.com and purchase $25 gift certificates for only $10.  Or, even better, wait for special promotions where you can purchase $25 gift certificates for as low as $2!
  • Many museums and attractions offer special discounted times or free nights.  Visit their websites or facebook pages to find out when these special discounted times are.
  • If your hotel does not offer free breakfast, bring along breakfast such as cereal in ziploc bags and bowls and spoons.  Buy milk when you get there.  Growing up, we did this on every family vacation, which was very helpful with a family of 6!
Helpful Tips for Traveling with Kids
  • Pack a lunch and stop at a park with a playground to let the kids run around.  On a recent road trip, we stopped several times at playgrounds, and this made all the difference!
  • Prepare a small bag for each child of toys, books, games, sticker books, etc., suggests Danielle from Find Time for Fun.  She prints off coloring sheets and workbooks, and has her kids use the tops of two small rubber maid containers as desks.  (She also suggests sticking with colored pencils and bringing along a sharpener.)  And, remember to set some papers and coloring books aside for the drive home.
  • My favorite tip from Danielle is to burn a family music CD.   She suggests using a combination of songs that each person likes.  The mixture is nice because then you are not listening to Barney (or whatever cartoon) for 30 minutes straight!
  • Take a cooler…or two recommends Omaha Area Kiddie Fun.  “We went to Chicago, road-trip style, every year when I was growing up – we always had a cooler filled with items to make sandwiches and plenty of drinks!  Food and drink right there at our hands – no extra stops, no extra spending.”
  • Money Saving Mom has a great suggestion for how to pack an Emergency Box.  We usually do not go to this extent, but a package of wipes is always very handy to clean up all sorts of messes!

How have you saved money on a trip?  What helpful tips can you share for traveling with kids?

 

Save on Travel: Reciprocal Membership Programs

A close up of an Omaha Children\'s Museum sign with overlay text that reads, Save on Travel, Reciprocal Membership Programs for Zoos and Museums.

Did you know that when you purchase a membership to a local zoo or museum, it often includes participation in a reciprocal program with free or reduced admission to similar locations around the country?  On a recent trip this summer, we were able to visit a couple zoos and children’s museums for signicantly reduced admission!  As always, it is best to call ahead to verify participation and admission discounts.

Association of Zoos and Aquariums Reciprocal Admissions Program

Members of local AZA-accredited zoos or aquariums will receive free or discounted admission to AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums nationwide.  It is a good idea to become familiar with the Reciprocal Admission Rules before your visit.  See the complete list of 2012 partipating zoos and aquariums here.

*Please note: “The number of visitors admitted with a family membership may vary and parking may not be included. In addition, participating institutions located in close geographic proximity to each other are not required to offer free or discounted admission to each other’s members in order to participate in AZA’s Reciprocal Admissions Program.”  As always, it is best to call ahead to verify.

Omaha: Members of the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium receive reciprocal privileges (50% off admission) to OVER 100 zoos across the country!

ASTC Travel Passport Program

More than 250 Science and Technology Museums across the country offer reciprocal discounts through the Association of Science and Technology Center.  The Travel Passport Program entitles visitors to free GENERAL ADMISSION (does not include special exhibits).  See current participating science centers and museums here.

Restrictions: “Science centers and museums located within 90 miles of each other are excluded from the program unless that exclusion is lifted by mutual agreement, although, science centers/museums may create their own local reciprocal free-admission program.  Also, to receive Travel Passport Program benefits, you must live more than 90 miles away ‘as the crow flies’ from the center/museum you wish to visit.”  As always, it is best to call ahead to verify.

Omaha: Omaha Children’s Museum Members who have a Family, Grandparent, Patron and Educator membership receive reciprocal discounts through this program.

Association of Children’s Museums
The ACM Reciprocal Program is a voluntary network of ACM member museums open across the U.S. and Canada that reciprocate free or discounted admission to one another’s members that hold premium family memberships. Find a participating ACM Children’s Museum here using online search pages.  Those museums that have a red R button indicates that they participate in the ACM Reciprocal Program network.  The Association of Children’s Museums is changing this program in April 2013, rather than free admission, admission will be discounted.  As always, it is best to call ahead to verify.

Omaha: Omaha Children’s Museum Members who have a Patron membership also receive reciprocal discounts through this program.

See also:

What are other reciprocal membership programs do you participate in?

Welcome

Family Fun in Omaha

Family Fun in Omaha is your local resource for family-friendly activities and events in Omaha and beyond! We are a local family of 5 that loves finding new adventures and wants to help you enjoy all that Omaha and the surrounding area has to offer. We recommend starting here. Thank you for visiting!

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