Discover 40 family-friendly activities, venues, and restaurants in Gretna.
15 Upcoming EventsThe highest-rated places we recommend first — start here.
Gretna City Park is a welcoming community gathering spot that offers everything families need for a fun outdoor day. With well-maintained playground equipment, shaded picnic shelters, and plenty of open lawn space for games and play, it's an ideal destination for families looking to enjoy fresh air without the hassle of a long drive.
North McKenna Avenue is a welcoming neighborhood park in Gretna that offers families a perfect spot for outdoor play and relaxation. With its modern playground equipment, swings for various ages, and spacious grassy areas for games, it's an ideal destination for letting kids burn energy while parents enjoy the peaceful residential setting and convenient picnic areas.
📚 LibraryGretna Public Library is a welcoming, modern community hub that goes far beyond books, offering an impressive lineup of children's programming that keeps families coming back. With its exceptional 4.9-star rating, this library has earned a reputation for thoughtfully designed youth spaces and engaging educational activities that make learning feel like playtime.
🍽️ RestaurantEllsworth Crossing Farm to Fork Market is a delightful seasonal market where families can explore fresh local produce, sample homemade goods, and connect with local farmers and artisans. The welcoming community atmosphere makes it easy to shop with kids in tow, and little ones love picking out colorful fruits, vegetables, and treats while learning where their food comes from.
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🌳 ParkNebraska Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Ralston offers families a meaningful blend of remembrance and recreation. This community park features playground equipment for active play alongside memorial spaces that provide an opportunity to teach children about service and sacrifice in an accessible, outdoor setting.
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🍽️ RestaurantHeavy Brewing offers a family-friendly brewery experience in historic downtown Gretna where parents can enjoy craft beverages while kids are welcomed in a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere. Located on charming Patton Street, this local gathering spot combines small-town hospitality with quality food, making it an easy stop during a day exploring Gretna's shops and attractions.
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🌳 ParkChalco Hills Recreation Area is a 650-acre natural oasis perfect for families seeking outdoor adventure in Omaha. With multiple lakes, well-maintained trails suitable for strollers and bikes, and a hands-on nature center, it's an ideal spot to introduce kids to hiking, wildlife watching, and environmental education without venturing far from the city.
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🌳 ParkZorinsky Lake Park is a sprawling outdoor paradise perfect for families who love nature and activity. With its 255-acre lake, multiple playgrounds, paved trails ideal for strollers and bikes, and plenty of space to run, this park offers something for every member of the family whether you're feeding ducks, flying kites, or enjoying a lakeside picnic.
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🌳 ParkWalnut Grove Park is a welcoming neighborhood gem in La Vista that perfectly balances active play and relaxation for families. With well-maintained playground structures designed for younger children, shaded picnic areas for family lunches, and basketball courts for energetic kids, this park offers everything you need for a satisfying outdoor adventure without the overwhelming crowds of larger parks.
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🌳 ParkPrairie Queen's Recreation Area offers families a wonderful escape into nature right in the Chalco area. With well-maintained trails perfect for little legs, open prairie spaces for running and exploring, and excellent wildlife observation opportunities, it's an ideal spot for teaching kids about local ecosystems while burning off energy in the great outdoors.
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🛍️ ShoppingNebraska Crossing in Gretna offers much more than typical outlet shopping,it's a family-friendly destination where parents can score deals at over 80 stores while kids enjoy outdoor play spaces and family entertainment options. The open-air layout provides plenty of room for children to stretch their legs between stops, making it easier to tackle a shopping trip with little ones in tow.
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⚽ SportsGretna Sports Complex is a premier outdoor sports facility where families can watch their young athletes compete in organized games and tournaments across well-maintained athletic fields. With dedicated spectator areas and a welcoming community atmosphere, it's the perfect spot for parents to cheer on their kids while connecting with other sports families in the Gretna area.
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🌳 ParkSouthport in La Vista offers families a versatile destination with modern playground equipment set within beautifully maintained green spaces. The park's well-designed walking paths make it easy to supervise active kids while younger siblings explore age-appropriate play areas, creating an ideal neighborhood spot for morning playdates or after-dinner family outings.
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🎳 BowlingWestern Bowl in Millard is a classic family bowling alley that goes beyond just strikes and spares. With cosmic bowling sessions featuring black lights and music, a well-stocked arcade, and an on-site bar and grill serving casual family favorites, it's a one-stop entertainment destination where kids can stay active and parents can relax knowing everyone's having fun under one roof.
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🍽️ RestaurantStep back in time at the Gretna Depot, a charming historic railroad station that brings local history to life for curious kids. This community treasure features engaging displays about Gretna's railroad heritage and hosts family-friendly events throughout the year, making history fun and accessible for young learners.
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15 upcoming family events in Gretna
🌿 NatureTwo Rivers State Recreation Area offers families a peaceful escape into Nebraska's native prairie landscape, perfect for introducing kids to wildlife watching and nature exploration. With its easy walking trails winding through native grasslands and wildlife habitats, this recreation area provides a low-key outdoor adventure where children can burn energy while learning about local ecosystems.
⚽ SportsGolfTRK Elkhorn is a versatile multi-sport entertainment facility that keeps kids active year-round, rain or shine. With batting cages for future ballplayers, miniature golf for the whole family, a driving range for aspiring golfers, and climate-controlled indoor activities, it's the perfect spot for families who want sports fun without weather worries.
📚 LibraryThe Millard Branch Library is a beloved community hub that goes far beyond books, offering engaging story times, interactive children's programs, and exciting summer reading challenges that keep kids enthusiastic about learning. With its welcoming atmosphere and consistently excellent programming, this library has earned its stellar reputation among local families as a go-to destination for educational fun.
🌳 ParkEugene T. Mahoney State Park is Nebraska's premier family destination, packing incredible variety into one convenient location just outside Omaha. With an aquatic center, extensive playground facilities, scenic hiking trails, a marina for water activities, and the beautiful Owen Rose Garden, families can easily spend an entire day exploring without ever leaving the park.
🌳 ParkWalnut Creek Recreation Area is a sprawling outdoor paradise that offers something for every member of the family. With multiple fishing ponds stocked for young anglers, miles of easy walking trails perfect for strollers, and wide-open green spaces for running and playing, this park delivers a full day of fresh-air fun. The combination of structured activities and open exploration makes it ideal for families who want flexibility in their outdoor adventures.
🍽️ RestaurantTerrible Gerald's is a beloved Ralston neighborhood spot that welcomes families with open arms and delicious Italian comfort food. Kids will love the pizza options while parents appreciate the relaxed, casual atmosphere where little ones can be themselves without worry,perfect for those nights when you want great food without the fuss of formal dining.
🌳 ParkBrentwood Park Apartments offers a convenient neighborhood park setting ideal for La Vista families looking for a quick outdoor outing close to home. The playground equipment and open green space provide a low-key environment where toddlers and young children can burn energy while parents enjoy a relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere.
🤸 Trampoline ParkBounceU Omaha is an indoor trampoline park designed specifically for younger jumpers, offering a safe and supervised environment where kids can bounce off the walls,literally! With dedicated jump zones, challenging obstacle courses, and exciting foam pits, this facility provides the perfect outlet for energetic kids to play and parents to relax knowing their children are in a controlled, age-appropriate space.
⚽ SportsElkhorn Ridge Golf Course offers an excellent introduction to golf for kids of all skill levels, with dedicated junior golf programs that teach the fundamentals in a welcoming environment. Beyond traditional golf, families can enjoy FootGolf,a fun hybrid of soccer and golf that's perfect for active kids who might not be ready for traditional golfing yet.
🎨 MuseumThe Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum is a jaw-dropping destination where kids can get up close to massive aircraft, explore authentic cockpits, and experience flight simulators. With over 30 aircraft on display including bombers, fighter jets, and space artifacts, this museum brings aviation history to life in a way that captivates curious minds and inspires future pilots and astronauts.
⚽ SportsPapillion Landing Community Recreation Center offers a fantastic free splash pad that's perfect for cooling off on hot Nebraska days. Located in the heart of downtown Papillion, this family-friendly facility combines water play with easy access to local shops and dining, making it an ideal stop for a fun morning or afternoon outing. The splash pad features interactive water elements that keep kids entertained while parents can relax knowing the facility is well-maintained and conveniently located.
The Bess Johnson Elkhorn Branch offers families a welcoming modern library space that goes beyond books. With dedicated play areas, an extensive children's section filled with engaging materials, and regular story times and activity programs, it's a free community hub where kids can explore, learn, and socialize in a comfortable environment.
📚 LibraryLa Vista Public Library is a welcoming community hub that goes beyond books, offering an impressive lineup of children's programming year-round. From engaging story times for toddlers to exciting summer reading challenges for school-age kids, this library makes learning fun and accessible for families throughout the La Vista area.
Does your teen love writing, performing, or discovering fresh creative voices? The Young Playwrights Festival at The Rose Theater in Omaha showcases original short plays written by and for teenagers ages 12-18. This is a rare opportunity for young performers to step into meaningful roles and celebrate the incredible storytelling of their peers.
via The Rose Theater
Ready to transform your youngest into a confident storyteller? Little Mermaid at Rose Studio for Youth Artists in Omaha offers a magical, age-appropriate introduction to musical theater for ages 3,5. Through songs, dances, and ensemble storytelling, your child will build confidence and creativity in a nurturing, supportive classroom environment.
via The Rose Theater
Looking for a magical outdoor adventure in Chalco? TROLLS: Save the Humans at Lauritzen Gardens brings six towering wooden giants to life, created from reclaimed materials by acclaimed artist Thomas Dambo. Your family will discover these gentle giants on their heartwarming mission to save humanity, offering a unique blend of art, nature, and imagination that kids won't forget.
via Lauritzen Gardens
Looking for affordable, flexible after-school care in Omaha that actually keeps kids engaged? After Care Week #1 at The Rose Theater offers the perfect solution for families with children ages 5-15. Your kids will enjoy age-appropriate crafts, games, movies, and supervised fun while you get the flexibility you need with convenient pick-up scheduling.
via The Rose Theater
Need flexible childcare with a creative twist? Before Care Week #1 at The Rose Theater in Omaha starts Tuesday, May 26, 2026, offering families the perfect solution for early-morning schedules. Kids ages 5,15 will enjoy crafts, games, and group activities with caring instructors while you get a smooth start to your day.
via The Rose Theater
Introduce your little one to the magic of theater with *Cinderella Around The World* at Rose Studio for Youth Artists in Omaha! This enchanting program for ages 3,5 (starting Tuesday, May 26, 2026) explores beloved fairytale versions from cultures around the globe. Your child will enjoy age-appropriate activities, creative play, and the wonder of storytelling tailored just for them.
via The Rose Theater
Ready to unleash your child's inner costume designer? Art of Theater Design: Halloween Summer of Make-up & Costumes at The Rose Theater in Omaha, NE is a week-long deep dive into theatrical magic for kids ages 9-13. Your young artist will explore scenery, costumes, props, lighting, and sound design while collaborating with peers in a creative, hands-on environment that brings stage magic to life.
via The Rose Theater
Does your child love Disney's *Descendants*? This week-long theater program at Rose Studio for Youth Artists in Omaha (starting Tuesday, May 26, 2026) invites kids ages 9,13 to immerse themselves in the story through song, choreography, and scene work. Young performers will learn new dance moves and create their own inspired scenes before sharing their talents in a final performance.
via The Rose Theater
Give your child an unforgettable summer filled with hands-on learning and discovery at the 2026 Summer Camps offered by the Omaha Children's Museum in Omaha, NE. These STEM-focused camps spark curiosity and creativity through interactive experiences designed to captivate young minds and build lasting skills.
via Omaha Children's Museum - Camp Invention
Beat the summer heat and load up on fun at the Millard Days Festival Carnival Rides and Games in Millard, NE on Monday, June 1, 2026. Classic carnival attractions deliver the thrills, laughter, and sweet memories families crave, making it the perfect complement to the day's parade festivities.
via Millard Days Festival
Bring your family to the Millard Days Festival Parade in Millard, NE on Monday, June 1, 2026, for a beloved community tradition that brings the neighborhood together. Grab a spot along the route early, settle in with the kids, and enjoy the floats, music, and festive energy that makes this parade a summer highlight.
via Millard Days Festival
Bring the whole family to celebrate community spirit at the beloved Millard Days Parade in Millard, NE on Monday, June 1, 2026! This vibrant parade kicks off the Millard Days Festival and features floats, marching bands, and fun for kids of all ages,a true neighborhood tradition.
via Millard Days Festival
Summer fun is here! The Millard Days Festival in Millard, NE on Monday, June 1, 2026 brings families together with classic carnival rides and games, a parade, and live music at beer gardens. Whether you're seeking thrills on the rides or looking to enjoy good food and entertainment, this festival has something for everyone.
via Millard Days Festival
Showing 15 events in and around Gretna