31 Best Stops Between Mitchell and Omaha (2025)

Vala's Pumpkin Patch & Apple Orchard

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Pumpkin patch

Sights & Landmarks

Farms

Apple picking, pig races & kiddie train rides on a family-run pumpkin farm with casual dining.

I wish I could upload my 26 years of photos here but here are some from my most recent visit. They have done a lot of updating over the years but in the last few they have really refined themselves. This is the best place for a date night, family night, or just a fun new experience. They have the best food and of course the best dessert of all time! Hand-made pies and hand-dipped caramel apples. This place is truly incredible.

Maddie P — Google review

Such a cool place! Lots of stuff to do, amazing cider, lots of yummy food, shooting apples, plus a lot more. Really good way to spend a day!

Joseph B — Google review

If you’re looking for a family-friendly pumpkin patch with plenty of activities and amazing food, this place is perfect! There are multiple areas to explore, from pumpkin picking and hayrides to corn mazes and even pony rides, making it ideal for both kids and adults. The atmosphere is festive and welcoming, great for a full day’s adventure with friends or family. One of the highlights is the homemade cider, fittingly called “Witches Brew.” It’s incredibly popular, and for good reason—its unique, refreshing flavor makes it a must-try. In fact, the bottles sold out within just a few hours, so if you’re planning to take some home, get yours early! The food offerings here are just as impressive as the activities, with a range of delicious options that truly hit the spot. Whether you’re in the mood for hearty fall treats or lighter bites, you’ll be satisfied. All in all, it’s the perfect fall outing, with plenty to keep everyone entertained from morning until evening. Highly recommended!

Tati T — Google review

This place is absolutely adorable. My pumpkin patch dreams have completely come true! Hoping to make this a tradition each year. Better to visit with littles as there isn’t a ton for adults to do (which was expected), but still so cute!!

Amber J — Google review

Even though our children are teenagers, we had a great time. We spent over 6 hours wandering and having fun. We wanted to return in the evening to experience the lights but forgot to get a stamp on the way out! The kids enjoyed the rides, the adults enjoyed the frozen cider. The ziplie and obstacle course were great family activities. We enjoyed games of checkers, tic tac toe, a train ride, shooting apples, tons of slides, a walk in a flower field, and lots of peddle cars!! Wish we could go again.

Sandra K — Google review

There is just so much to do in one day that I just have to buy the season pass so I can enjoy ALL the fun and beauty! I have brought my preschool aged grandchild several times, and I have also gone with just my spouse. There is fun and games, and there are places to sit and enjoy the music and flowers. Every food item I have tried has been delicious, from the fried chicken and barbecue to the cider and fudge apples. There are two downfalls: 1) if you use a wheelchair or walker, some gravel slopes are hard to navigate. 2) There are limited parking lot entrances and exits. Plan ahead, make sure you aren't low on gas, and try to go during less popular times. I think anyone of any age will find entertainment here.

Sharon B — Google review

We have been going to Vala's for 3 decades or more! One year we skipped going...it ain't Halloween season without going! We turn into kids at their front door! (We are 70+ yrs!) Stress is left at the entrance, & hours of smiles ahead! Happy Halloween 🦇 to all!!

Linda R — Google review

Cons: The bathroom situation is weird. You are either going in a portapotty or walking a good distance to one where short humans can't reach the faucets.Pros: literally everything else 😂 Haunted houses, bunny's, horse rides, gem mining, lots of pedal cars and trikes, campfires, trains, multiple playgrounds, tractor rides, carnival rides, paintball, yard games, arcade games, giant slides, apple cider (a must have) gift shops, pies, so much food, buckets of cookies. The list goes on. Amazing!!10/10 would recommend

Muriah J — Google review

My family has been going here for almost 20yrs and every year they do something more amazing. But the best thing they do is keep the original attractions. By keeping those nice, it brings us so many happy memories of when my kids were small. We will forever make this our designated family tradition every fall. Great place and something for everyone!

Janet B — Google review

We went to the cider tasting which was new this year. It was very fun. The only thing is, it's a $35 entry into Valas and another $35 per person for the tasting. Got confusing when I ordered online and apparently ordered the wrong tickets labeled sunflower and cider festival, which were apparently just another general admission ticket. Then when I went to buy the tasting tickets after I called they said they were sold out for the next day. It was for a birthday. Had to go there right when they opened and wait in line for on call ones. I live over 40 min away. So had to go there in morning get tickets, go home, get the other 3 people and come back. So for four people it can add up quickly. It was a nice ride up through the orchard. The ciders were great, they had some games which were fun. The BBQ place had good macaroni and cheese and we got to sit on the deck. Was a nice night and everyone left happy and good memories were created.

Melissa D — Google review

People always complain about it being expensive but that’s ridiculous! It’s expensive to go to any place of entertainment (i.e. zoo, bowling, amusement park, concert, etc.) and that’s what Valas is! It’s not just a “pumpkin patch” it’s an amusement park of sorts with so many things to do and so much space to spread out. Plus with my season pass it paid for itself after the second time! The food is amazing (and you can bring your own food and drinks if you can’t afford or don’t want to pay for their food). And while some of the attractions may seem “outdated” - that’s part of the charm!! Plus they are always working on improving and making it better and better. Don’t listen to the complaints, if you don’t have the money then don’t go, but don’t rate them poorly for running a business and doing a damn good job of it!!! It really is great for all ages too, not just kids. We love you Vala’s!!!

Caurie K — Google review

Me and my family have been going here for years it’s great fun. Prices are a bit high, but I think it’s ok since their quality has been growing up with it. On top of that if you work there you get a free season pass for yourself and 5 more for whoever. On the down side it’s starting to glide away from a “pumpkin patch” and turning into a small theme or amusement park. Also Are family has had problems with a Pacific security guard. he usually where’s a bright green jacket. The problem we have with him as he has multiple times throughout the years, he has yelled at our kids and multiple other kids when their by them selves on the jumping pillows or anywhere else were they are allowed to be by themselves. I’m very confused and angry why you can’t bring it up with their parents, and not yell at our kids for small reasons!

Chase S — Google review

Another family tradition for us. Every fall, we visit Vala’s Pumpkin patch! We enjoy many of the same things each year, but Vala’s is always expanding and adding more things to do. It’s a great place for a family, a group of friends, or a couple to enjoy their day.Parking: The parking lots are huge!!! Parking attendants will help guide you in. Make note of where you parked for when you leave.There are accessible parking spots toward the front of the lots. There are sloped areas within Valas, so if you are traveling with someone who needs mobility assistance or have mobility considerations of your own it’s something to keep in mind. Keep this in mind for little kids too! There are lots of areas to sit and rest if needed.Events: Make sure to grab a map! It will have schedules of shows and events occurring throughout Vala’s. Their current hours are 9a-9p. You could spend majority of the day here experiencing everything. Most events/play areas are free, there are a few experiences you have to pay extra for. Train rides come to mind as an extra expense.Food: You can bring in your own drinks, meals, and snacks (No outside alcohol). They do have some areas with hard cider for sale.Each section of the patch has different food choices. You will find lots of choices like turkey legs, funnel cakes, candy shops, BBQ, fresh chocolate chip cookies, slushies, soft pretzels, and more. There are lots of options I didn’t list here. Most meals range from $10-$15. You can purchase a souvenir cup to make your refills cheaper.Prices: If you’re bringing a family, the day can get expensive quick. Check out their website for specific prices. 2023 prices range from $21.99-$43.99 per person, depending on the day of the week. 2 and under are free. Bringing your own food will help you save $$$.Overall: Our family loves visiting Vala’s each year. We will continue keeping this as a tradition for our family. Their staff are always working quickly and friendly. Our kids (and the adults) really enjoy Vala’s!

Chelsea K — Google review

Had a great time. A lot to do. I suggest getting there early. It's a full day full of activities and rides.

Cory F — Google review

Always such a special time at Vala’s pumpkin patch. I wish there was lit up signage to help navigate the huge space, especially at night it is easy to miss things and get turned around. We ate and grammas kitchen and I was not too impressed with the food. The chili was good. All the baked goods are so delicious!! It’s so expensive on weekend which are the only time my family can go. As much as I love it I cannot afford to take my whole family anymore

Brittany L — Google review

This place definitely blew us away! The best part is there is so much no additional cost stuff to do once you're inside. None of that pay entry and then pay for every little thing inside.Also everywhere we went the food was delicious! Don't skip on the giant bucket of cookies either! Also recommend the caramel apple boat at the new cider restaurant. The caramel was so good!U-Pick apples were also fun!

Kristine S — Google review

This place is amazing for family fun. There is a lot to do for everyone we have been going to Vala's pumpkin patch for about 15yrs now. The turkey legs and their funnel cakes are amazing 😍

Aline G — Google review

I live in Texas. In 2023, I had heard that Omaha has some great pumpkin patches, So I booked a trip there. A Google search pointed me towards Vala's, so that's where my son and I went. Best decision I made all year. Hands down.It was SO much fun! I was 40 years old at the time, but Vala's made me feel like a kid at Disneyland. I was in awe as I took in the atmosphere, decor, games, music, activities, food, and everything.I even met the Animatronics director. As a teacher of Robotics and Engineering, I was able to talk shop with this person, and that added to my appreciation of everything.Now, my son and I have come back for the second year in a row. This may be a new tradition for us.Forget about Disney World. Forget about Six Flags. Forget about Universal Studios. Forget about Wizarding World. Forget about Cedar Point. Come to Vala's Pumpkin Patch & Apple Orchard!

Patrick G — Google review

I can't say enough about Vala's Pumpkin Patch! You must go! Season pass is the best option to go whenever & for any amount of time! It's great to go get dinner & see fireworks, or grab coffee & donuts in the morning, or Eat a caramel apple while on the train or hayride to pick your pumpkin. Even sit at the cider mill and enjoy the weather by the fire while sipping cider & eating BBQ! Sooooo many things to do, eat, play, & enjoy! Season opening soon!!! Those that are gluten-free, they have gluten-free buns and several other options for foods, too!

Hello C — Google review

What a great experience! Bring your walking shoes, it's huge! This place has amazing attractions and my kids loved every second of being here. The atmosphere is great, and you're surrounded by fall and Halloween decor so pictures are recommend!! I stayed here for 7 hours and still didn't see it all! We will definitely come again.

Melissa B — Google review

Honestly, this was a very scary experience. I’m not sure everyone knows or understands the gravity of the situation. Nebraska has been very dry. So dry, we are under a burn ban. It was also very windy, fire spreads quickly. Think about this, the fire jumped a 4 lane highway. The fire did reach the Vala’s pumpkin patch side, the news did not make this very clear! This could have been bad. I went to the front entrance to ask’s questions about the situation and if they were evacuating. A staff member said she is getting information over the walkie. She added Vala’s does not have a fire plan, that this is a first and they are not sure what to do. She said she was probably giving me more information than she is supposed to. One person quickly leaving said she was one of the last tractors in from the pumpkin patch and the employee on the tractor said get out of Vala’s now. Another staff member said that if we need to get everyone out, it will be difficult. Because there are only a few places to exit the pumpkin patch itself, and one exit for the parking lot. Those who left including us were stuck in our cars waiting to get out of the parking lot for up to an hour. We were staying on top of the news feeds. We found out that the fire was contained and they were just working on a few hot spots. We never made it out of the parking lot. Think about that, not everyone left and we still couldn’t get out. If the fire was not controlled a lot of people would have been hurt or killed. There are thousands of people at Vala’s on the weekends. You would have had to abandon your vehicle and run. No. I’m not overreacting, fire is NOTHING to underestimate or play with. Vala’s is lucky nothing bad happened on that farm. Vala’s better work hard to come up with a fire safety plan. I left my name and number for someone to call me about the situation and for compensation after being in a very frightening situation that no one knew what to do in. It was 2 hours from the start of the fire until they announced it was contained. The lady who took my name and number was obsessed over my kids ages. Vala’s I had two 14 year olds, a 6 year old and an 18 year old with me. But I value all their lives the same, including my husband that was also with us. I no longer want compensation but awareness of the situation. I was never called just emailed and I didn’t even provide my email to her.Vala’s Pumpkin Patch 10-06-24

Shirley L — Google review

Lots of activities, it's very easy to have a full day. Love my little pumpkins. It's a really pretty place! Just make sure to wear some sunscreen. :)

Danny F — Google review

Always the very best place to go in the fall. So many family memories have been made here. It's a family tradition to go once a year. The food is phenomenal the atmosphere is so fun.

Katrina H — Google review

We went for the BBQ and bluegrass. BBQ was sold out which was a bummer. The cider was good. The bands were great. The corndogs were terrible. Didn't realize how big this place was and how much there was to do. Definitely recommend good walking shoes as it's A LOT of walking and an all day affair.

Shani M — Google review

4.3

(2782)31 Best Stops Between Mitchell and Omaha (5)

4.5

(170)31 Best Stops Between Mitchell and Omaha (6)

12102 S 180th St, Gretna, NE 68028, USA

(402) 332-4200

31 Best Stops Between Mitchell and Omaha (2025)

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