Ralston is one of the most popular neighborhoods in the Omaha area. And for good reason! This small town has a strong sense of community and — because it’s surrounded by Omaha on three sides — it’s close to larger activity hubs in the area. The classic suburban feel merges with a historic and trendy downtown atmosphere to allow for various activities and characteristics. Check out some of our favorite things to do and start planning your trip to Ralston!
Head to the Park
Scattered throughout the streets of Ralston are a few well-maintained and spacious parks — perfect for walking the dog or letting the kids run around.
Ralston Park has two softball diamonds, two baseball fields, two covered pavilions, grills, restrooms and picnic tables. This is a popular location for both organized sporting events and casual park visits alike.
Ponderosa Park is a hidden gem in the community, featuring playground equipment and a shelter with picnic tables. Go for a stroll along the trail through the park, accessible from South 78th and Washington or 76th Circle and Madison Street.
Oak Park is a recently updated park with a walking path, benches and a gazebo. This park emphasizes its beautiful natural qualities, so there are no picnic areas or playground equipment on the premises.
Enjoy Endless Entertainment
Ralston Arena
Photos courtesy of Omaha Rollergirls
Ralston Arena is one of the largest sporting event, show and concert venues in the Omaha area. It’s also home to the Omaha Rollergirls and the Omaha Chargers basketball team. Drop in hockey and public ice skating are offered monthly, so dust those skates off (or rent some inside) and check out Ralston Arena!
Fun-Plex
Fun-Plex is Nebraska’s largest waterpark and rides center, hosting the state’s only roller coaster. There are several rides at the park, including thrill rides and kiddie rides, so the whole family can participate! Fun-Plex also has two different go-kart tracks — a classic racing route and the Slick Track, a much more slippery and wild ride.
Ralston Community Theatre
The Ralston Community Theatre has brought the art of theatre to the Ralston community since 1979, providing an annual theatre production in their beautiful and intimate facilities. Follow their Facebook page for updates on upcoming shows and next year’s annual production!
Grab a Bite to Eat
Photos courtesy of Gusto Cuban Café
There are several wonderful restaurants in the Ralston neighborhood that are worth a visit, whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor.
Maria’s Mexican Restaurant has been a local family favorite in Ralston for over 35 years, serving up homemade authentic Mexican food. Maria’s is famous for their handmade tacos and rumor has it they have some of the best margaritas around!
Gusto Cuban Café serves up delicious Cuban food, offering up authentic menu items you may have never heard of before. You can’t go wrong with anything you order, from their starters all the way to their desserts!
Ralston Keno is a popular keno lounge with a relaxing atmosphere featuring a full-service restaurant, a smoking room, billiards, a game room, and lots of TVs. This is a clean and modern hub for keno in the area!
Celebrate at an Annual Event
The Great Ral-Stein Festival of Beer
A networking and community event, this beer festival was inspired by Ralston’s Wine Walk and the community’s love of local beer. Over the past few years it has grown into a large community event highlighting breweries, restaurants, retail and service shops and even community crafters. Participants take home a tasting glass and unlimited samples of beer and food. This year’s event is on October 6 from 5 – 8 p.m. Don’t miss it!
Independence Day Parade
While summer is officially behind us, it’s still worth noting Ralston’s Independence Day celebration! The annual Independence Day Parade in Ralston is the largest parade in the entire state of Nebraska! It attracts people from all over the metro area — featuring a picnic in the park, family street dancing, a fireworks show, and much more!
This large patriotic celebration has given Ralston the title of “Independence City”. Beyond its patriotic charm, the Independence Day Celebration is looked upon as a “homecoming” of sorts for former residents, as they have an opportunity to visit with old friends and family in their former hometown.
Make Yourself at Home
You’ll find well-maintained homes along the tree-lined streets of Ralston, with various styles appealing to all ages and demographics. Settling down in Ralston means you can take advantage of the comfortable suburban, small-town feel while still maintaining a close distance to the action in Omaha and Council Bluffs.
The school system attracts lots of families as well, including six elementary schools, a middle school and a high school, which means your child will have a local school option from kindergarten all the way through their senior year.
What do you love about Ralston?
We would love to know!
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