Tucked away just an hour outside Omaha, beside Nebraska’s iconic cornfields, lies a little piece of heaven that’s truly good for what ails you. Whether it’s the stress of daily life or the need to unplug, Arbor Day Farm offers the kind of reprieve, reconnection and restoration that only comes from walking among the trees.
A welcome escape from the hustle, this 150-year-old property is home to the stately yet cozy Lied Lodge—140 rooms of rustic charm with soaring ceilings. With a full-service restaurant, Timbers, plus hiking trails, the Tree Adventure, a U-pick orchard and more, it’s a must-visit for every Nebraskan.
The Magic of the Place
Rachel Hrabik, marketing manager at Arbor Day Farm, said the property is something special.
“The peace and serenity you experience here, surrounded by thousands of trees, is unlike anything in our day-to-day lives,” she said. “My hope is that when people visit, they find the rest and relaxation they need.”
Arbor Day was founded in 1872 by J. Sterling Morton with a mission: to inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. On his journey from Michigan, Morton stopped in Omaha, was struck by the lack of trees and began planting saplings he had brought with him.
Since that first Arbor Day, it’s estimated more than 500 million trees have been planted. Today, the property is rich with apple, sweet gum, oak, poplar and ash trees, offering shade and a symphony of birdsong from the many species that now call it home.
Making Memories
A visit to Arbor Day Farm promises unforgettable adventure—starting with the Tree Adventure. This nature-themed attraction features a 3-acre Treetop Village with 11 interconnected treehouses linked by suspended bridges, soaring up to 50 feet in the air.
One highlight is the WonderNet, which Hrabik describes as “a huge floating web that acts like an amazing trampoline — a bouncing haven of fun.”
“It’s amazing to see adults here for a corporate meeting start bouncing and instantly turn into kids again—laughing, giggling. It’s so much fun,” she said.
Nearby is the U-pick flower and orchard area, where guests can gather zinnias, cosmos, daffodils and sunflowers.
“It’s so beautiful,” Hrabik said. “Even if you don’t pick the flowers, just taking some photos is a memorable experience.”
Tours also run Tuesday through Sunday through the historic home of J. Sterling Morton.
“You can do a self-guided tour,” Hrabik said. “But I’d recommend one of our trained staff—they’re incredibly knowledgeable about the history of the home and the property.”
Fall and Family Fun
If you've spent any time in Omaha during the fall, you’ve likely heard of the AppleJack Festival—an annual event held over two weekends in Nebraska City.
The festival celebrates all things apple, and Arbor Day Farm goes all out as it kicks off its busiest season. With dozens of apple varieties, the event features U-pick apple activities, live music, wine and cider tastings, food trucks, Porter’s BBQ and living history demonstrations at Arbor Lodge Mansion.
“It’s a really special time,” Hrabik said. “I love being able to say that we grow the apples here, pick them by hand and press them into our own apple cider. And really—who doesn’t love a good apple cider slushie?”
This June, Arbor Day Farm debuted its wine club, following the planting of 5 acres of vineyard.
“The wines are specially curated by our on-site sommelier, Sarah Wiebold,” Hrabik said. “She does a fantastic job pairing wines with the seasons and offering food pairing suggestions, too.”
Food, Glorious Food
A brand-new menu has debuted at Timbers, the full-service, upscale casual restaurant inside Lied Lodge. Under Chef Garrett Kasper, Timbers offers a fresh, contemporary take on Midwestern comfort food, with many ingredients sourced locally—including from the farm’s own garden.
“Chef Kasper’s vision is to thoughtfully source our ingredients and really consider not just where they're coming from, but how they’re getting here,” Hrabik said. “Eventually, much of the restaurant’s produce will come directly from our on-site garden.”
The menu includes creative twists—like nori on Timbers’ chicken sandwich.
“He’s really nailed that savory, umami flavor,” Hrabik added. “It’s just enough to surprise you without stepping too far outside the familiar.”
Chef Kasper is also reimagining Porter’s, the BBQ-inspired casual eatery at Apple House Market. Soon, guests will see farm-fresh options alongside family favorites like mac and cheese and brisket sliders.
The Place to Be
Whether you're looking for a quick day trip or a much-needed escape from life’s busyness, Arbor Day Farm has something for everyone. From an indoor pool and spa that restores your calm to outdoor adventures that bring families closer, this place delivers.
Take a quiet walk among the poplars or explore the grounds in any season—each has its own magic. In winter, trees wear a blanket of snow; in fall, golden hues transform the landscape into something otherworldly.
Whatever you’re seeking—adventure, rest or simply a moment to breathe—Arbor Day Farm invites you in. Walk through its doors, turn off your phone and sit by the fire for a while. It’s good for what ails you.
“My hope is that when people visit, they find the rest and relaxation they need.”
Spanning 260 acres of natural beauty, rich history and immersive experiences, Arbor Day Farm is designed to leave visitors wanting to come back. From cozy overnight stays and treetop adventures to orchard tastings and trails that wind through time, every visit offers something new to explore for families and adults alike. Visit arbordayfarm.org to learn more.