Vala’s
Contact & location
Gretna, NE
Where Vala’s is located
Vala’s sits in Gretna, Nebraska, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of Nebraska. The farm's street address is 12102 S 180th St, Gretna, NE 68028, Gretna, NE .
Most visitors reach Vala’s by car; the drive winds past rolling farmland that's especially pretty during peak fall color. From the nearest highway exit, follow signs toward Gretna and continue on local county roads to 12102 S 180th St, Gretna, NE 68028. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Gretna, nearby farm stands, and small-town diners that make a great pre or post-picking stop. Cell service can get spotty on back roads, so it's smart to download the map to your phone before you leave the highway.
Vala's is known for its Pumpkin Patch, but also features Nebraska’s largest apple orchard with over 45 varieties of apples. They also produce hard apple cider on-site.
Looking for the best apple picking near Gretna, Nebraska? Vala’s is a working apple orchard located in Gretna, Nebraska, welcoming families, couples, and photographers each fall for a classic American harvest experience.
Vala’s sits inside one of Nebraska's most beloved apple-growing regions. Between the smell of fresh cider, warm apple donuts, and rows of Honeycrisp and McIntosh trees heavy with fruit, it's the kind of place that turns a simple Saturday into a memory your kids will still talk about years later.
Apple Picking at Vala’s
Apple picking availability at Vala’s depends on the week and weather. Call ahead the morning of your visit to confirm.
Apple Varieties Grown Here
Vala’s grows 2 apple varieties. Each ripens between late August and late October, so what's available depends on when you visit.
On-Farm Activities
Best Time to Visit
Apple season at Vala’s runs from late August through late October, like most orchards in Nebraska. The sweet spot for a first-time visit is the last two weeks of September through the first two weeks of October.
Weekends between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. are the friendliest time to arrive. Weekdays are the most peaceful, a Tuesday or Wednesday morning may have entire rows to yourself.
What to Bring
- • Cash (backup for the farm stand)
- • Closed-toe walking shoes
- • A light jacket or flannel
- • Sunscreen and a hat
- • Water bottles for the walk
- • Reusable bags for the ride home
- • A camera or phone charged for photos
- • Small bills for cider and donuts
Where Vala’s is located
Vala’s sits in Gretna, Nebraska, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of Nebraska. The farm's street address is 12102 S 180th St, Gretna, NE 68028, Gretna, NE .
Most visitors reach Vala’s by car; the drive winds past rolling farmland that's especially pretty during peak fall color. From the nearest highway exit, follow signs toward Gretna and continue on local county roads to 12102 S 180th St, Gretna, NE 68028. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Gretna, nearby farm stands, and small-town diners that make a great pre or post-picking stop. Cell service can get spotty on back roads, so it's smart to download the map to your phone before you leave the highway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Vala’s offer pick-your-own apples?+
Contact Vala’s directly to confirm whether pick-your-own apples are available on the date you plan to visit, availability can change week to week based on ripeness and weather.
When is apple picking season at Vala’s?+
Apple season at most U.S. orchards runs from late August through late October. Call ahead or check Vala’s's website before your visit to confirm which varieties are ripe.
What are Vala’s's hours?+
Hours at Vala’s vary by season. We recommend calling ahead at 402-332-4200 or checking their website the morning of your visit.
How much does apple picking cost at Vala’s?+
Pick-your-own apple prices in the U.S. typically run $1.50–$3.00 per pound, or $20–$40 for a half-bushel bag. Vala’s sets prices at the entrance each season based on the current crop.
What apple varieties can I pick at Vala’s?+
Vala’s grows Cortland, Empire. Early-season varieties like Gala and Honeycrisp come in first, followed by mid-season Empire and McIntosh, and finishing with late-season Fuji, Cameo, and Pink Lady.
Is Vala’s good for kids and families?+
Absolutely, Vala’s welcomes families and offers You Pick Apple Orchard, Fresh, homemade hard Apple Cider, Corn Maze, Lost Pumpkin Mine, and more.
Can I bring my dog to Vala’s?+
Most working orchards ask that pets stay home for food-safety reasons. Call Vala’s to confirm their current pet policy before bringing your dog.
Is there parking at Vala’s?+
Vala’s has on-site parking that's free for guests. Fall weekends are the busiest, mornings are the calmest time to visit.
What should I bring to Vala’s?+
Bring cash, comfortable closed-toe shoes, a light jacket, sunscreen, water, and a camera. Vala’s usually provides picking bags or buckets.
Data source: Web Search · Confidence: High
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