Ralston NE

Ralston – Tucked just outside the hustle of Omaha, Ralston offers a small-town charm with big-heart energy. Known for its friendly community, safe neighborhoods, and strong local pride, Ralston is the kind of place where neighbors know your name and community spirit thrives. Whether you're catching a local hockey game, enjoying a family picnic at Ralston Park, or exploring the area's cozy cafes and shops, this welcoming Nebraska city is all about creating a connected and comfortable lifestyle.

• Population: ~6,500
• Weather: Four distinct seasons; cold winters (20–30°F), warm summers (75–90°F)
• Places To Visit: Ralston Arena, Seymour Smith Park, Fun-Plex Waterpark, and nearby Omaha attractions
• Top Activities: Attending local sports events, walking community trails, visiting year-round festivals, exploring nearby Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo
• Famous Food: Classic Midwestern comfort food, homemade pies, and hearty breakfasts at local diners like The Market Basket

Ralston, Nebraska is a charming and close-knit community that benefits from its proximity to Omaha, giving residents access to a mix of suburban living and urban convenience. While small in size, Ralston and the surrounding Metro area support a variety of industries, particularly healthcare, education, skilled trades, and public service. Below are some of the most promising and stable career options in the area.

Top 5 Jobs in Ralston, NE

Ralston, Nebraska may be a small city, but it has its own charm—and plenty of great places for students to relax, get together with friends, and have fun when they’re done with homework. Whether you're looking for outdoor vibes, food hangouts, or a good place to chill, Ralston has a few hidden gems that are worth checking out.

Ralston Park – A favorite for students looking to unwind without spending a dime. Spread out a blanket, bring snacks, and enjoy a lazy afternoon. There are walking trails, open green areas for frisbee or kicking around a soccer ball, and a peaceful vibe all around.

Fun-Plex Waterpark & Rides – Just minutes away, this place is the ultimate summer escape. Think go-karts, a water slide, a wave pool, and mini-golf. It’s perfect for blowing off steam after finals or just hanging out on a sunny weekend.

Ralston Arena – Catching a hockey game, concert, or event here is a great way to spend an evening. It’s a local hotspot, and during big games or shows, the energy is contagious. Grab your friends and make it a night out.

The Granary District – This revitalized area in nearby Ralston Village is growing in popularity. You’ll find cozy coffee shops, trendy small restaurants, and even live music nights. It’s perfect for getting out of the house and into a more social scene.

Westwood Plaza Theaters – Sometimes the best night is just popcorn, friends, and a new movie. This local theater makes for a great, stress-free hangout spot with affordable tickets and snacks that won’t break your budget.

Dutch Bros Coffee (nearby in Omaha) – Technically not in Ralston, but worth the quick drive. This spot is buzzing with positive vibes and friendly baristas who make every visit feel like a mood boost. Grab your favorite iced coffee, park nearby, and catch up with friends.

IDK Bar and Grill (for college-age students) – Casual, friendly, and a go-to for college students over 21 looking for burgers, wings, and music. The vibe is laid-back, and it often feels like a hangout more than a bar.

Ralston might surprise you. With a mix of quiet parks, local events, and fun activities just around the corner, students can always find a fun, stress-free way to reconnect and recharge. So go out, explore, and make some memories—it’s all part of the student experience.

Ralston, Nebraska, and its surrounding Omaha area offer students access to a vibrant educational community, including public and private colleges and universities known for academic excellence, supportive environments, and a wide range of programs. Whether you’re interested in a large research institution, a community college experience, or a private college with a personalized approach, you’ll find plenty of opportunities nearby.

Top Public Colleges & Universities near Ralston, NE

University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) – As one of Nebraska’s largest public universities, UNO is just a short drive from Ralston. With strong programs in business, IT, education, engineering, and public administration, UNO is recognized for both its diverse student body and abundant campus resources.

Metropolitan Community College (MCC) – MCC serves Ralston and the Greater Omaha area, offering associate degrees, technical diplomas, and certificate programs. Students benefit from flexible schedules, affordable tuition, and hands-on learning in fields like healthcare, business, and trades.

University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) – Located close to Ralston, UNMC is Nebraska’s leading public academic health science center. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and allied health, and is renowned for impactful research and community healthcare initiatives.

Wayne State College (Omaha Satellite Campus) – This respected public college has a presence in the Omaha area, giving Ralston residents access to affordable bachelor’s and master’s degree programs, especially in education and business, designed for both traditional and adult learners.

Nebraska Methodist College – The Josie Harper Campus – While focused on healthcare, this public institution provides a supportive pathway for Ralston-area students to enter nursing and allied health professions. Its programs emphasize compassionate care and evidence-based practice.

Top Private Colleges & Universities near Ralston, NE

Creighton University – One of the nation’s prestigious Jesuit universities, Creighton is located in nearby Omaha. It’s highly regarded for its programs in healthcare, law, business, and the liberal arts, providing a rigorous education grounded in service and ethics.

College of Saint Mary – As a women’s university, CSM offers undergraduate and graduate programs focusing on healthcare, teaching, and leadership. Small classes, personalized mentorship, and a values-based approach empower students from Ralston and beyond.

Clarkson College – This private college specializes in health sciences, including nursing, health informatics, medical imaging, and physical therapy. Its close partnerships with major Omaha hospitals give students excellent practical experience.

Midland University (Omaha Campus) – Midland’s Omaha location provides flexible degree programs in business, healthcare, and leadership. Its career-oriented bachelor’s and master’s degrees are designed for both recent graduates and working adults in the Ralston area.

Bellevue University – Although based in nearby Bellevue, this private institution is a popular option for Ralston residents seeking accessible, online, or in-person degree programs in business, cybersecurity, and the arts, with a focus on adult learners.

From large universities to specialized colleges, students in Ralston, NE, are within reach of exceptional educational pathways to help them achieve their personal and professional goals.

Ralston, NE, may be a small community, but it offers access to some excellent high school options for both public and private education. Families looking for quality education in a supportive environment will find several schools placing a strong focus on academics, extracurricular achievement, and student growth.

Top Public High Schools in Ralston, NE

• Ralston High School – Serving the immediate community, this school is known for its caring staff, dedicated teachers, and strong athletics programs. It offers a variety of AP courses and dual-credit opportunities in partnership with local colleges.
• Millard South High School – Just a short drive from Ralston, this school is frequently recognized for its college preparatory curriculum, wide range of extracurriculars, and a robust career academy program.
• Omaha South Magnet High School – Known for its specialized programs, particularly in visual and performing arts, this Omaha school attracts creative students and has a reputation for fostering diversity and inclusion.
• Westside High School – Located nearby in Omaha, Westside has a strong academic record and a wide variety of electives. Its unique modular schedule allows students to explore their interests in-depth while developing time management skills.
• Millard West High School – A highly regarded public school with a vibrant student community. The school offers more than 20 AP courses, excellent science and technology programs, and outstanding sports teams.

Top Private High Schools Near Ralston, NE

• Gross Catholic High School, Bellevue – A coeducational college-prep school with a strong Catholic foundation. Known for small class sizes and a tight-knit community, Gross Catholic promotes academic excellence, leadership, and faith development.
• Mount Michael Benedictine School, Elkhorn – A private all-boys boarding and day school, this school offers rigorous academics with an emphasis on character and spirituality. Its high ACT averages and college placement success make it a top choice.
• Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart, Omaha – A prestigious all-girls Catholic school focused on empowering young women through leadership, faith, and academics. It’s regularly ranked among the best in Nebraska.
• Creighton Preparatory School, Omaha – A Jesuit college-prep high school for boys, known for its academic rigor and strong alumni network. The school encourages service, social justice, and critical thinking, shaping well-rounded young men.
• Brownell Talbot College Preparatory School, Omaha – As Nebraska's only private, independent, college-prep day school, Brownell Talbot offers a globally focused education with outstanding academic and extracurricular support from preschool through grade 12.

Whether you’re looking for a nurturing public school environment or the tradition and structure of a private institution, Ralston and its surrounding communities offer great options. Each school provides its own unique strengths to support your child’s educational journey and personal growth.

Ralston, Nebraska may be a smaller city tucked within the Omaha metropolitan area, but that doesn’t mean sports fans here are short on professional action. While Ralston itself doesn’t have major league teams, it plays a vibrant supporting role in Nebraska’s growing sports scene—especially in local hockey and minor league action. Plus, its close proximity to Omaha gives residents easy access to energetic games and budding athletic talent.

Here’s a look at some of the professional sports teams that add excitement to the Ralston area:

Hockey – Omaha Lancers (USHL)

• Omaha Lancers – Based right in Ralston at the Liberty First Credit Union Arena, the Omaha Lancers are a proud member of the United States Hockey League (USHL), the top junior hockey league in the country. Many players go on to play in college and even the NHL. Since their founding in 1986, the Lancers have built a passionate fan base with multiple Clark Cup championships and a reputation for developing elite talent.

Baseball – Omaha Storm Chasers (Triple-A, MLB Affiliate)

• Omaha Storm Chasers – Just a short drive from Ralston, the Storm Chasers are the Triple-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. They play at Werner Park in nearby Papillion. The team has won multiple league championships and serves as a key stepping stone for players destined for Major League Baseball. Legends like Alex Gordon and Eric Hosmer have passed through here on their way to the big leagues.

Soccer – Union Omaha (USL League One)

• Union Omaha – A professional soccer club representing the Omaha metro area, Union Omaha competes in the USL League One. Since kicking off in 2020, they’ve quickly built a loyal fan base and even won their first league title in 2021. Union Omaha’s matches at Morrison Stadium are fueled by an electric atmosphere and strong community pride, making them a favorite for soccer fans in and around Ralston.

Basketball – Omaha’s Finest (The Basketball League)

• Omaha’s Finest – Although relatively new, Omaha’s Finest has brought a fresh energy to the region’s basketball scene. Competing in The Basketball League (TBL), this team aims to give talented players opportunities to showcase their skills at a national level. With strong local support and exciting matchups, the team continues to grow in popularity.

Indoor Football – Omaha Beef (Champions Indoor Football)

• Omaha Beef – Though not playing at the top tier of American football, the Omaha Beef have some of the most die-hard fans around. Competing in Champions Indoor Football (CIF), they provide high-octane, family-friendly fun at the Liberty First Credit Union Arena—right in Ralston! Founded in 1999, the team has maintained a strong track record and even captured the CIF Championship in 2021.

Whether you’re a hockey lover, soccer supporter, or baseball enthusiast, the Ralston area offers a front-row seat to rising stars and spirited competition. While it may not have the big-city glitz of major league franchises, what it does have is grit, community pride, and a lot of heart—just the way sports fans like it.

Ralston, Nebraska might be small in size, but it's big on charm, community spirit, and quirky facts that make it stand out. Nestled just outside Omaha, this city is filled with fun surprises and a rich local culture. Here are 10 fun facts about Ralston that you probably didn’t know:

1. Small but Mighty – With just over 6,500 residents, Ralston is known as a small city with a tight-knit feel and strong local pride.
2. Almost a Part of Omaha – While surrounded on nearly all sides by Omaha, Ralston has managed to stay its own independent city with its own government and services.
3. Ralston Independence Day Celebration – Ralston hosts a massive Fourth of July festival that draws thousands every year. It includes a parade, live music, food, fun runs, and one of the best fireworks shows in Nebraska!
4. Sports Hub at the Arena – The Liberty First Credit Union Arena (formerly known as Ralston Arena) is a modern venue that hosts concerts, hockey games, and local events. It's a go-to entertainment spot for the entire metro area.
5. Where Hockey Lives – Ralston was home to the Omaha Lancers of the USHL for nearly a decade, making it a beloved spot for local hockey fans.
6. Lots of Parks for a Little City – Ralston has an impressive over 100 acres of parkland spread across six parks, offering walking trails, playgrounds, and plenty of green space.
7. Homegrown Businesses – Ralston is full of long-standing locally owned shops and diners that add to its small-town charm. Many residents support these businesses with fierce loyalty.
8. Great Schools, Great Community – The Ralston Public School District serves the community with pride and has a strong reputation for educational excellence and community involvement.
9. Quirky Street Names – Ralston has several streets named after U.S. states and presidents, which adds character and makes navigating around town a fun history lesson!
10. Ralston's Resilient Spirit – After a tornado hit the city during its July 4th festivities in 2014, Ralston quickly rebounded thanks to its strong community bonds and resilient spirit—a true testament to Midwestern strength.