Originally, Bellevue was established by Joshua Pilcher as a trading center for the Missouri Fur Company in 1822. The city was named Bellevue by early French Canadians due to its beautiful view from the cliffs superintending the Missouri River. Later on, Lucien Fontanelle acquired the post in 1828 after a financial crisis hit Joshua Pilcher. The camp served as a central trading center with Otoe, Pawnee tribes, Missouri and Omaha. Lucien became the first Bellevue permanent resident. Unfortunately, Fontenelle sold the trading center in 1832 to the US government to be utilized for the Bellevue Agency. In 1833, a temporary post was built for Baptist missionaries Eliza and Moses Merrill. With time, Moses Merrill established the first Christian mission in Nebraska. The missionaries moved 8 miles to the west and launched the Moses Merrill Mission in 1835. Colonel Peter, a French Creole fur trader, established a trading post across Bellevue River, which is currently named Lowa. The area was the leading supplier of expeditions for US and European settlers bound for California's Gold Rush and Oregon. Sarpy later set up a ferry in 1846 as a linker between St. Mary's Iowa and Bellevue. The city also became a location for Mormon settlers in 1850. Sarpy was a famous and active businessman in the affairs of Bellevue. He played an integral role in the city's organization and platting. Additionally, he platted Decatur. Hence, the county was named after him by the Nebraska Legislature.

The city of Bellevue has lots to offer to visitors and residents. You will enjoy shopping in one of the malls, grabbing fries in the fast food, hiking in the forests, and nature walks. Visit the artistic centers and museums and make fascinating discoveries.
The first thing to do in Bellevue is to visit the famous Fontenelle Forest. The forest gives you hiking trails, picnic facilities, a children's camp, and a gift shop. It is listed in the National Historic District and National Natural Landmark. The trees in the forest comprise loess hills, an extensive floodplain, hardwood deciduous forest and marshlands.
Generally, the Fontenelle Forest comprises various facilities. The Katherine and Fred Buffett Forest Learning Center is the primary building in the forest. The forest has space for public education events, school programs and private events. You will study nature in the facilities and make your trip to the city worthwhile.
If you are an enthusiast of mineral collections, visit Rockon Olde Towne. The store features diverse mineral collections from various regions. You will find the likes of Quartz, Amethyst, and Petrified Wood. You will definitely buy outstanding gifts for your office or home décor. Besides, you can opt to gift your children or friends one of the fantastic mineral collections.
The TreeRush Adventures at Fontenelle Forest will give you the best experience. You will climb, swing, and zip through the canopy of the ancient trees during the adventure. Explore the rope ladders, suspended badges, zip lines, and exciting aerial challenges. Feel the thrush of amazement, empowerment, excitement and fulfillment at TreeRush Adventures.