Jess and I’ve circle of relatives in Omaha, this means that we’ve visited the town a variety of instances through the years. In that point, we’ve visited a perfect lots of Omaha’s points of interest and sights. So we needed to position in combination a handy guide a rough information to our favourite issues to do in Omaha, Nebraska.
Omaha is the biggest town (via inhabitants) in Nebraska. It become crucial transportation hub within the nineteenth century and would ultimately draw in other folks to stick for its railroad, meatpacking, and trade jobs. As of late this mid-sized Midwestern town is house to a variety of cultural sights and performs host to standard occasions such because the School Global Sequence and the yearly Berkshire Hathaway assembly.
So, whether or not you’re on the town for a large tournament just like the School Global Sequence, a convention, visiting circle of relatives like us, or simply questioning what there may be to do in Omaha, this information is for you.
We’ll quilt the primary points of interest and sights, supply recommendations on the place to stick, give ideas on meals to check out in Omaha, concepts for what to do in Omaha with youngsters, and rather a lot extra.
Let’s get began!
Issues to Do in Omaha
There’s so much to do in Omaha, from museums to ancient points of interest to consuming and buying groceries. Listed below are our favourite issues to do in Omaha.
Durham Museum
The Durham Museum is located in Omaha’s authentic Union Station construction, which dates from 1899. It was once the Union Pacific’s first Artwork Deco railroad station and was once used as a passenger teach station till 1971.
The Union Station construction is a beautiful instance of Artwork Deco structure. It’s nearly price visiting this museum for the construction on my own! That mentioned, the museum contained inside the construction is one in all our favourite sights in Omaha.
The Durham Museum focuses essentially at the historical past of the area and Western The usa generally, overlaying historical past, tradition, science, and trade. So whether or not you have an interest in delivery and trains, Local American tradition, or flora and fauna, you’ll to find one thing fascinating. We in particular loved the whole measurement teach shows at the decrease ranges, however the entire museum was once superb to be fair.
If you wish to know about Omaha and this a part of the rustic generally that is the most efficient position to head. If you’ll only one museum in Omaha, this could be our advice for the general public.
There may be an on-site museum store which is a brilliant position for souvenirs and the Soda Fountain and Sweet Store which is the unique Union Pacific soda fountain that serves phosphates, egg lotions, sundaes, soda, espresso, ice cream floats, snacks, sweet, and extra. Sandwiches, salads, and soups also are served right here throughout lunch hours.
When you keep for lunch, you’ll be able to simply spend part your day taking part in this museum. In addition they ceaselessly have particular exhibitions and circle of relatives occasions taking place.
There’s an admission price for the museum and loose parking on website. You’ll save on admission with the loose Omaha Financial savings Pack.
The Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium
Rated as one of the most global’s best zoos, the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, sometimes called the Omaha Zoo, spreads throughout over 130 acres of land and is house to over 962 animal species! It’s been round for over 100 years as neatly, making it one of the most oldest sights in Omaha on our record.
The zoo is big and there’s so much to peer, with other habitats showcasing other species. Those come with:
- the 28-acre African Grasslands house, house to species together with African elephants, giraffes, rhino, lion, cheetah, meerkat, ostrich, and extra
- the 8-acre Asian Highlands house together with species such because the pink panda, Indian rhinos, snow leopard, and Siberian tiger
- the Desolate tract Dome, which is among the global’s biggest indoor deserts. This 1 acre lined house has wasteland species from all over the world together with the African wild cat, klipspringer, bobcat and bigger roadrunner
- Gorilla Valley – an showcase essentially occupied with primates together with gorillas and more than a few monkey species
- Orangutan Woodland – any other primate centered showcase which incorporates the orangutan and langur
- the Suzanne and Walter Scott Aquarium, one of the most global’s biggest in-zoo aquariums. Species come with sea turtles, sharks, jellyfish, puffins, and penguins
- Kingdoms of the Evening, the arena’s biggest nocturnal animal showcase, which additionally occurs to comprise the arena’s biggest indoor swamp! Inside of you’ll to find the whole thing from bats to porcupine, sloth, crocodiles, & alligators
There are rather a lot extra shows, however this must come up with an concept of the way spectacular this zoo is. There also are rides, together with a 2.5 mile steam powered narrow-gauge railroad which loops across the park. There’s additionally a tram and a “Skyfari”, which is principally an open-air chairlift which gives superb perspectives over shows together with the lions and cheetahs.
As you’ll be able to see, there’s so much to peer and do on the Omaha Zoo. We advise making plans on spending a minimum of a part day right here, however preferably a complete day.
There’s an access price, with loose parking to be had on website. You’ll save on admission with the loose Omaha Financial savings Pack.
Joslyn Artwork Museum
When you revel in artwork museums then you’re going to for sure need to come with a discuss with to Omaha’s spectacular Joslyn Artwork Museum for your discuss with to Omaha. This at first opened in 1931, and has passed through important updates over the a long time, together with the latest renovations that have been finished in overdue 2024.
As of late, the museum has a variety of everlasting collections which quilt a variety of time sessions and spaces. Those come with Historical artwork from Greece and Italy, Eu artists together with Rembrandt and Monet, and a variety of early and fashionable American artwork. There may be a big house of contemporary and recent artwork, and a stupendous outside lawn that includes more than a few sculptures.
The Joslyn Artwork Museum is loose to discuss with and there may be loose parking on website. On the other hand, you must remember that the automobile park can refill so be ready to attend, or to find parking close by (paid side road parking may be to be had).
Omaha’s Riverfront Space
Omaha’s riverfront house has passed through important revitalization in recent times, turning it right into a vacation spot in its personal proper. As of late, it’s a 72-acre house which hyperlinks downtown Omaha to the riverfront. There are 3 distinct spaces to discover: the Lewis & Clark Touchdown. the Gene Leahy Mall, and the Heartland of The usa Park.
You’ll discuss with all 3 in a single cross, or pick out and make a choice relying for your pursuits. The entire riverfront building is for sure price a walk despite the fact that, particularly on a pleasing day. In case you are in search of a pleasing position to head for a stroll, have a picnic, calm down on a bench, or take the children out for some recent air, any of those could be a perfect choice. Right here’s what you’ll to find in each and every house.
Lewis & Clark Touchdown & Customer Middle
Within the early nineteenth century, famed explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark journeyed around the huge expanse of land which the US had bought from France as a part of the Louisiana Acquire. They essentially adopted the Missouri River, which as of late flows thru and marks the japanese fringe of Omaha.
As of late, there are a selection of items you’ll be able to do within the touchdown house. First, we’d counsel visiting the Lewis and Clark Nationwide Ancient Path Headquarters and Customer Middle. This construction is the headquarters of the historical path which covers 4,900 miles throughout 16 states, and is a great position to be informed concerning the expedition and the path as it may be explored as of late. It’s loose to discuss with.
The Lewis and Clark touchdown house has much more to provide past the customer heart despite the fact that. It’s a part of the Omaha Riverfront house, and is house to an city seaside, volleyball courts, strolling trails, and an excellent playground which options zip-lines, rocket send formed hiking towers, sand pits, and extra. When you’ve got youngsters, they’ll love visiting this playground.
This a part of the Riverfront may be the place you’ll to find the Kiewit Luminarium, which we quilt in different places on this publish as a best factor to do in Omaha.
Gene Leahy Mall
The Gene Leahy Mall extends Omaha’s riverfront parks into the downtown house. This massive city park has a sculpture park, outside live performance venue, water options, outside tables and benches, and play house. When you discuss with in iciness time, it’s going to be festooned with lighting.
The Gene Leahy Mall connects with the Outdated Marketplace house of Omaha in addition to the Heartland of The usa park. It’s a pleasing position to stroll for a pleasing inexperienced spoil from the city panorama.
Heartland of The usa Park
The biggest of the 3 RiverFront parks, this may be essentially the most southern of the parks. It extends alongside the Missouri River, with the important thing component being a big lake which options 3 fountains. The biggest of those 3 fountains shoots water 300 ft into the air and has a middle of the night gentle display.
There’s a strolling path which circumnavigates the lake (round a mile in duration), and in the summertime you’ll be able to take boat rides at the Normal Marion boat. When you’re in Omaha in overdue Spring, this may be the place you’ll to find the yearly Style of Omaha tournament.
Kiewit Luminarium
Discovered within the Lewis & Clark Touchdown house of Omaha’s RiverFront, the Kiewit Luminarium is a big Science Museum which has an emphasis on hands-on, interactive shows. This is a in particular just right choice for those who’re visiting Omaha with youngsters, however adults are catered too as neatly. In reality, there’s typically an adults most effective tournament referred to as Evening Mild on Thursday evenings.
Inside of, you’re going to seek out greater than 100 hands-on shows. From studying how physics works, to subject material science, constructions, the human frame, generation, math and geometry, you’re positive to seek out one thing to revel in.
There’s loose parking on website. There’s an access price, which is slightly excessive, however we expect price it for those who plan to spend a minimum of part an afternoon right here.
Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
Omaha sits proper at the japanese fringe of Nebraska, with simply the Missouri river isolating the town from Council Bluffs, Iowa. Linking the 2 towns, and providing you with the chance to face in each states directly, is the spectacular Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge.
This 3,000 foot lengthy bridge curves majestically around the river, and from it you get just right perspectives of the towns of Omaha, Nebraska and Council Bluffs, Iowa. Naturally you additionally get just right perspectives of the Missouri river, which the bridge crosses.
The bridge is pedestrian most effective so no automobile visitors making it a well-liked choice for households with youngsters to revel in.
At the Omaha aspect, the bridge begins close to the Nationwide Park Carrier Guests Middle. It takes you to the Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park at the Iowa aspect. When you revel in strolling or biking the bridge hyperlinks up with 150 miles of trails. So you’ll be able to stay going for fairly a while if you want!
Museum of Shadows
When you like your reports to be of the mystical sort, then you’re going to most probably revel in a discuss with to Omaha’s Museum of Shadows. That is house to quite a lot of haunted artifacts, with the museum itself additionally mentioned to be haunted.
Now, this enjoy isn’t going to be for everybody, and evaluations are for sure combined. On the other hand, if you wish to enjoy one thing a little bit other and imagine within the paranormal, it’s for sure an choice.
There’s an access price, to find out extra right here. You’ll acquire tickets on-line upfront or on website in individual. Simply observe this isn’t open each day so you’ll want to take a look at opening days and hours sooner than you head right here.
The Outdated Marketplace
One in every of our favourite neighborhoods to wander round and seize a espresso in Omaha is the Outdated Marketplace. This was once the at first the guts of Omaha’s wholesale grocery industry again within the overdue nineteenth century when Omaha sat on the center of the railroads connecting East and West. The brick constructions right here served as warehouses, wholesale retail outlets, places of work, and extra.
Adjustments in how groceries have been purchased and offered supposed that via the Fifties the Outdated Marketplace was once now not satisfying its authentic serve as, and lots of of its constructions have been susceptible to being condemned.
Fortunately, in the community born landowner Samuel Mercer noticed the possibility of the realm, and led the renovation efforts. As of late, the Outdated Marketplace district is the guts of the eating and buying groceries enjoy in Omaha. The outdated constructions and cobbled streets stay, now house to retail outlets, eating places, bars, espresso stores, thrift retail outlets, pubs, and residences. You’ll even nonetheless take a carriage trip!
You’ll additionally to find that the Omaha Guests Middle is situated subsequent to the Outdated Marketplace house on 306 S tenth Side road. It’s typically open Tuesday-Saturday from 10am-4pm. They have got body of workers who permit you to plan your time, loose vacationer brochures, and in addition native souvenirs and reward for acquire. If you have an interest within the Omaha Financial savings Pack, you’ll be able to to find out extra about it right here.
Lauritzen Gardens
When you revel in inexperienced areas, Omaha has a large number of choices, each loose and paid. Falling into the latter class are the Lauritzen Gardens. Those are a botanical lawn and arboretum in southern Omaha which quilt 100 acres, together with a 4-acre arboretum, and chicken sanctuary. In addition they have occasions working all over the yr. We visited as soon as throughout a Eastern competition which was once a large number of a laugh. You’ll to find out extra at the authentic web page right here.
The arboretum house focuses essentially at the vegetation of the Nebraska area, and it additionally has useful data on how to draw native birds for your lawn. The gardens additionally come with a rose lawn, Victorian lawn, herb lawn, Eastern park, or even a fashion railroad lawn entire with working fashion trains.
Talking of trains, proper subsequent to the Lauritzen Gardens is Kenefick Park. This overlooks Interstate 80 and welcomes other folks strolling back from Iowa with the sight of 2 large locomotives. Which you’ll be able to stand proper subsequent to for those who discuss with Kenefick Park. This park is loose and we truly loved visiting it.
Lauritzen Gardens price an access price, and there’s loose parking on website. You’ll save on admission with the loose Omaha Financial savings Pack.
Joslyn Fort & Gardens
Whilst you discuss with Omaha, you’re going to realize the title “Joslyn” shooting up right here and there, together with the Joslyn Artwork Museum and the Joslyn Fort & Gardens. And chances are you’ll marvel why this is.
Neatly, George Joslyn and his spouse Sara moved to Omaha in 1880 and become rich due to George Joslyn’s involvement within the printing trade. They contributed a perfect deal to the town, together with the aforementioned Artwork Museum.
By way of 1893 the Joslyn’s had enough wealth to construct the lawn and residential in their desires. This resulted within the advent in their house they referred to as Lynhurst and what’s as of late referred to as Joslyn Fort & Gardens. The home itself, finished in 1903, is a 4 tale construction constructed within the Scottish Baronial Revival architectural taste. It principally seems like a Scottish fortress within the center of Omaha. This value $250,000 to construct again in 1903, or round $9 million in as of late’s cash.
The just about 20,000 sq. foot home is open to the general public via guided excursion most effective, and we will be able to for sure counsel taking a excursion for those who’d like to be informed extra about this ordinary belongings and the individuals who constructed it. We truly loved our excursion right here, the guides have been extremely a professional and the internal is solely surprising. This was once for sure our favourite guided excursion we’ve taken in Omaha.
There’s a price to take a excursion and you’ll be able to see the excursion agenda and value right here. The excursions remaining about 90 mins and I’d permit a minimum of 2 hours on your overall discuss with.
When you aren’t visiting on a excursion day, or are glad to simply discover the lawn and take a look at the construction external, that is loose to do. There’s loose parking on website and you’ll be able to discover the grounds your self.
Public artwork in Omaha
When you like public artwork, then there are many places throughout Omaha the place you’ll be able to revel in public artwork without spending a dime. A few of our favourite items come with:
- Untitled via Jan Kaneko within the Gene Leahy Mall. You’ll’t lend a hand however realize the massive non violent head while you stroll thru this park!
- The Illumina sculptures outdoor the CHI Well being Middle Enviornment. That includes six statues of other folks representing the humanities and arts occasions that happen on the conference heart, in addition to a 35 foot clock. Step within the heart at evening for any other colourful artwork set up
- The Pioneer Braveness Park sculptures via Utah sculptors Blair Buswell and Edward Fraughton can also be discovered on Capital Road. They characteristic a wagon teach continuing alongside a creek mattress, and should be noticed to be believed. There’s additionally any other set up on this collection, the Spirit of Nebraska Barren region sculptures discovered outdoor the First Nationwide Financial institution of Omaha, which depict over 50 greater than existence Canada Ducks. See main points on each those parks right here. Two sculpture parks, Pioneer Braveness and Spirit of Nebraska’s Barren region and The Transcontinental Railroad, have a good time the town’s pioneering historical past.
- Fertile Flooring Mural via Meg Saligman. You’ll’t discuss public artwork in Omaha with out together with the Fertile Flooring Mural. At 70 ft tall and 465 ft lengthy that is the biggest public artwork venture in Omaha and one of the most biggest work of art in the United States. To find it on 602 N thirteenth St within the Outdated Marketplace house of the town.
- The Chef Boyardee Statue outdoor the Conagra construction within the Heartland of The usa park. OK, so this may well be an oddball selection, however for those who’ve ever eaten canned spaghetti in the United States as a kid, you’re most likely acquainted with the Chef Boyardee logo. The statue is of the real-life chef in the back of the logo, Italian immigrant Ettore Boiardi. He modified his title to Chef Hector Boyardee to lend a hand gross sales of his packaged spaghetti sauce and dinners and his title become nationally recognized.
You’ll see rather a lot extra examples of public artwork in Omaha, with location data and main points of the piece and artist on the authentic Public Artwork Omaha web page right here.
Native meals and convey
Whilst you’re in Omaha you’ll need to devour, and there are a couple of meals choices you must for sure take a look at while you’re on the town. We advise the next dishes and places:
- A Reuben Sandwich. It’s believed that the unique Reuben Sandwich was once invented on the Blackstone Lodge in Omaha, Nebraska, again in 1925 (even supposing some New Yorkers would contend this!). The excellent news is that you’ll be able to nonetheless have a Reuben Sandwich on the Blackstone Lodge, which has since develop into the Cottonwood Lodge. We had one right here and it was once scrumptious (as was once the opposite meals we’ve attempted right here). We additionally had one on the Crescent Moon around the street on any other discuss with, which many declare to be the most efficient Reuben in Omaha. In truth, they have been each just right. When you choose a extra formal eating enjoy, then the Blackstone is the most suitable choice. When you choose a pub taste environment with a lager, then cross with the Crescent Moon choice.
- It’s exhausting to say meals in Omaha with out speaking about steaks. There’s actually a complete corporate devoted to the concept that! This if truth be told makes a large number of sense as red meat is Omaha’s biggest trade, and the town has been a meatpacking heart because the heart of the 20 th century. So chances are you’ll need to if truth be told have a steak if you are on the town. Choices to imagine for a steak come with Drover, Mahogany, Jerico’s, Sullivans, Gorat’s, Flemings, and Brother Sebastian’s.
- Talking of steakhouses, as we discussed above, one standard steak eating choice in Omaha is Gorat’s Steakhouse. However this eating place is known for one more reason – it’s the favourite steakhouse of mythical investor Warren Buffet who’s head of Berkshire Hathaway. He’s eaten right here time and again, and has even eaten right here with Microsoft founder Invoice Gates. His favourite dish is the 22-oz Omaha T-bone steak and the hashbrowns. Once we went we didn’t see Warren in individual, however there’s a cardboard cutout of him that you’ll be able to pose via for those who so want!
- If you need to check out extra native produce past steak, then you definitely’ll for sure need to come with corn for your record of meals to check out in Omaha. Corn is the #1 crop grown within the state so we for sure can counsel having an ear of corn right here when its in season. Different standard plants and convey come with milk and dairy merchandise, beans (Nice Northern, pinto, and so on.), beef, poultry, eggs, sugar beets, apples, and honey. Nebraska may be house to over 30 wineries so you might also have an opportunity to check out some native wine.
- A in the community standard rapid meals is the Runza, which is a yeast dough bread pocket with a filling consisting of red meat, cabbage or sauerkraut, onions, and seasonings. The most productive position to get a Runza is at a Runza’s, a fast-food chain which has been running in Nebraska since 1949. For a real native enjoy, purchase a cinnamon roll at Runza’s and dip it in Runza’s chili. We’ve achieved this, and it’s for sure higher than it sounds.
- When you like ice cream (who doesn’t like ice cream?), then we extremely counsel a discuss with to Coneflower Creamery, which is inside strolling distance of the Kimpton Cottonwood resort and Joslyn Fort & Gardens. This if truth be told positioned first in a national score of ice cream places, so we’re no longer the one ones who suppose it’s price a discuss with! They handmake their ice cream with native, recent substances, and feature a variety of vintage and seasonal flavors to make a choice from
That are meant to come up with some concepts of the place and what to devour while you discuss with Omaha, even supposing there are naturally masses extra choices around the town.
Omaha Kids’s Museum
When you’re visiting Omaha with kids, then you definitely must for sure imagine together with the Omaha Kids’s Museum for your to-do record. This award profitable museum objectives to stimulate youngsters creativeness and excite them about studying new issues.
It does this thru all kinds of everlasting and brief shows, nearly all of which can be interactive. Those come with a science heart the place experimentation is inspired, a kid-sized sanatorium with interactive “x-ray” machines, an interactive kid-friendly financial institution department, and so much extra.
The museum has an access price and there’s loose parking on website. You’ll save on admission with the loose Omaha Financial savings Pack.
Buying groceries
As with maximum towns, Omaha has a very good collection of buying groceries choices. Those vary from the usual large field and division retail outlets that you simply’ll to find maximum in every single place, thru to in the community owned places, which we’ll center of attention on on this information.
- The Outdated Marketplace house of Omaha is the place we’d counsel heading for those who’re in search of smaller, in the community owned stores. You’ll to find the whole thing from vintage stores to sweet stores, house decor, books, antique clothes, jewellery and song. We will additionally counsel visiting the Artists Cooperative Gallery for those who’d love to peruse and purchase artwork from native artists. Naturally, the realm additionally has numerous espresso stores (in addition to eating places and bars) to stay you fueled. You’ll additionally to find the native tourism workplace right here.
- The Dundee community, to the west of downtown, may be a just right buying groceries vacation spot. Group stores come with Roger + Chris (house decor), Albany and Avers (antique clothes) and Dundee Candle Co the place you’ll be able to create and pour your individual candle.
- Nebraska Furnishings Mart. Based in Omaha in 1937, and as of late owned via Berkshire Hathaway, that is an iconic Omaha house furnishing retailer. With over 450,000 sq. ft of retail house, it’s secure to mention that in case you are in search of furnishings, it is a just right choice. It’s additionally fairly an enjoy wandering round reminiscent of huge retailer. Jess and I visited, and have been inspired on the vary of furnishings on be offering, throughout a variety of budgets. And sure, they provide transport.
- For extra title logo retail treatment, chances are you’ll need to head to one of the most close by buying groceries shops. Those are in large part situated outdoor of Omaha, and come with Nebraska Crossing (biggest outlet mall in Nebraska), Village Pointe and Regency Buying groceries Middle (extra upscale manufacturers). We as soon as did some coat buying groceries at Nebraska Crossing and located it to be a truly great outside outlet mall.
As you’ll be able to see, there are many buying groceries choices in Omaha, no matter you have an interest in purchasing!
Amusing Plex Waterpark and Rides
In case you are visiting Omaha within the sizzling summer time months with circle of relatives, then chances are you’ll imagine a shuttle out to the Amusing Plex Waterpark and Rides. That is about seven miles from downtown, and is the biggest amusement park in Nebraska.
The park has a variety of common rides for each adults and youngsters, in addition to a big waterpark house which options slides, a wave pool, lazy river, and extra. There’s even a 21+ swim-up bar for the ones in search of a little bit extra grownup a laugh.
The Amusing Plex is typically open from overdue Might to the beginning of September, and you’ll be able to see price ticket costs and park opening hours at the authentic web page right here.
Native Leisure, Gala’s, Presentations, & Occasions
Omaha hosts many occasions all over the yr, from primary wearing occasions thru to huge meetings, fairs, and extra. Relying on while you discuss with Omaha, chances are you’ll to find that there’s one thing cross on! Right here’s a handy guide a rough run down of simply a number of the occasions that happen in Omaha to come up with an concept of what to anticipate.
Even supposing you aren’t enthusiastic about a particular tournament it’s price noting when it takes position as some occasions, such because the Berkshire Hathaway Assembly or the School Global Sequence can also be highly regarded instances to discuss with Omaha, with lodging costs capturing up and standard eating places reserving out. So for those who don’t intend on collaborating within the tournament, chances are you’ll need to keep away from the town at the moment!
- School Global Sequence, a baseball match held in Omaha each and every June since 1950,. lately happening on the Charles Schwab Box
- Berkshire Hathaway Annual Assembly, the yearly assembly for Berkshire Hathaway shareholders. Usually held in early Might on the CHI Well being Middle Omaha Conference Middle and Enviornment.
- Style of Omaha – a three-day meals competition held each and every summer time within the Heartland of The usa park
- Maha Competition – a big song competition which typically takes position on the finish of July
- The Omaha Movie Competition, which takes position in March each and every yr
- There also are a lot of performs, musical acts and different performances at venues around the town all over the yr, together with at The Rose Theater (kids’s theater), Orpheum Theater, Omaha Neighborhood Playhouse, The Ready Room and the CHI Well being Middle
- Plus after all there are films, awl throwing, arcades, bowling, mini golfing… the record of actions in Omaha is going on!
For extra on what’s on in Omaha, and extra concepts on what to peer and do generally, we extremely counsel popping into the Omaha Guests Middle within the Outdated Marketplace house on 306 S tenth Side road. The Consult with Omaha web page additionally has data on occasions taking place within the town.
Find out how to Get to Omaha
Omaha is correct in the course of the United States, and has cheap delivery connections. We’ve visited Omaha via automobile, airplane, and teach! Listed below are the primary techniques to get to the town.
- By way of automobile. Omaha is attached via street to the remainder of the U.S. via two major Interstates, I-80 which runs east the entire solution to New York by way of Chicago and west the entire solution to San Francisco by way of Salt Lake Town. There’s additionally I-29 which runs north to Fargo, after which in the long run to the Canadian border, and south to Kansas Town.
- By way of airplane. Omaha’s airport gives direct flights to over 30 locations in the US, which means the town is slightly simple to get to via air
- By way of teach. Omaha is at the Amtrak passenger teach community. We’ve traveled to Omaha at the in a single day sleeper teach from Denver into Omaha which was once a a laugh enjoy. Omaha is at the major Amtrak path which runs between Chicago and San Francisco, the carrier referred to as the California Zephyr, which incorporates stops in Denver, Salt Lake Town, and extra.
How Many Days Will have to I Spend in Omaha?
Yon can spend as little or as a lot time as you need in Omaha as there are many issues to do and spot. You’ll simply spend every week right here visiting the entire cultural sights, exploring the parks, gardens, and strolling paths, buying groceries, consuming at steakhouses, and taking in some night time leisure.
However at a minimal we’d most likely counsel a minimum of two complete days and nights to get a just right style of the town.
Advised Two Day Omaha Itinerary
Right here’s a handy guide a rough evaluate of a imaginable itinerary for 2 days in Omaha.
In your first day chances are you’ll cross to the Durham Museum within the morning, have a Reuben for lunch, spend the afternoon within the Outdated Marketplace house, and spot a play that night time.
Then on the second one day chances are you’ll head over to the Omaha Zoo & Aquarium (Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium) for a complete day trip after which have dinner that night time at an area steakhouse.
When you’ve got extra time, then I’d undergo our record and write down the entire puts you need to peer and what kind of time you suppose you’d spend at each and every. That are meant to come up with a good suggestion of the way a lot time you’ll want. Additionally you’ll want to take note opening instances and days as many sights are closed a minimum of in the future every week.
In case you are visiting for the School Global Sequence, Berkshire Hathaway Annual Assembly, or any other large tournament, this can be a just right thought so as to add an additional day for your shuttle so you could have extra time to discover if imaginable.
The place to Keep in Omaha
Omaha has a variety of lodging choices, together with resorts, condominium leases, inns, and extra. Costs vary from funds to high-end, and normally the nearer you’re to downtown the upper the costs can be. In case you are riding, maximum downtown resorts will be offering valet parking, even supposing side road parking may be ceaselessly an choice (just be sure you pay the meter!).
It’s additionally price noting that pricing can range so much relying at the time of yr you discuss with, and if there are any primary occasions happening within the town. The Berkshire Hathaway assembly for instance is a time when costs for lodging in Omaha can truly cross up, so for those who aren’t making plans on attending that chances are you’ll need to keep away from the ones few days.
Listed below are some choices for the place to stick in and round Omaha.
- Lodge Deco – in a construction courting from 1930, this Artwork Deco styled 4* boutique resort gives beautiful en-suite rooms and is inside simple strolling distance of the downtown points of interest. There’s an on-site eating place and valet parking. We stayed right here for 3 nights on a contemporary discuss with to Omaha and loved it.
- Hilton Omaha – That is the nearest resort to the CHI Well being Middle (conference heart for a variety of occasions and meetings within the town), to which it is attached by way of a Skybridge, making it a just right choice for those who’re attending an tournament right here. 4* resort with on-site eating place, airport travel, pool and each self-parking and valet parking choices. Pets permitted. This additionally a just right resort choice for the School Global Sequence on the Charles Schwab stadium as it is extremely with regards to the venue additionally.
- The Peregrine – this resort is located in a historical native landmark construction which dates from 1914. As of late it’s a boutique resort providing 4* lodging simply mins stroll from downtown.
- The Farnam, Autograph Assortment – one of the extremely rated resorts in downtown Omaha, this centrally situated 4* resort gives at ease rooms, on-site parking, and 3 eating places to make a choice from.
- Kimpton Cottonwood Lodge – present in Omaha’s Blackstone district a couple of mins power from downtown, this beautiful 4* resort is a revival of the long-lasting Blackstone resort which was once discovered in this location from 1916. It is a stunning outdated resort with the entire facilities you’ll want for a recreational or industry keep. When you keep right here, be certain to check out a Reuben! The resort additionally has afternoon tea carrier on some Sundays.
- Hampton Inn Council Bluffs – for those who would favor a resort with loose parking, then the Hampton Inn in Council Bluffs Iowa is a great approach to imagine. It’s only some mins power to downtown and breakfast is integrated
- BridgePointe Inn & Suites – a extra funds orientated choice present in Council Bluffs, Iowa. There’s loose parking on website and breakfast is integrated. It’s additionally just a quick power from downtown Omaha
Naturally there are lots of extra lodging choices in Omaha. See a complete record of choices together with holiday leases, inns and resorts right here.
Find out how to Get Round Omaha
Omaha is a reasonably simple town to get round whether or not on foot, via automobile, via motorcycle, or via public transit.
Downtown Omaha may be very walkable, with many points of interest only some mins stroll aside. For locations slightly farther from downtown, such because the Blackstone District, Joslyn Fort, Lauritzen Gardens and so on., then you’ll want to use some way of mechanized delivery.
Public delivery products and services, essentially within the type of a bus gadget, function around the Omaha house. The gadget is referred to as the Omaha Metro, and you’ll be able to to find reside bus instances and routes at the My Trip web page and app. Fares for the Metro carrier want to be paid during the UMO gadget, this means that both downloading the UMO app, getting an Umo card, or buying an Umo token. See extra on how to do this right here.
Omaha may be within the procedure of creating a streetcar carrier which is meant to hyperlink downtown with the Blackstone district. This is was hoping to be working via 2027.
You’ll additionally power simply round Omaha, which is what we typically finally end up doing. Side road parking is to be had everywhere in the town for affordable charges, and you’ll be able to pay the usage of the Park Omaha or ParkMobile app for smartphones. Charges range, and you’ll be able to take a look at the most recent parking data right here.
Trip percentage products and services together with Uber, Lyft and zTrip also are to be had, as are motorcycle percentage and scooter condo products and services.
Find out how to Save Cash in Omaha
Whilst Omaha doesn’t have a town appeal move that we’re conscious about, you’ll be able to save on sights with the loose Omaha Financial savings Pack. It is a loose carrier introduced via the native tourism workplace, and provides reductions on probably the most hottest sights within the town.
This contains puts just like the Durham Museum, Lauritzen Gardens, the Zoo, Omaha Kids’s Museum, and extra.
It’s loose to get the move and it’s all treated on-line. All it’s important to do is supply your data and the move can be despatched for your telephone. You’ll see extra and enroll at the authentic Omaha Financial savings Pack web page right here.
Additional Studying
That’s it for our information to objects to do in Omaha, Nebraska. Earlier than you head off despite the fact that, I simply sought after to percentage some extra assets we’ve put in combination that can assist you plan your shuttle to the town, and commute in the United States generally.
- Questioning how a lot a discuss with to Omaha may value? Take a look at our information to how a lot it prices to commute in the United States that can assist you plan your shuttle funds.
- I’ve written a information that includes a few of my best guidelines for riding in the United States to lend a hand get you going at the street!
- We’ve visited a large number of different towns in the United States! See our guides to issues to do in Las Vegas, issues to do in Huntsville, issues to do in Savannah, issues to do in Charleston, issues to do in Albuquerque, visiting New Orleans throughout Mardi Gras, issues to do in Cambria, issues to do in Houston, issues to do in Dallas, and issues to do in Santa Fe
- If you need some USA street shuttle inspiration, see our itineraries for a USA Deep South street shuttle, California Highway Shuttle, Course 66 Highway Shuttle and Pacific Coast Freeway Highway Shuttle
- And for those who’re in search of inspiration for the remainder of the United States, take a look at our USA segment, which has rather a lot extra inspiration
Do you could have any questions on visiting Omaha? As all the time, we’re glad to respond to any questions you’ll have, simply pop them within the feedback beneath and we’ll get again to you once we will be able to.
Jess and I’ve circle of relatives in Omaha, this means that we’ve visited the town a variety of instances through the years. In that point, we’ve visited a perfect lots of Omaha’s points of interest and sights. So we needed to position in combination a handy guide a rough information to our favourite issues to do in Omaha, Nebraska.
Omaha is the biggest town (via inhabitants) in Nebraska. It become crucial transportation hub within the nineteenth century and would ultimately draw in other folks to stick for its railroad, meatpacking, and trade jobs. As of late this mid-sized Midwestern town is house to a variety of cultural sights and performs host to standard occasions such because the School Global Sequence and the yearly Berkshire Hathaway assembly.
So, whether or not you’re on the town for a large tournament just like the School Global Sequence, a convention, visiting circle of relatives like us, or simply questioning what there may be to do in Omaha, this information is for you.
We’ll quilt the primary points of interest and sights, supply recommendations on the place to stick, give ideas on meals to check out in Omaha, concepts for what to do in Omaha with youngsters, and rather a lot extra.
Let’s get began!
Issues to Do in Omaha
There’s so much to do in Omaha, from museums to ancient points of interest to consuming and buying groceries. Listed below are our favourite issues to do in Omaha.
Durham Museum
The Durham Museum is located in Omaha’s authentic Union Station construction, which dates from 1899. It was once the Union Pacific’s first Artwork Deco railroad station and was once used as a passenger teach station till 1971.
The Union Station construction is a beautiful instance of Artwork Deco structure. It’s nearly price visiting this museum for the construction on my own! That mentioned, the museum contained inside the construction is one in all our favourite sights in Omaha.
The Durham Museum focuses essentially at the historical past of the area and Western The usa generally, overlaying historical past, tradition, science, and trade. So whether or not you have an interest in delivery and trains, Local American tradition, or flora and fauna, you’ll to find one thing fascinating. We in particular loved the whole measurement teach shows at the decrease ranges, however the entire museum was once superb to be fair.
If you wish to know about Omaha and this a part of the rustic generally that is the most efficient position to head. If you’ll only one museum in Omaha, this could be our advice for the general public.
There may be an on-site museum store which is a brilliant position for souvenirs and the Soda Fountain and Sweet Store which is the unique Union Pacific soda fountain that serves phosphates, egg lotions, sundaes, soda, espresso, ice cream floats, snacks, sweet, and extra. Sandwiches, salads, and soups also are served right here throughout lunch hours.
When you keep for lunch, you’ll be able to simply spend part your day taking part in this museum. In addition they ceaselessly have particular exhibitions and circle of relatives occasions taking place.
There’s an admission price for the museum and loose parking on website. You’ll save on admission with the loose Omaha Financial savings Pack.
The Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium
Rated as one of the most global’s best zoos, the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, sometimes called the Omaha Zoo, spreads throughout over 130 acres of land and is house to over 962 animal species! It’s been round for over 100 years as neatly, making it one of the most oldest sights in Omaha on our record.
The zoo is big and there’s so much to peer, with other habitats showcasing other species. Those come with:
- the 28-acre African Grasslands house, house to species together with African elephants, giraffes, rhino, lion, cheetah, meerkat, ostrich, and extra
- the 8-acre Asian Highlands house together with species such because the pink panda, Indian rhinos, snow leopard, and Siberian tiger
- the Desolate tract Dome, which is among the global’s biggest indoor deserts. This 1 acre lined house has wasteland species from all over the world together with the African wild cat, klipspringer, bobcat and bigger roadrunner
- Gorilla Valley – an showcase essentially occupied with primates together with gorillas and more than a few monkey species
- Orangutan Woodland – any other primate centered showcase which incorporates the orangutan and langur
- the Suzanne and Walter Scott Aquarium, one of the most global’s biggest in-zoo aquariums. Species come with sea turtles, sharks, jellyfish, puffins, and penguins
- Kingdoms of the Evening, the arena’s biggest nocturnal animal showcase, which additionally occurs to comprise the arena’s biggest indoor swamp! Inside of you’ll to find the whole thing from bats to porcupine, sloth, crocodiles, & alligators
There are rather a lot extra shows, however this must come up with an concept of the way spectacular this zoo is. There also are rides, together with a 2.5 mile steam powered narrow-gauge railroad which loops across the park. There’s additionally a tram and a “Skyfari”, which is principally an open-air chairlift which gives superb perspectives over shows together with the lions and cheetahs.
As you’ll be able to see, there’s so much to peer and do on the Omaha Zoo. We advise making plans on spending a minimum of a part day right here, however preferably a complete day.
There’s an access price, with loose parking to be had on website. You’ll save on admission with the loose Omaha Financial savings Pack.
Joslyn Artwork Museum
When you revel in artwork museums then you’re going to for sure need to come with a discuss with to Omaha’s spectacular Joslyn Artwork Museum for your discuss with to Omaha. This at first opened in 1931, and has passed through important updates over the a long time, together with the latest renovations that have been finished in overdue 2024.
As of late, the museum has a variety of everlasting collections which quilt a variety of time sessions and spaces. Those come with Historical artwork from Greece and Italy, Eu artists together with Rembrandt and Monet, and a variety of early and fashionable American artwork. There may be a big house of contemporary and recent artwork, and a stupendous outside lawn that includes more than a few sculptures.
The Joslyn Artwork Museum is loose to discuss with and there may be loose parking on website. On the other hand, you must remember that the automobile park can refill so be ready to attend, or to find parking close by (paid side road parking may be to be had).
Omaha’s Riverfront Space
Omaha’s riverfront house has passed through important revitalization in recent times, turning it right into a vacation spot in its personal proper. As of late, it’s a 72-acre house which hyperlinks downtown Omaha to the riverfront. There are 3 distinct spaces to discover: the Lewis & Clark Touchdown. the Gene Leahy Mall, and the Heartland of The usa Park.
You’ll discuss with all 3 in a single cross, or pick out and make a choice relying for your pursuits. The entire riverfront building is for sure price a walk despite the fact that, particularly on a pleasing day. In case you are in search of a pleasing position to head for a stroll, have a picnic, calm down on a bench, or take the children out for some recent air, any of those could be a perfect choice. Right here’s what you’ll to find in each and every house.
Lewis & Clark Touchdown & Customer Middle
Within the early nineteenth century, famed explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark journeyed around the huge expanse of land which the US had bought from France as a part of the Louisiana Acquire. They essentially adopted the Missouri River, which as of late flows thru and marks the japanese fringe of Omaha.
As of late, there are a selection of items you’ll be able to do within the touchdown house. First, we’d counsel visiting the Lewis and Clark Nationwide Ancient Path Headquarters and Customer Middle. This construction is the headquarters of the historical path which covers 4,900 miles throughout 16 states, and is a great position to be informed concerning the expedition and the path as it may be explored as of late. It’s loose to discuss with.
The Lewis and Clark touchdown house has much more to provide past the customer heart despite the fact that. It’s a part of the Omaha Riverfront house, and is house to an city seaside, volleyball courts, strolling trails, and an excellent playground which options zip-lines, rocket send formed hiking towers, sand pits, and extra. When you’ve got youngsters, they’ll love visiting this playground.
This a part of the Riverfront may be the place you’ll to find the Kiewit Luminarium, which we quilt in different places on this publish as a best factor to do in Omaha.
Gene Leahy Mall
The Gene Leahy Mall extends Omaha’s riverfront parks into the downtown house. This massive city park has a sculpture park, outside live performance venue, water options, outside tables and benches, and play house. When you discuss with in iciness time, it’s going to be festooned with lighting.
The Gene Leahy Mall connects with the Outdated Marketplace house of Omaha in addition to the Heartland of The usa park. It’s a pleasing position to stroll for a pleasing inexperienced spoil from the city panorama.
Heartland of The usa Park
The biggest of the 3 RiverFront parks, this may be essentially the most southern of the parks. It extends alongside the Missouri River, with the important thing component being a big lake which options 3 fountains. The biggest of those 3 fountains shoots water 300 ft into the air and has a middle of the night gentle display.
There’s a strolling path which circumnavigates the lake (round a mile in duration), and in the summertime you’ll be able to take boat rides at the Normal Marion boat. When you’re in Omaha in overdue Spring, this may be the place you’ll to find the yearly Style of Omaha tournament.
Kiewit Luminarium
Discovered within the Lewis & Clark Touchdown house of Omaha’s RiverFront, the Kiewit Luminarium is a big Science Museum which has an emphasis on hands-on, interactive shows. This is a in particular just right choice for those who’re visiting Omaha with youngsters, however adults are catered too as neatly. In reality, there’s typically an adults most effective tournament referred to as Evening Mild on Thursday evenings.
Inside of, you’re going to seek out greater than 100 hands-on shows. From studying how physics works, to subject material science, constructions, the human frame, generation, math and geometry, you’re positive to seek out one thing to revel in.
There’s loose parking on website. There’s an access price, which is slightly excessive, however we expect price it for those who plan to spend a minimum of part an afternoon right here.
Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
Omaha sits proper at the japanese fringe of Nebraska, with simply the Missouri river isolating the town from Council Bluffs, Iowa. Linking the 2 towns, and providing you with the chance to face in each states directly, is the spectacular Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge.
This 3,000 foot lengthy bridge curves majestically around the river, and from it you get just right perspectives of the towns of Omaha, Nebraska and Council Bluffs, Iowa. Naturally you additionally get just right perspectives of the Missouri river, which the bridge crosses.
The bridge is pedestrian most effective so no automobile visitors making it a well-liked choice for households with youngsters to revel in.
At the Omaha aspect, the bridge begins close to the Nationwide Park Carrier Guests Middle. It takes you to the Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park at the Iowa aspect. When you revel in strolling or biking the bridge hyperlinks up with 150 miles of trails. So you’ll be able to stay going for fairly a while if you want!
Museum of Shadows
When you like your reports to be of the mystical sort, then you’re going to most probably revel in a discuss with to Omaha’s Museum of Shadows. That is house to quite a lot of haunted artifacts, with the museum itself additionally mentioned to be haunted.
Now, this enjoy isn’t going to be for everybody, and evaluations are for sure combined. On the other hand, if you wish to enjoy one thing a little bit other and imagine within the paranormal, it’s for sure an choice.
There’s an access price, to find out extra right here. You’ll acquire tickets on-line upfront or on website in individual. Simply observe this isn’t open each day so you’ll want to take a look at opening days and hours sooner than you head right here.
The Outdated Marketplace
One in every of our favourite neighborhoods to wander round and seize a espresso in Omaha is the Outdated Marketplace. This was once the at first the guts of Omaha’s wholesale grocery industry again within the overdue nineteenth century when Omaha sat on the center of the railroads connecting East and West. The brick constructions right here served as warehouses, wholesale retail outlets, places of work, and extra.
Adjustments in how groceries have been purchased and offered supposed that via the Fifties the Outdated Marketplace was once now not satisfying its authentic serve as, and lots of of its constructions have been susceptible to being condemned.
Fortunately, in the community born landowner Samuel Mercer noticed the possibility of the realm, and led the renovation efforts. As of late, the Outdated Marketplace district is the guts of the eating and buying groceries enjoy in Omaha. The outdated constructions and cobbled streets stay, now house to retail outlets, eating places, bars, espresso stores, thrift retail outlets, pubs, and residences. You’ll even nonetheless take a carriage trip!
You’ll additionally to find that the Omaha Guests Middle is situated subsequent to the Outdated Marketplace house on 306 S tenth Side road. It’s typically open Tuesday-Saturday from 10am-4pm. They have got body of workers who permit you to plan your time, loose vacationer brochures, and in addition native souvenirs and reward for acquire. If you have an interest within the Omaha Financial savings Pack, you’ll be able to to find out extra about it right here.
Lauritzen Gardens
When you revel in inexperienced areas, Omaha has a large number of choices, each loose and paid. Falling into the latter class are the Lauritzen Gardens. Those are a botanical lawn and arboretum in southern Omaha which quilt 100 acres, together with a 4-acre arboretum, and chicken sanctuary. In addition they have occasions working all over the yr. We visited as soon as throughout a Eastern competition which was once a large number of a laugh. You’ll to find out extra at the authentic web page right here.
The arboretum house focuses essentially at the vegetation of the Nebraska area, and it additionally has useful data on how to draw native birds for your lawn. The gardens additionally come with a rose lawn, Victorian lawn, herb lawn, Eastern park, or even a fashion railroad lawn entire with working fashion trains.
Talking of trains, proper subsequent to the Lauritzen Gardens is Kenefick Park. This overlooks Interstate 80 and welcomes other folks strolling back from Iowa with the sight of 2 large locomotives. Which you’ll be able to stand proper subsequent to for those who discuss with Kenefick Park. This park is loose and we truly loved visiting it.
Lauritzen Gardens price an access price, and there’s loose parking on website. You’ll save on admission with the loose Omaha Financial savings Pack.
Joslyn Fort & Gardens
Whilst you discuss with Omaha, you’re going to realize the title “Joslyn” shooting up right here and there, together with the Joslyn Artwork Museum and the Joslyn Fort & Gardens. And chances are you’ll marvel why this is.
Neatly, George Joslyn and his spouse Sara moved to Omaha in 1880 and become rich due to George Joslyn’s involvement within the printing trade. They contributed a perfect deal to the town, together with the aforementioned Artwork Museum.
By way of 1893 the Joslyn’s had enough wealth to construct the lawn and residential in their desires. This resulted within the advent in their house they referred to as Lynhurst and what’s as of late referred to as Joslyn Fort & Gardens. The home itself, finished in 1903, is a 4 tale construction constructed within the Scottish Baronial Revival architectural taste. It principally seems like a Scottish fortress within the center of Omaha. This value $250,000 to construct again in 1903, or round $9 million in as of late’s cash.
The just about 20,000 sq. foot home is open to the general public via guided excursion most effective, and we will be able to for sure counsel taking a excursion for those who’d like to be informed extra about this ordinary belongings and the individuals who constructed it. We truly loved our excursion right here, the guides have been extremely a professional and the internal is solely surprising. This was once for sure our favourite guided excursion we’ve taken in Omaha.
There’s a price to take a excursion and you’ll be able to see the excursion agenda and value right here. The excursions remaining about 90 mins and I’d permit a minimum of 2 hours on your overall discuss with.
When you aren’t visiting on a excursion day, or are glad to simply discover the lawn and take a look at the construction external, that is loose to do. There’s loose parking on website and you’ll be able to discover the grounds your self.
Public artwork in Omaha
When you like public artwork, then there are many places throughout Omaha the place you’ll be able to revel in public artwork without spending a dime. A few of our favourite items come with:
- Untitled via Jan Kaneko within the Gene Leahy Mall. You’ll’t lend a hand however realize the massive non violent head while you stroll thru this park!
- The Illumina sculptures outdoor the CHI Well being Middle Enviornment. That includes six statues of other folks representing the humanities and arts occasions that happen on the conference heart, in addition to a 35 foot clock. Step within the heart at evening for any other colourful artwork set up
- The Pioneer Braveness Park sculptures via Utah sculptors Blair Buswell and Edward Fraughton can also be discovered on Capital Road. They characteristic a wagon teach continuing alongside a creek mattress, and should be noticed to be believed. There’s additionally any other set up on this collection, the Spirit of Nebraska Barren region sculptures discovered outdoor the First Nationwide Financial institution of Omaha, which depict over 50 greater than existence Canada Ducks. See main points on each those parks right here. Two sculpture parks, Pioneer Braveness and Spirit of Nebraska’s Barren region and The Transcontinental Railroad, have a good time the town’s pioneering historical past.
- Fertile Flooring Mural via Meg Saligman. You’ll’t discuss public artwork in Omaha with out together with the Fertile Flooring Mural. At 70 ft tall and 465 ft lengthy that is the biggest public artwork venture in Omaha and one of the most biggest work of art in the United States. To find it on 602 N thirteenth St within the Outdated Marketplace house of the town.
- The Chef Boyardee Statue outdoor the Conagra construction within the Heartland of The usa park. OK, so this may well be an oddball selection, however for those who’ve ever eaten canned spaghetti in the United States as a kid, you’re most likely acquainted with the Chef Boyardee logo. The statue is of the real-life chef in the back of the logo, Italian immigrant Ettore Boiardi. He modified his title to Chef Hector Boyardee to lend a hand gross sales of his packaged spaghetti sauce and dinners and his title become nationally recognized.
You’ll see rather a lot extra examples of public artwork in Omaha, with location data and main points of the piece and artist on the authentic Public Artwork Omaha web page right here.
Native meals and convey
Whilst you’re in Omaha you’ll need to devour, and there are a couple of meals choices you must for sure take a look at while you’re on the town. We advise the next dishes and places:
- A Reuben Sandwich. It’s believed that the unique Reuben Sandwich was once invented on the Blackstone Lodge in Omaha, Nebraska, again in 1925 (even supposing some New Yorkers would contend this!). The excellent news is that you’ll be able to nonetheless have a Reuben Sandwich on the Blackstone Lodge, which has since develop into the Cottonwood Lodge. We had one right here and it was once scrumptious (as was once the opposite meals we’ve attempted right here). We additionally had one on the Crescent Moon around the street on any other discuss with, which many declare to be the most efficient Reuben in Omaha. In truth, they have been each just right. When you choose a extra formal eating enjoy, then the Blackstone is the most suitable choice. When you choose a pub taste environment with a lager, then cross with the Crescent Moon choice.
- It’s exhausting to say meals in Omaha with out speaking about steaks. There’s actually a complete corporate devoted to the concept that! This if truth be told makes a large number of sense as red meat is Omaha’s biggest trade, and the town has been a meatpacking heart because the heart of the 20 th century. So chances are you’ll need to if truth be told have a steak if you are on the town. Choices to imagine for a steak come with Drover, Mahogany, Jerico’s, Sullivans, Gorat’s, Flemings, and Brother Sebastian’s.
- Talking of steakhouses, as we discussed above, one standard steak eating choice in Omaha is Gorat’s Steakhouse. However this eating place is known for one more reason – it’s the favourite steakhouse of mythical investor Warren Buffet who’s head of Berkshire Hathaway. He’s eaten right here time and again, and has even eaten right here with Microsoft founder Invoice Gates. His favourite dish is the 22-oz Omaha T-bone steak and the hashbrowns. Once we went we didn’t see Warren in individual, however there’s a cardboard cutout of him that you’ll be able to pose via for those who so want!
- If you need to check out extra native produce past steak, then you definitely’ll for sure need to come with corn for your record of meals to check out in Omaha. Corn is the #1 crop grown within the state so we for sure can counsel having an ear of corn right here when its in season. Different standard plants and convey come with milk and dairy merchandise, beans (Nice Northern, pinto, and so on.), beef, poultry, eggs, sugar beets, apples, and honey. Nebraska may be house to over 30 wineries so you might also have an opportunity to check out some native wine.
- A in the community standard rapid meals is the Runza, which is a yeast dough bread pocket with a filling consisting of red meat, cabbage or sauerkraut, onions, and seasonings. The most productive position to get a Runza is at a Runza’s, a fast-food chain which has been running in Nebraska since 1949. For a real native enjoy, purchase a cinnamon roll at Runza’s and dip it in Runza’s chili. We’ve achieved this, and it’s for sure higher than it sounds.
- When you like ice cream (who doesn’t like ice cream?), then we extremely counsel a discuss with to Coneflower Creamery, which is inside strolling distance of the Kimpton Cottonwood resort and Joslyn Fort & Gardens. This if truth be told positioned first in a national score of ice cream places, so we’re no longer the one ones who suppose it’s price a discuss with! They handmake their ice cream with native, recent substances, and feature a variety of vintage and seasonal flavors to make a choice from
That are meant to come up with some concepts of the place and what to devour while you discuss with Omaha, even supposing there are naturally masses extra choices around the town.
Omaha Kids’s Museum
When you’re visiting Omaha with kids, then you definitely must for sure imagine together with the Omaha Kids’s Museum for your to-do record. This award profitable museum objectives to stimulate youngsters creativeness and excite them about studying new issues.
It does this thru all kinds of everlasting and brief shows, nearly all of which can be interactive. Those come with a science heart the place experimentation is inspired, a kid-sized sanatorium with interactive “x-ray” machines, an interactive kid-friendly financial institution department, and so much extra.
The museum has an access price and there’s loose parking on website. You’ll save on admission with the loose Omaha Financial savings Pack.
Buying groceries
As with maximum towns, Omaha has a very good collection of buying groceries choices. Those vary from the usual large field and division retail outlets that you simply’ll to find maximum in every single place, thru to in the community owned places, which we’ll center of attention on on this information.
- The Outdated Marketplace house of Omaha is the place we’d counsel heading for those who’re in search of smaller, in the community owned stores. You’ll to find the whole thing from vintage stores to sweet stores, house decor, books, antique clothes, jewellery and song. We will additionally counsel visiting the Artists Cooperative Gallery for those who’d love to peruse and purchase artwork from native artists. Naturally, the realm additionally has numerous espresso stores (in addition to eating places and bars) to stay you fueled. You’ll additionally to find the native tourism workplace right here.
- The Dundee community, to the west of downtown, may be a just right buying groceries vacation spot. Group stores come with Roger + Chris (house decor), Albany and Avers (antique clothes) and Dundee Candle Co the place you’ll be able to create and pour your individual candle.
- Nebraska Furnishings Mart. Based in Omaha in 1937, and as of late owned via Berkshire Hathaway, that is an iconic Omaha house furnishing retailer. With over 450,000 sq. ft of retail house, it’s secure to mention that in case you are in search of furnishings, it is a just right choice. It’s additionally fairly an enjoy wandering round reminiscent of huge retailer. Jess and I visited, and have been inspired on the vary of furnishings on be offering, throughout a variety of budgets. And sure, they provide transport.
- For extra title logo retail treatment, chances are you’ll need to head to one of the most close by buying groceries shops. Those are in large part situated outdoor of Omaha, and come with Nebraska Crossing (biggest outlet mall in Nebraska), Village Pointe and Regency Buying groceries Middle (extra upscale manufacturers). We as soon as did some coat buying groceries at Nebraska Crossing and located it to be a truly great outside outlet mall.
As you’ll be able to see, there are many buying groceries choices in Omaha, no matter you have an interest in purchasing!
Amusing Plex Waterpark and Rides
In case you are visiting Omaha within the sizzling summer time months with circle of relatives, then chances are you’ll imagine a shuttle out to the Amusing Plex Waterpark and Rides. That is about seven miles from downtown, and is the biggest amusement park in Nebraska.
The park has a variety of common rides for each adults and youngsters, in addition to a big waterpark house which options slides, a wave pool, lazy river, and extra. There’s even a 21+ swim-up bar for the ones in search of a little bit extra grownup a laugh.
The Amusing Plex is typically open from overdue Might to the beginning of September, and you’ll be able to see price ticket costs and park opening hours at the authentic web page right here.
Native Leisure, Gala’s, Presentations, & Occasions
Omaha hosts many occasions all over the yr, from primary wearing occasions thru to huge meetings, fairs, and extra. Relying on while you discuss with Omaha, chances are you’ll to find that there’s one thing cross on! Right here’s a handy guide a rough run down of simply a number of the occasions that happen in Omaha to come up with an concept of what to anticipate.
Even supposing you aren’t enthusiastic about a particular tournament it’s price noting when it takes position as some occasions, such because the Berkshire Hathaway Assembly or the School Global Sequence can also be highly regarded instances to discuss with Omaha, with lodging costs capturing up and standard eating places reserving out. So for those who don’t intend on collaborating within the tournament, chances are you’ll need to keep away from the town at the moment!
- School Global Sequence, a baseball match held in Omaha each and every June since 1950,. lately happening on the Charles Schwab Box
- Berkshire Hathaway Annual Assembly, the yearly assembly for Berkshire Hathaway shareholders. Usually held in early Might on the CHI Well being Middle Omaha Conference Middle and Enviornment.
- Style of Omaha – a three-day meals competition held each and every summer time within the Heartland of The usa park
- Maha Competition – a big song competition which typically takes position on the finish of July
- The Omaha Movie Competition, which takes position in March each and every yr
- There also are a lot of performs, musical acts and different performances at venues around the town all over the yr, together with at The Rose Theater (kids’s theater), Orpheum Theater, Omaha Neighborhood Playhouse, The Ready Room and the CHI Well being Middle
- Plus after all there are films, awl throwing, arcades, bowling, mini golfing… the record of actions in Omaha is going on!
For extra on what’s on in Omaha, and extra concepts on what to peer and do generally, we extremely counsel popping into the Omaha Guests Middle within the Outdated Marketplace house on 306 S tenth Side road. The Consult with Omaha web page additionally has data on occasions taking place within the town.
Find out how to Get to Omaha
Omaha is correct in the course of the United States, and has cheap delivery connections. We’ve visited Omaha via automobile, airplane, and teach! Listed below are the primary techniques to get to the town.
- By way of automobile. Omaha is attached via street to the remainder of the U.S. via two major Interstates, I-80 which runs east the entire solution to New York by way of Chicago and west the entire solution to San Francisco by way of Salt Lake Town. There’s additionally I-29 which runs north to Fargo, after which in the long run to the Canadian border, and south to Kansas Town.
- By way of airplane. Omaha’s airport gives direct flights to over 30 locations in the US, which means the town is slightly simple to get to via air
- By way of teach. Omaha is at the Amtrak passenger teach community. We’ve traveled to Omaha at the in a single day sleeper teach from Denver into Omaha which was once a a laugh enjoy. Omaha is at the major Amtrak path which runs between Chicago and San Francisco, the carrier referred to as the California Zephyr, which incorporates stops in Denver, Salt Lake Town, and extra.
How Many Days Will have to I Spend in Omaha?
Yon can spend as little or as a lot time as you need in Omaha as there are many issues to do and spot. You’ll simply spend every week right here visiting the entire cultural sights, exploring the parks, gardens, and strolling paths, buying groceries, consuming at steakhouses, and taking in some night time leisure.
However at a minimal we’d most likely counsel a minimum of two complete days and nights to get a just right style of the town.
Advised Two Day Omaha Itinerary
Right here’s a handy guide a rough evaluate of a imaginable itinerary for 2 days in Omaha.
In your first day chances are you’ll cross to the Durham Museum within the morning, have a Reuben for lunch, spend the afternoon within the Outdated Marketplace house, and spot a play that night time.
Then on the second one day chances are you’ll head over to the Omaha Zoo & Aquarium (Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium) for a complete day trip after which have dinner that night time at an area steakhouse.
When you’ve got extra time, then I’d undergo our record and write down the entire puts you need to peer and what kind of time you suppose you’d spend at each and every. That are meant to come up with a good suggestion of the way a lot time you’ll want. Additionally you’ll want to take note opening instances and days as many sights are closed a minimum of in the future every week.
In case you are visiting for the School Global Sequence, Berkshire Hathaway Annual Assembly, or any other large tournament, this can be a just right thought so as to add an additional day for your shuttle so you could have extra time to discover if imaginable.
The place to Keep in Omaha
Omaha has a variety of lodging choices, together with resorts, condominium leases, inns, and extra. Costs vary from funds to high-end, and normally the nearer you’re to downtown the upper the costs can be. In case you are riding, maximum downtown resorts will be offering valet parking, even supposing side road parking may be ceaselessly an choice (just be sure you pay the meter!).
It’s additionally price noting that pricing can range so much relying at the time of yr you discuss with, and if there are any primary occasions happening within the town. The Berkshire Hathaway assembly for instance is a time when costs for lodging in Omaha can truly cross up, so for those who aren’t making plans on attending that chances are you’ll need to keep away from the ones few days.
Listed below are some choices for the place to stick in and round Omaha.
- Lodge Deco – in a construction courting from 1930, this Artwork Deco styled 4* boutique resort gives beautiful en-suite rooms and is inside simple strolling distance of the downtown points of interest. There’s an on-site eating place and valet parking. We stayed right here for 3 nights on a contemporary discuss with to Omaha and loved it.
- Hilton Omaha – That is the nearest resort to the CHI Well being Middle (conference heart for a variety of occasions and meetings within the town), to which it is attached by way of a Skybridge, making it a just right choice for those who’re attending an tournament right here. 4* resort with on-site eating place, airport travel, pool and each self-parking and valet parking choices. Pets permitted. This additionally a just right resort choice for the School Global Sequence on the Charles Schwab stadium as it is extremely with regards to the venue additionally.
- The Peregrine – this resort is located in a historical native landmark construction which dates from 1914. As of late it’s a boutique resort providing 4* lodging simply mins stroll from downtown.
- The Farnam, Autograph Assortment – one of the extremely rated resorts in downtown Omaha, this centrally situated 4* resort gives at ease rooms, on-site parking, and 3 eating places to make a choice from.
- Kimpton Cottonwood Lodge – present in Omaha’s Blackstone district a couple of mins power from downtown, this beautiful 4* resort is a revival of the long-lasting Blackstone resort which was once discovered in this location from 1916. It is a stunning outdated resort with the entire facilities you’ll want for a recreational or industry keep. When you keep right here, be certain to check out a Reuben! The resort additionally has afternoon tea carrier on some Sundays.
- Hampton Inn Council Bluffs – for those who would favor a resort with loose parking, then the Hampton Inn in Council Bluffs Iowa is a great approach to imagine. It’s only some mins power to downtown and breakfast is integrated
- BridgePointe Inn & Suites – a extra funds orientated choice present in Council Bluffs, Iowa. There’s loose parking on website and breakfast is integrated. It’s additionally just a quick power from downtown Omaha
Naturally there are lots of extra lodging choices in Omaha. See a complete record of choices together with holiday leases, inns and resorts right here.
Find out how to Get Round Omaha
Omaha is a reasonably simple town to get round whether or not on foot, via automobile, via motorcycle, or via public transit.
Downtown Omaha may be very walkable, with many points of interest only some mins stroll aside. For locations slightly farther from downtown, such because the Blackstone District, Joslyn Fort, Lauritzen Gardens and so on., then you’ll want to use some way of mechanized delivery.
Public delivery products and services, essentially within the type of a bus gadget, function around the Omaha house. The gadget is referred to as the Omaha Metro, and you’ll be able to to find reside bus instances and routes at the My Trip web page and app. Fares for the Metro carrier want to be paid during the UMO gadget, this means that both downloading the UMO app, getting an Umo card, or buying an Umo token. See extra on how to do this right here.
Omaha may be within the procedure of creating a streetcar carrier which is meant to hyperlink downtown with the Blackstone district. This is was hoping to be working via 2027.
You’ll additionally power simply round Omaha, which is what we typically finally end up doing. Side road parking is to be had everywhere in the town for affordable charges, and you’ll be able to pay the usage of the Park Omaha or ParkMobile app for smartphones. Charges range, and you’ll be able to take a look at the most recent parking data right here.
Trip percentage products and services together with Uber, Lyft and zTrip also are to be had, as are motorcycle percentage and scooter condo products and services.
Find out how to Save Cash in Omaha
Whilst Omaha doesn’t have a town appeal move that we’re conscious about, you’ll be able to save on sights with the loose Omaha Financial savings Pack. It is a loose carrier introduced via the native tourism workplace, and provides reductions on probably the most hottest sights within the town.
This contains puts just like the Durham Museum, Lauritzen Gardens, the Zoo, Omaha Kids’s Museum, and extra.
It’s loose to get the move and it’s all treated on-line. All it’s important to do is supply your data and the move can be despatched for your telephone. You’ll see extra and enroll at the authentic Omaha Financial savings Pack web page right here.
Additional Studying
That’s it for our information to objects to do in Omaha, Nebraska. Earlier than you head off despite the fact that, I simply sought after to percentage some extra assets we’ve put in combination that can assist you plan your shuttle to the town, and commute in the United States generally.
- Questioning how a lot a discuss with to Omaha may value? Take a look at our information to how a lot it prices to commute in the United States that can assist you plan your shuttle funds.
- I’ve written a information that includes a few of my best guidelines for riding in the United States to lend a hand get you going at the street!
- We’ve visited a large number of different towns in the United States! See our guides to issues to do in Las Vegas, issues to do in Huntsville, issues to do in Savannah, issues to do in Charleston, issues to do in Albuquerque, visiting New Orleans throughout Mardi Gras, issues to do in Cambria, issues to do in Houston, issues to do in Dallas, and issues to do in Santa Fe
- If you need some USA street shuttle inspiration, see our itineraries for a USA Deep South street shuttle, California Highway Shuttle, Course 66 Highway Shuttle and Pacific Coast Freeway Highway Shuttle
- And for those who’re in search of inspiration for the remainder of the United States, take a look at our USA segment, which has rather a lot extra inspiration
Do you could have any questions on visiting Omaha? As all the time, we’re glad to respond to any questions you’ll have, simply pop them within the feedback beneath and we’ll get again to you once we will be able to.
