The 25 Best Things to Do in Omaha
Experience the heartland's unexpected delights, from world-class zoos to innovative cuisine and rich cultural heritage.
Omaha, Nebraska might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning your next getaway, but this vibrant city on the Missouri River is full of surprises. Blending Midwestern charm with urban sophistication, Omaha offers a unique mix of experiences that'll make you wonder why you didn't visit sooner.
Known as the Gateway to the West, Omaha has transformed from a frontier town into a thriving metropolis without losing its friendly, approachable vibe. Home to five Fortune 500 companies, including Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway, the city has a robust economy that fuels a lively arts scene, innovative restaurants, and world-class attractions.
Whether you're into outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply indulging in some of the best steaks you'll ever taste, Omaha has something for everyone. Let's dive into the top 25 things to do in this surprising Midwestern gem.
Explore the World-Famous Henry Doorly Zoo
Start your Omaha adventure at one of the world's best zoos. The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is home to North America's largest indoor rainforest and the world's largest indoor desert. You'll come face-to-face with animals from across the globe in immersive habitats that'll make you forget you're in the middle of Nebraska.
Don't miss the Lied Jungle, where you can walk through a tropical rainforest complete with waterfalls and free-flying birds. The Desert Dome, a geodesic marvel, houses creatures from deserts around the world. For an extra thrill, venture into the Kingdoms of the Night exhibit, the world's largest nocturnal exhibit.
Key Information:
- Location: 3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68107
- Hours: Daily, 9 AM - 5 PM (hours may vary seasonally)
- Admission: Adults $25.95, Children (3-11) $18.95, Seniors $24.95
Why Visit: Experience one of the world's top zoos right in the heart of America.
Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning to see the animals at their most active and beat the crowds.
Wander Through the Old Market District
Step back in time in Omaha's charming Old Market District. This historic neighborhood, with its cobblestone streets and restored 19th-century buildings, is the cultural heart of the city. Spend an afternoon browsing unique boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops, or enjoy a meal at one of the many excellent restaurants.
The Old Market comes alive at night with street performers and a lively atmosphere. Grab a drink at one of the rooftop bars for a great view of the city lights. Don't forget to check out the Old Market Passageway, a quaint indoor mall filled with local artisans and specialty shops.
Key Information:
- Location: Downtown Omaha, roughly bounded by Farnam Street, South 10th Street, Jackson Street, and South 13th Street
- Hours: Individual business hours vary
- Admission: Free to explore
Why Visit: Experience the historic charm and vibrant culture of Omaha's most beloved district.
Insider Tip: Visit on Saturday mornings for the farmers market (May through October) to sample local produce and artisanal goods.
Admire Art at Joslyn Art Museum
Art lovers, rejoice! The Joslyn Art Museum is a cultural treasure trove housed in a stunning Art Deco building. With a collection spanning ancient times to the present day, you'll find everything from Greek pottery to contemporary installations.
The museum's European collection is particularly impressive, featuring works by Titian, El Greco, and Monet. American art enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive collection of Western American art, including works by Frederic Remington and Alfred Jacob Miller.
Key Information:
- Location: 2200 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68102
- Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 10 AM - 4 PM
- Admission: Free
Why Visit: Enjoy world-class art in a beautiful setting, all for free.
Insider Tip: Don't miss the outdoor sculpture garden, perfect for a peaceful moment among art and nature.
Cross the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
For a uniquely Omaha experience, take a stroll across the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. This 3,000-foot cable-stayed bridge spans the Missouri River, connecting Nebraska and Iowa. It's not just a bridge; it's an experience.
As you walk, you'll reach the state line where you can stand with one foot in Nebraska and one in Iowa - perfect for a fun photo op! The bridge offers stunning views of the Omaha skyline and the river, especially beautiful at sunset.
Key Information:
- Location: 705 Riverfront Dr, Omaha, NE 68102
- Hours: Open 24/7
- Admission: Free
Why Visit: Get a unique perspective on Omaha and stand in two states at once.
Insider Tip: Visit at night to see the bridge lit up in colorful LED lights.
Dive into History at The Durham Museum
Housed in Omaha's former Union Station, The Durham Museum offers a fascinating journey through America's western history. The beautifully restored Art Deco building is worth a visit alone, but the exhibits bring the region's past to life.
Explore full-size train cars, see what an old-time soda fountain was like, and learn about the Native American cultures that first inhabited the area. The museum's temporary exhibits often feature world-class collections, so there's always something new to discover.
Key Information:
- Location: 801 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68108
- Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10 AM - 4 PM, Sunday 12 PM - 4 PM
- Admission: Adults $13, Children (3-12) $7, Seniors $10
Why Visit: Experience the grandeur of a bygone era while learning about the region's rich history.
Insider Tip: Try a phosphate soda at the authentic soda fountain - it's a taste of history!
Stroll Through Lauritzen Gardens
Escape the urban hustle at Lauritzen Gardens, a 100-acre urban oasis featuring a variety of themed gardens and a tropical conservatory. From the Victorian garden to the model railroad garden, each area offers a unique botanical experience.
Don't miss the Marjorie K. Daugherty Conservatory, a 17,500-square-foot indoor tropical garden featuring exotic plants and a stunning waterfall. In spring, the garden comes alive with thousands of daffodils and tulips.
Key Information:
- Location: 100 Bancroft St, Omaha, NE 68108
- Hours: Daily 9 AM - 5 PM
- Admission: Adults $15, Children (6-12) $7, Children under 6 free
Why Visit: Experience a serene natural retreat in the heart of the city.
Insider Tip: Visit during the holidays for the poinsettia show and model train display.
Catch a Show at the Holland Performing Arts Center
For a night of world-class entertainment, head to the Holland Performing Arts Center. This state-of-the-art venue hosts a variety of performances, from symphony concerts to Broadway shows and contemporary music acts.
The center's main performance space, the Peter Kiewit Concert Hall, is renowned for its exceptional acoustics. Even if you're not attending a show, the building's striking modern architecture is worth admiring.
Key Information:
- Location: 1200 Douglas St, Omaha, NE 68102
- Hours: Box office open Monday-Friday 10 AM - 5 PM, and 90 minutes before performances
- Admission: Varies by performance
Why Visit: Experience top-notch performances in a stunning architectural setting.
Insider Tip: Check their calendar for free community events and concerts held throughout the year.
Visit Historic Boys Town
Step into a unique piece of American history at Boys Town, a National Historic Landmark District founded by Father Edward Flanagan in 1917. This self-contained community was designed to help at-risk children and has been doing so for over a century.
Tour Father Flanagan's house, visit the Hall of History to learn about Boys Town's impact, and see the famous statue of a young boy carrying a younger boy on his back - the inspiration for Spencer Tracy's Oscar-winning performance in the 1938 film "Boys Town."
Key Information:
- Location: 14100 Crawford St, Boys Town, NE 68010
- Hours: Visitor Center open Monday-Saturday 9 AM - 5 PM, Sunday 12 PM - 5 PM
- Admission: Free
Why Visit: Learn about a groundbreaking approach to child care that's been helping kids for over 100 years.
Insider Tip: Don't miss the World's Largest Ball of Stamps, a quirky attraction created by Boys Town students in the 1950s.
Cheer at the College World Series
If you're in Omaha in June, you're in for a treat. The city hosts the NCAA Men's College World Series, the pinnacle of college baseball. Even if you're not a huge baseball fan, the energy and excitement surrounding this event are contagious.
Games are held at TD Ameritrade Park, a state-of-the-art stadium in downtown Omaha. The area around the stadium turns into a festive zone with fan activities, live music, and great food.
Key Information:
- Location: TD Ameritrade Park, 1200 Mike Fahey St, Omaha, NE 68102
- Hours: Varies, typically mid-to-late June
- Admission: Ticket prices vary
Why Visit: Experience the excitement of championship college baseball in a city that lives for this annual event.
Insider Tip: Even if you can't get tickets to the games, join the festivities at the nearby Fan Fest for free.
Explore the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum
Aviation enthusiasts and history buffs will love the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum. Located just outside Omaha, this massive facility houses an impressive collection of aircraft, spacecraft, and missiles.
Highlights include a SR-71 Blackbird spy plane, a B-36 Peacemaker bomber, and an Apollo command module. Interactive exhibits let you experience what it's like to fly in a simulator or land on the moon.
Key Information:
- Location: 28210 W Park Hwy, Ashland, NE 68003
- Hours: Daily 9 AM - 5 PM
- Admission: Adults $14, Seniors $13, Children (4-12) $11, Children 3 and under free
Why Visit: Get up close with some of the most important aircraft in U.S. military history.
Insider Tip: Check their calendar for special events like cockpit days when you can sit in the pilot's seat of select aircraft.
Taste the Original at Reuben's Restaurant
Did you know the Reuben sandwich was invented in Omaha? While the original Blackstone Hotel where it was created is no longer standing, you can still taste this classic at Reuben's Restaurant, which carries on the tradition.
Sink your teeth into layers of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on rye bread. It's a taste of Omaha history that's as delicious today as it was when it was invented in the 1920s.
Key Information:
- Location: 5225 N 16th St, Omaha, NE 68110
- Hours: Monday-Saturday 11 AM - 8 PM, Closed Sunday
- Price: $10-15 for a sandwich
Why Visit: Taste the authentic version of a sandwich that's become an American classic.
Insider Tip: Try the "Blackstone Reuben" for the closest experience to the original 1920s version.
Get Inspired at KANEKO
KANEKO is not your typical art museum. This "open space for your mind" was founded by artist Jun Kaneko to foster creativity and innovation. The stunning 60,000-square-foot space in three turn-of-the-century warehouses hosts ever-changing exhibits that blur the lines between art, science, and philosophy.
From large-scale sculptures to interactive technology displays, KANEKO's exhibits are designed to spark creativity and encourage new ways of thinking. It's a truly unique cultural experience that sets Omaha apart.
Key Information:
- Location: 1111 Jones St, Omaha, NE 68102
- Hours: Tuesday-Friday 1 PM - 7 PM, Saturday 11 AM - 5 PM, Closed Sunday and Monday
- Admission: Free
Why Visit: Experience boundary-pushing art and ideas in a space designed to inspire creativity.
Insider Tip: Check their website for special lectures and events that often feature pioneering thinkers from various fields.
Hike Through Fontenelle Forest
Just minutes from downtown Omaha, Fontenelle Forest offers a 1,400-acre natural escape. With 19 miles of hiking trails winding through towering cottonwoods, oak savannas, and wetlands, it's a paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers.
The Raptor Woodland Refuge houses rehabilitated birds of prey, offering a chance to see hawks, owls, and even a bald eagle up close. For a unique perspective, try the TreeRush Adventures, a series of ziplines and obstacle courses set high in the forest canopy.
Key Information:
- Location: 1111 Bellevue Blvd N, Bellevue, NE 68005
- Hours: Trails open daily from sunrise to sunset; Nature Center hours vary
- Admission: Adults $11, Children (2-17) $8, Children under 2 free
Why Visit: Experience Nebraska's natural beauty and diverse ecosystems just minutes from the city.
Insider Tip: Visit in early morning or late afternoon for the best chance of spotting wildlife.
Indulge at Ted & Wally's Ice Cream3
Cool off with a scoop (or three) of Omaha's favorite ice cream at Ted & Wally's. This Old Market institution churns out super-premium ice cream in a dizzying array of flavors, all made fresh daily using local, organic ingredients whenever possible.
From classics like vanilla and chocolate to inventive flavors like sweet corn or butter brickle (a local favorite), there's something for every palate. The vintage decor and friendly staff add to the charm of this Omaha must-visit.
Key Information:
- Location: 1120 Jackson St, Omaha, NE 68102
- Hours: Sunday-Thursday 12 PM - 10 PM, Friday-Saturday 12 PM - 11 PM
- Price: $3-7 per scoop
Why Visit: Taste some of the best homemade ice cream in the Midwest.
Insider Tip: Flavors change daily, so check their Facebook page for the current lineup before you go.
Discover Latino Culture at El Museo Latino
Celebrate the richness of Latino culture at El Museo Latino, the first Latino art and history museum in the Midwest. The museum showcases both permanent and traveling exhibits that highlight Latino contributions to art, history, and culture.
From pre-Columbian artifacts to contemporary Latino art, the museum offers a diverse range of exhibits. Don't miss their cultural events, which often include traditional dance performances, music, and art workshops.
Key Information:
- Location: 4701 S 25th St, Omaha, NE 68107
- Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10 AM - 5 PM
- Admission: Adults $5, Seniors and Students $4, Children under 5 free
Why Visit: Immerse yourself in Latino culture and art in the heart of the Midwest.
Insider Tip: Visit during the annual Cinco de Mayo celebration for special exhibits and cultural performances.
Relax at Heartland of America Park
In the heart of downtown Omaha, Heartland of America Park offers a peaceful retreat with its 15-acre lake, fountains, and walking trails. The centerpiece of the park is a 320-foot-high fountain that lights up at night, creating a stunning display.
Take a gondola ride on the lake for a romantic touch, or simply enjoy a picnic on the green spaces. The park also features several monuments and sculptures that tell the story of Omaha and the American West.
Key Information:
- Location: 800 Douglas St, Omaha, NE 68102
- Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset
- Admission: Free
Why Visit: Enjoy a serene oasis in the middle of the city with beautiful views of the Omaha skyline.
Insider Tip: Visit at dusk to see the fountain illuminated and reflect on the lake's surface.
Shop and Dine at Aksarben Village
Once the site of Omaha's horse racing track, Aksarben Village has been transformed into a vibrant mixed-use development. This pedestrian-friendly area is perfect for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Browse local boutiques, catch a movie at the cinema, or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants. The village also hosts a popular farmers market on Sundays from May to October, featuring local produce, crafts, and live music.
Key Information:
- Location: 67th and Center St, Omaha, NE 68106
- Hours: Vary by business
- Admission: Free to explore
Why Visit: Experience a modern, walkable neighborhood that showcases the best of Omaha's local businesses.
Insider Tip: Check out the Stinson Park concert series in the summer for free outdoor performances.
Explore the Malcolm X House Site
Visit the birthplace of one of America's most influential civil rights leaders at the Malcolm X House Site. While the original house no longer stands, a visitor center provides information about Malcolm X's early life in Omaha and his later impact on the civil rights movement.
The site includes a memorial and interpretive panels that tell the story of Malcolm X and the African American experience in Omaha during the early 20th century.
Key Information:
- Location: 3448 Pinkney St, Omaha, NE 68111
- Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk
- Admission: Free
Why Visit: Connect with an important piece of American civil rights history.
Insider Tip: Combine your visit with a trip to the Great Plains Black History Museum for a more comprehensive look at African American history in the region.
Catch a Film at Film Streams
For cinema lovers, Film Streams is a must-visit. This nonprofit arts organization operates two theaters in Omaha, showcasing independent, foreign, and classic films you won't find at the multiplex.
The Ruth Sokolof Theater in the Dundee neighborhood is a modern two-screen cinema, while the historic Dundee Theater, Omaha's longest-running cinema, offers a more nostalgic movie-going experience.
Key Information:
- Location: Ruth Sokolof Theater: 1340 Mike Fahey St, Omaha, NE 68102Dundee Theater: 4952 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68132
- Hours: Vary by showtime
- Admission: General $10, Students $7.50, Seniors $7.50
Why Visit: Experience thought-provoking cinema in unique, community-focused settings.
Insider Tip: Check their calendar for special events, including Q&As with filmmakers and themed film series.
Tour the Lewis & Clark Landing
Commemorate the historic journey of Lewis and Clark at this riverside park. The Lewis & Clark Landing features a 30-foot-tall statue of the explorers and their Native American guide, Sacagawea, overlooking the Missouri River.
The park offers beautiful views of the river and is a great spot for a walk or bike ride. Interpretive signs throughout the park provide information about the Lewis and Clark expedition and the natural history of the Missouri River.
Key Information:
- Location: 515 N Riverfront Dr, Omaha, NE 68102
- Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset
- Admission: Free
Why Visit: Connect with a pivotal moment in American history while enjoying riverside views.
Insider Tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy it at one of the many benches overlooking the river.
Browse Local Art at Hot Shops Art Center
For a hands-on art experience, visit the Hot Shops Art Center. This unique space houses over 80 artists' studios and four art galleries in a former mattress factory. You can watch artists at work in various mediums, from glassblowing and pottery to painting and metalwork.
The center hosts open houses throughout the year where you can meet the artists, see demonstrations, and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces directly from the creators.
Key Information:
- Location: 1301 Nicholas St, Omaha, NE 68102
- Hours: Monday-Saturday 10 AM - 6 PM, Sunday 12 PM - 5 PM
- Admission: Free
Why Visit: Get a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process and support local artists.
Insider Tip: Visit during one of their quarterly open houses for the full Hot Shops experience, including live demonstrations.
Enjoy Nature at Chalco Hills Recreation Area
Just southwest of Omaha, Chalco Hills Recreation Area offers 1,186 acres of natural beauty centered around Wehrspann Lake. It's a popular spot for fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking.
The park features over seven miles of hiking and biking trails, including a 5-mile paved loop around the lake. Birdwatchers will appreciate the variety of waterfowl and migratory birds that frequent the area.
Key Information:
- Location: 8901 S 154th St, Omaha, NE 68138
- Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset
- Admission: Free
Why Visit: Experience the natural beauty of Nebraska's prairies and wetlands just outside the city.
Insider Tip: Rent a canoe or kayak in the summer months for a peaceful paddle on the lake.
Step Back in Time at Florence Mill
Discover a unique piece of Omaha history at the Florence Mill. Built in 1846 by Mormon pioneers, this former grist mill now serves as a museum and art gallery. The ArtLoft Gallery showcases work by local artists, while the museum tells the story of the mill and its role in westward expansion.
Don't miss the Winter Quarters Mill Museum on the lower level, which explores the history of the Mormon Trail through Nebraska.
Key Information:
- Location: 9102 N 30th St, Omaha, NE 68112
- Hours: May-October, Thursday-Sunday 1 PM - 5 PM
- Admission: Free (donations appreciated)
Why Visit: Experience a unique blend of history and contemporary art in a beautifully preserved 19th-century building.
Insider Tip: Visit on a Sunday afternoon in the summer to catch the Florence Mill Farmers Market, featuring local produce and crafts.
Sample Craft Beer at Nebraska Brewing Company
Quench your thirst with some locally brewed beer at Nebraska Brewing Company. This award-winning brewery has been crafting exceptional beers since 2007, gaining national recognition for their innovative brews.
Visit their taproom to sample a wide range of beers, from classic styles to experimental brews. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through a tasting flight, helping you discover your new favorite beer.
Key Information:
- Location: 6950 S 108th St, La Vista, NE 68128
- Hours: Monday-Thursday 3 PM - 10 PM, Friday-Saturday 11 AM - 11 PM, Sunday 11 AM - 9 PM
- Price: Beers $5-7, Flights $10-12
Why Visit: Taste some of Nebraska's best craft beers in a friendly, laid-back atmosphere.
Insider Tip: Try their barrel-aged series for unique, complex flavors you won't find anywhere else.
Structuring Your Omaha Trip: A 3-Day Itinerary
Now that we've explored Omaha's top attractions, let's put it all together into a suggested 3-day itinerary. This plan will help you make the most of your time in the city, but feel free to adjust based on your interests and the time of year you're visiting.
Day 1: Downtown and Old Market
Start your Omaha adventure in the heart of the city.
- Morning: Begin with a visit to the Durham Museum to get a sense of Omaha's history. Don't forget to try a phosphate soda at the authentic soda fountain.
- Lunch: Head to the Old Market for lunch at one of the many local restaurants. Try M's Pub for a mix of American and European cuisine.
- Afternoon: Spend time exploring the Old Market's shops and galleries. Don't miss the Old Market Passageway for unique local crafts.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at V. Mertz, a fine dining restaurant in a historic Old Market warehouse. After dinner, take a stroll across the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge for night views of the Omaha skyline.
Day 2: Culture and Nature
Dive into Omaha's cultural offerings and natural beauty.
- Morning: Start your day at the Joslyn Art Museum. Take your time exploring the diverse collections and don't miss the sculpture garden.
- Lunch: Grab a quick lunch at the museum cafe or head to nearby Blackstone District for more options.
- Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at Lauritzen Gardens. Explore the various themed gardens and the indoor conservatory.
- Evening: Catch a show at the Holland Performing Arts Center or Film Streams' Ruth Sokolof Theater.
Day 3: Family Fun and Local Flavors
End your trip with some of Omaha's most popular attractions and local tastes.
- Morning: Dedicate your morning to the world-class Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Arrive early to see the animals at their most active.
- Lunch: Enjoy lunch at the zoo or head to Reuben's Restaurant for Omaha's famous Reuben sandwich.
- Afternoon: Visit Boys Town to learn about this unique community's history and impact.
- Evening: End your trip with dinner at one of Omaha's renowned steakhouses, like Gorat's or The Drover. For dessert, don't miss Ted & Wally's Ice Cream in the Old Market.
Remember, this itinerary is just a suggestion. Omaha has so much to offer that you could easily spend a week exploring and still not see everything. Don't be afraid to wander off the beaten path – some of the best experiences come from unexpected discoveries.
Omaha may not have the glitz of New York or the fame of Los Angeles, but what it does have is a warm Midwestern welcome, a rich cultural scene, and experiences you won't find anywhere else. From its world-class zoo to its innovative culinary scene, from its deep historical roots to its forward-thinking arts community, Omaha is a city that rewards those who take the time to explore it.
Whether you're standing with one foot in Nebraska and one in Iowa on the Bob Kerrey Bridge, savoring a perfectly cooked Omaha steak, or marveling at the desert dome in the Henry Doorly Zoo, you'll find that Omaha has a way of surprising and delighting visitors. It's a city that takes pride in its past while constantly reinventing itself for the future.
So pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and prepare to be amazed by the Gateway to the West. Omaha is waiting to show you why it's one of the Midwest's best-kept secrets. Who knows? You might just find yourself planning your next visit before this one is over.
West Parker, a Cornell University School of Hotel Administration graduate, has spent two decades as the secret weapon of the jet-set elite, crafting bespoke adventures that redefine luxury travel. Now a resident writer for Town & Tourist, this 45-year-old "Architect of Extraordinary Journeys" combines razor-sharp insights with unparalleled industry connections to deliver experiences that even the most discerning globetrotters can't help but rave about. West's expertise spans from exclusive real estate to fine dining, making him the go-to strategist for those who demand nothing but the extraordinary in their travels.
