Nebraska has more to offer than meets the eye, and although Omaha is the largest city, it still has that small-town charm of the Midwest. If you’re just passing through on your cross-country road trip or if you are traveling to Nebraska, in this blog I’ll outline the top 10 things to not miss if you’re visiting Omaha for the first time.
This blog was originally posted as an experience on Roam Rhino, an app that lets people share and discover travel stories from around the world and from different perspectives.
1. Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium
Ask anyone from Nebraska what to do when you visit Omaha and they will, without a doubt, tell you to visit the Henry Doorly Zoo. It’s a huge source of pride for Nebraskans because it is not only one of the top zoos in the United States but is continuously ranked as one of the best in the world. From outstanding conservation efforts behind the scenes to the grandiose displays and diverse habitats that are housed there, the Henry Doorly Zoo is a delight for people of all ages. These unique experiences range from tropical rainforests in the Jungle to marine life in the Aquarium to the Desert Dome—the world’s largest indoor desert and the most visible part of the zoo from the outside.
2. Visit the Old Market District
Your Omaha, Nebraska adventure wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Old Market District. The cobblestone streets in the charming historic city center are packed with unique shops, art galleries, and some of the best local restaurants. Many of the original brick buildings are still in use and add to the charm of the area. During the warmer months you’ll find the Old Market thriving on weekend mornings with the Farmer’s Market and in the evenings with the bustling nightlife scene. Easily one of the culinary hubs of the Midwest, the Old Market hosts a diverse range of restaurants and eateries from European-style brasseries to breweries and classic American steakhouses.
3. Stroll Along Gene Leahy Mall and Heartland of America Park at the Riverfront
Located just East of the Old Market District, you’ll come across Gene Leahy Mall and the Heartland of America Park. Taking a walk along the many walking trails and dog-friendly areas, the parks are a refreshing nature getaway within the city limits. In the winter there is often ice skating on the small lake, and during the warmer months you’ll find paddle boating activities to enjoy the scenery as well as events and live music at the amphitheater.
4. Explore Benson Neighborhood
Benson is by far one of my favorite neighborhoods in Omaha, and it’s easy to see why when you visit. The walls are lined with colorful murals and the Benson Theatre hosts many cultural and artistic events throughout the year. Benson is full of unique shops and restaurants as well as an incredible nightlife scene. From bars like The Syd to Jake’s Cigar Bar to Fullhouse for karaoke and games and Beercade for arcade-style fun, you’ll undoubtedly have a night to remember in Benson.
5. Delight Your Senses at Lauritzen Gardens
The Lauritzen Gardens Botanical Center is adored by locals and directly across the interstate from the Henry Doorly Zoo. It consists of a collection of four botanical gardens to escape the city and relax in the serene sights and smells. The center also offers a variety of educational programs, workshops, and events for all ages, focusing on topics such as gardening, horticulture, and conservation, as well as different themed events and exhibits throughout the year. The Lauritzen Gardens is a perfect spot for nature lovers when visiting Omaha.
See also: The Best Things to do in Lincoln, Nebraska
6. Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
Take in a panoramic Midwest sunset while strolling along this 3,000-foot winding pedestrian bridge that connects Nebraska and Iowa, known to locals as “The Bob”. The bridge was constructed to symbolize the union of the two states and the relationship that each one has to the other. After the sun sets, the bridge lights up with gorgeous LED colors for a gorgeous backdrop to the city.
7. Grab Brunch in Blackstone or Saddle Creek
Omaha is full of small, lively districts sprinkled throughout the city. Just like Benson, Blackstone is another charming pocket of nightlife, restaurants, and unique shops and boutiques. Particularly notable is Early Bird breakfast, a modestly-priced and delicious breakfast or brunch spot that is the perfect way to start your day.
I also can’t write a blog about Omaha without mentioning Saddle Creek Breakfast Club, another noteworthy breakfast and brunch restaurant. With an outside patio as well as an inviting indoor atmosphere and an incredible food and drink menu, Saddle Creek Breakfast Club is adored by locals and is a must-visit when you visit Omaha.
See also: The Best Restaurants in Lincoln, Nebraska
8. Visit the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum and Luminarium Museum
The Air and Space Museum, as it’s called by locals, is located a short drive outside of Omaha in a town called Ashland, so if you have access to a car this is a fascinating place to visit. Its collection of aircraft, missiles, and space-related artifacts as well as history and interactive displays makes it a fun stop on your Omaha trip.
The Luminarium Museum on the Riverfront is a brand new interactive museum for curious people of all ages. With over 100 exhibits, it’s also open on Thursdays from 7 to 10pm if you prefer an adults-only environment.
9. Explore Omaha’s Live Music Scene at the Waiting Room Lounge, Reverb Lounge, the Slowdown, or Maha Music Festival.
Another reason to brag about the Benson neighborhood is the music scene that has gotten a lot of attention in recent years. The Waiting Room Lounge and the Reverb Lounge, located within steps of one another, have hosted both local and international acts. As Omaha is the largest city in Nebraska, it’s usually the stop for touring bands, which you can also catch at the Slowdown. If you happen to be visiting Omaha in August, I highly recommend you reserve a ticket for Maha—a volunteer-led music and community festival hosted every year in the Heartland of America Park at the Riverfront.
10. Attend Seasonal Events
A couple of seasonal (but completely unrelated) events to mention are attending a baseball game at TD Ameritrade Park and Omaha Fashion Week. Omaha is the home of the Men’s Baseball College World Series every year in September/October, and the downtown area becomes a wild atmosphere during the tournament.
Another noteworthy biannual event to mention is Omaha Fashion Week. Omaha might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of the fashion scene, but it’s a growing platform for emerging and established designers to present their collections. It has become one of the largest fashion events in the Midwest and the fourth largest in the country. The event is a week-long spectacle that includes runway shows, designer showcases, and various related activities.
The Orpheum Theater is an architectural wonder and a hub for the performing arts in Omaha. While you’re in town, check the website for current live performances, including touring Broadway shows, concerts, dance performances, and other cultural events.
