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25 Fun & Best Things to do in Omaha, Nebraska

Omaha, Nebraska may be the most underrated city in the Midwest. Located on the Nebraska-Iowa border along the banks of the Missouri River, the city sits at the foot of the Loess Hills and welcomes visitors who enjoy homestyle cuisine, midwestern scenery, American history, and the College World Series.

Famous for being on the pioneering trail, Omaha has an extensive and eclectic history, reflected today in the number of museums and cultural centers on offer. There is also one of the nation’s most popular zoos, striking sculpture gardens, impressive art galleries, bountiful nature parks, and more.

Not to mention an iconic and well-loved feat of engineering known as “Bob the Bridge!”

In a state famous for its vast open prairies, Omaha stands as a city that’s full of surprises. So, get ready to follow in the intrepid footsteps of Lewis & Clark, and check out our in-depth guide to the best things to do in Omaha, Nebraska.

TL;DR

  • Most significant landmark – Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
  • Best park – Lauritzen Gardens
  • Best free activity – Walking/biking the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
  • Best activity for kids – Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
  • Best activity for adults – The Durham Museum
  • Best food – Orsi’s Italian Bakery & Pizzeria
  • Best nightlife – Wicked Rabbit
  • Best place to stayHotel Deco

Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska

1. Visit Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

Color Full Train at the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

Address: 3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68107

Whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo is a great way to spend a few hours while in the city. The zoo and aquarium covers 160 acres with a wide variety of animals and plants for you to learn about and observe. They have over 17,000 animals throughout the premises!

They have exhibits featuring animals from the African grasslands, the Asian highlands, jungles, and more. Some of their most popular exhibits include their gorilla and orangutans. These fascinating creatures are beautiful and exciting to see. Plus, be sure to take some time for the sea lion show. These intelligent and funny animals perform for fish while animal trainers teach you about them. 

In the aquarium, you can see plenty of marine life. Something people of all ages will love is their stingray beach. Here, you can gently pet the wings of stingrays as they swim. The aquarium even has a 70-foot tunnel where you can see sharks swimming above you!

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo is also home to America’s largest indoor rainforest and the largest indoor desert. As you tour the zoo and aquarium, you can learn about their part in conservation and donate if you want to.

For accommodation, the Omaha Zoo Hotel is okay if you’re on a budget and looking for something super close by. For a better experience, try the Magnolia Hotel, or something like this delightful mid-century home you can have all to yourself. No matter where you stay, a visit to Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo is a must when you’re in these parts.

See Related: Best Family Vacation Spots in the World

2. Learn About the History of the Western US at The Durham Museum

Museum Interior
akasped / Flickr, CC BY 2.0

Address: 801 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68108

If you’re fascinated by history, The Durham Museum is the perfect place to visit while in town. The Durham Museum is in a restored Art Deco building that used to be the region’s busiest train station. The building was restored in 1995 to its former glory from when it opened in 1931.

As you wander through the various indoor exhibits, you’ll learn all about the history of Omaha and the surrounding areas. They have permanent exhibits and some temporary ones. You can look online to see what traveling exhibits are there during your visit to The Durham Museum. 

Permanent exhibits at the Durham Museum include the Baright Home and Photo Gallery. You’ll see remakes of cottages from the 1800s and what they called working cottages. They have a Bekins Moving & Storage truck model, which tells the story of a prominent Omaha company. 

Other notable attractions include authentic trains that used to pass through Omaha when train travel was popular. They have lifesize trains and model trains. 

For places to stay, this downtown condo with a rooftop patio is right around the corner and is a great option to see the city from a different perspective. For hotels, the reliable Hyatt Palace is only a hop, skip, and jump away, and Hotel Deco in the heart of downtown Omaha has bags of style.

See Related: Best Museums in America

3. Admire Fine Art at the Joslyn Art Museum

Museum Interior and Exhibits

Address: 2200 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68102

To see some of the finest art Omaha has to offer, make sure the Joslyn Art Museum is on your itinerary. The museum was first built back in the 1920s and opened as an art museum in 1931 by prominent business owners George and Sarah Joslyn. Sarah Joslyn gave Omaha this museum as a gift to celebrate her late husband. 

You’ll be impressed by how beautiful the building is when you arrive, as the outside is covered in white and cream marble. The museum features permanent and visiting exhibits and a handful of sculpture gardens. 

The Joslyn Art Museum is Nebraska’s largest art museum and features exhibits with Greek pottery, indigenous artwork, the Maximillian Journals, and more. And one of the best things about the Joslyn Art Museum is that it’s one of the few Omaha attractions that won’t cost you a penny.

The Four Points by Sheraton is a great lodging option if you want to stay downtown near the Joslyn Art Museum, and the EVEN Hotel is well-rated and only a few blocks away.

Note: the Joslyn Art Museum is temporarily closed for expansion and renovation and will re-open in 2024.

See Related: Things to Do in Lincoln, Nebraska

4. Bike from Nebraska to Iowa Over the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge in Omaha, Nebraska

Have you ever wanted to bike between two states? While in Omaha, you can! Check out the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, which allows you to cross the Missouri River over its 3,000-foot length. It’s the only pedestrian bridge in the United States that connects two states. 

You can bike or walk from Omaha, Nebraska, to Council Bluffs, Iowa, via the famous Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. Locals affectionately call this iconic landmark “Bob the Bridge,” and you’ll find a plaque that marks the border of the two states about halfway across.

An electric bike rental is a perfect way to take it all in – especially if you’re not getting any younger!

The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is near the Lewis and Clark Landing, the Lauritzen Gardens, and a short walk from the Old Market, so you can visit various attractions on this list all in one day.

One of the nearest hotels to the bridge is the Hilton Omaha, or there’s the Quality Inn & Suites on the Iowa side. Still, if you’re on a bike you can probably afford to go further, so check out all the listings for downtown Omaha.

See Related: The 10 Best Weekend Trips from Omaha, Nebraska

5. Wander Through the Old Market District

Christmas in the Old Market of Omaha

The Old Market District is a historic neighborhood that offers plenty of things to do in Omaha, from restaurants, coffee shops, retail stores, and more. When the Old Market was originally developed in 1871, people mainly used the area for grocery stores and other necessity shops. 

As Omaha and its tourism industry grew, more restaurants and other shops started popping up through the Old Market. There are several excellent eateries, as well as bars, and coffee shops to sit back and relax.

The food scene in the Old Market District is a popular draw. You can take a walking food tour through the market or a beer or cocktail tour. For the young and energetic, a bar-hopping scavenger hunt makes for a great night out. 

Besides the fantastic food in the Old Market, the area has a rich and long history. If you’re interested in learning more about it, they offer a guided walking tour where you can learn more about the market’s history.

If guided tours aren’t something you’re interested in, there are self-guided tours of the market. There are signs everywhere to help guide you. Bibliophiles will not want to miss Jackson Street Booksellers, which is an iconic second-hand book store in downtown Omaha. 

One of the best places to stay near the Old Market is the Hilton Omaha, and the Embassy Suites is located close by, too.

See Related: Best Family Vacations on a Budget

6. Visit Spirit of Nebraska’s Wilderness and Pioneer Courage Park

Address: 101 S 16th St, Omaha, NE 68102

Over the span of five city blocks, you can see the Spirit of Nebraska’s Wilderness and Pioneer Courage Park, which features 67 bronze statues. Besides getting to admire some fascinating sculptures, the best thing about this Omaha activity is that it’s free since they’re on public streets. 

The bronze statues are a permanent art exhibit that makes Omaha stand out. The figures are bronze and stainless steel, and because there are so many of them scattered throughout the city, it makes the Spirit of Nebraska’s Wilderness Park one of the largest in the world. 

The statues are 1.25 times the average human’s size, as are the other sculptures included in the installation. Besides humans, you’ll also discover a herd of bison, geese, a large wagon, and other Western animals.

While the Spirit of Nebraska’s Wilderness Park and Pioneer Courage Park span over five blocks, navigating the installations and getting to each piece is easy.

You can get up close and personal with these statues to see how tall they genuinely are, and we had loads of fun arranging comedy photographs to add a personal touch to our trip memories. As such, for us, it made a visit to these awesome statues one of the best things to do in Omaha.

See Related: Best National Parks to Visit in November

7. Enjoy the Greenery at Lauritzen Gardens

Japanese Style Garden

Address: 100 Bancroft St, Omaha, NE 68108

If you enjoy all things botanical, you’ll love spending some time at Lauritzen Gardens. You’ll find them along the Missouri River, southeast of downtown. The space is impressive, spanning 100 acres of land. 

The Lauritzen Gardens opened in 1995 and started with a single herb and rose garden. Over the last few decades, the gardens expanded to fill the space with beautiful trees, bushes, flowers, and other plants. 

Those who work at and maintain the gardens do a fantastic job making the complex easy to navigate for visitors. As you walk through the foliage, there are several themed gardens to discover. One of the most popular is the Song of the Lark Meadow, which pays tribute to the Nebraska prairies. 

The Lauritzen Gardens offers guided and self-guided tours and a selection of programs that children and families will enjoy when visiting Omaha. Some of their classes include floral design and painting, so you can get in touch with your artistic side.

See Related: The 21 Best Gardens in Europe

8. See the Trains at Kenefick Park 

Garden with Arch

Address: 100 Bancroft St, Omaha, NE 68108

After you’ve spent some time at Lauritzen Gardens, Kenefick Park is within walking distance and worth stopping at. You can see the locomotives from Interstate 80, but it’s even better to see up close. The park is named after John C. Kenefick, the former Chairman and CEO of Union Pacific.

The world’s largest diesel-powered locomotive sits in Kenefick Park. The name of this magnificent train is the Centennial 6900. Not only is the Centennial 6900 the largest diesel-powered train, but it’s also one of the biggest trains ever built in general. 

The Centennial 6900 isn’t the only large train in Kenefick Park. The park also houses the world’s largest steam locomotive, the aptly named Big Boy No. 4023. They’re both impressive sights to see, whether you’re a train enthusiast or not. 

The trains aren’t the only reason to visit Kenefick Park, though. Behind the large locomotives sit are benches, plazas, and plaques that help you learn more about the area. Bringing some food for a picnic or a good book to read is a worthwhile way to spend some quality time here.

9. See Naval Ships at the Freedom Park Navy Museum

Freedom Park Outdoor Exhibit
Dual Freq / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 3.0

Address: 2497 Freedom Park Rd, Omaha, NE 68110

Freedom Park Navy Museum is an outdoor park and museum that features naval ships and the Navy Museum of Omaha. It’s one of the top things to do in Nebraska, and certainly one of the best things to do in Omaha itself. The park features an ample grassy space on the Missouri River, about five miles from the Lauritzen Gardens. 

The park is perfect for all traditional park activities, like running, walking, enjoying the fresh air, reading a book, and enjoying a meal. While relaxing and having fun, you can also learn about United States military history at Freedom Park. 

Throughout the park, you’ll find a selection of military aircraft, including the USS Marlin, a Douglas A-4D Skyhawk fighter jet, and the USS Hazard. You can walk up to, read about, and even climb inside some of the vehicles, and while not all of them allow entrance, they’re still amazing to see up close.

The park is free to visit like other public parks, and you’re more than welcome to walk around the park and learn about the history on your own, or you can opt for a guided tour on Saturdays. 

See Related: The 19 Best Military Museums in Europe

10. Step Into the Past at Joslyn Castle and Gardens

View of the landmark historic George and Sarah Joslyn Home, the Joslyn Castle
EQRoy / Shutterstock.com

Address: 3902 Davenport St, Omaha, NE 68131

Based on the kind of building you find growing on trees in Scotland, Joslyn Castle is actually a purpose-built mansion located in the historic Gold Coast district of the city. Erected in 1903 in the Scottish Baronial style, the once-rural castle was the home of George and Sarah Joslyn – two of Omaha’s most famous inhabitants, philanthropists, and first-ever millionaires.

George Joslyn owned the Western Newspaper Union and made his fortune selling ready-to-print newspapers. Over the course of their lifetimes, the Joslyns were renowned for their generosity and benevolence, a legacy that the new owners of this attraction are keen to preserve.

The mansion itself has 35 rooms over four stories, accompanied by around five acres of formal and landscaped gardens that are beautiful and well-maintained. Guided tours are available – both private and public – and the interior of this stunning building needs to be seen to be believed.

A calendar of community events at Joslyn Castle is also extremely popular and well-attended, and the location is a magnet for wedding-day photography. Don’t be surprised if you’re rubbing shoulders with a bride or two when visiting on a beautiful summer’s day.

Public tours are available at set times on Sundays, Mondays, and Thursdays, so be sure to plan in advance as we highly recommend a guide to get the most out of the experience. Reservations are not required.

See Related: Visiting Scotland’s Iconic Eilean Donan Castle

11. See Saint Cecilia’s Cathedral

Inside Cecilia's Cathedral in Omaha, Nebraska

Address: 701 N 40th St, Omaha, NE 68131

When it was completed in 1959, Saint Cecilia’s Cathedral was registered as one of the ten largest Catholic cathedrals in the US. The building is a striking piece of architecture that even non-religious folks will appreciate.

The original builders began the process in 1905, and it is said that there are over three million bricks used in the cathedral’s construction. This Omaha landmark sits on a hill and features distinctive twin bell towers, as well as stunning stained-glass windows that are a sight to behold on a sunny day.

While the outside is beautiful, it doesn’t do the inside justice. If you can look inside, you should try. Even if you can’t, the exterior is still worth seeing and photographing. 

12. Spend a Day at Fun-Plex Waterpark & Rides

Crowd swimming at Fun-Plex Waterpark & Rides
Management / TripAdvisor

Address: 7003 Q St, Omaha, NE 68117

Are you looking for a way to beat the summer heat? Getting a ticket to Fun-Plex Waterpark & Rides is one of the most fun things to do in Omaha. Grab your swimsuits and head to the Ralston neighborhood of the city.

The Fun-Plex is the largest amusement park in Nebraska. It sits on 16 acres and has everything you can imagine. From waterslides to go-karts, bumper boats, bumper cars, and other amusement park rides, this place will surely be a hit. 

If you’re looking for one activity that everyone in the whole family can enjoy, you’ll have to check out their mini-golf course. Their wave pool is fun for almost all ages, the lazy river is the perfect way to relax on the water, and a little lagoon is perfect for the young ones. 

For those who love to relax in the sun, you may want to look into their cabana rentals. Alternatively, the Holiday Inn Express is right across the street and offers an indoor pool and hot tub, and free Wi-Fi.

13. Spend Some Time Outdoors at Standing Bear Lake

Aerial View of Standing Bear Lake in Omaha, Nebraska

Address: 6404 N 132nd St, Omaha, NE 68164

One of the most popular outdoor spaces is Standing Bear Lake in West Omaha. The lake is famous for water activities in the summertime, but the park is open year-round and offers other activities during the wintertime. 

Locals flock to Standing Bear Lake in the summer for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. It’s a great way to beat the heat, and it’s a fun activity that you can do solo or with travel buddies. If you’re interested in kayaking or paddleboarding, you can rent the equipment from stores in town if you don’t have your own. 

Standing Bear Lake Park has a little over three miles of hiking trails that are great for people of all ages. Many of the paths are paved, but a few aren’t. Fishing is also popular at the lake throughout the year. Facilities include restrooms, picnic tables, grills, and a playground.

During the winter, the park offers ice skating. There are a small number of vendors selling hot beverages to keep you warm as you skate around the frozen lake. 

14. Get a Birds-Eye-View From a Hot Air Balloon

Hot Air Balloon at the Nebraska Balloon Festival

Nebraska has a thriving hot air balloon scene, and you can take to the skies when you visit and enjoy the sights from an altogether different perspective.

Scenic Wind Balloon Tours are based in the Omaha/Council Bluffs area, and they can accommodate up to seven people in their baskets. The hot air balloon season generally runs from March through to October – weather permitting – and flights take off at sunrise, or two hours before sunset.

And if you happen to be in the region in mid-August, one of the best things for entertainment in Omaha is the Nebraska Balloon and Wine Festival.

You’ll be able to sample some Nebraska wine and watch hundreds of hot air balloons launch into the air. For adults partaking of the grape, general tickets include five small glasses of local concoctions. Note that the festival is so popular that it sells out well in advance, so if you haven’t managed to snag tickets this year, make sure you’re ready to pounce when future batches are released.

This festival has plenty of live music and food vendors to check out as you wander around and makes a stay in Omaha that much more rewarding.

15. Walk Around the Lewis and Clark Landing

Address: 345 Riverfront Dr, Omaha, NE 68102

After you’ve walked the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, check out the Lewis and Clark Landing nearby, which is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Omaha, Nebraska.

The riverfront park is 23 acres and has plenty of benches, picnic tables, and places to relax. As you wander through the park, you’ll find displays explaining the different exploits of Lewis and Clark, including a fascinating 20-minute film by Ken Burns.

The Lewis and Clark Landing is one of three parks that are part of Omaha’s Riverfront, which also includes the Gene Leahy Mall and the Heartland of America Park.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in the US

16. Visit the Mormon Trail Center at Historic Winter Quarters

Address: 3215 State St, Omaha, NE 68112

The Mormon Trail Center and Historic Winter Quarters is a visitor’s center showcasing exhibitions about people from the Church of Latter-Day Saints and their famous trek to their final goal of the Salt Lake Valley. 

You can visit the attraction for free and see where some Mormans stayed during the winter on their journey. The exhibits have unique artifacts, maps on their path, and other exciting information about the religion and the people who traveled through the area. 

You need to head north of downtown Omaha to get to this attraction, and although it’s a little bit off the beaten path, it’s still worth visiting.

See Related: Best Cheap Places to Travel in the US

17. Fact Find and Explore With an Omaha Scavenger Hunt

Omaha USA travel map
Alexander Lukatskiy / Shutterstock

When visiting a new city for the first time, it can be a bit of a challenge to get your bearings. And some people, (myself included), don’t always enjoy tramping around, seemingly without purpose. But if you turn it into a fun game, then not only are you going to figure out where your hotel is located, but you’ll also learn about the city and its surroundings at the same time.

So, instead of wandering around like a headless chicken, why not try an Omaha Scavenger Hunt? You simply download the app to your phone, and you can play at your own pace. For more daring thrill-seekers, you can try an Omaha-based scavenger hunt set during a zombie apocalypse.

Either choice is a great option if you’ve got restless kids, or any of your party enjoys puzzle-solving and treasure-hunting. That should cover just about everyone then, right?

18. Bring the Kids to the Omaha Children’s Museum

Omaha Children's Museum Building
Ckahler / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0

Address: 500 S 20th St, Omaha, NE 68102

Since the Omaha Children’s Museum was established in 1974, it has provided a real treat for local Omaha folk and visitors alike.

With 81 permanent exhibitions indoors and one outside in the Splish Splash Gardens, visitors are sure to find many exciting experiences to enjoy here. The wide variety of topics ranges from creative ideas for exploration to opportunities to learn about technical sciences and even zoology.

The outdoor area, open from Memorial Day until Labor Day, is especially popular during the hot Omaha summer months. The Omaha Children’s Museum also offers an annual program of special events, so be sure to stay in the know with the latest news and updates.

See Related: Best Unusual Museums in the US

19. Get Some Sweet Treats at the Old Market Candy Shop

Old Market Candy Shop Display
Old Market Candy Shop / Old Market Candy Shop

Address: 1005 Howard St, Omaha, NE 68102

Boasting some of the best sweets in the Midwest, the Old Market Candy Shop in Omaha has everything from chocolates and hard candy to caramel apples and cotton candy.

Located on a quaint cobblestone street in the Old Market District, walking into the shop is like taking a step back in time. Here we find a vast assortment of treats that can take us on an old-fashioned journey down memory lane. From brittle to licorice drops, taffy to jelly beans, each sweet morsel whisks you away to another place and another time.

Enjoy discovering one-of-a-kind specialty candies like truffle bars and housemade signature treats, or pick up something familiar that takes you back to your childhood. If you’re stopping by for a quick treat, you won’t be disappointed with your experience at this extraordinary Omaha destination.

20. Learn About Aviation at the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum

Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum Exhibit
Aaron Headly / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

Address: 28210 W Park Hwy, Ashland, NE 68003

The Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum in Nebraska is one of the top aviation history and aerospace museums in the United States.

At the museum, visitors can explore an incredible collection of aircraft, missiles, and related displays that share the stories of those who served and continue to serve in the past and present military aviation efforts from World War II to Desert Storm.

One of the must-sees is a Cold War-era Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile that stands as a powerful reminder of both past tensions and modern capabilities. For aviation aficionados, this museum provides a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else.

21. Get Your History On at the General Crook House Museum

Exterior of General Crook House Museum
Visit Omaha / Facebook

Address: 5730 N 30th St, Omaha, NE 68111

For anyone interested in US history, there’s the General Crook House Museum. Located in what once was a military supply station during the Indian War era – Fort Omaha – the house is a faithful reproduction of the property owned by Civil War hero General George Crook.

Constructed in 1879, and now on the National Register of Historic Places, the house shows what it would have been like to live as a commanding officer on the frontier in the 1800s.

Fully restored and refurbished by the Douglas County Historical Society (and incorporating their offices today), the award-winning General Crook House offers a fascinating insight into life as a military leader when the West was wild. It is the oldest structure built as a private residence in the city, and it also features a beautiful garden with over 110 species of plants to admire.

Fort Omaha was a location of significance, not least because it was where Chief Standing Bear was held prior to winning his historic case in successfully arguing for Native American rights. In World War II, the fort served as a POW camp for captured Italian soldiers.

Although most of the buildings in the former barracks are now owned and operated by the city’s Metropolitan Community College, the General Crook House Museum remains to hold the fort, and is a must-see for military history buffs.

See Related: 11 Touris-Friendly Native American Reservations to Visit

22. Take a Hike at the Heron Haven Nature Center

Wildlife in Heron haven Nature Center
Heron Haven / Facebook

Address: 11809 Old Maple Rd, Omaha, NE 68164

The Heron Haven Nature Center is the perfect place for anyone who prefers viewing wildlife in its natural habitat. Sure, it might not be as exotic as Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, but it will be no less thrilling when you catch a glimpse of any number of the animals, birds, and insects that call these wetlands home.

The haven is part of the most flood-prone area of Nebraska, the Papillion Creek Watershed, and features one of its last oxbow wetlands. It’s interesting that “papillion” translates as “butterfly” in French, as the nature reserve has a charming butterfly garden that should not be missed in Spring.

There’s an educational center that is popular with schools and universities, as well as a small nature museum with some interesting exhibits and resources. And it’s a great place to go for a leisurely stroll in nature, as a selection of hiking trails are open to the public from dawn until dusk.

The nature trails have QR codes so you can learn about the flora and fauna around you, but guided wildlife tours are also available if you prefer the personal touch.

The Heron Haven Nature Center is a real hidden gem, and although it’s surely one of the best free things to do in Omaha, Nebraska, we highly recommend giving them a donation to help preserve the preserve!

23. Drive the Wildlife Safari Park

Wildlife in Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari
Wildlife Safari Park / Facebook

Address: 16406 292nd St, Ashland, NE 68003

Although it’s a little further afield, the Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari at Ashland is well worth the short road trip from downtown Omaha. It will take you around 30 minutes to get there by car, and when you arrive, you don’t even have to leave your vehicle if you don’t want to!

The safari park has a drive-thru trail that will get you up close and personal with the bison and elk herds that roam freely here, and you’ll also discover grey wolves, pronghorns, and maybe even a black bear or two.

There are tram rides to enjoy through the park, and you can learn about the animals and birds at the visitor’s center.

Spanning 440 acres over prairies and wetlands, there’s a lot to see and do at the park, and younger visitors will especially love the “hands-on corral.” There are also more than two miles of hiking trails, so don’t be afraid to get out and stretch your legs.

24. Enjoy Some Live Music at the CHI Health Center, Omaha

Building of CHI Health Center in Omaha
CHI Health Center / Facebook

Address: 455 N 10th St, Omaha, NE 68102

With a wide program of events, music, comedy, and more, the CHI Health Center, Omaha is the city’s best venue for live entertainment.

Located in the north downtown neighborhood, the convention center and arena is a striking building that is hard to miss. The state-of-the-art facilities showcase a full program of annual events, so you can be sure there’s something for you no matter when you visit.

At the center, you can enjoy sporting events, educational seminars, top stand-up comedians, thrilling live music from your favorite bands and artists, and so much more.

Here’s a top tip – whenever I travel anywhere, I like to check locations such as the CHI Health Center in advance, just in case something interesting happens to coincide with my visit. It’s a great way to see shows and events that you might otherwise have missed and can help to turn an average vacation into an awesome one.

25. Practice Your Short Game at Prehistoric Putt

Dinosaur exhibit at Prehistoric Putt
Prehistoric Putt / Facebook

Address: 11134 Q St, Omaha, NE 68137

I can bet my bottom dollar there’s a good chance that someone in your family likes either golf or dinosaurs. If that’s the case, then a visit to the Prehistoric Putt is an absolute must when you’re in Omaha.

One of the most kitschy but fun tourist attractions you’ll ever see, this is a specially designed miniature golf course – with a difference. It features two 18-hole courses in a prehistoric setting, complete with lifelike dinosaurs.

All of your favorites are here, including the T-Rex, velociraptors, triceratops, and the Dilophosaurus. With more than 40 realistic models and sculpts, as well as themed decor, such as tropical trees and volcanoes, this is not your typical safari park. The center also has a number of additional games, including “soccer pool” and “connect fore.”

Even if you don’t have kids, I think this is easily one of the best things to do in Omaha for a group of friends, colleagues, or couples. It certainly makes a great date night option!

Dinosaurs and miniature golf – together at last!

FAQ

Are there any free things to do in Omaha?

Absolutely! The most popular is hiking or biking across the Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge, but there’s also exploring the cities sculpture parks, taking in the nature trails at the Heron Haven Nature Center, visiting the beautiful Standing Bear Lake, and seeing the impressive trains at Kenefick Park. And that’s just for starters!

What is the best time of year to visit Omaha?

Summer temperatures can reach the high 80s (30s in Celcius) in Omaha during the summer, so if you’re not a fan of the heat, I would recommend September to November. Catch the tail end of the balloon-flight season and you won’t go far wrong.

What are some family-friendly activities in Omaha?

The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is one of the best zoos in the country and makes for a great family day out. The Omaha Children’s Museum is perfect for kids, and a visit to any of the city’s parks, gardens, and nature centers is also ideal for families. And don’t miss Prehistoric Putt – which is just as much fun for adults as it is for kids, and one to keep in mind if the weather turns bad.

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