Omaha is the biggest city in Nebraska and the state's commerce and industrial hub. Located near the Missouri and Platte Rivers juncture, Omaha was once popularly known as the "Gateway to the West," a key stopover point for travelers and expeditions heading to the coast. But the city has evolved to become a legitimate destination for all kinds of tourists.

Today, Omaha hosts several Fortune 500 companies, with Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway among them. Its attractions relate to everything from sports and history to culture and outdoor experiences. For instance, The Henry Doorly Zoo is one of the largest zoos in America, while the Durham Museum chronicles Omaha's rich history.

Summarily, there's a lot going on for this great city on the eastern side of Nebraska. Prepare for new experiences, chance encounters, and fun adventures in this delightful city. Here is the ultimate guide to visiting Omaha and the best things to do there to get visitors started.

UPDATE: 2023/07/20 16:12 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA

Nebraska's Largest City: The Ultimate Guide To Omaha & Things To Do There

Travelers will find even more things to do in Ohama, Nebraska in this updated travel guide. More attractions, more information, and images will make Omaha an even more attractive travel destination.

Top Things To Do In Omaha

Omaha offers tourists a long list of top Nebraska attractions, enough to fill anyone's itinerary for their entire stay. Whether a history buff, animal lover, or sports fanatic, these are the best ways to spend quality time in the city.

1 Roam The Old Market Historic District Streets

The Old Market is where all the action happens in Omaha. Located in the city's center, this lively corridor is defined by shopping venues, restaurants, art galleries, and other businesses that draw crowds.

The brick-paved streets and old buildings reflect its historical significance in the city, while horse-drawn carriages provide exciting tours tailored to newcomers.

Related: Nebraska's New Tourism Campaign: Honest And Quirky

Whereas the Old Market attracts people all year round, summer brings the largest numbers, and the streets are full of street performers on almost every corner.

Saturday mornings offer guests a chance to experience the largest farmers' market in the area.

The oldest district is also home to other sites, such as the Omaha Children's Home and Joslyn Art Museum, which are must-visits.

Since the Old Market is such a popular attraction in Omaha, visitors should look for parking near the Durham Museum and explore the rest of the area on foot. The cobblestone streets are too bumpy to drive on, and the parking is hard to come by.

2 Check Out The Animals At Henry Doorly Zoo

A trip to Omaha is not complete without visiting the world-class Henry Doorly Zoo. Spanning at least 160 acres, it is arguably the best zoo in America and draws some of the largest crowds in the state.

The zoo boasts several record-breaking feats of biodiversity, including a Dome Desert and the Lied Jungle, the largest indoor desert and forest in North America, respectively. Other attractions include the Kingdoms of the Night Exhibit, a 70-foot shark tunnel, and a gorilla valley.

Tourists get a rare chance to get up close and personal with wildlife from around the world and can stop by the facility's Glacier Bay Landing for a meal whenever they feel hungry.

• Tickets: Adults $25.95, kids (ages 3-11) $18.95, seniors (65 and over) $24.95, Kids 2 or under) free.
• Operation hours: 9 am – 5 pm daily

While at the zoo, take the kids to the Lozier IMAX Theater, which shows engrossing documentaries that will surely be a hit for the whole family.

3 Explore The Town's History At The Durham Museum

The Durham Museum chronicles the city's history and was once among the busiest train stations in America. In 1995, the building underwent an urban renewal project that delivered terrific results.

Today, visitors will find exhibits like the Suzanne and Walter Scott Great Hall, which showcases the renovated main hall and features intimate Art Deco architecture.

The museum also has Steam Locomotive Stations with hands-on displays of how the revolutionary technology worked.

Located a short distance from the Old Market, the museum is excellent for indoor lovers who prefer laid-back activities.

• Tickets: Adults $13, Seniors (62+) $10, Military/Veteran: $10, Kids ages 3 – 12 $7
• Operation hours: Sunday (12 pm – 4 pm), Tuesday – Saturday (10 am – 4 pm), Monday and major holidays (closed)

After scoping out enough of the museum's exhibits, stop by the soda bar for a refreshing milkshake; the kids will definitely love this part.

4 Catch A Baseball Game At The College World Series

The College World Series is a pulsating sports extravaganza held annually in Omaha. For two weeks in June, the NCAA men's college baseball tournament brings the city to a standstill as fans and college students from all over the country converge to support their favorite teams.

From the loud cheers and ever-flowing beers to the pumping adrenaline on the field, it all culminates into a festive atmosphere that engulfs the whole city.

Whether a baseball fan or not, this is one of the most anticipated events in Omaha and a must-do for visitors in Nebraska.

The College World Series is held at the Charles Schwab Field, which also doubles up as the official home stadium for the Creighton University Bluejays. Besides baseball games, the venue hosts some of the biggest music concerts in the city.

5 Get Up Close With Nature At Lauritzen Gardens

Also known as Omaha's Botanical Center, these beautiful gardens in the riverfront hill neighborhood span 100 acres and offer the perfect setting for an evening stroll. These have greenery, roses, peonies, and herbs, resulting in beautiful biodiversity.

The gardens also adopt themes like Nebraskan Prairies, Victorian, and English, making them unique and interesting to explore.

Over three miles of trails within the garden allow guests to explore conveniently. Otherwise, an hour-long tram tour with informatory commentary will be a handy alternative.

• Tickets: Ages 13+ $15, Children ages 3 to 12 $9, Children 2 and under free
• Tours cost: $3 per person
• Operation hours: Open daily, 9 am – 5 pm

6 Spend A Day With The Kids At The Omaha Children's Museum

Situated in the attraction-laden Old Market district, the Omaha Children's Museum is the perfect place for kids to discover their love for the arts. The magnificent facility boasts a Creative Arts Center, which promises to get their creative juices flowing with captivating "make-and-take" projects.

The museum balances work and play with an Imagination Playground, which caters to the young one's play needs.

This features a firehouse, farm, and market ideal for all age groups. The museum also hosts educational programs and interactive exhibits to get the young ones started in their creative journey.

• Admission: $12 for adults and kids over 2, $11 for seniors, and free for under 2s
• Hours: Monday to Friday (10 am - 4 pm), Saturday (9 am - 5 pm), Sunday (11 am - 5 pm)

During summer, kids can escape the scorching heat at the venue's outdoor water park, an excellent place to splash and cool off.

7 Chill Out At The Heartland Of America Park

Spanning about 31 acres, the Heartland of America Park is a charming outdoor spot where people go to unwind and enjoy downtown Omaha's open spaces. It was opened in 1990 and offers guests scenic views of the city's skyline and Missouri River.

Most visitors are drawn to the park's central feature, an attractive fountain that shoots a jet of water 320 feet into the air.

The lush greenery throughout the park results in a laid-back atmosphere with clean air, a needed respite from the urban hustle. Additionally, fun gondola rides and historical monuments spread around the park will keep vacationers busy.

For couples visiting Omaha, the park offers the perfect setting for a romantic getaway at night thanks to colorful lighting and dramatic lake views.

8 Step Into The World Of Fantasy At The Joslyn Castle

The Joslyn Castle, which sits in the heart of Omaha's midtown, was once the abode of George and Sarah Joslyn. Today, the venue allows guests to cross into a fairy-tale-like realm thanks to its unique design.

Built in the early 1900s, the mansion features wrought iron, mosaic tiles, wood, and stained-glass in its construction.

The 35-room mansion is an excellent example of Scottish Baronial-style architecture, which always leaves visitors in awe. It was listed as an Omaha Landmark Historic Structure in 1979, making it a must-see for those interested in the city's past.

• Admission: $12 per adult
• Hours: Monday to Friday (9 am - 4:30 pm), Sunday (12:30 pm - 2:30 pm)

The Joslyn Castle is surrounded by well-manicured gardens that form part of the Nebraska State Arboretum, which hosts tours and other special events like weddings.

9 Visit Historic Fort Omaha

Fort Omaha is a vital landmark in the city that offers a glimpse into Omaha's history, serving as a balloon school and prison at different times. Initially constructed by the U.S. Army as an Indian-War military institution, the fort currently houses the Metropolitan Community College.

However, it still maintains some old-era relics, including six 19th-century buildings on campus. The highlight of Fort Omaha has to be General Crook House, an 1879 historic home that was converted into a museum run by the Douglas County Historical Society.

• Hours: Open daily, 24/7

10 Walk Across The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is an impressive engineering achievement across the Missouri River that links the city of Omaha, Nebraska to Iowa. The bridge is a popular spot for tourists and locals, thanks to the feeling of weightlessness experienced when walking along it.

It also offers panoramic views of the Omaha skyline and the Missouri River below, serving as the perfect spot to snap a photo. There is also a riverfront park near the bridge with a visitor center, splash fountains, and a huge amphitheater that hosts live music shows every Friday during the summer.

The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is an excellent place for walkers, joggers, and runners as it connects to over 150 miles of nature trails.

11 What To Know Before Visiting Omaha

Omaha is Nebraska's largest city, with a population of just under 500,000. It lies along the great Missouri River and on the border of Nebraska and Iowa; a road trip to neighboring Iowa City takes about 4 hours by car.

Don't expect any problems finding directions to the hottest spots in town, whether for food, accommodation, or fun.

When exploring the city, look out for a chance encounter with its most famous resident and chair of Berkshire Hathaway, billionaire Warren Buffett.

Related: Here's Why Grand Island, Nebraska Is A Great Alternative To Lincoln Or Omaha

The city experiences a typical Midwestern climate with four seasons. Summers are hot and humid, but winters are bone-chilling. In fact, the Weather Channel ranks Omaha among the coldest major cities in the United States.

Hotels are relatively affordable here, even for the fancy ones in the city, and discounts are often available in the off-season.

Overall, Omaha is a great place to visit and offers a plethora of attractions, with the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium and The Durham Museum topping the list. Nebraska is clearly not only corn fields!

12 Best Time To Visit Omaha

The best time to visit Omaha is between September and November because of the generally conducive weather conditions, fewer crowds, and cheaper flight and accommodation rates.

Peak tourism season in the city falls in summer (May to September), and the hot and muggy conditions draw warm-weather travelers to explore the sights and outdoor attractions. The hottest month is July, with temperatures of up to 88 degrees Fahrenheit.

This is also the best time for sightseeing as the sun stays up the longest of the year. On the flip side, summers experience significant precipitation, so remember to pack an umbrella not to get wet.

The worst time to visit Omaha is between January and February. Winters can be brutal in the city, with temperatures well below freezing point recorded. It snows, and outside is the last place tourists want to be. But if they have to, it is recommended to take all precautions to stay safe during bad weather conditions.

This also means that some attractions close shop because of the weather conditions and dwindling visitor numbers.

Omaha is in Tornado Alley, and severe weather like high winds, hail, and tornadoes may occur between April and August.

13 Best Ways To Get Around Omaha

Tourists will enjoy getting around the city with multiple transportation options, including rental cars, bus services, taxis, and shuttle services. However, driving a car offers the best way to move from point A to B.

The city roads are generally well-marked with sufficient signs, while the streets are free from gridlock, providing the perfect conditions for drivers. Two major highways, I-29 and I-80 pass through the city, divided by Dodge Street into north and south.

Several rental car companies in the region come in handy for guests who prefer to drive themselves when exploring the spread-out attractions of the city.

• Rental car rates start from $40 for a compact vehicle with a 4-passenger capacity.

Those who don't fancy driving can turn to public transportation. The Metro Area Transit bus service follows 28 routes that go through the major sites in the downtown area, making for a convenient alternative in a relatively small city like Omaha.

• Fares: $1.25 for single rides with 25-cent transfers, $55 for a 30-day pass, Kids under 12 ride free

Guests can also access Lyft & Uber services and public taxis running up and down the city. zTrip is one of the largest taxi companies in Omaha, where passengers can easily book a ride via a phone app.

Lastly, Omaha has a developed trail system, aptly dubbed the Paths of Discovery, that bikers, walkers, and skaters can take advantage of. These twist and turn through different sites in the city, and feature over 85 miles of paved paths, making Omaha one of the bike-friendliest cities in the region.

14 Where To Stay In And Around Omaha

Omaha is a city on the up and up, rapidly transforming into a cultural, historical, sporting, and culinary hub. There are countless attractions spread across various quaint neighborhoods where tourists can choose to stay.

With almost 15,000 hotel rooms in the city, there is no shortage of nice places to sleep. The best part is that accommodation is relatively cheap in Omaha.

Downtown Omaha

Downtown Omaha is the bloodline of the city, blending intimate historical sites with a contemporary city vibe to offer the best of both worlds. Tourists get spoilt with everything from world-class museums, sports arenas, and lush green parks to top-class restaurants.

The Missouri Riverfront boardwalks are a great place for nature lovers looking for a leisurely stroll while soaking in the sights and sounds. The downtown district is also home to the city's vibrant nightlife, with various businesses spread around the Old Market neighborhood.

The once old and beat-up industrial district was developed into a cultural hub comprising art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and street performances to entertain visitors.

The Heartland of America Park is also within walking distance, serving as a secluded escape with walkways and cycling paths where people go to enjoy gondola rides and revel in the tranquil atmosphere.

For luxury: Omaha Marriott Downtown

• Address: 222 North 10th Street, Omaha, NE 68102, United States
• Cost per night: $192 for 2 guests
• Amenities: 24-hour business center, concierge services, airport transfers, laundry service, outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, valet parking, fitness center, room service

Mid-range option: Residence Inn Marriott

• Address: 106 South 15th Street, Omaha, NE 68102, United States
• Cost per night: $110 for 2 guests
• Amenities: Coffee machine, cable/satellite, dry cleaning, meeting center, 24-hour reception, fitness center, kitchenette

Budget option: Even Hotel Omaha Downtown

• Address: 2220 Farnam Street, Omaha, NE 68102, United States
• Cost per night: $94 for 2 guests
• Amenities: onsite restaurant, personal fitness area, free airport shuttle, indoor pool, business center, bar/lounge, coffee machine

Council Bluffs

This neighborhood is about 4 miles across the river and east of Downtown Omaha. It is an excellent choice for guests visiting on a budget, and while it's technically part of Iowa, the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge ensures an easy crossover to Omaha.

The accommodation options in Council Bluffs are relatively budget-friendly and offer easy access to the CBD.

Guests can also explore museums, shopping centers, restaurants, and park spaces in the area, which are great for afternoon walks. Some nearby attractions include Lincoln Monument, Horseshoe Council Bluffs Casino, and Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge.

Mid-range option: Courtyard by Marriott Omaha Downtown

• Address: 101 South 10th Street, Omaha, NE 68102, United States
• Cost per night: $116 for 2 guests
• Amenities: Free airport shuttle, business center, bar/lounge, 24-hour fitness gym

Related:10 Small Towns In Nebraska For A Fun-Filled Weekend

Budget option: Holiday Inn Omaha

• Address: 1420 Cuming Street, Omaha, NE 68102, United States
• Cost per night: $95 for 2 guests
• Amenities: 24-hour business center, complimentary airport shuttle, fitness center, hot tub, splash pad, leisure pool, restaurant, coffee shop, room service

There are no luxury options in this neighborhood.

The University of Nebraska Area

Located 4 miles from the downtown region, the University of Nebraska is the largest higher learning institution in the state. As expected, the young core of residents around the area makes it one of the liveliest scenes in Omaha, highlighted by several watering holes and dining spots.

The charming Elmwood Park Grotto is a stone-throw away in Aksarben Village, and tourists can sample the different stores, art galleries, and cafés in the neighborhood.

However, the area comes to life at nighttime, with buzzing joints around the university calling for a night of bar hopping.

Luxury option: Kimpton Cottonwood

• Address: 302 South 36th Street, Omaha, NE 68131, United States
• Cost per night: $127 for 2 guests
• Amenities: Fitness center, bar/lounge, valet parking, restaurant, outdoor pool, free toiletries, banquet facilities

Mid-range option: Aloft Omaha Aksarben Village

• Address: 6201 Center Street, Omaha, NE 68106, United States
• Cost per night: $115 for 2 guests
• Amenities: Indoor pool, bar and lounge, business center, meeting facilities, free parking, fitness center, pets allowed (charges may apply)

Airbnb option: Little Grey Getaway

• Cost per night: $98
• Amenities: Air conditioning, washer, dedicated workspace, free parking, kitchen, patio or balcony, security cameras

15 Where To Eat In Omaha

Omaha is a pioneer city in the farm-to-fork movement thanks to the many farms that surround the city. There are plenty of fresh ingredients to supply the different eateries and restaurants in the region.

Also, Omaha boasts a few restaurants on the Good Food 100 List, including Kitchen Table and Dante, which only speaks to the city's growing dining scene.

Tourists can look forward to an awesome culinary adventure filled with tantalizing treats and good vibes.

For breakfast:

Saddle Creek Breakfast Club

This breakfast joint in midtown Omaha is the perfect spot for the day's first meal. From its modest beginnings as a car repair shop, the restaurant has grown wildly popular and serves delicious treats like banana cakes, kimchi omelets, biscuits, and gravy.

• Address: 1540 N Saddle Creek Rd, Omaha, NE 68104-5065
• Business hours: Tuesday – Sunday (10 am – 2 pm)

For lunch and dinner:

Kitchen Table

Kitchen Table is one of the best the city has to offer. This casual but cute restaurant serves delicious comfort foods like seared chicken breast, meatloaf sandwiches, and bourbon pulled pork.

The best part is that everything is sourced locally, fresh from the farm, and straight to the kitchen.

• Address: 1415 Farnam St, Omaha, NE 68102-2202
• Business hours: Tuesday – Thursday (11 am – 5 pm), Friday (11 am – 6 pm), Saturday & Sunday (9 am – 3 pm)

Dante

Dante is the go-to spot in Omaha when searching for authentic Italian cuisine. This popping joint in West Omaha has a reputation for serving delicious Neapolitan pizza and a wide variety of homemade pasta.

The lasagna is another signature dish in the restaurant that guests shouldn't miss out on.

• Address: 16901 Wright Plz Suite 173, Omaha, NE 68130-2411
• Business hours: Tuesday – Thursday (11:30 am – 9 pm), Friday (11:30 am – 9:30 pm), Saturday (10 am – 9:30 pm), Sunday (10 am – 9 pm)

For drinks:

Brickway Brewery & Distillery

Situated in the Old Market Neighborhood, this multi-room brewery serves refreshing craft beers and a range of spirits, including whiskey, vodka, gin, and moonshine.

It also has a whiskey barrel room that guests use for private parties.

Brickway Brewery & Distillery is an excellent option to link up with friends for a casual pint and sample some snacks from its on-site restaurant.

• Address: 1116 Jackson St, Omaha, NE 68102
• Business hours: Monday – Thursday (1 pm – 11 pm), Friday (1 pm – 12 am), Saturday (11 am – 12 am), Sunday (11 am – 11 pm)

16 Spending The Perfect Day In Omaha

There is no blueprint for spending the perfect day in Omaha; however, the following itinerary is the closest visitors can get to it:

Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Saddle Creek Breakfast Club before heading to Durham Museum for a taste of Omaha's history. Head to the Henry Doorly Zoo to admire the diverse habitats and interact with some of the over 900 animal species in the facility.

Related:10 Small Towns In Nebraska For A Fun-Filled Weekend

For lunch, head to Kitchen Table for some luscious meatloaf sandwiches to restore energy reserves and in preparation for the afternoon activities. A trip to the Joslyn Art Museum is a relaxed activity perfect for after lunch to interact with intimate art pieces and admire the mastery behind them.

Take a leisurely stroll to the busy Old Market district to explore the available stores. This will be a good opportunity to shop in the boutiques and check out the fresh produce at the farmers' market. While at it, don't forget to hitch a ride on the horse-drawn carriages for an authentic feel of the old days.

To close out the day, hop into the Brickway Brewery & Distillery to catch up with fellow visitors and locals while enjoying a taste of Omaha's lively night scene.

FAQ

Q: Is Omaha a fun place to live in?

Omaha offers some of the most fun things to do in Nebraska! The Henry Doorly Zoo is the largest zoo in America, and the College World Series is among the most anticipated events in the state. There are also a lot of attractions worth exploring, including museums, art galleries, bars, and restaurants that improve the quality of life in Omaha.

Q: What are Nebraska's famous foods?

Cornhusker State is renowned for its corn and beef, but there's a lot more iconic foods in Nebraska worth sampling. With a lively dining scene and high-profile chefs, the state has produced popular meals like The Reuben Sandwich, Raisin Pie, and BBQ Ribs.

Q: Does Omaha Nebraska get snow?

Omaha, Nebraska does get snow in the winter, getting up to ten inches at times. However, many of Nebraska's attractions are accessible in winter and year-round.