17 Best Things to do in Omaha

Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium are one of the top attractions in Omaha, Nebraska. It is considered one of the best zoos in the world and is known for its impressive exhibits and an extensive collection of animals.

The zoo features a variety of habitats, including the Desert Dome, the world's largest indoor desert exhibit, the Lied Jungle, an indoor rainforest, and the Kingdoms of the Night, an underground exhibit showcasing nocturnal animals.

Old Market is a historic district in downtown Omaha, Nebraska that is known for its unique shops, restaurants, and nightlife. The area features brick-paved streets and buildings dating back to the 19th century, which give it a charming and nostalgic atmosphere.

Visitors to Old Market can stroll through the many boutiques and art galleries, sampling local foods and enjoying live music performances. There are also several historic landmarks to visit, including the Old Market Passageway, the Burlington Train Station, and the Omaha Union Stockyards.

The Joslyn Art Museum is a world-class art museum located in Omaha, Nebraska. It features an extensive collection of art from around the world, including works by European masters like Monet, Renoir, and Degas, as well as American artists like Edward Hopper and Grant Wood.

The museum's collection includes paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, as well as a large collection of works on paper. The museum also hosts traveling exhibitions and has a variety of educational programs for all ages.

The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is a scenic pedestrian bridge that spans the Missouri River, connecting Omaha, Nebraska with Council Bluffs, Iowa. The bridge is named after former Nebraska governor and U.S. senator Bob Kerrey, who was instrumental in its creation.

The bridge offers stunning views of the surrounding area, including the Omaha skyline and the river itself. It is a popular spot for walking, jogging, and cycling, and there are also several benches along the way for visitors to stop and enjoy the view.

The Durham Museum is a history museum located in Omaha, Nebraska. Housed in the beautiful Art Deco-style Union Station building, the museum showcases the history and culture of Omaha and the surrounding region.

Visitors to the Durham Museum can explore a variety of exhibits that cover a range of topics, including the history of transportation, the settlement of the Midwest, and the impact of the railroad on the region. The museum also features interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience what life was like in the past, such as a recreated streetcar and a 1940s-era soda fountain.

Lauritzen Gardens is a botanical garden located in Omaha, Nebraska. It features a wide variety of plants and flowers, as well as beautiful sculptures and fountains.

The gardens are divided into several themed areas, including a Victorian garden, a rose garden, and a model railroad garden. There is also a large greenhouse that features tropical plants and a variety of seasonal displays.

Heartland of America Park is a scenic park located in downtown Omaha, Nebraska. The park features a large lake with a fountain, as well as walking paths, picnic areas, and a playground.

The park's centerpiece is the 320-foot fountain that shoots water high into the air, creating a beautiful and mesmerizing display. Visitors can watch the fountain show from the park's many viewing areas or take a boat ride on the lake for an up-close view.

TD Ameritrade Park is a baseball stadium located in downtown Omaha, Nebraska. It is the home of the College World Series, an annual event that brings together the top eight college baseball teams in the United States to compete for the national championship.

The stadium was designed specifically for baseball and features state-of-the-art facilities, including a video board and sound system, as well as luxury suites and club seating. It has a seating capacity of 24,000, making it one of the largest baseball stadiums in the region.

The Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum is a museum located in Ashland, Nebraska, just outside of Omaha. It features an extensive collection of aircraft and exhibits that tell the story of strategic air power and aerospace technology.

The museum's collection includes more than 30 aircraft, ranging from World War II-era planes to modern military jets. Visitors can see up close the B-17 Flying Fortress, the SR-71 Blackbird, the B-52 Stratofortress, and other iconic aircraft.

The Omaha Children's Museum is a museum located in Omaha, Nebraska, that is dedicated to providing hands-on educational experiences for children of all ages. The museum features a variety of exhibits and interactive activities that allow children to explore and learn in a fun and engaging way.

The museum's exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). Children can explore a miniature version of Omaha, complete with a grocery store, bank, and fire station, or build and test their own structures in the Construction Zone exhibit. Other exhibits include a science lab, a music room, and a large outdoor play area.

Gene Leahy Mall is a stunning urban oasis nestled in the heart of downtown Omaha, Nebraska. This picturesque park, spanning 9.6 acres, offers a serene escape from the bustling city life and provides a perfect setting for relaxation and recreation.

Spanning 9.6 acres, this scenic park offers a serene retreat amidst the bustling cityscape. With its lush greenery, tranquil lagoon, and captivating sculptures, the Gene Leahy Mall invites visitors to unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the beauty of their surroundings.

The centerpiece of Zorinsky Lake Park is its expansive lake, which spans 255 acres and provides ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and kayaking. Anglers can cast their lines in search of bass, catfish, and other local species.

For those who prefer land-based activities, the park features numerous trails perfect for walking, jogging, and biking. Nature enthusiasts will relish exploring the park's diverse ecosystems and spotting wildlife along the way.

The museum's galleries feature a treasure trove of stories and achievements, highlighting the vital roles African Americans played in shaping the social, political, and cultural fabric of the Great Plains. From trailblazing pioneers and notable activists to artists, educators, and entrepreneurs.

Moreover, the Great Plains Black History Museum serves as a platform for open dialogue and education, encouraging visitors to engage in conversations about race, equality, and the ongoing pursuit of justice.

Visiting a local brewery is a delightful way to experience the vibrant craft beer scene and immerse oneself in the art of brewing. Whether you're a seasoned beer enthusiast or just curious to explore new flavors, local breweries offer a unique and authentic taste of the community.

The knowledgeable staff at the brewery are often passionate about their craft and eager to share their expertise. They can guide you through the tasting process, offering insights into the brewing techniques, ingredients, and flavor profiles of the different brews.

Heartland B-cycle is a popular bike-sharing program that offers an eco-friendly and convenient way to explore the city. As part of the larger B-cycle network, Heartland B-cycle provides access to bicycles stationed at various docking stations throughout the area.

The concept is simple: users can rent a bike from one of the designated stations and return it to any other station when they're done. With a user-friendly app or membership card, renting a bike is quick and seamless, making it an ideal choice for both locals and visitors.

Film Streams is a vibrant and beloved destination for cinephiles in Omaha, Nebraska. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to fostering appreciation for film as an art form and providing diverse and thought-provoking cinematic experiences to the community.

With two distinct locations, the Ruth Sokolof Theater and the Dundee Theater, Film Streams offers a curated selection of independent, classic, and foreign films that captivate and challenge audiences. From award-winning dramas to thought-provoking documentaries.

The Hot Shops Art Center is a vibrant hub for creativity and artistic expression in Omaha, Nebraska. Housed in a former mattress factory, this unique art center provides a dynamic and supportive environment for local artists to create, collaborate, and showcase their work.

Upon entering the Hot Shops Art Center, visitors are immersed in a world of artistic diversity. The spacious studios and galleries are home to a wide range of art forms, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, glassblowing, printmaking, and much more.