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Home » 20 Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska: Top-Rated Attractions 2022

20 Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska: Top-Rated Attractions 2022

Best Things to Do in Omaha

20 Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska: Top-Rated Attractions 2022

Omaha is often overlooked by tourists and commonly planned on an itinerary as a quick stop. However, these views and plans will soon change as visitors step into the city’s historic Old Market area, stroll along the riverside, or stroll through the Dundee neighborhood and see how it is cooked.

In the past, Omaha was a major transportation hub but is now one of the top ten cities in America with the highest number of billionaires per capita. They are well catered for with great food and culture, but we can enjoy with less money to burn anyway.

Here’s our list of the 20 best things to do in Omaha!

1. Visit the largest inland desert in the world

Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska
Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska

Zoo, The Omaha Zoo, has the largest inland wilderness in the world and the largest covered rainforest in North America. That’s not all.

There are also over 7 acres of indoor exhibits, thousands of animals, and underground caves covering a total of 130 acres! Also, the zoo is open all year round, making it ideal for rainy days!

2. Beer sample at the Omaha Craft Brewery Tour

Stopping at nine breweries, the Omaha Craft Brewery Tour is the best way to sample the tastiest beer you can find.

All beers on display are produced by devoted locals who have been brewing beer all their lives. Order the free scout magazine, and you will receive all the information you need and coupons for nine free beers!

3. Explore the historic Dundee neighborhood

Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska

The Dundee Quarter offers a real culinary adventure, making it one of the best places in Omaha to find the best flavors. You’ll find a mix of garlic stuffed pasta, juicy burgers, tender bacon, and last but not least; The sweetest and salty desserts.

The streets are filled with enticing aromas, thanks to chef-based restaurants that process all the ingredients locally. Not hungry? Then head to Dundee Gallery and shop until you drop by Hello Holiday and Denim Saloon, and if it’s a drink, visit Dundee Dell’s, where you’ll find the country’s largest collection of Scotch whiskey.

4. Ride a historic train at the Durham Museum

The Durham Museum, located in the impressive union station Art Deco 1931, offers numerous exhibits that include a wide range of trains reconditioned, shops 1940, and various artifacts that show some of the rarest coins and documents in the world. Make sure to visit the soda fountain for some natural phosphate or maybe malt.

5. Potter around in the old market

Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska
Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska

The Old Market Square spans a few blocks and is filled with quaint buildings that house dark shops, art galleries, restaurants, and flea markets.

By earning a Certificate of Excellence in Tourism Consulting, the market is bustling day and night. Why not head to the traditional cafe on the corner of 12th Street for breakfast. And after your stroll, choose one of the many restaurants that will welcome you with a menu with daily specials.

Residents boast a fun, friendly atmosphere no matter what time of day it is, making it a great place for families of all ages and sizes. The Old Market Square is big enough to keep you busy, yet small enough to feel like you’ve conquered it in one day.

6. Relax in the Lauritzen Gardens

Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska

A truly unique museum offering a year-round exhibition of plants, the Lauritzen Gardens are a hidden oasis in the heart of this bustling city. Marvel at 100 acres of stunning beautiful exhibits with themed gardens, such as the Victorian Garden of the new Marjorie K. Daugherty Conservatory.

Make sure to hop on the tram for the tour; it is the best way to experience the tranquil atmosphere of the garden. It’s a great day for the whole family; children will love the funicular and the children’s garden!

After your morning exploration, enjoy a long, relaxing lunch in the beautiful surroundings of the Lauritzen Garden Cafe, and don’t forget to visit the Great Little Get Shop.

7. Learn about Nebraska’s wildlife at the Wildlife safari park

Thanks to the small zoo and a very practical approach, children are sure to have a great day at the Wildlife Safari Park. The four-mile park is a true car adventure. The patrons boast about close encounters with animals such as cranes and white-tailed eagles.

Or why not spend the day outside and have a picnic in the special picnic area in the Wolf Forest car park, or stop by the visitor center, which offers a wide selection of refreshing drinks and snacks.

The park is home to various animals, from moose to bison and wolves to eagles. When you leave, don’t forget to visit the gift shop for high-quality animal products, including stuffed animals, sweatshirts, and more.

8. Stroll the Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge

Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska
Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska

This 3,000-foot art trail crosses the Missouri River and offers a walking tour of Omaha’s beautiful skyline. Enjoy the 3-acre square with plenty of entertainment, from the interactive fountain to the River Critters play area.

Combining more than 150 miles of trails and outdoor paths, the Bob Kerry Bridge offers a wealth of activities; whether you come by bike or on foot, you will have a great time!

If you are visiting in May or June, why not visit on Friday and listen to live music in the Plaza area, surrounded by an amphitheater-style meadow. Grab some blankets and chairs for a great day of music and adventure!

9. Visit Joslyn Castle

Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska

Joslyn Castle, officially called “Lyndhurst,” is a mansion from 1903 located in Davenport st 3902 (Gold Coast historic district in Omaha). The castle proudly opens its doors to visitors every first and third Sunday, even a month.

Pick a time between 1, 2, and 3. George and Sarah Joslyn were part of the Nebraska elite who had made a fortune in the ready-made news industry, building a home that reflected their success in the business world.

The grounds are rich in a rare and exotic botanical collection from around the world. The estate plan was designed by John McDonald and included a carport, large greenhouse, lily pond, and more.

10. See a submarine at the Freedom Park Navy Museum

Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska
Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska

Located on the banks of the Missouri River and off the beaten track, Freedom Park is an open-air museum best suited for hot, dry days. On display, you will find many exciting historical military artifacts and many of them, including the exciting Cold War training submarine that offers a special tour.

The submarine is the only surviving target of the USN training ship. There is much more to see; The Freedom Park is home to a large collection of airplanes, including helicopters, planes, captains, multiple rocket launchers, and more. Guided tours are available on 10-3 weekends, although special tours can be arranged by calling in advance. All tours are free!

11. Hitting the stores

Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska

With a wide variety of specialty stores, Omaha is a great place to bring a quirky gift. One of the stores of particular interest is the Tannenbaum Christmas Store, which was created a fun and wintry to give it a festive spirit.

Street book vendors on Jackson Street offer a good selection of literature and art books. This little bookstore is worth visiting with a friendly and hospitable atmosphere and a special area for children. Taste your favorite fudge in Town at the candy store in the Old Market Square, described on Trip Advisor as “Stomach and Belly Fun.”

12. See a concert

Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska
Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska

The Centurylink Center, located north of downtown Omaha, is one of the best places in the city to see a concert, sports game, or even visit a convention. 

The modern appearance of the building is striking and hosts a wide variety of performances, such as concerts and comedy. The conventions at the Center include award ceremonies, business events, and motivational speakers.

13. See the iconic fountain at Heartland of America Park

Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska

The Heartland of America Park show star is a fountain that spouts 320 feet from the ground.

The accompanying light show is also worth seeing, which regularly attracts crowds. The park also features a WWII memorial and gondola rides, courtesy of the Heartland Gondola.

14. Visit Boy’s Town

Boy’s Town is the name of the National Historic District that houses the Hall of History and Father Flanagan’s House.

Annually, more than 100,000 visitors from across the United States visit the city where Father Flanagan’s vision for a better America was founded. Children are saved from misery in the village and start new lives with better opportunities and hope.

15. Witness to History at Florence Mill

Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska
Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska

In northeastern Omaha, the Mill in Florence is another city’s attraction that has made it onto the National Register of Historic Places. It is also a historic site for the state of Nebraska.

It is believed that the Mill was built in 1846 and operated until the middle of the 20th century. The area of Florence is believed to have been inhabited by European settlers long before the rise of Nebraska. The settlers in the area made a living from the fur trade.

16. Pop tour to General Crook House

Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska

The former, now restored, General George Crook’s house is located in Fort Omaha and is an excellent example of a 19th-century American house. 

The building has won awards in the past and has been authentically restored to suit General Crook’s period of residence. The garden is also a giveaway for visitors and has 110 different treasured flowers and plants. Admission to the home is a reasonable $ 5 and is open seven days a week.

17. Visit the birthplace of a former president

Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska
Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska

President Gerald R Ford, the 38th President of the United States, was born in Omaha and is honored by this tactful memorial on Woolworth Avenue. 

Information on the memorial and the President’s birthplace is housed based on the original house tower design. The monument also features a rose garden based on the White House model. Entrance to the memorial is free.

18. Visit the cradle of Malcolm X

Another famous birthplace within the city of Omaha is the Malcolm X Birthplace, which was built and continues to pay tribute to the native of Omaha. 

The memorial spans 14 acres and has an official marker that allows guests to pay their respects to the human rights activist. Nearby, and also worth visiting, is the African-American bookstore.

19. Walk the Mormon Trail

Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska
Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska

The Mormon Trail is located in the historic winter districts of Omaha. Trail and Trail Center explores the history of 90,000 Mormon migrants en route to the Rocky Mountains.

Exhibits at the Trail Center include the full-size log cabin where the Mormons lived at the time and handcarts, oxen, and carts that were also part of the mass migration.

20. Admire some contemporary art

The best place to see contemporary art in the city of Omaha is, hands down, the Bemis Center for Contemporary Art. The Center is an artist residency program located in the Old Market area of ​​the city.

Artists worldwide live, work, and display their talents in the building’s second-floor studios. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.

Frequently Asked Questions: Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska

Is there anything worth visiting in Nebraska?

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Although zoos are rarely the most exciting thing to see or do in a state, the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha is an exception. This unique 160-acre facility is home to the world’s largest indoor desert, the largest indoor jungle, and the largest nocturnal exhibit.

Is Omaha colder than Chicago?

Turns out, Omaha ranks as the fifth-coldest major city in the U.S., according to The Weather Channel. Omaha is even colder than the windy city of Chicago – if ever so slightly. Omaha’s fifth-place ranking is based on an average temperature of 25.9 degrees.

Is Omaha scenic?

But it isn’t just the city that is beautiful-the drive from Omaha is pretty spectacular as well! From downtown Omaha, head south on US 75. The entire route will take you about 40 minutes and offers peaceful country views. So start blaring your favorite tunes and head out!

What Nebraska is famous for?

Nebraska is a midwestern state known for its farming, agricultural production, and natural attractions. These include plains, sand dunes, towering rock formations, and more. What is this? It’s the 16th largest state in the nation and has the 37th largest population.

What is the best thing about Nebraska?

Natural attractions like the largest sand dunes complex in the Western Hemisphere, the unique tall grass prairie ecosystem, Chimney Rock, Scotts Bluff National Monument, and the annual sandhill crane migration make Nebraska a seriously beautiful place to explore. There are no people quite like Nebraska people.

What food is Nebraska known for?

Nebraska is probably best known for corn and beef — don’t worry, we have both in this lineup — but it’s also a state full of chefs aiming to serve much more than those two staples. We have Alton Brown’s favorite burger in the nation. The Reuben sandwich. An amazing array of Mexican.

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