Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska: Top Picks for Globetrotters in 2024

With a long history of wagon trains, railroad pioneers, and western trailblazers, Omaha, Nebraska, is a classic Midwestern metropolis. It’s now where Art Deco office buildings and Gilded Age manor homes coexist with cutting-edge 21st-century architecture. 

There is something in this vibrant riverfront city for everyone, regardless of your interests in history, culture, or the great outdoors. 

It should come as no surprise that over 13 million people visit Omaha annually, given the city’s wealth of immaculate tourist attractions and a strong sense of civic pride. In short, Omaha is a perfect destination for exploring, with much to offer tourists.

If you’re bitten by the travel bug and want to explore nothing but Omaha in Nebraska, we’ve curated a guide on “What to Do in Omaha?.” Irrespective of what you’re seeking — a tranquil retreat or some exciting, fun things to do in Omaha, we’ve got you covered.

So, let’s begin!

Things to Do in Omaha Nebraska

Omaha offers a wealth of attractions waiting to be explored, including the largest collegiate baseball tournament, the NCAA collegiate World Series, and the Henry Doorly Zoo with its Aquarium’s underground caves.

Unleash your traveler’s spirit in a place that stands as a beacon of rich heritage and history. Marvel at a cultural tapestry so beautiful that you’re left in awe.

Omaha, laden with lush greenery and nature’s beauty, is a sight to behold. The city’s shopping and dining experiences are top-notch, guaranteeing fulfillment and a desire to return soon.

If these reasons aren’t enough, we give you a low-down on things to do in Omaha to explain why you should book your tickets to the city right away.

1. Lauritzen Gardens

Lauritzen Gardens is a magnificent 100-acre garden with abundant fountains, superb landscaping, and stunning garden flowers, such as lilacs, peonies, roses, and bluebells. Japanese flowers, Victorian-style landscaping, and even model trains are displayed in themed gardens. 

Easily one of the fun things to do in Omaha, this location is a beautiful getaway for serious nature enthusiasts, complete with a woodland trail and bird sanctuary. 

2. Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

The footbridge spans 3,000 feet over the Missouri River, connecting Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Omaha, as well as parks and trails. A list of what to do in Omaha would only be complete by mentioning the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, the city’s most recognizable icon. 

This 3,000-foot-long landmark, with its S-curve shape and numerous cables, is a spectacular example of a bridge built in the twenty-first century. Locals love strolling at night and taking in the breathtaking light show.

3. Durham Museum

Wondering about all the things to do in Omaha this weekend? Look nowhere else and visit the Durham Museum to rediscover the lost time and the city’s rich past. 

The museum, which is housed in a tastefully renovated Art Deco rail station, features a variety of exhibits that illustrate the history of the area, such as a sizable photo collection that boasts over a million images and a model train layout that pays tribute to Union Pacific. 

The museum provides an enlightening look into several eras with exhibits ranging from a reproduction of an antique home to an assortment of historical coins and medals. Regardless of your interest in history or curiosity, this museum offers an engaging and instructive visit. 

4. Old Market Omaha

The Old Market in Omaha is well-known for its charming historic brick buildings and original cobblestone streets. Shoppers, looking for things to do near Omaha, may find everything here, from books and antiques to apparel, jewelry, and decorative goods made by regional artists. 

In addition to offering various entertainment alternatives, Old Market has numerous quaint art galleries and live music venues. Here, you may sample some of Omaha’s tastiest bites from the food markets and restaurants. 

5. Chalco Hills Recreation Center

Wehrspann Lake, one of Omaha’s most well-liked fishing locations, is located within Chalco Hills Recreation Center. To help you reconnect with nature, this area boasts 940 acres of native grasslands, trees, and wildlife, including whitetail deer. 

Numerous spaces for bicycling, hiking, sports, and picnicking offer opportunities to bond with loved ones and make new friends, making it a flexible location suitable for social events and romantic outings. 

6. Fun-Plex Water Park

The popular Fun-Plex Waterpark is all things fun and exciting. It has two well-known sheer-drop water slides: the heart-pounding Typhoon Falls and the 1,200-foot Rockin’ Rapids. To excite your day, take to the bumper boats and go-karts at the nearby park. Riding the Ferris wheel and Tilt-A-Whirl can also create a carnival atmosphere. 

If you crave thrill and are looking for fun things to do in Omaha, this location crops up at the top, promising an enjoyable visit with family and friends because of the 18-hole miniature golf course.

7. The RiverFront

Heartland of America Park, Gene Leahy Mall, and Lewis and Clark Landing are the three downtown parks that comprise The Riverfront. This area was revitalized along the Missouri River for $300 million and reopened in 2022 and 2023. Gene Leahy Mall has a sculpture garden, a dog park, a playground, a performance pavilion, and other amenities. 

There are volleyball courts close by, a destination playground, a sandy urban beach with fire pits, and a prairie garden at Lewis and Clark Landing. 

8. Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

The $22 million Asian Highlands exhibit at one of the best zoos in the country will take you to the homeland of red pandas, Amur tigers, sloth bears, and snow leopards. 

It complements other immersive environments, including displays of nocturnal animals, the ocean, desert, rainforest, and African grasslands. 

Bonus Things to Do Omaha

Do you think that’s it for this guide? Naah think again. Here are more things to do in Omaha.

1. Elkhorn Outfitters

This adventure sports base rents out ice fishing, snow tubing, river tubing, mountain biking, and paddle boarding equipment.

2. Fontenelle Forest

On a brand-new aerial course, adventurers can zip, climb, and soar through the tree canopy. At the raptor sanctuary, rehabbed owls and eagles take pride in their homes, and 19 miles of pathways meander through the urban forest.

3. Joslyn Castle and Gardens

George and Sarah Joslyn, among the earliest media magnates in America, lived at the opulent Joslyn Castle in Omaha, which they had constructed in 1903. (In honor of her husband, Sarah built and endowed the Joslyn Art Museum.) 

Best Places to Eat in Omaha

Now that you’re here, let’s discover the top culinary spots in Omaha where diverse flavors and exceptional dining experiences await.

1. Block 16: Order from a chalkboard menu with a fried egg, cheese, ham, and truffle mayonnaise on a croque garcon burger. The downtown location offers creative fry toppings such as cheese curds, crumbled fortune cookies, and dragon sauce.

2. Au Courant Regional Kitchen: This neighborhood restaurant in Benson uses fresh foods from local harvests, so the menu is constantly changing. 

3. Boiler Room Restaurant: Serving up fine-dining delicacies like rabbit croquette and Wagyu steak, two-time James Beard semifinalist Tim Nicholson used to be in the boiler room of the 120-year-old Bemis Bag Company Building. The interior has brick walls. 

4. Mula Mexican Kitchen and Tequileria: Enjoy a margarita at Mula while choosing between torta sandwiches and tacos made with hand-rolled corn tortillas in the Blackstone District. 

5. Olive & Ira’s: Inside Magnolia Omaha, the recently renovated Olive & Ira’s serves modern American fare like 14-ounce ribeye steaks, pasta Alfredo, and the traditional Reuben sandwich. Every Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m., take in live music performed by nearby performers. 

6. Saddle Creek Breakfast Club: At this famous breakfast establishment northwest of Midtown, you may choose classic (ham and eggs, French toast) or vegan food (chickpea toast, tofu rancheros). 

7. Plank Seafood Provisions: Plank in the Old Market adds a touch of the shore with an oyster bar and a boat skeleton suspended from the ceiling. Go during happy hour to save on oysters. 

Where to Stay in Omaha: Our 5 Best Recommendations

Omaha has plenty of great accommodations catering to every preference, style, and budget. Here are five highly recommended places to stay:

1. The Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel

The Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel is a new hotel set in the historic Blackstone District that combines the old-world character with contemporary amenities. This hotel is a small luxury hotel with excellent rooms, a rooftop bar, and an amazing pool setting. 

It is located within walking distance of many Restaurants, Bars and Shops and therefore it would be suitable for tourists who are interested in experiencing the surrounding area.

Highlights:

• Rooftop bar with city views.
• Elegant, historic design.
• Pet-friendly policies.
• On-site dining options.

2. Hotel Deco

Hotel Deco is located in the heart of Omaha and provides a stylish and luxurious Art Deco experience. This is a boutique hotel that offers spacious suites, a trendy restaurant, and a convenient location close to the Old Market neighborhood, which is full of restaurants, bars, and shops.

Highlights:

• Art Deco architecture and décor.
• Prime downtown location.
• Upscale amenities.
• Fitness center and spa services.

3. The Farnam, Autograph Collection

The Farnam is a luxury hotel situated in the downtown of Omaha. It has spacious and comfortable rooms with good outlooks over the city and river. The hotel is a member of the Autograph Collection – a group of rare and distinguished hotels. It is next to CHI Health Center and TD Ameritrade Park, so it is perfect for those who want to attend events.

Highlights:

• Contemporary design and luxury accommodations.
• Proximity to major attractions and event venues.
• On-site dining and bar.
• Excellent service and amenities.

4. Even Hotel Omaha Downtown

If you care about a healthy lifestyle, it is worth considering Even Hotel Omaha Downtown. This hotel emphasizes tourism and sport; it has a fitness area in each room, healthy food, and a round-the-clock gym. It’s also close to the Old Market and other tourist destinations in downtown Prague. 

Highlights:

• Wellness-focused amenities.
• In-room fitness equipment.
• Healthy dining options.
• Free shuttle service within a two-mile radius.

5. Magnolia Hotel Omaha

Located in the Benson district of Omaha, the Magnolia Hotel Omaha combines vintage architecture with contemporary amenities. It has beautifully decorated rooms and a lovely inner courtyard centrally located in downtown Baton Rouge. It is a few blocks away from the Orpheum Theater and other popular attractions downtown.

Highlights:

• Historic charm and elegant décor.
• Courtyard with outdoor seating.
• Complimentary evening reception with cookies and milk.
• Central location near theaters and dining.

These recommendations provide a range of options, from luxurious and historic to modern and wellness-focused, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay in Omaha, Nebraska.

The Final Word

The city is a business hub for the Midwest and is tucked away along the Missouri River, providing plenty of space for sizable gatherings. When you visit, you can be sure that Omaha offers more than cornfields.

The place is perfect if you enjoy the outdoors, quiet, family time, leisurely mornings, fresh air, delicious food, and time away from the rush.