What to do in omaha nebraska?
Updated: August 20, 2024Exploring Omaha's Rich Cultural Scene
Joslyn Art Museum
The Joslyn Art Museum, a cornerstone of Omaha's cultural landscape, houses an extensive collection of fine arts. From European masterpieces to contemporary works, the museum offers a diverse array of exhibitions. Highlights include pieces by El Greco, Degas, and Pollock. The museum's outdoor sculpture garden and the Art Works interactive space for children make it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and families alike.
Omaha Performing Arts
Omaha Performing Arts manages two premier venues: the Orpheum Theater and the Holland Performing Arts Center. Both venues host a variety of performances ranging from Broadway shows to symphony orchestras. Check their schedules for events that coincide with your visit, as experiencing a live performance here can be a highlight of your trip.
Durham Museum
Situated in Omaha's historic Union Station, the Durham Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's history. Exhibits focus on everything from the pioneer days to modern developments in railroading. The museum also features restored train cars, making it a unique destination for history buffs and train enthusiasts.
Outdoor Activities and Natural Attractions
Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
Regularly ranked among the best in the world, the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is a must-see. It features the world's largest indoor desert and the largest nocturnal exhibit. Other attractions include the Scott Aquarium, the Lied Jungle, and the Gorilla Valley. Plan to spend an entire day here to fully explore its vast and varied exhibits.
Lauritzen Gardens
Lauritzen Gardens, Omaha's botanical center, offers a tranquil retreat with its beautifully curated gardens. Highlights include the Victorian Garden, the Japanese Garden, and the Marjorie K. Daugherty Conservatory. Seasonal exhibitions, like the holiday poinsettia display, add extra charm to this verdant oasis.
Heartland of America Park
Located along the Missouri River, the Heartland of America Park features a stunning lake with a mesmerizing fountain that shoots water up to 300 feet in the air. Take a leisurely stroll along the walking paths or enjoy a gondola ride for a unique perspective of the park. The nighttime light show at the fountain is a sight to behold.
Family-Friendly Fun
Children's Museum
The Omaha Children's Museum is designed to engage and educate young minds through hands-on exhibits. Popular attractions include the Imagination Playground, the Maker Space, and the Science and Technology Lab. Special traveling exhibits make each visit unique.
Fun-Plex Waterpark & Rides
Fun-Plex is Nebraska's largest amusement park, offering a variety of rides, a waterpark, and carnival games. Rides like the Big Ohhhh! Roller Coaster and the Typhoon Falls water slide provide thrills, while the Lazy River and Mini Golf offer more relaxed entertainment options.
Historical Sites
Fort Omaha
Fort Omaha, a historical military installation, offers a look into the area's military past. The Fort Omaha campus now houses Metropolitan Community College, but several historic buildings and markers remain. The General Crook House Museum, located within the fort, provides additional historical context and exhibits.
Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail
The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Visitor Center offers interactive exhibits detailing the famous expedition. Situated along the Missouri River, the center provides hiking trails and viewpoints for those looking to explore the natural terrain that the explorers once traversed.
Sports and Recreation
TD Ameritrade Park
Home to the College World Series, TD Ameritrade Park is a state-of-the-art baseball stadium. Even if you can’t catch a game, the stadium offers tours that provide insights into its design and the history of the College World Series.
Baxter Arena
Baxter Arena hosts a variety of sporting events, from ice hockey to basketball. Home to the University of Nebraska Omaha Mavericks, the arena also hosts concerts and other large-scale events, making it a versatile venue worth checking out.
Culinary Delights
Old Market
The Old Market district is Omaha's premier dining and shopping area. Cobblestone streets are lined with historic buildings that now house an array of restaurants, cafes, and boutiques. Highlights include V. Mertz for fine dining, Spaghetti Works for family-friendly meals, and the Old Market Farmer’s Market for local produce.
Steakhouse Experience
Omaha is renowned for its steaks, and a visit wouldn't be complete without dining at one of its famous steakhouses. Gorat's Steak House, a local favorite since 1944, and The Drover, known for its whiskey-marinated steaks, are both excellent choices for savoring Omaha's culinary heritage.
Unique Omaha Experiences
Hot Shops Art Center
Hot Shops Art Center is a unique blend of art studios and galleries where visitors can watch artists at work. The center hosts regular events and open houses, providing an opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind pieces directly from the artists.
Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is a 3,000-foot-long walkway that spans the Missouri River, connecting Omaha to Council Bluffs, Iowa. The bridge offers stunning views and features a marked line showing the state border, making it a fun spot for photos.
Shopping and Entertainment
Westroads Mall
Westroads Mall is Omaha’s largest shopping center, offering a variety of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment venues. Anchor stores include Von Maur and JCPenney, while the AMC Westroads 14 theater provides a great option for catching the latest films.
Aksarben Village
Aksarben Village is a thriving mixed-use development featuring shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The area hosts a farmers market, outdoor concerts, and other community events, making it a vibrant spot for visitors to explore.
Nightlife and Entertainment
Slowdown
Slowdown is a popular music venue and bar that hosts live performances from both local and national artists. The intimate setting and excellent acoustics make it a favorite among music lovers.
The MAX
For a lively night out, The MAX is Omaha’s largest LGBTQ+ nightclub, featuring multiple dance floors, drag shows, and themed parties. It’s a welcoming and energetic venue that offers a fun night of dancing and entertainment.
Film Streams at Ruth Sokolof Theater
Film Streams at Ruth Sokolof Theater is an independent cinema that screens a curated selection of films, including indie, foreign, and classic movies. It’s a great place to catch a movie that you might not find in mainstream theaters.
Omaha, Nebraska, with its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and diverse attractions, offers something for everyone. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a history buff, the city provides a myriad of experiences waiting to be discovered.
Related Questions
Nebraska, often referred to as the "Cornhusker State," offers a diverse array of attractions and activities that cater to all interests. From natural wonders to historical sites, vibrant cities to charming small towns, Nebraska is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.
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