Omaha, Nebraska, might not be the first city that comes to mind when planning a trip, but it has much to offer visitors. A mix of historic charm and modern innovation, Omaha offers a diverse range of attractions to suit many interests. Let’s delve into some reasons why a visit to Omaha could be worth your while:
The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium: Renowned as one of the best zoos in the world, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium features the largest indoor desert in the world, the largest nocturnal exhibit, one of North America’s largest indoor rainforests, and one of the world’s largest indoor aquariums. It’s a must-visit, whether you’re traveling with kids or just a fan of wildlife.
Omaha is home to the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, which is one of the world’s largest and best zoos. It has more than 17,000 animals and 962 species, as well as exhibits that recreate different habitats, such as a desert dome, a rainforest, an aquarium, and a safari park. You can see rare and endangered animals, such as gorillas, tigers, penguins, and sharks, and learn about conservation efforts. You can also enjoy rides, shows, and interactive activities at the zoo.
Old Market: This is Omaha’s historic entertainment district, where you can find boutiques, antique stores, restaurants, bars, and cafes that line cobblestone streets. This historic district offers cobblestone streets lined with eclectic shops, boutiques, pubs, restaurants, and street performers. The area retains its original brick warehouses, making for a charming and unique aesthetic. You can explore the Old Market on foot or by horse-drawn carriage and enjoy the charm and atmosphere of this area. You can also find art galleries, theaters, museums, and live music venues in the Old Market. Some of the attractions include the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, the Orpheum Theater, and the Gene Leahy Mall.
Nature and recreation: Omaha is surrounded by natural beauty and offers many opportunities for outdoor recreation. You can walk or bike across the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, which spans the Missouri River and connects Omaha with Council Bluffs, Iowa. You can also visit the Lauritzen Gardens, which has 100 acres of gardens, trails, ponds, and exhibits. If you are looking for more adventure, you can try zip-lining at Fontenelle Forest, skiing at Mt. Crescent Ski Area, or golfing at one of the many courses in Omaha.
Museums and galleries: Omaha has a variety of museums and galleries that showcase its history, art, and culture. You can visit the Durham Museum, which is housed in a former train station and displays exhibits on Omaha’s past and present. You can also visit the Joslyn Art Museum, which features collections of regional and national art, as well as traveling exhibitions. If you are interested in the history and culture of Omaha’s African American community, you can visit the Great Plains Black History Museum⁴. For children, there is the Omaha Children’s Museum¹³, which has interactive exhibits and activities that foster learning and creativity.
Joslyn Art Museum: A significant spot for art lovers, the museum offers an extensive collection of works, both ancient and modern. And the best part? General admission is free.
Durham Museum: Housed in a beautifully restored Art Deco train station, this museum offers a look at the history of the region and features a variety of traveling exhibits.
Omaha’s Culinary Scene: Omaha has a diverse and growing food scene. The city is famous for its steaks, but you’ll also find farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, and a range of international cuisines.
Outdoor Recreation: Omaha provides a range of outdoor activities, thanks to its parks, trails, and the Missouri River. You can enjoy biking, hiking, boating, or simply taking a leisurely stroll in Heartland of America Park.
Music and Festivals: Omaha has a thriving music scene with a rich history in jazz, blues, and rock. The city hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Omaha Summer Arts Festival and the MAHA Music Festival.
Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum: A short drive from Omaha, this museum offers a look at the history of aviation and features a range of aircraft and spacecraft.
The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. This 3,000-foot long bridge spans the Missouri River, connecting Omaha to Council Bluffs, Iowa. It’s a popular spot for walking, running, biking and enjoying views of the river and skyline.
TD Ameritrade Park. This baseball stadium is home to the College World Series each June and hosts major concerts the rest of the year. Even if there’s no event, they offer tours and have a memorabilia museum.
The Lauritzen Gardens. This 100-acre botanical center and arboretum features themed gardens, an annual garden festival, nature trails and garden activities for all ages.
The Durham Museum. Housed in a historic art deco train station, this museum documents the history of Omaha and the region. Exhibits include vintage trains, historic photographs and a giant model train layout.
The Omaha Children’s Museum. Great for kids and families, this museum provides interactive art activities, science experiments, cultural exhibits and indoor play areas suited for children 10 years and under.
Craft breweries like Upstream Brewing Company, Infusion Brewing Co. and Brickway Brewery & Distillery. Omaha has a booming craft beer scene with over a dozen breweries in converted warehouses and historic buildings.
Unique neighborhoods like Little Italy, Benson, Blackstone and Dundee. These historic districts have local shopping, dining, nightlife, art galleries and character.
These are just some of the reasons why Omaha is worth visiting. Whether you are looking for history, culture, art, or nature, you will find something to enjoy in this city. I hope you found this answer helpful and informative. Have a great day!.
While Omaha may not top the typical tourist’s list, it’s an underrated city with world-class attractions, culture, history, food and natural scenery that make it well worth a visit. Especially appealing if you want an enjoyable getaway without huge crowds.
In summary, Omaha has a rich array of cultural, historical, and natural attractions that make it well worth a visit. From its world-class zoo and intriguing museums to its vibrant culinary scene and outdoor recreational activities, there’s something in Omaha for every type of traveler.