16 Best Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska

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Omaha completely surprised me! Before this trip, I mostly just knew it was known for great steaks. What I didn’t realize was just how many fun things there are to do in Omaha! Between one of the best zoos in the country, a thriving food scene, beautiful parks, world-class museums, and charming neighborhoods, we had no trouble filling an entire long weekend.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or you’re just passing through Nebraska, here are my favorite things to do in Omaha to help you make the most of your trip.

Best Things to Do in Omaha

1. Old Market

Old Market was easily my favorite area of the city! I loved its historic brick streets, local boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and coffee shops.

While you’re there, take a stroll through the Old Market Passageway, a charming alleyway lined with string lights, shops, and patios that’s become one of the most photographed spots in the neighborhood.

There are also plenty of great places to eat. Clio was one of my favorite meals of the trip if you’re craving fresh Mediterranean food! Upstream Brewing Company is a great choice if you’re looking for a more casual lunch or want to grab a locally brewed beer.

Diners Seated On Clio Restaurants Outdoor Patio In Omahas Old Market Surrounded By Umbrellas And Hanging Flower Planters

Clio Restaurant In Omaha Dining Room With Patrons Seated Beneath A Flower Covered Ceiling Woven Pendant Lights And Curved Booth Seating

2. Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is one of the city’s biggest claims to fame and is one of the best things to do in Omaha with kids. Consistently ranked among the best zoos in the country, it’s home to incredible exhibits like the Desert Dome, Lied Jungle, Scott Aquarium, and one of the world’s largest indoor deserts!

Plan to spend most of the day here because there’s so much to see.

Cheetahs At The Henry Doorly Zoo And Aquarium In Omaha

3. The RiverFront

The RiverFront is a revitalized park system that connects Gene Leahy Mall, Heartland of America Park, and Lewis & Clark Landing. It is such a gorgeous outdoor space in downtown Omaha that actually feels used and loved.

At Gene Leahy Mall, you will find walking paths, public art, wide lawns, a performance pavilion, a dog park, slides, and plenty of places to sit and enjoy the city. It is one of the best free things to do in Omaha, whether you are taking a midday breather or using it as part of a longer downtown walk.

If you have time, keep going toward Lewis & Clark Landing and the Missouri River. Between the river views, open space, urban beach, fire pits, volleyball courts, and easy connection to the bridge, this is a great way to see a more modern, outdoorsy side of Omaha.

Arched Playground Climbing Structure And Fenced Walkway At Gene Leahy Mall In Omaha

Twin Outdoor Slides With Central Stairs At Gene Leahy Mall In Omaha

4. Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

One of Omaha’s most iconic landmarks is the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, which stretches across the Missouri River and connects Nebraska and Iowa. It’s one of the few places where you can literally stand with one foot in each state!

The walk itself is easy, scenic, and perfect for Missouri River and skyline views. Since this trip was part of checking Nebraska and Iowa off our 50 states list, this stop felt extra fun. But even if you are not doing the whole state-count thing, it is still one of the more unique things to do in Omaha.

Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge Spans The River With Cable Supports Walkway Railings Nearby Trees And Bikes Below

5. Lauritzen Gardens

Lauritzen Gardens was one of the prettiest places we visited in Omaha. The 100-acre botanical garden features beautiful themed gardens, walking paths, seasonal displays, and an indoor conservatory.

If you’re visiting with kids, Sofia’s Play Garden is included with admission and has a wonderful nature-inspired play area with climbing structures, water features, and plenty of space to explore. Even if you’re not traveling as a family, the gardens are well worth a visit and make a great break from the busier parts of the city.

Flowering Garden Bed With Kinetic Metal Sculptures And Small Decorative Houses At Lauritzen Gardens In Omaha

Garden Walkway At Lauritzen Gardens In Omaha

6. Polina Gardens

Polina Gardens is Lauritzen Gardens’ first satellite location, and it is free for everyone to visit year-round! It is small, cute, and perfect for a quick green-space reset while you are already downtown.

I would not plan a whole afternoon around it, but I loved that Omaha has this thoughtful little garden tucked right into one of its most walkable areas.

Woman Poses Atop Wooden Climbing Posts At Polina Gardens In Omaha

Large Wire Mesh Hand Sculpture At Polina Gardens In Omaha

7. Joslyn Art Museum

I honestly could not believe that the Joslyn Art Museum is completely free. The building itself is stunning (and almost 100 years old!). Inside you’ll find everything from European masterpieces to contemporary art, along with rotating exhibitions throughout the year.

Between the architecture, art, sculpture gardens, grand interior spaces, and free admission, this is one of the best things to do in Omaha for culture lovers, budget travelers, or anyone who wants a beautiful indoor backup.

We ended up spending much longer here than we expected, and I loved that such a world-class museum is accessible to everyone!

Colorful Abstract Metal Sculpture With Looping Arches And Curved Forms At Joslyn Art Museum In Omaha

Large Yellow Abstract Metal Sculpture Beside A Garden Path At Joslyn Art Museum In Omaha

8. Joslyn Castle & Gardens

Joslyn Castle is another beautiful historic stop connected to George and Sarah Joslyn, the same family name behind the art museum. The castle was completed in the early 1900s and is known for its Scottish Baronial style, which gives it such a dramatic, storybook look.

It costs to go inside for a guided tour, but exploring the grounds and admiring the outside is free. I liked that this stop added a different layer to the trip. Omaha is not just riverfront parks and cute brick streets; it also has these big historic homes that hint at the people and money that shaped the city.

Visitor Walking Through Gardens Toward The Entrance Of Historic Joslyn Castle In Omaha

Woman Walking Through Hydrangea Gardens In Front Of The Historic Joslyn Castle In Omaha

9. Fontenelle Forest

If you enjoy spending time outdoors, I’d definitely recommend visiting Fontenelle Forest. This 1,400-acre nature preserve is filled with hiking trails, elevated boardwalks, scenic overlooks, and wildlife, making it feel like a completely different world just outside the city.

If you’re looking for a little more adventure, TreeRush Adventures is located right next to the nature center. The aerial adventure park features rope courses, suspended bridges, climbing elements, and zip lines for a variety of ages and skill levels.

They also have a Raptor Refuge with birds of prey that are being rehabilitated or live there permanently because they cannot be released back into the wild.

Wooden Boardwalk With Railings Winds Through Dense Trees At Fontenelle Forest

Entrance Gate To Raptor Woodland Refuge At Fontenelle Forest

10. Memorial Park and the Rose Garden

Memorial Park and its rose garden are a lovely free stop! The park was created as a memorial to men and women from Douglas County who served in the armed forces, so it feels more meaningful than a standard neighborhood park.

The Memorial Park Rose Garden is perfect if you love flowers or want a quiet little photo stop.

Korean Conflict And Vietnam War Memorial With Soldier And Child Statue Dedication Plaque Flagpole And Curved Memorial Wall At Memorial Park In Omaha

Veterans Memorial With Bronze Figures Flags Landscaped Flowers And Engraved Brick Walkway At Memorial Park In Omaha Nebraska

11. Hollywood Candy

Hollywood Candy is such a fun and quirky Omaha activity. It’s much more than just a candy store, with vintage toys, movie props, retro signs, collectibles, and nostalgic candy filling nearly every corner. The whole place gave me a trip-down-memory-lane feeling.

There’s also a classic arcade and pinball room if you’d like to play a few games, but even just wandering through the store is an experience. We had so much fun looking around and spotting things we remembered from growing up.

Hollywood Candy Entrance And Signage On A Brick Building In Omahas Old Market Advertising Antiques Mercantile And Candy

Man Sits In A Vintage Car Outside Hollywood Candy In Omaha Surrounded By Retro Signs And Storefront Decor

12. Durham Museum

Housed inside Omaha’s beautifully restored Union Station, The Durham Museum is one of the city’s top museums and a great place to learn about the history of Omaha and the American West.

Beyond the exhibits, the building itself is worth seeing. The Art Deco architecture, marble floors, original ticket counters, and grand train station design make it feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Inside, you’ll find interactive exhibits, historic train cars, and displays covering everything from pioneer life to rail travel, making it an interesting stop for both adults and kids.

13. Kiewit Luminarium

Kiewit Luminarium is Omaha’s riverfront science and discovery museum. It’s a hands-on science museum with more than 125 interactive exhibits that encourage you to touch, build, experiment, and play. It’s designed for all ages, so whether you’re visiting with kids or just embrace your inner child, you’ll have a great time exploring.

I would pair it with The RiverFront or the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge since they are all in the same general part of town.

Kiewit Luminarium Science Museum Along The Missouri River Waterfront In Omaha Viewed From The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

14. Hitchcock Nature Center

If you don’t mind a short drive, Hitchcock Nature Center is about 20 minutes from downtown Omaha and well worth the trip if you’re into nature! It’s located in the scenic Loess Hills of Iowa, and is a beautiful place to hike and take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

There are trails for every skill level, but if you’re looking for an easier walk, Fox Run Ridge Trail is a great option. Before you leave, make sure to climb the 45-foot observation tower, where you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the Loess Hills, the Missouri River, and even the Omaha skyline on a clear day!

Fox Run Ridge Trailhead Entrance At Hitchcock Nature Center Near Omaha

Wooden Observation Tower With Stairs And Viewing Platforms Overlooking The Landscape Along Fox Run Ridge Trail In Iowa

15. Have a Steak Dinner at The Drover

You can’t visit Omaha without trying a steak, and The Drover was my favorite steakhouse we visited. In fact, it was recommended by nearly every local I asked!

The restaurant has been an Omaha institution for decades and is famous for its whiskey-marinated steaks, which absolutely lived up to the hype. I also loved the classic steakhouse atmosphere and the nostalgic salad bar. If you’re only planning on one steak dinner during your trip, I’d make it this one.

Entrance To The Drover Restaurant Lounge In Omaha

Grilled Steak Dinner With Onion Rings And Mushrooms At The Drover In Omaha

16. Check Out Omaha’s Bar Scene

If you enjoy a good cocktail, Omaha has a surprisingly fun bar scene. We found everything from tropical rum bars to hidden speakeasies!

If you’re a rum fan, Laka Lono Rum Club has a fun tropical atmosphere and creative island-inspired cocktails. Anna’s Place, the hidden speakeasy inside Hotel Indigo, is another great stop with an intimate vibe and well-crafted drinks.

My personal favorite, though, was Wicked Rabbit. Hidden behind the shelves of a liquor store, this speakeasy was such a fun experience. The cocktails were excellent, and several come with creative presentations, ours was literally lit on fire! Even if you only have time for one cocktail bar in Omaha, this is the one I’d recommend.

Bar Shelves At Wicked Rabbit Speakeasy In Omaha Stocked With Liquor Bottles And Glassware — **Wicked Rabbit**

Intimate Lounge Seating Area At Wicked Rabbit Speakeasy In Omaha — **Wicked Rabbit**

Entrance Door To Annas Place Speakeasy In Omaha — **Anna’s Place**

Dim Lounge Seating Area At Annas Place Speakeasy In Omaha — **Anna’s Place**

Getting Around Omaha

Omaha is a fairly spread-out city, and while a few attractions are clustered downtown, you’ll likely find yourself exploring several different neighborhoods throughout your trip. Having a car makes it much easier to get between places, especially if you’re doing the nature activities surrounding Omaha.

I’d definitely recommend renting a car if you plan on seeing more than just downtown. Whenever I rent a car, I use this tool to compare prices across multiple rental companies, making it easy to find the best deal for your travel dates.

Where to Stay in Omaha

If it’s your first time visiting Omaha, I’d recommend staying downtown or in the Old Market. You’ll be close to many of the city’s best restaurants, bars, and attractions. My top two recs:

Hotel Indigo Omaha Downtown (Where we stayed) – I really loved our stay here! The hotel is beautiful, our room was incredibly spacious, and the bed was so comfortable I somehow slept 10 hours our first night (which honestly never happens). I also loved that Anna’s Place (a cool speakeasy), is located right inside the hotel. They also offer a complimentary shuttle within a 3-mile radius, making it easy to explore downtown.
The Farnam, Autograph Collection (Where I’d stay next time) – If I came back to Omaha, this is probably where I’d stay. It’s right in Old Market, my favorite neighborhood in the city, so you’d be within walking distance of fantastic restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and boutiques. It’s also one of Omaha’s premier luxury hotels, with amazing reviews.

Check out all available options and pricing for your dates in Omaha here!

Bathroom Vanity Area At Hotel Indigo Downtown Omaha

Are you ready to experience the best things to do in Omaha?

Omaha was such a pleasant surprise for us. Between the cute neighborhoods, riverfront parks, free museums, gardens, nature trails, local food, old-school steak dinners, and fun cocktail bars, it ended up being one of those cities I left genuinely excited to recommend. I hope this guide to the best things to do in Omaha helps you plan the perfect trip!

Before you go, be sure to follow me on Instagram @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other US blog posts:

Fun Things to Do in Omaha with Kids

Fun Things to Do in the Twin Cities

How to Spend a Weekend in St. Louis