11 Fun Things to Do in Omaha with Kids

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I’ll be honest, I don’t have kids myself, but so many of my friends do. And the entire time I was exploring Omaha, I kept thinking, “My friends’ kids would LOVE this!”

From hands-on museums and incredible playgrounds to beautiful gardens, a world-class zoo, and interactive attractions, there are so many fun things to do in Omaha with kids. It’s one of those cities that does an amazing job of creating experiences the whole family can enjoy!

Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a weekend getaway, or just looking for a few activities to keep the kids entertained, here are some of the best family-friendly things to do in Omaha!

Things to Do in Omaha with Kids

1. Play at Gene Leahy Mall

If you’re looking for one of the best free things to do in Omaha with kids, you’re going to love Gene Leahy Mall! Located in the heart of downtown, this beautiful park is part of The RiverFront, a 72-acre park system that also includes Heartland of America Park and Lewis & Clark Landing. Together, they make up one of the best family-friendly areas in the city.

The park has so much more than just green space. Kids will love the Arches Playground, with its giant climbing structures, tunnels, rope courses, slides, swings, and even a climbing cave. During the warmer months, The Cascades is a huge hit, letting kids splash and play in the interactive water feature.

There are also wide walking paths, public art, oversized lawn games, open grassy areas, and plenty of spots to sit and relax while the kids burn off some energy.

2. Walk the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge stretches across the Missouri River, connecting Nebraska and Iowa, so you can literally stand with one foot in each state! It’s free, stroller-friendly, and scenic.

The bridge has beautiful views of the Omaha skyline and connects to The RiverFront, making it easy to pair with Gene Leahy Mall or Lewis & Clark Landing. If you’re visiting with kids, they’ll love finding the state line marker and exploring both sides of the river.

On the Nebraska side, you’ll also find a splash pad and play area nearby, making it a fun stop during the warmer months.

3. Wander Through Hollywood Candy

Hollywood Candy is one of those places where kids (and adults!) can easily spend an hour or two wandering around. Located in the Old Market, it’s so much more than a candy store. Inside you’ll find rows of nostalgic candy, vintage toys, movie props, collectibles, old signs, and retro memorabilia around every corner.

One of the biggest highlights is the Hollywood Pinball & Arcade, where you can play dozens of classic pinball and arcade games. We had so much fun exploring everything, and I loved seeing all the nostalgic items from decades past!

4. Spend the Day at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is probably one of the most famous things to do in Omaha with kids, and for good reason. It is huge, impressive, and packed with exhibits that can easily fill a full day. It is consistently ranked as one of the best zoos in the country.

The zoo is home to incredible exhibits like the Desert Dome, Lied Jungle, and the Scott Aquarium, along with hundreds of animal species from around the world. Kids will especially love the Bay Family Children’s Adventure Trails, where they can climb through a giant treehouse, play in nature-inspired areas, and even walk behind a waterfall.

5. Get Hands on at Kiewit Luminarium

For curious kids (and adults!), the Kiewit Luminarium is one of the coolest attractions in Omaha. Instead of traditional museum exhibits, you’ll find more than 125 interactive experiences where you’re encouraged to touch, build, experiment, and play while learning about science, engineering, and creativity.

It’s located right along The RiverFront, making it easy to pair with Gene Leahy Mall, Lewis & Clark Landing, or the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. It is one of the best things to do in Omaha with kids when you want something educational that still feels playful.

6. Visit the Omaha Children’s Museum

The Omaha Children’s Museum is packed with hands-on exhibits designed to let kids learn through play. From pretend play areas and climbing spaces to science activities and rotating exhibits, it’s definitely a place where kids can easily spend a few hours exploring.

7. Get Outside at Lauritzen Gardens

Lauritzen Gardens is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Omaha and a great activity for families who love being outdoors. There are more than 100 acres of botanical gardens to explore, with themed gardens, walking paths, seasonal displays, and an indoor conservatory.

One of the biggest highlights for families is Sofia’s Play Garden, an interactive nature-inspired playground that’s included with admission. Kids can splash in water features, build with natural materials, climb, explore, and use their imagination while learning about the outdoors. It’s one of the most thoughtfully designed children’s areas we visited!

8. Walk the Boardwalk Trails at Fontenelle Forest

If your family enjoys spending time outside, Fontenelle Forest is well worth adding to your Omaha itinerary. The nature preserve has miles of hiking trails, a scenic boardwalk, educational exhibits, birds of prey at the Raptor Refuge, and Acorn Acres, a nature play area designed just for kids.

For families with older kids looking for a little more adventure, TreeRush Adventures is located right next to the nature center. This aerial adventure park features rope courses, suspended bridges, swings, and zip lines with courses for a variety of ages and skill levels.

It’s a fun way to experience the forest from the treetops and was one of the most unique things to do in Omaha with kids. Keep in mind that TreeRush requires a separate ticket from Fontenelle Forest admission.

9. Hike at Hitchcock Nature Center

If your family enjoys hiking, Hitchcock Nature Center is well worth the drive. Located about 20 minutes from downtown Omaha in the scenic Loess Hills of Iowa, it’s one of the best places near the city to enjoy nature and incredible views.

There are trails for a variety of skill levels, but if you’re visiting with younger kids or just want an easier walk, Fox Run Ridge Trail is a great choice. Be sure to climb the 45-foot observation tower, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Loess Hills, the Missouri River, and even the Omaha skyline on a clear day!

10. Cuddle Mini Cows at Briarwood Acres

If your kids love animals, Briarwood Acres is a fun experience just outside of Omaha. The farm is known for its adorable mini Highland cows, where you can book a visit to feed, pet, and even cuddle them in a small-group setting. They’re also adding flower gardens, a vegetable garden, and a small farm shop.

Because visits are by reservation and kept intentionally small, it feels much more personal than a typical petting zoo. Just note that children under 14 are welcome to visit the farm but aren’t allowed inside the animal enclosures, so it’s best suited for families with older kids who want a hands-on experience.

And be sure to book at least a few days in advance, especially if you’re doing a weekend in Omaha! When we went all of the reservations were unfortunately booked up.

11. Try Fresh Local Ice Cream

After a day of exploring, treat the family to some ice cream! We stopped at Ted & Wally’s Ultra-Premium Ice Cream and absolutely loved it! They make their ice cream in small batches and rotate flavors constantly, so there’s always something new to try.

Another spot that’s consistently recommended by locals is Coneflower Creamery. It’s known for its farm-to-cone approach, creative seasonal flavors, and has even been recognized as one of the best ice cream shops in the country. We didn’t have time to fit it into our itinerary, but it’s already on my list for my next trip to Omaha!

Getting Around Omaha

Omaha is a pretty spread-out city with lots of different neighborhoods to explore. While many of the downtown attractions are close together, some of the best nature spots, like Hitchcock Nature Center and Fontenelle Forest, are a short drive outside the city.

Because of that, I’d definitely recommend renting a car. It gives you the flexibility to see more of Omaha without having to rely on rideshares, especially if you’re planning to visit places beyond downtown.

Whenever I rent a car, I use this tool because it compares prices across multiple rental companies, making it easy to find the best deal for your travel dates.

Where to Stay in Omaha with Kids

If you’re visiting Omaha as a family, I’d recommend staying downtown or in the Old Market. You’ll be close to many of the city’s top attractions, and it’s easy to get to places like the zoo, The RiverFront, and the Children’s Museum.

Here are a few great options:

• Hyatt Place Omaha/Downtown-Old Market (mid-range) – This is a great option if you want to be within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and many downtown attractions. They also have a complimentary breakfast and indoor pool.
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Omaha Downtown Old Market (mid-range) – Spacious two-room suites, free made-to-order breakfast, an indoor pool, and a location just minutes from the Henry Doorly Zoo and Old Market.
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Omaha-Downtown (budget-friendly for families) – If you want a little more space, this all-suite hotel offers fully equipped kitchens, free breakfast, and an indoor pool. It’s an especially good choice for longer stays or if you want the option to prepare a few meals in the room.

Ready to experience some of the best things to do in Omaha with kids!?

Omaha is such an underrated family destination. You can spend one day outside at the riverfront and gardens, another at the zoo or museums, and still have time for Old Market, candy, and ice cream. I hope this guide to the best things to do in Omaha with kids helps you plan a fun trip filled with memories the whole family will love!

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

Best Things to Do in Tampa with Kids

Fun Things to Do in the Twin Cities

Things to Pack for a Road Trip