Omaha is one of the most exciting cities in the American Midwest. Travellers searching for the Best Things to Do in Omaha quickly notice the city’s vibrant cultural districts, historic landmarks, scenic riverfront areas, and family friendly attractions. Located along the Missouri River in Nebraska, Omaha blends historic charm with modern entertainment and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The city has played an important role in American history, especially during the westward expansion period and the growth of the railroad industry. Visitors exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha can visit historic neighbourhoods, museums, and cultural centres that highlight the city’s heritage. Omaha is also known for its lively food scene, thriving arts community, and outdoor parks.
Omaha offers attractions for travellers of all interests. Those experiencing the Best Things to Do in Omaha can explore world class zoos, walk through historic districts, enjoy riverfront views, and attend cultural events throughout the year. The combination of history, culture, and outdoor recreation makes Omaha a rewarding destination in the United States.
Why Omaha Is a Must Visit Destination
Omaha offers a unique mix of historic heritage, cultural attractions, and modern entertainment. Travellers researching the Best Things to Do in Omaha will find activities suited for families, history enthusiasts, food lovers, and nature explorers.
Key reasons travellers enjoy the Best Things to Do in Omaha include:
• Famous attractions such as Henry Doorly Zoo
• Historic districts including Old Market
• Museums and cultural institutions
• Scenic parks and riverfront areas
• Local restaurants and vibrant nightlife
These experiences create a welcoming environment that attracts visitors throughout the year.
Quick Travel Facts About Omaha
Before exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha, these travel facts help visitors plan their journey.
| Travel Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| State | Nebraska |
| Population | Around 480,000 |
| Known For | Henry Doorly Zoo, Old Market district |
| Famous Landmark | Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium |
| Best Time to Visit | May to October |
| Currency | US Dollar |
Top 20 Best Things to Do in Omaha
Omaha offers a wide range of attractions including museums, parks, historic districts, and family attractions. Travellers searching for the Best Things to Do in Omaha will find memorable experiences throughout the city.
1. Visit Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium ranks among the most famous Best Things to Do in Omaha. The zoo is widely considered one of the best in the world and features impressive exhibits and conservation programs.
Visitors exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha can see animals from every continent while walking through large themed habitats.
Highlights include:
• Desert Dome indoor desert habitat
• Lied Jungle rainforest exhibit
• Aquarium with sharks and marine life
• Wildlife conservation exhibits
2. Walk Through the Old Market District
The Old Market District stands among the historic areas included in the Best Things to Do in Omaha. This neighbourhood features brick streets, historic warehouses, and vibrant local businesses.
Visitors enjoy browsing boutique shops, art galleries, cafés, and restaurants throughout the district.
Activities include:
• Shopping at independent stores
• Dining at local restaurants
• Viewing street art and historic buildings
• Attending local festivals and events
3. Visit the Durham Museum
The Durham Museum represents one of the cultural Best Things to Do in Omaha. The museum is located inside the historic Union Station building, which once served as an important railway hub during the growth of the American West.
Visitors exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha admire the impressive Art Deco architecture of the building before entering the museum galleries. Inside, exhibits present the story of early settlers, railroad expansion, and the development of Omaha as a transportation centre.
Historic train cars, photographs, and interactive displays allow visitors to experience the era when railroads connected communities across the country. Many travellers enjoy walking through the restored train station hall and learning about regional history.
Highlights include:
• Historic Union Station architecture
• Exhibits about railroads and westward expansion
• Restored vintage train cars
• Interactive historical displays
4. Explore Lauritzen Gardens
Lauritzen Gardens offers natural beauty among the relaxing Best Things to Do in Omaha. This large botanical garden features beautifully landscaped areas filled with flowers, trees, and themed plant collections.
Visitors exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha enjoy walking along garden paths that pass through rose gardens, tropical greenhouses, and seasonal flower displays. The gardens provide a peaceful setting that contrasts with the busy city.
Throughout the year, Lauritzen Gardens hosts special exhibitions and seasonal events that highlight different plant species and gardening traditions.
Highlights include:
• Large botanical garden landscapes
• Seasonal flower and plant displays
• Indoor conservatory exhibits
• Scenic walking paths through gardens
5. Walk Across the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge offers scenic river views among the popular Best Things to Do in Omaha. This modern bridge stretches across the Missouri River and connects Nebraska with the state of Iowa.
Visitors exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha enjoy walking or cycling along the bridge while admiring views of the river and the Omaha skyline. One of the unique experiences here is standing on the state line that marks the border between Nebraska and Iowa.
The bridge is especially popular during sunrise and sunset when the lighting creates beautiful reflections across the water.
Highlights include:
• Scenic views of the Missouri River
• Walking path connecting two states
• Photography opportunities of the skyline
• Popular sunset viewpoint
6. Visit the Omaha Children’s Museum
The Omaha Children’s Museum represents one of the family friendly Best Things to Do in Omaha. This interactive museum provides engaging exhibits designed to inspire creativity and curiosity in children.
Visitors exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha bring children here to participate in hands on activities that involve science, art, and imaginative play. Each exhibit encourages children to explore different ideas through interactive learning.
The museum also hosts workshops, demonstrations, and seasonal events that provide fun educational experiences for families.
Highlights include:
• Interactive hands on exhibits
• Creative learning activities for children
• Science and art themed displays
• Family friendly educational programs
7. Explore Joslyn Art Museum
The Joslyn Art Museum offers one of the artistic Best Things to Do in Omaha. Located in a beautiful historic building, the museum houses an impressive collection of artwork from different periods and regions.
Visitors exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha admire paintings, sculptures, and decorative artworks from American and European artists. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions that introduce contemporary artists and modern art movements.
The building itself features elegant architectural design and spacious galleries that create a pleasant environment for appreciating art.
Highlights include:
• Collections of American and European art
• Contemporary and modern exhibitions
• Beautiful historic museum architecture
• Peaceful galleries for art appreciation
8. Walk Through Heartland of America Park
Heartland of America Park offers scenic lakeside views among the relaxing Best Things to Do in Omaha. Located near the downtown riverfront, this park provides a peaceful environment surrounded by water and city skyline views.
Visitors exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha enjoy walking along paved paths that circle the lake while admiring the park’s large fountain and landscaped green areas. The fountain creates a striking feature that lights up beautifully in the evening.
The park is a popular gathering place for both locals and travellers. Many visitors come here for photography, picnics, and quiet walks while enjoying views of downtown Omaha.
Highlights include:
• Scenic lakeside walking paths
• Large illuminated fountain
• Views of the downtown skyline
• Relaxing picnic areas and open lawns
9. Visit the Omaha Community Playhouse
The Omaha Community Playhouse ranks among the cultural venues included in the Best Things to Do in Omaha. This theatre is known for producing high quality performances and has a long tradition of supporting local arts.
Visitors exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha attend theatre productions that range from classic plays to modern musicals. The venue hosts performances throughout the year and attracts talented performers from across the region.
The theatre also has historical significance because several famous actors began their careers on its stage. For travellers interested in performing arts, attending a show here offers an enjoyable cultural experience.
Highlights include:
• Live theatre productions and musicals
• Community and professional performances
• Historic performing arts venue
• Cultural events throughout the year
10. Explore the Omaha Farmers Market
The Omaha Farmers Market offers a lively local experience among the cultural Best Things to Do in Omaha. This popular market brings together farmers, artisans, and food vendors from across the region.
Visitors exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha enjoy browsing stalls that sell fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and handmade crafts. The market provides an opportunity to interact with local producers and experience the city’s community atmosphere.
Live music and street performances often add to the vibrant energy of the market. Many travellers stop here to taste local food and purchase unique handmade items.
Highlights include:
• Fresh produce from regional farms
• Handmade crafts and artisan products
• Street food and local specialties
• Live entertainment and market events
11. Visit the Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum
The Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum provides one of the educational Best Things to Do in Omaha. This large museum focuses on aviation history, space exploration, and military aircraft.
Visitors exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha can see historic planes, space capsules, and aviation equipment displayed inside spacious hangars. The exhibits explain the role of aviation in national defence and technological progress.
Interactive displays allow visitors to learn about flight mechanics and space missions. Aviation enthusiasts and families often spend several hours exploring the museum.
Highlights include:
• Historic military aircraft exhibits
• Space exploration displays
• Interactive aviation simulations
• Educational exhibits about aerospace technology
12. Walk Through the Gene Leahy Mall
The Gene Leahy Mall offers green space among the relaxing Best Things to Do in Omaha. Located in the heart of downtown, this urban park has been redesigned to provide modern public spaces and outdoor attractions.
Visitors exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha enjoy landscaped gardens, water features, playgrounds, and open lawns where people gather to relax or attend community events.
The park also includes public art installations and seating areas that create a welcoming environment for visitors exploring the city centre.
Highlights include:
• Landscaped gardens and green spaces
• Modern playground areas
• Public art displays
• Outdoor events and community gatherings
13. Visit the Mormon Trail Center
The Mormon Trail Center represents one of the historic Best Things to Do in Omaha. This museum tells the story of the Mormon pioneers who travelled westward during the nineteenth century.
Visitors exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha learn about the difficult journey these settlers faced while travelling across the American frontier. Exhibits include historical documents, artefacts, and interactive displays that explain the migration.
The museum also features life sized wagon replicas and visual presentations that help visitors imagine the experience of travelling across the plains.
Highlights include:
• Exhibits about pioneer history
• Wagon replicas and historic artefacts
• Interactive educational displays
• Stories of westward migration and settlement
14. Explore Fontenelle Forest
Fontenelle Forest offers nature trails among the peaceful Best Things to Do in Omaha. Located just outside the city, this large nature reserve protects forests, wetlands, and wildlife habitats along the Missouri River.
Visitors exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha walk along wooden boardwalks and forest trails that pass through beautiful natural landscapes. These paths allow travellers to observe birds, deer, and other wildlife living in the forest environment.
The reserve also provides educational programs that focus on conservation and environmental awareness. Many visitors enjoy the quiet atmosphere and scenic views while spending time outdoors.
Highlights include:
• Forest walking trails and boardwalks
• Wildlife and birdwatching opportunities
• Wetland and woodland landscapes
• Educational nature programs
15. Visit the Nebraska Crossing Outlets
Nebraska Crossing Outlets provide shopping experiences among the modern Best Things to Do in Omaha. This large shopping destination features numerous outlet stores offering popular clothing, footwear, and lifestyle brands.
Visitors exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha browse a wide selection of stores while enjoying discounts on well known brands. The outdoor shopping complex also includes restaurants and cafés where travellers can relax between visits to the stores.
Seasonal promotions and events attract shoppers from across the region, making the outlet centre a lively place to spend time.
Highlights include:
• Popular outlet brand stores
• Dining and café options
• Seasonal shopping events
• Modern open air shopping environment
16. Walk Through the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts
The Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts offers creative exhibitions among the artistic Best Things to Do in Omaha. Located in the historic Old Market district, this centre supports innovative artists and modern art displays.
Visitors exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha view exhibitions featuring contemporary paintings, sculptures, digital art, and experimental installations. The centre frequently hosts artist residencies and public programs.
Travellers interested in modern creativity appreciate the opportunity to see unique artwork that reflects current artistic ideas and cultural themes.
Highlights include:
• Contemporary art exhibitions
• Innovative artistic installations
• Artist residency programs
• Cultural events and workshops
17. Visit the Omaha National Cemetery
The Omaha National Cemetery represents one of the historic locations included in the Best Things to Do in Omaha. This peaceful cemetery honours military veterans who served the United States.
Visitors exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha walk through beautifully maintained grounds while reflecting on the sacrifices made by those who served in the armed forces.
The cemetery features memorial monuments, rows of white headstones, and quiet landscapes that create a respectful and solemn atmosphere.
Highlights include:
• Memorials dedicated to military veterans
• Beautifully maintained cemetery grounds
• Historic significance for national service
• Quiet environment for reflection
18. Explore Chalco Hills Recreation Area
Chalco Hills Recreation Area offers outdoor activities among the relaxing Best Things to Do in Omaha. This large park surrounds a scenic lake and provides numerous opportunities for recreation.
Visitors exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha enjoy walking and cycling trails that circle the lake while taking in views of the surrounding landscape. Fishing areas and picnic spots attract families and outdoor enthusiasts.
The park also hosts community events and seasonal activities throughout the year, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
Highlights include:
• Scenic lake views and walking trails
• Cycling routes around the park
• Fishing and picnic areas
• Outdoor recreation and community events
19. Visit the Holland Performing Arts Center
The Holland Performing Arts Center offers cultural entertainment among the lively Best Things to Do in Omaha. Located in downtown Omaha, this modern venue hosts concerts, orchestras, and performing arts events.
Visitors exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha attend performances by the Omaha Symphony as well as touring musicians and theatre groups. The centre features excellent acoustics and elegant interior design.
Many travellers include a visit to the performing arts centre in their itinerary to experience Omaha’s vibrant cultural scene.
Highlights include:
• Symphony orchestra performances
• Concerts by visiting musicians
• Modern performing arts venue
• Cultural events throughout the year
20. Try Local Omaha Cuisine
Trying local food remains one of the enjoyable Best Things to Do in Omaha.
Visitors often try:
• Nebraska steak dishes
• Classic American burgers
• Midwestern comfort food
• Local craft beer
Popular Attractions in Omaha
Travellers exploring the Best Things to Do in Omaha often prioritise these famous attractions:
• Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
• Old Market District
• Durham Museum
• Lauritzen Gardens
• Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
• Joslyn Art Museum
• Heartland of America Park
• Omaha Farmers Market
• Strategic Air Command Museum
• Fontenelle Forest
Best Time to Visit Omaha
The best time to experience the Best Things to Do in Omaha is from late spring through early autumn when the weather becomes comfortable for outdoor exploration.
Summer offers lively festivals, farmers markets, and outdoor events throughout the city. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures for sightseeing and visiting parks.
Winter can be cold, but cultural attractions and museums remain open throughout the season.
Must Read:
Final Thoughts:
The Best Things to Do in Omaha highlight a city filled with culture, history, and outdoor adventure. Visitors can explore world class museums, vibrant historic districts, scenic parks, and family attractions throughout the city.
From the famous Henry Doorly Zoo to the lively Old Market District and beautiful riverfront parks, the Best Things to Do in Omaha offer memorable experiences for travellers visiting Nebraska’s largest city.
