What Are Some Popular Attractions in Omaha?

Omaha, Nebraska, is a vibrant city filled with outdoor attractions and cultural sites. Home to the prestigious Henry Doorly Zoo, the city caters to nature lovers of all kinds. Whether you’re looking for entertainment, education, art and culture, food, or shopping, Omaha has something for everyone. So, what are some of the top attractions the Gateway City has to offer? Read on to find out.

Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

No visit to Omaha is complete without a trip to the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Voted the number one zoo in America by TripAdvisor, the facility boasts over 17,000 animals and 950 different species, making it the largest in the world. There are tons of attractions to explore, including: an aquarium, a tree canopy trail, a butterfly and bee exhibit, an indoor rainforest, and much more. You could easily spend an entire day exploring the zoo and still only experience a small portion of all it has to offer.

Omaha Children’s Museum

If you’re looking for something a bit more educational, check out the popular Omaha Children’s Museum. Not only is it the top-rated children’s museum in Nebraska, but it also holds the title of being one of the oldest children’s museums in the United States. It features hands-on exhibits and activities that allow kids to explore science, art, math and more. In addition, they offer classes and camps that help cultivate creative and scientific minds in young learners.

Joslyn Art Museum

The Joslyn Art Museum is another popular attraction in Omaha. The largest art museum in Nebraska offers three floors of exhibits featuring 17th-20th century European Renaissance and Baroque sculpture and paintings, 19th and 20th century American & British art, and an extensive Art Deco collection. The museum also houses some of the most famous works by Georgia O’Keeffe and Jackson Pollock.

Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

One of the most iconic landmarks in Omaha is the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge – a pedestrian bridge that connects downtown Omaha to Council Bluffs. The Bob Kerrey Bridge spans 3000 feet and is illuminated each night with a stunning array of colors and five individually-controlled light towers that rise up to 77-feet high. Whether you’re a visitor or local, it’s an impressive sight to behold.

Levitt Pavilion

Omaha is home to many wonderful music venues, but perhaps none more exciting than the Levitt Pavilion. This outdoor amphitheater offers 50 free concerts each summer from early June to late August. Their lineup features mostly locals from the Omaha metro area, but they also have performances from renowned touring artists from across the United States. It’s a great way for locals and visitors alike to experience amazing music without breaking the bank.

Omaha Farmers Market

Lastly, for those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, don’t miss out on the Omaha Farmers Market. Held from May through October at two different locations in Omaha (Aksarben Village and The Old Market), there are a variety of vendors offering locally grown produce, prepared foods, bakery items, handmade crafts, flowers, and more. You can find almost anything you need or want at this lively market.

As you can see, there are so many great attractions to experience when visiting Omaha. Whether you’re looking for entertainment for the family or plan on just taking a leisurely stroll around town, there’s something appealing for every traveler’s tastes.

An Insider’s Guide to Discovering Omaha’s Popular Attractions

Omaha, located in the state of Nebraska, is a midwestern city with a lot to offer. From world-renowned zoos, cultural events, and historical landmarks, to fantastic dining options and nightlife, Omaha has something for everyone. If you are planning a trip to Omaha, we have created a comprehensive guide to help you experience some of the city’s most popular attractions.

Local Attractions

Omaha has a variety of popular attractions, but perhaps one of the most well-known is the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Boasting the world’s largest indoor desert, a rainforest, a large aquarium, and an IMAX theater, the zoo is a must-see when visiting Omaha. Other popular attractions in the city include the Joslyn Art Museum, Lauritzen Gardens, and the Omaha Children’s Museum. Any history buff will enjoy the Durham Museum, which offers an in-depth look into Omaha’s past.

Dining Spots

Omaha’s food scene is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about in the country. Mouth-watering steaks, farm-to-table cuisine, and a thriving craft beer scene are just a few reasons why foodies are flocking to Omaha. If you are looking for a top-notch steakhouse, the Drover is the go-to spot. For those looking for something a bit more eclectic, the Kitchen Table and Dante are both excellent choices. If you’re feeling adventurous, La Famosa is quickly becoming one of the most popular restaurants in Omaha with its Puerto Rican cuisine.

Cultural Experiences

For a city of its size, Omaha offers a plethora of cultural experiences. The Omaha Performing Arts organization offers a variety of shows throughout the year, ranging from Broadway productions to ballet and orchestra performances. For jazz lovers, the much-loved Jazz on the Green concert series happens every summer. Additionally, the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts and the Omaha Community Playhouse are both great cultural destinations.

Local History

If you are interested in the history of Omaha, a visit to the Museum of Nebraska History is a great place to start. The museum provides a comprehensive look at the state’s history, from its earliest settlers to modern times. One of Omaha’s most popular landmarks, the Old Market, is also a great place to learn about Omaha’s history. Originally a bustling transportation hub, the area was preserved and is now a charming district filled with shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you have more time to explore beyond the city limits, you might consider a trip to Mahoney State Park, just a short drive from Omaha. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors, including hiking trails, fishing, horseback riding, and an aquatic center with a wave pool. Another fun activity is visiting the SAC Aerospace Museum, which showcases the history and science of aviation. Finally, if you are visiting in the summer, a trip to Omaha’s largest aquatic playground, Fun-Plex, is a great way to cool off and enjoy the sunshine.

In conclusion, Omaha has something to offer everyone. From historical landmarks, cultural destinations, and world-class dining options, to outdoor activities and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, we hope this insider’s guide will help you make the most of your trip to Omaha.