Discovering Omaha, Nebraska: A Gateway to Heartland Charm and College Baseball Excitement

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Advisor - Gillian Spatz
Curated By

Gillian Spatz

  • City Travel

  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel

  • Group Travel

  • Road Trip Travel

  • Nebraska

  • History

  • Local Culture

  • Sightseeing

City buildings during day time.
Curator’s statement

Welcome to Omaha, Nebraska, a city brimming with Midwestern charm, vibrant culture and a rich history. Known as the "Gateway to the West," Omaha offers visitors a unique blend of urban sophistication and small-town hospitality. As the proud host of the College World Series, Omaha becomes a mecca for baseball enthusiasts each year. It draws fans from across the country to witness the thrilling championship games and experience the excitement of America's favorite pastime amid the city's welcoming atmosphere. Join us as we explore the diverse attractions, cultural landmarks and culinary delights that make Omaha a must-visit destination in the heart of the Midwest.

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Things to do in Omaha, Nebraska

A big walk-in aquarium.
  • Explore the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium: Discover world-class exhibits and interactive experiences at the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, ranked among the best zoos in the world. Encounter exotic animals, explore indoor rainforests and stroll through underwater tunnels to observe marine life up close.

  • Visit the Old Market District: Wander through the historic Old Market District, a charming neighborhood filled with cobblestone streets, brick buildings and eclectic shops, galleries, restaurants and bars. Experience the vibrant arts scene, sample local cuisine and soak in the ambiance of this lively entertainment district.

  • Tour the Durham Museum: Immerse yourself in Omaha's history at the Durham Museum, housed in a beautifully restored Art Deco train station. Explore interactive exhibits, historic artifacts and vintage train cars, and learn about the city's role in shaping the American West.

  • Attend the College World Series: Experience the excitement of college baseball's premier event, the College World Series, held annually at TD Ameritrade Park Omaha. Cheer on the top collegiate teams as they compete for the championship title in a thrilling showcase of talent and athleticism.

  • Take a stroll along the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge: Enjoy scenic views of the Missouri River and downtown Omaha from the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, a picturesque footbridge that connects Nebraska and Iowa. Walk, jog, or bike across the bridge and admire the skyline while soaking in the riverfront ambiance.

  • Discover the Joslyn Art Museum: Admire a diverse collection of art spanning centuries and cultures at the Joslyn Art Museum, Nebraska's premier art museum. Explore galleries showcasing European masterpieces, American art, contemporary works and special exhibitions that inspire and educate visitors of all ages. Reopening in September 2024.

  • Experience the Omaha Children's Museum: Bring the whole family to the Omaha Children's Museum, where kids can engage in hands-on learning and interactive play. Explore themed exhibits, participate in educational programs and unleash creativity in a fun and stimulating environment.

  • Attend a performance at the Orpheum Theater: Enjoy a night of entertainment at the historic Orpheum Theater. A beautifully restored venue that hosts Broadway shows, concerts, ballets, operas and other cultural events throughout the year. Experience world-class performances in a stunning, grandiose setting.

  • Relax at Lauritzen Gardens: Escape into nature at Lauritzen Gardens, a botanical oasis located along the Missouri River. Wander through lush gardens, tranquil pathways and scenic landscapes featuring thousands of plant species, seasonal blooms and stunning garden displays.

  • Explore the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum: Step into aviation history at the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum, where you can explore historic aircraft, missiles and exhibits highlighting the legacy of the Strategic Air Command. Learn about the role of aerospace technology in shaping military strategy and national defense.

  • Sample local cuisine at Omaha's restaurants: Indulge in Omaha's vibrant food scene and savor local specialties at top-rated restaurants, cafes and breweries throughout the city. From steak houses and BBQ joints to farm-to-table eateries and ethnic cuisines, Omaha offers a diverse culinary landscape that satisfies every palate.

  • Take a riverboat cruise on the Missouri River: Embark on a scenic riverboat cruise on the Missouri River and experience Omaha from a different perspective. Enjoy narrated tours, sunset cruises and special events aboard historic paddlewheel boats, and learn about the river's history, wildlife and significance to the region.

Day Trips

  • Lincoln, Nebraska (Approx. 1.5-hour drive): Explore the capital city of Nebraska with a day trip to Lincoln. Visit attractions like the Nebraska State Capitol, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus and the Sunken Gardens. Discover cultural landmarks such as the Sheldon Museum of Art and the International Quilt Museum. Enjoy dining at local restaurants and shopping in the historic Haymarket District.

  • Loess Hills Scenic Byway (Approx. 1-hour drive): Embark on a scenic drive along the Loess Hills Scenic Byway, located just across the Missouri River in western Iowa. Marvel at the unique landscape of rolling hills, rugged bluffs and lush forests. Explore outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching and picnicking in state parks like Preparation Canyon State Park and Waubonsie State Park. Visit charming towns like Council Bluffs and explore local shops, museums and historic sites.

Places to eat & drink in Omaha, Nebraska

Pizza inside oven with fired bricks.
  • Dante: Experience contemporary Italian cuisine at Dante, where Chef Nick Strawhecker showcases his culinary expertise with handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas and artisanal meats and cheeses.

  • V. Mertz: Discover fine dining at V. Mertz, an upscale restaurant located in Omaha's Old Market District. Enjoy a seasonal menu featuring modern American cuisine with European influences, complemented by an extensive wine list.

  • Pitch Pizzeria: Savor artisanal pizzas and creative small plates at Pitch Pizzeria, a stylish eatery offering a diverse menu of wood-fired dishes, craft cocktails and local beers in a relaxed atmosphere.

  • The Boiler Room: Delight your palate at The Boiler Room, a contemporary American restaurant housed in a historic building. Enjoy inventive dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients, paired with a curated selection of wines and craft beers.

  • Block 16: Experience elevated comfort food at Block 16, a casual eatery known for its creative sandwiches, gourmet burgers and globally inspired street food. Don't miss the famous Duck Duck Goose fries!

  • Twisted Cork Bistro: Enjoy a sophisticated dining experience at Twisted Cork Bistro, where Chef Benjamin Maides showcases his culinary talents with seasonal dishes and innovative flavor combinations.

  • The Drover: Feast on hand-cut steaks and signature whiskey cocktails at The Drover, a legendary steakhouse known for its Omaha Steaks and cozy, rustic atmosphere.

  • Au Courant Regional Kitchen: Discover modern European cuisine with a focus on local ingredients at Au Courant Regional Kitchen, where Chef Benjamin Maides creates seasonal dishes with inventive twists.

  • Le Bouillon: Transport yourself to France at Le Bouillon, a charming bistro offering classic French fare with a modern twist. Indulge in escargot, coq au vin and other French favorites in an intimate, Parisian-inspired setting.

Need to know

Omaha, Nebraska, offers a wealth of experiences for visitors seeking a blend of Midwestern charm and urban excitement. From exploring historic districts and world-class attractions to savoring local cuisine and attending the thrilling College World Series, Omaha promises unforgettable memories for travelers of all ages. Whether you're cheering on your favorite teams at TD Ameritrade Park or immersing yourself in the city's vibrant culture, Omaha invites you to discover the heart and soul of the Midwest while celebrating the excitement of America's favorite pastime.

Advisor - Gillian Spatz

Travel Advisor

Gillian Spatz

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Exploring Philadelphia: A City of History, Culture and Culinary Delights.