Undiscovered Midwest: Omaha, Nebraska

• Henry Doorly Zoo: The zoo is on the top of every guide’s list for a reason. In 2024, the Omaha zoo ranked first on USA Today’s list of best zoos in the country (voted on by readers). The zoo is 160 acres and has seven acres of indoor exhibits alone. Because of this, the zoo offers one- or two-consecutive-day admissions. There is truly something for everyone at this incredible zoo. One of my favorite ways to get around the zoo is on the “Skyfari” - a ski lift that takes you over several exhibits.

• Gene Lahey Mall: The Gene Lahey Mall is one of downtown Omaha’s newest parks. Though the park has been technically open since the 1970s, in 2019 it underwent a huge renovation. This urban park is 40,000 square feet and includes a sculpture garden, performance pavilion, fountain, pond, massive playground, innovative dog park, trails and unique slides.

• Omaha Children’s Museum: This two-story children’s museum is a favorite among local families and tourists alike. There are art exhibits, imaginative play areas, seasonal/special exhibits and a massive STEM area in this museum.

• Durham Museum: The Durham Museum of natural history offers unique exhibits in historical Union Station. The museum has kept many ornate building details preserved while offering exhibits featuring archival materials, historic objects and more.

• Joslyn Castle & Gardens: The Joslyn Castle & Gardens was home to George and Sarah Joslyn, whose legacy of wealth and philanthropy left a mark on the city of Omaha. The 35-room castle has been well preserved, and the museum offers public or private tours.

• Go sailing, rent kayaks, paddleboards, and more: Have you wanted to learn to paddleboard? Neighborhood Offshore offers several outdoors experiences like stand-up paddle boarding (SUP), kayaking and even a sailing tour at various Omaha lakes.

• Go tubing on the Elkhorn River: Floating along the Elkhorn River is a favorite activity for Omaha locals. It’s great for a relaxing day in the sun!

• Eugene T. Mahoney State Park: This state park offers a variety of activities including ropes courses, disc golf, horseback riding, a waterpark, ice skating, indoor and outdoor playgrounds, a theater and so much more. There are not enough hours in the day to explore everything this park has to offer.

• Heartwood Omaha: Coming soon, this 500-acre space is being transformed into a new cultural hub. The development promises eight miles of trails, 80 acres of parks/open space, a new amphitheater, dining and shopping.

Breakfast/Brunch

• Early Bird: Early Bird now has several locations throughout Nebraska and Iowa! This favorite brunch spot started off in the Blackstone neighborhood of Omaha. The menu is clearly marked for people living a gluten-free or vegan lifestyle, which, as a celiac person, I know is very important. To all of my other GF or vegan people out there: they make both GF and vegan waffles here!

• Wheatfields: While I included the website link here, you’re much better off just going in person! Wheatfields is an excellent breakfast spot that caters to gluten-free diners. They offer a gluten-free menu and pastries.

• Le Peep: A local franchise, Le Peep is another breakfast favorite. They are known for their unique seasonal drinks (coffees, teas, ciders, cocoas, etc.), and excellent foods. While the menus are not clearly labeled for dietary restrictions, the service members are knowledgeable. With an expansive menu, you’re sure to find something to enjoy.

Dinner or all-day places

• Pitch Pizzeria: When I moved away from Omaha, I missed Pitch for years (and still do!). There are two locations — one out west, and one in the Dundee neighborhood. The one in Dundee is perfect if you’re looking to stay near downtown, where as the west location is perfect for travelers that are more interested in Omaha’s surrounding suburbs of Elkhorn, Ashland, Gretna or Bennington. The west side location offers a rooftop patio. This spot is great for pizza and wine, but they also make an incredible brunch, great burgers and I can’t ever resist the pancetta Brussels sprouts! Gluten-free and vegan pizza crusts are available, and the servers are very knowledgeable on dietary restrictions.

• The Hoppy Taco: This is a great street taco and casual Mexican restaurant in the Dundee neighborhood of Omaha. While the menu isn’t clearly labeled, servers can confidently advise on menu items for dietary restrictions.

• Railcar Modern American Kitchen: If you’re looking for a great cocktail and a hearty meal, Railcar is an awesome place to go. Gluten-free options are clearly marked, and they have diverse options for all meals.

Speakeasies/bars

• The Berry & Rye: This cocktail bar is an awesome place for a handcrafted cocktail. It feels like a speakeasy inside with velvet furniture and glittering chandeliers.

• Wicked Rabbit: Good luck finding this bar! Located in what looks like a small liquor shop, you enter the Wicked Rabbit by visiting a place called “The Looking Glass.” Looks can be deceptive — your host will help you find the door to this awesome craft cocktail lounge.

• Tiny House Bar: Near Omaha’s Little Italy neighborhood, you’ll find an unassuming house that is actually a bar with a tiny patio. This spot is a hidden gem — even to many locals!

Treats

• Coneflower Creamery: Easily some of the best ice cream I’ve ever had, Coneflower Creamery call themselves “farm to cone,” as they source local farm ingredients. They clearly mark items that are gluten-free or vegan, and they even offer a gluten-free cone.

• Square Donut: This donut shop offers unique and seasonal flavors, and often has a line well out the door on a Saturday or Sunday morning. They cater to gluten-free and vegan customers and have amazing coffee.