I’m Coming to Omaha. What Should I Do While I’m There?

Omaha 101

Jun 29

Visiting Omaha soon? Want suggestions for the best things to do and spots to eat while you’re here? Look no further!

These are my go-to recommendations for places to visit in Omaha. Whether it’s your first time or tenth time here, you’ll find plenty of things to keep you busy in this list.

Looking for something specific? Shoot me an email and I’m happy to help.

Must-Do Activities:

Smash Park

8121 S 125th St, La Vista, NE 68128

This spot has something for everyone! From arcade games and activities like pickleball, axe throwing, duckpin bowling, and more — there’s plenty to choose from. Some activities are free, while others are paid. Download their app to make a reservation ahead of time (some activities book up fast).

Fontenelle Forest / TreeRush Adventures

1111 Bellevue Blvd N, Bellevue, NE 68005

Fontenelle Forest has over 17 MILES of trails! While you’re there, visit their raptor exhibit near the Nature Center to see rescued raptors. During warmer months, this makes for the perfect spot for a nature hike. Or during the winter, rent their snowshoes and go for a wintery hike!

Also inside Fontenelle Forest is TreeRush Adventures — a ropes course where you can climb, zipline, and swing through the forest. TreeRush is open seasonally and is fun for all ages.

Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium

3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68107

Is a “must-visit in Omaha” list really complete if it doesn’t include the zoo?? If you haven’t been, you HAVE to go. I mean it. There’s a reason it’s listed among the best zoos in the world. Plan to spend a whole day there (and bring your comfiest walking shoes).

The Joslyn

2200 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68102

This art museum was recently remodeled and the building itself is a beautiful work of art. General admission is always free, so this makes a nice spot to escape on a rainy day or beat the heat outside.

Beercade2

1423 S 13th St, Omaha, NE 68108

Name a better combo than drinks and arcade games. Load up your quarters and get on down to Beercade! My preference is Beercade2 in Little Bohemia, but the original Beercade is in Benson if you’d rather hit that location.

Spielbound

3229 Harney St, Omaha, NE 68131

This board game cafe has THE largest selection of playable board games in the country. Order a drink or coffee, get a day pass, and play as many games as you want.

Jewell on Capitol

1030 Capitol Ave, Omaha, NE 68102 (Inside Marriott Plaza Level)

Enjoy live music from a variety of genres while you munch on small bites or grab a drink from the bar. Reserve your table ahead of time. Most shows don’t have a cover charge (just a minimum food/drink order).

Kiewit Luminarium

345 Riverfront Dr, Omaha, NE 68102

This museum is a more recent addition to The RiverFront and it’s great for all ages. Attached to the museum is Fig, so you can get lunch from the cafe while you’re there.

Lauritzen Gardens

100 Bancroft St, Omaha, NE 68108

100-acres of botanical gardens — yes, it’s as dreamy as it sounds. It’s a nice spot for a lovely stroll. And there’s plenty of space for kids to explore (don’t miss the outdoor train set!)

If you have time for more . . .

Must-Do Seasonal Activities:

Farmers Market

Omaha has two major farmers markets during the summer/early fall. On Saturday mornings, the farmers market takes place right in the heart of the Old Market. And on Sundays, it happens in Aksarben Village. Both are equally great.

Pumpkin Patches

This end of Nebraska is lucky to have many local pumpkin patches to choose from during the fall! We have a full roundup of pumpkin patches and orchards so you can take your pick.

College World Series

Charles Schwab Field hosts the College World Series right in Omaha each summer. Even if you’re not rooting for a specific team, it’s fun to go and enjoy the atmosphere. Eat a hotdog. Do the seventh inning stretch. You know, all the highlights.

Skate Ribbon

The Skate Ribbon at The RiverFront is open yearround, with roller skating during warmer months and ice skating when it gets cold. Skating is free to anyone who brings their own equipment. Or rent skates there for a small fee.

Werner Park

Catch a Storm Chasers baseball game or Union Omaha soccer game at Werner Park, right on the edge of Omaha.

Must-Visit Shops:

Jackson Street Booksellers

1119 Jackson St, Omaha, NE 68102

Imagine stacks and stacks of pre-owned books as far as the eye can see.

Sheelytown Market

1716 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68108

A cute shop with plants and locally-made goods.

Made in Omaha

8722 Pacific St, Omaha, NE 68114 or 1012 Howard St, Omaha, NE 68102

Looking for (actually cute) souvenirs to remember your trip? This shop exclusively sells items from local makers and businesses in Omaha.

Vintage Oasis

2511 Leavenworth St, Omaha, NE 68105

A vintage lover’s DREAM. Plan to spend a few hours roaming around this shop packed full of antiques.

If you have time for more . . .

Must-Visit Fine Dining:

Clio

1202 Howard St, Omaha, NE 68102

This Mediterranean restaurant is a stand out spot in the Old Market. The food and atmosphere are both incredible. It tops my list of favorite meals.

Gather

1108 Howard St, Omaha, NE 68102

Another restaurant you shouldn’t miss in the Old Market. When you’re there, don’t forget to check out their urban vertical farm in the basement.

Salted Edge

110 S 243rd St, Waterloo, NE 68069

This restaurant is right on the edge of Omaha and has a beautiful lakefront view. Grab a table on their all-weather patio at sunset. You won’t regret it.

Pivot Prime

13665 California St, Omaha, NE 68154

Among Omaha’s newest steakhouses, this one is memorable. I’m not the biggest steak person, but Pivot Prime has me convinced.

If you have time for more . . .

Must-Visit Casual Dining:

Fizzy’s Fountain & Liquors

1408 S 13th St, Omaha, NE 68108

This adults-only diner puts a grown up spin on a retro soda fountain. Its weekend brunch is well-loved, but don’t underestimate this spot for a fun dinner or late night bite.