Best Omaha Spots for Anxious People
I (Emily) am an anxious girly. Actually, that’s the whole reason Omaha Guidebook exists.
When I started Omaha Guidebook, I was using the tagline “For anxious people who like to try new things.” I like going new places, but I want to know what to expect before I show up. I couldn’t find a resource to give me that kind of detailed info about local spots, so I thought I’d make one. I had a hunch maybe other people would find that kind of thing helpful too.
So when it comes to finding places around Omaha that are comfortable for people who deal with anxiety, trust me — I GET IT. I’m here in the trenches with you.
The lights are too bright? Music is so loud you can’t think? There are TVs in every corner, each playing a different channel?
I’m cringing just thinking about that.
If you’re like me, some days I can’t handle those overstimulating environments. So I made a list of my favorite spots in Omaha that are anxious person friendly.
Obviously nature spots are great for this. But this list was crafted for those times when you don’t want to be outside, but you still want to go somewhere chill. Somewhere that won’t make you feel like you’re about to lose your mind. Some of them are bars, but not all of them.
Anna’s Place
1802 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68102
This speakeasy-style cocktail bar is tucked away inside Hotel Indigo (though the bar itself is locally-owned). It’s the literal definition of not overstimulating. Anna’s Place is dark and quiet. You can hear yourself think. You don’t have to shout over the table to hear your friend talk.
Alice
17070 Wright Plaza Suite 10, Omaha, NE 68130
If you’re on the other end of town in West O, this is a solid option for a bar. It’s fairly dark and usually not super crowded. It’s also tucked away, though Alice is “hidden” underneath a restaurant instead of a hotel.
Dry Spokes
1901 Leavenworth St, Omaha, NE 68102
Or if you’re avoiding alcohol, I’d recommend Dry Spokes. It’s a dry bar and it has a really laidback atmosphere.
Rally Coffee
1901 Leavenworth St, Omaha, NE 68102
Usually I’d shy away from a coffee shop if I’m feeling overstimulated (TLDR; the noise level), but I’m making an exception here. What I like about Rally Coffee, specifically for anxious people, is the minimal interior. Rally’s decor style is very clean and simple, which I think is great for those times that you need to focus. Just put on some noise-cancelling headphones and you’ll be good to go.
The Joslyn
2200 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68102
This is such an ideal spot for an anxious person. You can get in for free AND it’s usually pretty quiet — especially once you get into the art galleries. There are quite a few benches and seating areas spread throughout the museum, so if you need a space to sit and clear your head, you can do that. Or you could get some steps in walking around the museum and enjoying the art.
Public libraries
You don’t need a library card to hang out at the library! You can work on your laptop, charge your phone, or relax in an armchair with a book. Libraries tend to be pretty quiet, though it can vary by location and time of day. I’d recommend a library with a separate area away from the kids’ section, like the downtown OPL branch. At that branch, the kids’ section is on the first floor. But if you go up to the second floor, it usually is pretty quiet.
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