Discover Omaha, Nebraska
Traveling to Omaha is a journey marked by a harmonious blend of cultural vibrancy and Midwestern charm. Nestled along the banks of the Missouri River, this city in Nebraska offers various attractions that cater to every traveler’s interests. From the historic cobblestone streets and eclectic shops of the Old Market district to the world-class exhibits at the Henry Doorly Zoo, there’s a unique experience awaiting every visitor. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore scenic parks and walk the iconic Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, while foodies can indulge in the city’s renowned culinary scene, featuring everything from succulent steaks to innovative farm-to-table cuisine.
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Three Fun Facts about Omaha
Birthplace of the Reuben Sandwich
Omaha is credited with being the birthplace of the famous Reuben sandwich. The sandwich, consisting of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing on rye bread, is said to have originated at the Blackstone Hotel in the 1920s.
Strategic Railroad Hub
Due to its central location in the United States, Omaha became a vital railroad hub in the 19th century. The city’s Union Pacific Railroad headquarters played a significant role in connecting the East and West Coasts.
Largest Indoor Rainforest in the U.S.
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium features the largest indoor rainforest in the United States, the Lied Jungle. It provides an immersive experience with waterfalls, lush vegetation, and a variety of wildlife.
Must See Attractions
Joslyn Art Museum
Speciality Museums
Art lovers, rejoice! The Joslyn Art Museum features an array of accessible exhibits, with everything from ancient to contemporary art. Stroll through the galleries at your own pace and embrace the world of creativity.
The Durham Museum
Speciality Museums
Dive into the rich tapestry of the past at The Durham Museum. This cultural gem offers accessible exhibits and allows service animals, ensuring a welcoming experience for all visitors. In this beautiful Art Deco building, you’ll get to see history come to life and learn something new.
Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium
Zoo
Have you ever wanted to explore a jungle or a desert? You can do that at the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium and much more! It’s an accessible adventure where you can come face-to-face with wildlife from across the globe, all without leaving Omaha.
CHI Health Center
Recreation
Ready for some entertainment? The CHI Health Center is not just for sports and concerts; it’s also a place where everyone can have a great time, thanks to its accessibility for guests of all abilities.
Westroads Mall
Shopping
If shopping’s your cardio, then Westroads Mall is your gym! You’ll find an array of stores and dining options, all in a comfortable and accessible environment.
Lauritzen Gardens
Nature & Parks
Lauritzen Gardens is a breathtaking botanical oasis where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of meticulously landscaped gardens, seasonal displays, and a captivating arboretum, creating a serene haven for nature enthusiasts and garden admirers.
Lakes Near Omaha
Zorinsky Lake
156th and F St Omaha, Nebraska
Located within Omaha, Zorinsky Lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and hiking. The lake is surrounded by a scenic trail, providing an excellent space for outdoor activities.
Distance from Omaha: 17 miles
Activities: Fishing, kayaking, canoeing, biking
Cunningham Lake
8660 Lake Cunningham Rd, Omaha, Nebraska
Situated in Cunningham Lake Park, this lake offers fishing, boating, and picnicking. The park also features walking trails and beautiful views, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Distance from Omaha: 12 miles
Activities: Fishing, picnicking, hiking, kayaking
Flanagan Lake
168th and Fort St, Omaha, Nebraska
Flanagan Lake is a newer addition to Omaha’s recreational spaces. It offers fishing, kayaking, and a network of trails for walking and biking.
Distance from Omaha: 17 miles
Activities: Walking, kayaking, fishing, swimming
Fishing Destinations Near Omaha
Carter Lake
809 Carter Lake Shore Dr N, Omaha, Nebraska
Tucked away in the city, Carter Lake, located in both Nebraska and Iowa, can be a hidden gem for local anglers. It offers a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, and panfish.
Fishing: Boat, dock, shoreline
Species: Largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish, carp, sunfish, crappie, pike
Lake Wanahoo
Lake Wanahoo Center, Nebraska
Located northwest of Omaha in Wahoo, Lake Wanahoo is a relatively new reservoir known for its quality fishing. It’s stocked with various fish, and the scenic surroundings make it a serene spot for fishing.
Fishing: Kayak, shoreline
Species: Bass, bluegill, walleye, crappie, pike
Two Rivers State Recreation Area
27702 F St, Waterloo, Nebraska
Situated between Omaha and Lincoln, Two Rivers SRA provides a peaceful setting for fishing. The park has multiple lakes and ponds, offering opportunities to catch bass, bluegill, and catfish.
Fishing: Kayak, shoreline
Species: Trout, crappie, pike, bluegill
Top Hiking Trails
Red Cedar Trail
Platford-Springfield II, Nebraska
Red Cedar Trail, located near Omaha, offers outdoor enthusiasts a scenic escape with its picturesque landscapes and well-maintained paths. This popular trail winds through lush woodlands, providing hikers and bikers a tranquil setting to explore nature just a short distance from the city.
Distance: Two miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 63 m
Time to Complete: One hour
Dozer Cut, Bunker Hill, and Badger Ridge Trail Loop
Fox Run Ridge, Honey Creek, Iowa
The loop trail forms a captivating hiking circuit near Omaha, offering outdoor enthusiasts a diverse experience through wooded areas and open spaces. This trail, known for its varying terrain and scenic vistas, provides hikers with a rewarding journey that combines the beauty of nature with a touch of adventure.
Distance: 6.3 miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Difficult
Elevation Gain: 383 m
Time to Complete: Three hours
Glenn Cunningham Lake Trail
North Central Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska
Glenn Cunningham Lake Trail, circling the serene waters of Glenn Cunningham Lake in Omaha, is a popular destination for walkers, joggers, and cyclists seeking both exercise and tranquility. The well-maintained trail offers stunning views of the lake and provides a peaceful escape within the city, making it a favorite spot for outdoor recreation.
Distance: Seven miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 66 m
Time to Complete: 2.5 hours
Best Golf Courses
Johnny Goodman Golf Course
6111 S 99th St, Omaha, Nebraska
This 18-hole course, named after Omaha native and professional golfer Johnny Goodman, offers a challenging layout with mature trees and well-maintained fairways.
Holes: 18
Views: A picturesque setting for enthusiasts to enjoy a round of golf.
Pacific Springs Golf Club
16810 Harney St, Omaha, Nebraska
Known for its beautiful landscaping and pristine conditions, Pacific Springs is an 18-hole championship course that provides an enjoyable yet challenging round for golfers of all skill levels.
Holes: 18
Designer: Rick Robbins
Tiburon Golf Club
10302 S 168th St, Omaha, Nebraska
Tiburon features 27 holes divided into three unique courses: the Great White, the Gold, and the Silver. The layout was designed by renowned golf course architect Jeff Brauer and provides a variety of challenges for golfers.
Holes: 27
Designer: Jeff Brauer
Tips on Traveling to Omaha
Stay Informed About Events
Check local event calendars for festivals, concerts, and special events during your visit. Omaha hosts various cultural and entertainment events throughout the year, offering unique experiences for every traveler.
Savor Local Cuisine
Omaha’s culinary scene has gained recognition for its diverse offerings. From classic steakhouses to trendy farm-to-table restaurants, sample the local flavors and indulge in Omaha’s delicious dining options.
Embrace Outdoor Recreation
Take advantage of Omaha’s green spaces, such as Elmwood Park and Lewis and Clark Landing. Enjoy walking trails, picnics, and recreational activities in these picturesque settings.
Frequently Asked Questions about Omaha
Several factors play into rental costs: the time of year, location, amenities, and rental size. Peak tourist seasons tend to drive up prices, so if you’re flexible with your dates, try booking during quieter times for better deals.
In Omaha, the go-to platforms for vacation rentals are Lake, VRBO, and Rent By Owner™. These sites offer a diverse range of properties, from cozy condos to spacious homes.
Your furry friends deserve a vacation too, right? Look for property listings that list pet-friendly amenities, and always double-check with the host to ensure that their rental matches your pet’s needs.
Absolutely! You can score some rentals that come with a splash. To find homes with these bubbly or refreshing extras, sift through options on Tripadvisor, which highlight Omaha stays with pools or hot tubs.