2021 OMAHA VISITORS GUIDE
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– I N S I D E R T I P S O N T H I N G S TO D O I N O M A H A –
2021 OMAHA VISITORS GUIDE
World’s Best Zoo Meet Bob the Bridge
Check out this immersive He’s a chatty guy that
animal experience knows a lot about trolls
Is Steak Sauce a Crime? Born and Bread
Make the pilgrimage for a Try the Reuben sandwich
legendary Omaha Steak on its home turf
Addgreen
Add greentime
timeto
toyour
your getaway
getaway
Explore our 100 acres of inspiring indoor and
Explore
outdoorour 100 acres ofdisplays
horticultural inspiring indoorrecharge
to relax, and
outdoor horticultural
and truly get away ondisplays to relax, recharge
your getaway.
and truly get away on your getaway.
Café • Gift shop • Library • Seasonal Tram Tours
Café • Gift shop • Library • Seasonal Tram Tours
OPEN YEAR-ROUND • 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Off Interstate
OPEN 80 at 100• Bancroft
YEAR-ROUND 9 a.m. toStreet
5 p.m. Reserve tickets:
(402) 346-4002 • www.lauritzengardens.org
Off Interstate 80 at 100 Bancroft Street Reserve tickets:
(402) 346-4002 • www.lauritzengardens.org
1
JOSLYN ART MUSEUM has taken numerous steps to ensure the well-being of visitors and staff, including
timed and ticketed (but still free!) admission, mandatory masks for staff and visitors, and enhanced cleaning protocols.
Visitor guidelines, free tickets, special exhibition information, and current hours can be found at www.joslyn.org
Featuring works from antiquity to the
present, Joslyn Art Museum’s indoor
and outdoor galleries are a safe,
relaxing, and artful destination for all.
IMAGES (left to right, top to bottom): Jackson Pollock’s Galaxy; Rembrandt’s
Portrait of Dirck van Os, Photograph © Bruce M. White; Dale Chihuly’s Inside
& Out; Maria van Oosterwyck’s Still Life of Flowers in a Glass Vase, Photograph
© Bruce M. White; Karl Bodmer’s Mató-Tópe, Mandan Chief; Mickalene
Thomas’ Din, une très belle négresse 1; Grant Wood’s Stone City, Iowa
2200 Dodge Street | Omaha, NE | (402) 342-3300 | www.joslyn.org
2
Admin Office:
1620 Dodge Street • Suite 1900
Omaha, NE 68102
402.444.4660 • 866.937.6624
Omaha Visitors Center:
306 S 10th St. • Omaha, NE 68102
402.444.7762
Deborah Ward
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Dean Miller
VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS
Jodie Jordon
ACCOUNTING CLERK
Cindy Brickey
TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
Michele Hayes
DIRECTOR OF VISITOR SERVICES
Jasmyn Goodwin
VICE PRESIDENT OF
MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
4 Welcome 20 Historic Attractions 39 Day Trips Erin O’Brien
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
5 Pets Welcome 22 Joslyn Art Museum 42 Craft Brew
6 Pins 24 Artful Adventures 43 Makers Amy Cunningham
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
7 Locals Know Best 26 Children’s Museum 44 Legendary Steak
8 Map of Omaha 28 Bob and Omar 45 Reubens Lynn Mace
MARKETING COORDINATOR
10 Digital Attractions 30 Lauritzen Gardens 46 Delicious Dives
Cathy Keller
11 Accessibility 32 Fontenelle Forest 47 Farm-to-Fork VICE PRESIDENT OF
12 Events in Omaha 34 Outdoor Recreation 48 Sweet Temptations SALES AND SERVICES
15 Omaha’s Zoo 36 Nightlife & Music 49 Breakfast & Brunch Mark Rath
DIRECTOR OF SALES
18 Durham Museum 38 Shopping 53 Neighborhoods
Mattie Scheeter
NATIONAL SALES MANAGER
Matt Heck
CONNECT WITH US
As Omaha’s official NATIONAL SALES MANAGER
tourism authority, Visit Lindsey Holmes
Omaha shares valuable NATIONAL SALES MANAGER
information to help visitors build a jam-packed itinerary
Jessica Settje
filled with memorable experiences. Go to VisitOmaha.com TOURISM SALES MANAGER
and sign up to receive information on events, attractions,
and special offers. Also, follow us on social media for the Sue Chevalier
RESEARCH ANALYST
most up-to-date news. We’d love to hear from you; share
your Omaha experiences with #OmahaWeekend. Kristin Beglin
NATIONAL SALES COORDINATOR
VisitOmaha Erin Brungardt
DIRECTOR OF
CONVENTION SERVICES
Madeline Meyer
CONVENTION SERVICES
AND HOUSING MANAGER
VISITOR GUIDE PRINTED BY:
ON THE COVER:
“Love” mural created by artist Cey Adams
2510 N 24th Street (near 24th & Lake Sts)
3
GETTING AROUND OMAHA
Omaha city streets are set up on a grid system
and are easy to navigate. Dodge Street divides
WELCOME TO OMAHA
the city between north and south, and numbered If this is your first visit to our great City,
streets start at the Missouri River and increase we’re glad you’re here. If you’re returning,
as you travel west. Taxis, Ubers and Lyfts are welcome back!
available throughout the city. Many Omaha hotels
offer complimentary direct shuttle service to and Where else can you visit the world’s largest
from the airport and within a specific mile radius indoor desert and America’s largest indoor
of their property. rainforest? Only Omaha. Only Omaha.
OMA (OMAHA’S AIRPORT)
Where else can you see the championship game of the College
World Series? Only Omaha.
Omaha’s airport serves more than 5 million
passengers a year and offers non-stop service Where else can you find Omar the Troll, guarding the entrance
to more than 30 of the nation’s largest airports. to a pedestrian bridge that links two states in one small step?
Getting in and out of the airport is quick and easy, Only Omaha.
and you’ll find the convenience doesn’t end there.
The airport is located 4 miles from downtown, so Whether you’re here to see a great game, concert or Broadway
if you’re renting a car, taking a cab, or hopping show, attend a convention or business meeting, or enjoy a
in an Uber, it will take you less than 10 minutes family weekend, we’re sure you will be entertained, informed
to arrive at the hub of the city. If you’re departing and refreshed.
from OMA, plan on arriving at least 90 minutes
before your departure time. This will ensure you
Thanks for visiting, and hurry back!
have sufficient time to check-in at the airline
ticket counter and proceed through the security
checkpoint. Food service is available beyond
the checkpoints. Safety is a top priority and the
airport uses strict sanitation protocol to ensure all Jean Stothert, Mayor
travelers enjoy a healthy environment. Learn more City of Omaha
at #TravelSafeOMA.
City of Omaha
Jim Suttle, Mayor
LOCATED IN
DOUGLAS COUNTY Dear Friends:
DISTANCE BETWEEN On behalf
Omaha of our
Metro citizens, welcome to O
Population:
OMAHA’S AIRPORT you to discoverJust
ourunder
City’s incredible div
AND DOWNTOWN establishments. No matter what your in
4 miles 1 million
Enjoy your stay and be sure to come bac
Kind regards.
Many Omaha hotels An average of
offer complimentary
shuttle service
directly to
212 Days
of sunshine per year
and from
FINDING A HOTEL
With more than 15,000 hotel rooms in the
their
properties
Spring: Highs in the mid 60’s
Lows in the 40’s
Summer: Highs in the 80’s
Omaha area, there are a variety of options for NON-STOP AIRLINE Lows in the mid 60’s
your stay. Check out the PLAN YOUR STAY SERVICE TO Fall: Highs in the 70’s
feature on VisitOmaha.com where you can search
30+ major
Lows in the 50’s
a variety of Omaha hotel options all at once
and book directly with the hotel of your choice. Winter: Highs in the mid 30’s
You can also view hotel availability two months
at a time and compare rates surrounding your
selected dates.
airports SMOKE FREE BARS
Lows in the mid-teens
AND RESTAURANTS
SALES
BOOK A ROOM BOOK DIRECT TAX IS 7% BARS CLOSE AT 2AM
4
PETS WELCOME
BECAUSE YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIEND
NEEDS A GETAWAY TOO.
Travel and pets go hand-in-hand for millions of travelers,
and Omaha makes visiting with your trusty companion
easy. Here’s inspiration on making your trip with your
pet smoother – and maybe even more memorable.
AAA Four-Diamond Hotel Deco welcomes furry friends,
where they are greeted at the front desk with
OMAHA VISITORS CENTER
306 South 10th Street
a sign and water bowl. Other hotels where pets receive
(in the Old Market District) exceptional service include Magnolia Hotel, EVEN
402-444-7762 Hotel and more. For a full list of pet-friendly hotels,
go to VisitOmaha.com/hotels/pet-friendly-hotels.
Stop in the Omaha Visitors Center in the heart of downtown and speak
with friendly Omaha experts who will help customize your Omaha PET-CENTRIC EVENTS
experience. Learn about OMAR the Troll, find out how you can receive Woofstock at Midtown Crossing and Turner Park brings
a free souvenir beer tasting glass, and win a “Bob the Bridge” T-shirt. pets and their humans together for an energetic day
including a pup-up dog park, live DJ, pop-up shops,
The Visitors Center ambassadors will even train you on how to become outdoor games and more.
a marathoner – sticker and all. (Trust us, this is one marathon anyone can
do.) Whether you’re looking for maps, something unique to do, or trying Treat your pup to a pleasant walk through the gardens
to figure out where to eat, the Omaha Visitors Center is the place to during Leashes at Lauritzen select evenings at
start. Complimentary Wi-Fi available. Flying in? You will also find helpful Lauritzen Gardens.
information at the two Visitor Information kiosks located at the airport. Junkstock is a triannual event over one or two
weekends in spring, fall and summer that welcomes well
behaved, leashed dogs with open arms.
FIDO FUN
The Paw Spa Pet Resort offers a full list of treatments,
from a Full Pawdicure to Oxy Fresh Dental scrub. Drop
your pooch off for pampering and choose to have them
wait while you do a pet-free activity.
The centrally-located Dewey Dog Park, open all year,
features an agility course, running water and a splash
pad (in warmer weather), a self-cleaning synthetic turf,
chairs, benches and canopies.
Wag offers typical grooming services for dogs and cats,
with indulgent experiences including a Blueberry Facial
Scrub and Calming Aromatherapy.
The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, or Bob, welcomes
humans and pets alike. Friendly reminder: pick up after
your four-legged friend.
FOOD & DRINK
Omaha’s dog bar Barks and Brews offers socializing
fun for both human and canine. Humans can order from
a bar while their four-legged friends can enjoy a dog
beer and DogGurt before heading off to play.
Your pooch is welcome at Benson Brewery’s
biergarten complete with a water station for dogs and
batches of dog treats made in-house from grain left
over from brewing.
Dogs are welcome at restaurant patios all over the city,
including at Nite Owl, Finicky Frank’s and J. Coco.
Tip: Don’t have a pet to bring but want some pet
cuddles? Pet cats and enjoy coffee at Felius, Omaha’s
cat café.
5
Lake
Cunningham
Recreation
Area
WE’VE GOT YOUR FUN MAPPED OUT
Use this map to explore your options, then look for the giant blue map pins located at top Omaha attractions.
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When it comes to exploring
Omaha, locals know best.
Meet a variety of different residents
below, each with their own take on
the city, and then find tips from these
locals throughout the guide.
Bishop Michael and Camille Moten Natalie Tinsley
Longtime pillars of the community, A high school warrior and track
and active empty nesters, you star-in-training by day. Poolside
can often find them at top rated lifesaver, budding coffee snob, and
restaurants on “Spontaneous lover of fluffy black cats at night.
Monday,” “Tumultuous Tuesday,”
“Therapeutic Thursday,” and “Date
Night Friday,” which are all made up
names to justify going out to eat.
Eli Rigatuso Noah McPherson
An avid LGBTQ+ advocate, This high school junior is passionate
Eli was born and raised in Omaha about reading, playing the violin,
and is passionate about local and running. One McPherson family
off-the-beaten path experiences. tradition is to try a different, unique,
His labor of love is “Speaking of restaurant at least once a month.
Happy,” a virtual outlet committed
to sharing uplifting stories about the
LGBTQ+ community.
Kim Reiner Patrick and Marisol Hackman
Kim has two kids, works at Omaha The fun-loving couple met during
Children’s Museum, and has a college while he played basketball
passion for writing. She is one of and she sparkled on the soccer
the most popular family bloggers in field. Passionate about traveling
Omaha. Her “Oh My! Omaha” site and seeing the world together,
is a parent’s guide to the city and Patrick and Marisol also enjoy living
beyond. and dining here in Omaha.
Marcos Mora Scott and Davina Schrier
Marcos Mora comes from one of the The young professionals are avid
largest Mexican American families music lovers who are into more
in Omaha—la familia Barrientos. He contemporary art than traditional.
is an accomplished musician with No surprise, Davina works at the
over 30 years of experience in many Bemis Center for Contemporary
genres of music such as rock, blues, Arts, known in the art community
latin and mariachi. for its edgy, urban vibe.
Nancy Berg
An Omaha native paralyzed in a
car accident as a teenager, she’s
now known for finding accessible
FOR MORE TIPS FROM LOCALS GO TO
adventures throughout the city.
Married with children, she enjoys VISITOMAHA.COM/LOCALSKNOWBEST
sharing her family’s experiences on
Instagram as @accessible402.
7
36
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HOTEL To Fremont Cunningham
Recreation
via Hwy 36 Area
and Hwy 275
North and South streets are numbered.
East and West streets are named.
133
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• Strategic Air Command
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Nebraska • Wildlife Safari Park
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CUMING
78TH
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HOTELS Omaha 192
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20TH
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PAPILLION Bellevue, NE
ForestDIGITAL EXPERIENCES
Virtual activities give “travel” new meaning by offering
opportunities for mini getaways from the comfort of home.
Before your in-person visit, enjoy virtual experiences LOCAL
from top Omaha attractions. Kind of like “try before HISTORY
you fly (or drive).” So get comfy, relax, and explore
BOYS TOWN
Omaha from your screen thanks to a wide range of “Walk” through Boys
virtual offerings. Town’s Hall of History
for history lessons
on Father Flanagan
and the campus, view
DOWNTOWN artifacts and artwork,
AREA and more.
ATTRACTIONS
MORMON TRAIL
CENTER AT WINTER
OMAHA’S HENRY
QUARTERS
DOORLY ZOO &
Explore the history
AQUARIUM
of the Mormon Trail,
Zoocams offer exclusive
browse an interactive
peeks into various
map with points
exhibits in the zoo’s
of interest, and more.
aquarium. Watch Arctic
penguins make a splash,
spy on the West Coast
sea nettles, and dive
into the Indo-Pacific MUSIC &
Reef habitat. PERFORMING
ARTS
JOSLYN ART MUSEUM
Joslyn’s collection of OMAHA
digital content includes COMMUNITY
a virtual tour of their PLAYHOUSE
latest art exhibit, Art Theatre at Home
Chats with prompts includes a lineup
designed to facilitate of locally-made,
discussion about Omaha-staged
artworks from the productions available
museum’s collection, for streaming.
and more.
OMAHA
OMAHA’S SYMPHONY
OLD MARKET The Symphony plays
ENTERTAINMENT for you, wherever
DISTRICT you are, with archival
Learn the history of recordings, a virtual
the Old Market and classroom, and more.
get a glimpse at its
historic buildings.
Go to VisitOmaha.com/digital-fun for more digital experiences
10Omaha is a welcoming city with experiences
to fit every interest and need. From our top
attractions, events, and lodging — you’ll
find a variety of accessibility options.
Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
ACCESSIBILITY
Fontenelle Forest
Top Omaha attractions such as Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo
& Aquarium, The Durham Museum, Lauritzen Gardens, and
Joslyn Art Museum feature accessible exhibits, allow service
animals, and offer wheelchair or motorized scooter rentals.
Autism Night at the Zoo is specifically designed to allow
children and their families to explore the zoo with sensory-
friendly activities and surroundings.
Omaha Children’s Museum’s entire building is
accessible and wheelchair friendly. The museum features
- The Desert Dome at
sensory-friendly experiences and events geared toward Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium
children with disabilities.
All events and concerts at CHI Health Center Omaha are
ADA compliant with a wide variety of services including sign
language, assistive listening devices, closed captioning, and
accessible seating. Both theaters at Omaha Community
Playhouse are equipped with an infra-red sound system.
Each year A Christmas Carol is presented as a shadow-
interpreted performance.
Omaha’s Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, aka Bob, is
accessible and wheelchair friendly. More accessible outdoor
fun can be found at Pipal Park and the ALLPLAY Complex
and Water Park at Seymour Smith Park.
For more information on accessible travel in Omaha
go to VisitOmaha.com/accessible-travel Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
11EVENTS
OMAHA 2021
Here’s a taste of what’s happening in Omaha 2021. Event
details may change, so check out VisitOmaha.com for the most
up-to-date information.
OMAHA FILM
FESTIVAL
March 2-7
Aksarben Cinema
One of Movie Maker
Magazine’s “50 Film
Festivals Worth the
Entry Fee.”
RIVER CITY RODEO
September 24-25
CHI Health Convention
Center & Arena
INTERNATIONAL World champion
OMAHA HORSE cowboys compete for
COMPETITION official entry into the
May 6-9 National Finals Rodeo.
CHI Health Convention
Center & Arena U.S. OLYMPIC TRIALS
World-class indoor FOR CURLING
horse jumping and
U.S. OLYMPIC TEAM U.S. SENIOR OPEN November 13-21
dressage competition
TRIALS - SWIMMING July 8-11 The best curling teams
with educational fun,
OMAHA June 13-20 Omaha Country Club in the nation will battle it
shopping expo, and
FASHION WEEK the InIt2WinIt Speed CHI Health Convention Some of the greatest out on ice to determine
Mar 25-27 & Aug 23-28 Center & Arena golfers of all time who represents the
Jumping Series finale. U.S. in the 2022 Beijing
Omaha Design Center 1,400 top swimmers will compete at this
The nation’s fourth will vie for a spot on the weeklong championship Winter Olympics.
largest fashion event
CINCO DE MAYO in its return to Omaha.
May 2021 U.S. Olympic Team to
complete with runway compete at Tokyo 2020. HOLIDAY LIGHTS
Historic South 24th St. FESTIVAL
shows and pop-up Don’t miss the 100,000 RAILROAD DAYS
A family-friendly November 2020 –
shopping. sq. ft. USA Swimming July 10 & 11
vibrant fiesta filled with January 2021
Aqua Zone. Various Locations
authentic food, live Various Locations
ONE FESTIVAL music, colorful costumes,
Five area cultural
March 2021 attractions offer railroad- Celebrate the holidays
and a grand parade. with twinkling light
Various downtown inspired fun at one
locations special low price for displays, family-focused
OMAHA SUMMER families. events, and fireworks to
The ultimate celebration
of opera with over 50
ARTS FESTIVAL ring in the New Year.
June 4-6 MAHA MUSIC
performances blending
Mike Fahey Street
music, theater, visual art, FESTIVAL
The 47th annual event
dance and film. July 28–August 1
featuring 135 fine artists
Various Locations
from across the country
JUNKSTOCK demonstrating and
The 13th annual four-day
April, June & October showcasing their work.
celebration will feature
Sycamore Farms music from national and
Shop vintage wares, local acts, a new craft
HEARTLAND PRIDE
antiques, handmade NCAA COLLEGE beer experience, artistic
PARADE & FESTIVAL events and more.
artisan foods and
June 4 & 5 WORLD SERIES
goods at this seasonal June 19-29/30
weekend-long event. Old Market District &
TD Ameritrade Park
CHRISTMAS AT
Baxter Arena UNION STATION
Tailgate, watch the
OMAHA BEER WEEK Omaha’s premier
best in men’s college November 26, 2021 –
April 2021 LGBTQ+ celebration for January 2, 2022
all ages. Youth Pride is baseball, and check out
Various Locations Fan Fest during the 72nd The Durham Museum
Ten beer-packed days featured the first day, with Enjoy the region’s largest
Pride the second after a anniversary of the CWS
of special events and in Omaha. indoor holiday tree,
beery celebrations. celebratory parade. traditions from around
the globe, visits from
Santa, and more.
OMAHA
RESTAURANT WEEK WINTER
September 10-19 WONDERLAND AT
Various Restaurants SYCAMORE FARMS
A celebration of Omaha’s December 2021
culinary scene with Sycamore Farms
participating restaurants Seventy vendors, makers
offering exclusive fixed and artisans come
price, three-course meals together in a vintage
at discounted prices. winter wonderland.
For a complete list of events happening in Omaha go to VisitOmaha.comAs brilliantly unexpected
as the city that inspires it.
Opening
Spring 2021
WALK & WANDER
ZIP & CLIMB
DOWN LOW OR UP HIGH - HEALTHY OUTDOOR ADVENTURES!
Join Us!
Minutes from
Downtown Omaha
1111 Bellevue Blvd. N.
Bellevue, NE
FontenelleForest.org • (402) 731-3140 TreeRush.com • (402) 316-7038
13WELCOME TO ZOO CITY, USA
INTERNATIONALLY KNOWN AS ONE
OF THE BEST ZOOS IN THE WORLD,
OMAHA’S HENRY DOORLY ZOO AND
AQUARIUM IS FILLED WITH WILD
KINGDOM ADVENTURES YEAR-ROUND
Home to the world’s largest indoor desert and the country’s
largest indoor rainforest, get ready to experience an
immersive animal world jam-packed with opportunities to
engage with wildlife.
Every time you visit, you’re helping the zoo make an impact
across the globe. Omaha’s zoo is working with more than
20 states and countries to ensure the zoo’s resources
extend far beyond the animals in its care. The zoo is
supporting anti-poaching efforts in Nigeria, Swaziland and
China; planting more than two million trees in Madagascar
to provide habitat for numerous species; rescuing and
rehabilitating African penguins in South Africa and sloth
bears in India; working to improve tiger conservation in the
Russian Far East; and the list goes on and on.
15WORLD’S BEST ZOO
EXPLORE 160 ACRES OF
PLANTS, ANIMALS, AND UNIQUE
HABITATS FROM AROUND THE
WORLD, RIGHT HERE IN OMAHA
AFRICAN GRASSLANDS
Take a trip to Africa through this 28-acre outdoor
experience featuring breathtaking panoramic
views and long vistas teeming with African wildlife
like white rhinos, cheetahs, lions and elephants.
It includes North America’s largest herd room
featuring interactive guest and keeper areas.
TIP: Ride the Skyfari for a spectacular unobstructed
view of this exhibit.
ASIAN HIGHLANDS
Journey from the grasslands of Northern India
through the Himalayan Mountains to the forests of
northeastern China. Encounter red pandas, sloth
bears, Amur tigers, snow leopards and Indian rhinos
living among ancient ruins and canopy trees. Foggy
Forest is a natural valley with mist blanketing the
forest floor and includes a series of foot paths with
several nature-based play opportunities, including
boulders to climb and logs to cross. Most of the
animals in Asian Highlands are cold tolerant, making
it a year-round experience.
SUZANNE AND WALTER SCOTT AQUARIUM
Transverse the ocean floor and come nose-to-
nose with sea turtles as large sand tiger, zebra
and stingray sharks circle above. The 70-foot
shark tunnel inside the Scott Aquarium provides
a mesmerizing underwater experience. From the
ocean depths to the frigid cold, the aquarium
also features ocean birds, including more than 85
penguins. Up to 20 tons of man-made snow can be
churned out in one day from four snow machines.
LIED JUNGLE
Hike through the nation’s largest indoor rainforest
with roaring waterfalls and swinging gibbons in a
tropical environment that will transport you to the
jungles of South America, Asia and Africa. See more
than 90 animal species in their natural habitats, from
the forest floor to the highest jungle canopy. Don’t
miss the swinging rope bridge, and take a picture
from lookout peak with a full view of silvered leaf
monkeys, ebony langurs, spotted-neck otters and
pygmy hippos.
The Hackmans recommend going to the
zoo in the winter. It’s not as crowded,
and the animals are typically more active.DESERT DOME ALASKAN ADVENTURE
Explore the world’s largest indoor Kids will love this splash ground
desert under the world’s largest featuring 100 water jets and
glazed geodesic dome, an Omaha over 75 bronze sculptures of
landmark. The Desert Dome stands jumping salmon, puffins, sea lions,
13 stories tall and features a 30- orcas and a tremendous 18-foot
foot tall sand dune containing 300 humpback whale.
tons of red sand. Climbing in and
around the cliffs are klipspringers, EXPEDITION MADAGASCAR
rock wallabies, bobcats and Home to some of the most
meerkats. Inside, enter Rattlesnake amazing and unique animals such
Canyon and encounter the world’s as the aye-aye lemur and the giant
largest indoor rattlesnake exhibit jumping rat.
with 14 reptile species, including
venomous snakes. CHILDREN’S
ADVENTURE TRAILS
KINGDOMS OF THE NIGHT This fully immersive outdoor
Underneath the Desert Dome, experience is filled with climbing
navigate nighttime in the world’s areas, raft races, waterfalls and
largest nocturnal exhibit filled with creeks and ponds that invite kids
creatures that surface only after to jump in, stay cool, and hunt for
dark. Travel through a canyon, wind treasure.
through a bat cave, and see the
world’s largest indoor swamp. BACKSTAGE EXPERIENCES
See what it takes to care for a giant
OWEN SEA LION SHORES Pacific octopus, wander through
Explore a 275-thousand gallon the world’s largest nocturnal
playground for sea lions, which exhibit with the lights on, get front
includes a three-story waterfall and row seats to feeding time for more
40-foot long underwater viewing than 300 free flying bats, and
window perfect for nose-to-nose much more.
experiences. A natural beach area
and rocks will provide sunning HUBBARD GORILLA VALLEY
sites for the animals. Omaha’s A place where gorillas roam free
zoo is home to the country’s only and visitors are on display. This
pupping beach, which allows cutting-edge space allows Omaha
females to give birth on land and to be a major player in gorilla
gradually introduce their pups to conservation. In Orangutan Forest,
the water. There will be hidden listen to the call of the these
spaces just for children to crawl enchanting creatures as they play
through to view the sea lions on two man-made banyan trees
swimming and a sandy beach area 65 feet in the air.
with four small streams for kids to
mix sand and water for playtime.
Animal lovers can find more information at VisitOmaha.com
17THE DURHAM MUSEUM
STEP INTO A BYGONE ERA AT AN ART DECO TRAIN STATION TURNED MUSEUM
Designated as a National Historic Landmark in 2017, this treasured in the Byron Reed Collection, and walk through the Buffett
Omaha attraction is filled with an extraordinary array of permanent Grocery Store–a replica of the original store operated by three
exhibits highlighting the region’s history, including restored train cars, generations of the storied Buffett family from 1869 to 1969.
1940s store fronts, informational displays, and historical artifacts of
the region. Train enthusiasts and history buffs alike will delight in The model trains are popular with little ones. The train set has
The Durham Museum’s offerings. interactive features that allows visitors to lower the crossing
guards and turn on the lights.
The moment you step inside the Great Hall, you’re swept back into
the 1930s. Enjoy the same grandeur that millions of rail travelers Temporary exhibits rotate in and out of the museum, with 2021
experienced during the train station’s heyday from 1931-1971. exhibitions including ‘Guitar: The Instrument That Rocked the
From its terrazzo tile flooring to the ceiling’s $10,000 gold leaf World’ (Spring 2021) and ‘Beyond the Vote’ (Spring 2021).
decoration, the lobby is a sight to behold. Life-like bronze statues
of couples, military men, and children placed throughout come alive On the main floor, take a break and delight in the train station’s
with stories of people who once passed through the train station. original 1930s soda fountain. Enjoy a sandwich and an
old-fashioned phosphate made with your favorite flavoring and
Explore the lower level of the museum and experience Omaha’s soda water straight out of the fountain dispenser; add some
history through a variety of permanent exhibits. Learn how people hand-scooped ice cream to make a luscious ice cream float.
traveled in the 1940s and ‘50s when you climb aboard and stroll Malts, shakes and sundaes are also among favorites.
through historic passenger trains. Discover the fascinating culture of The adjoining retro candy shop offers a variety of nostalgic,
the Omaha Native American Tribe by stepping into a rawhide tepee hard-to-find candies along with fresh popped popcorn.
or sitting by the fire in a replica earth lodge. Peek into the home of
blue-collar workers to experience the way families lived over 100
years ago. View some of the rarest coins and documents in the world History lovers should go to VisitOmaha.com for more info
19HISTORIC ATTRACTIONS El Museo Latino
EXPLORE OMAHA’S RICH AND DIVERSE
HISTORY THROUGH A MIX OF HISTORIC
SIGHTS AND ONE-OF-A-KIND MUSEUMS
World-renowned Boys Town, a National Historic Landmark District,
features chapels, statues and gardens, Hall of History museum, Father
Flanagan’s House*, and the visitors center – home to the world’s largest
ball of stamps. Take the QR code tour using your smartphone for instant
access to info and media of top attractions throughout the campus.
Free admission.
The Hustler, an Intruder and a Peacemaker are all included in a collection
of prized and rarely displayed military aircraft at the Strategic Air
Command & Aerospace Museum. The Smithsonian affiliate is home to As one of the first Latino art and history museums
the nation’s largest collection of Cold War aircraft and artifacts. Visitors will in the Midwest, El Museo Latino* is located in the
find 300,000 sq. ft. featuring missiles, an impressive collection of iconic history-rich, culturally diverse South Omaha. With
aircraft, and spacecraft such as the Apollo Command Space module. Kids fewer than 20 Latino museums in the country, this
especially will enjoy the flight simulator and Children’s Learning Center. intimate gallery offers temporary and permanent
The museum is a rare opportunity to get up close to military machines that exhibits along with educational programming and a
have helped shape our nation’s history. tradition of visual and performing arts.
Boys TownStrategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum
Mormon Trail Center Experience what it Gerald R. Ford Birthsite
was like to live in a and Gardens features
makeshift cabin, pull a presidential mementos,
handcart, and “travel” an informational kiosk
by covered wagon like and a rose garden
families did during complete with a
the great Mormon colonnade in honor
exodus of the 1800s at of former First Lady
Mormon Trail Center Betty Ford.
at Winter Quarters.
Optional guided tours; Ford Birthsite
free admission. Another notable Omaha
birthsite is that of human
rights activist Malcolm X*.
The 14-acre developing
memorial features an
educational site and plaza
with a historical marker
commemorating where
General Crook House Museum Get a glimpse into Malcolm X first lived with
19th century life at his family.
General Crook House
Museum*. View period Malcolm X Birthsite
costumes, furnishings Head to nearby Council
and decorative arts. Bluffs for hands-on fun at
Guests are welcome the Union Pacific Railroad
to stroll the heirloom Museum*. Learn about
garden with more the development of the
than 110 varieties of transcontinental railroad
flowers and plants. and see a collection of
Visit in November and artifacts from Abraham
December when this Lincoln’s life and death.
living history museum Little ones especially will
is decked out for enjoy a passenger train
the holidays. Audio experience, the locomotive
tours available. simulator and more.
Union Pacific Railroad Museum Free admission.
*Listed on the National Register of Historic Places For more information go to VisitOmaha.com
21JOSLYN ART MUSEUM
A PINK MARBLE MASTERPIECE
Joslyn Art Museum’s building is a masterpiece in itself
and one of the country’s finest examples of Art Deco
architecture; some 38 marbles from around the world are
incorporated in its interior design.
EXHIBITING OVER 11,000 WORKS
OF ART INSIDE AND OUT Inside, larger-than-life works by Dale Chihuly on either
end of the atrium set the tone for what you’ll see during
your visit: memorable multi-dimensional works of art.
Permanent collections of art ranging from ancient times
Kim recommends allowing at least an hour to the present house works by iconic artists Rembrandt,
(or two) in ART WORKS, so the entire Monet, Degas, Pollock, Renoir and more. Major
family has time to create art together. temporary exhibitions are displayed throughout the year.
22Flex your creativity at ART WORKS, a
1,500 sq. ft. interactive space complete
with nine activity stations for creating
your own masterpieces like stop-motion
animated movies and hi-tech paintings.
Wander outside to the garden galleries,
like the colorful Discovery Garden
complete with 20 artworks.
Fun Fact: “Judy Crook 2,” a hypnotic
digital animation by international
installation artist Jennifer Steinkamp, was
featured in a 2020 NPR article noting that
it “has recuperative powers for anything
that ails you.”
First satisfy your appetite for art, then
for your hunger with lunch or a snack at
the Café Durham located in the Joslyn’s
atrium. Before leaving, stop in the
Hitchcock Museum Shop and select from
an array of distinctive gifts and souvenirs.
General admission is free; mobile and
guided tours are available.
MASTERPIECES PERMANENT COLLECTIONS
CHIHULY: INSIDE & OUT BY DALE ANCIENT - Antiquities from
CHIHULY - A vibrant 30 ft.-tall Egypt, Rome and Greece,
glass sculpture made of over 2,000 including Greek pottery
hand blown glass pieces weighing
approximately 15,000 pounds AMERICAN - Paintings and
furniture alongside sculpture
GALAXY BY JACKSON POLLOCK and decorative arts
The artist’s iconic 1947 canvas, one of
four poured paintings he created that NATIVE AMERICAN - Historic
year named after the night sky works of art by native peoples
of North America
LITTLE DANCER, FOURTEEN YEARS
OLD BY EDGAR DEGAS - Plaster that is ART OF THE AMERICAN
the model from which 20 bronzes were WEST - Paintings, drawings
cast based on the classic 1881 sculpture and sculptures by artists and
explorers of the American West
THE MEADOW BY CLAUDE MONET
Excellent example of Impressionism art ASIAN - 4,000-year overview of
Asian civilization highlighting the
PORTRAIT OF DIRCK VAN OS BY cultures of China, Japan, Korea,
REMBRANDT VAN RIJN - 1658 painting India, Tibet, and Southeast Asia
of the prominent Dutch citizen; restored
and reintroduced in 2014 EUROPEAN - Nineteenth
century works of European art
STONE CITY, IOWA BY GRANT WOOD
Prime example of Wood’s work LATIN AMERICAN - Spanish
depicting small-town ordinary folk and colonial art from the sixteenth to
Midwestern vistas nineteenth centuries
YOUNG GIRLS AT THE PIANO BY POSTWAR & CONTEMPORARY
PIERRE AUGUSTE RENOIR - Painting Paintings, sculpture, and
depicting French family life in the late digital projection by leading
nineteenth century; selected for a figures of the twentieth and
government commission in 1892 twenty-first centuries
for a government commission in 1892
23ARTFUL ADVENTURES
Omaha is home to an expansive selection of public art and art-based
museums and centers, most of which offer free admission.
ART THROUGHOUT THE
CITY ADDS TO OMAHA’S For a space with a creative, open and urban feel, visit KANEKO.
This downtown cultural space based in three turn-of-the-century
COLORFUL PERSONALITY warehouses was founded by world-renowned artist Jun Kaneko and
wife Ree. The venue hosts innovative artists, exhibitions, performances
and events which explore the creative process in a distinctive way.
Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts KANEKOHot Shops Art Center
SOCIAL MEDIA
CENTRAL
Snap a pic with these iconic
Omaha works of art
Pioneer Courage Park
Across the street from KANEKO is Bemis Center for STILE DE FAMIGLIA
Contemporary Arts. Founded by artists for artists, “FAMILY STYLE”
Bemis provides residency for creatives from around the 1115 S. 7th St.
world. Visitors will find inspiration in ever-changing art A 13 ft. fork in the heart of
exhibitions featuring work from both new and seasoned Omaha’s historic Little Italy
artists, along with innovative public programs. neighborhood.
For an interactive art experience, drop by Hot Shops Art
Center – named for “hot shops” featuring glass blowing,
pottery and bronze casting. Over 80 studio artists welcome
you to visit, explore and view this 92,000 sq. ft. warehouse.
View evolving exhibitions at its four art galleries, create
your own masterpiece at an on-going class or workshop,
and attend one of their popular bi-annual open houses.
Pack those walking shoes and discover Omaha’s public MONUMENT TO LABOR
art on foot; there are more than 350 public art displays 400 Riverfront Dr.
to discover throughout the city. Spirit of Nebraska’s Second largest labor
Wilderness and Pioneer Courage Parks, one of the monument in the
world’s largest collections of bronze and stainless steel, United States.
spans five city blocks downtown and features 123 pieces
and installations depicting Omaha’s pioneer history. A
quick walk from there is the 32,000 sq. ft. mural Fertile
Ground, one of the country’s largest public murals. Head
east to see Monument to Labor, the second largest labor
monument in the United States.
Colorful murals painted by local artists span the city,
especially in Omaha’s historic neighborhoods. The South
Omaha Mural Project murals depict the diversity of the
ILLUMINA
area. A new mural in Florence pays homage to the area’s
455 N. 10th Street
historic roots. See plenty more street art in North Omaha,
A collection of six bronze
downtown, North downtown, Benson and more.
larger-than-life circus
performers.
American flags line the entrance to the iconic white stone
structure at Memorial Park, where Omaha artists pay
special tribute to military veterans. The 67-acre memorial,
dedicated by President Harry S. Truman in 1948, honors
men and women who have served in the armed forces.
View numerous bronze statues honoring World War II,
Korean and Vietnam veterans. The park also includes a
garden filled with 1,000 rose bushes.
The Schriers recommend a music venue OMAR THE TROLL
inside the Bemis Center for Contemporary 705 Riverfront Dr.
Art called LOW END that offers live shows. Omaha’s bluest resident
Heartland Airborne Memorial greets friends under
Bob the Bridge.
Art-lovers should go to VisitOmaha.com for more inspiration
25RANKED AS ONE OF THE TOP CHILDREN’S MUSEUMS IN THE COUNTRY,
OMAHA’S IMAGINATION STATION MAKES LEARNING AN ADVENTURE
The Motens
recommend the
Omaha Children’s
Museum for kids
under 10 years old,
and say kids over 50
will enjoy all of the
seating options.
Omaha Children’s Museum is more than THINGS TO KNOW PERMANENT EXHIBITS
60,000 sq. ft. of hands-on fun specifically
designed with kids in mind. Open year- •
See something new each visit thanks to • Imagination Playground includes a
round with a variety of permanent and two temporary exhibit spaces, one on kid-friendly hospital, bank, barn,
temporary exhibits, kids are invited to each floor of the museum. firehouse, and grocery store.
explore, play and learn. •
Geared toward kids from 3-10 years • Art Smart Center is a colorful space
old, but all ages will be thoroughly for painting, dancing and creating.
A fan favorite is the enormous Super entertained. • Charlie Campbell Science and
Gravitron ball machine. Families love to Technology Center encourages
drop in a ball, guess where it will land, •
A family resting room with tables,
chairs and couches is available for quiet curiosity and experimentation.
and track its path ... leading up to a
massive ball drop! Hurry to add more resting time. • OCM Zooland is a colorful zoo of
climbable animals.
balls to the center before it dumps them •
The Rainbow Café offers kid-friendly
out all over again. snacks on the second floor, and there’s • Sandy’s Splish Splash Garden offers
an accessible microwave in the dining an outdoor splash pad.
Parents and kids enjoy ongoing science area. • Fantastic Future Me is where kids can
demonstrations including The Amazing
•
An outdoor picnic area is available for combine interests and aspirations to
Bubble Show and the Whiz Bang Super
families to take a break. create their future selves.
Science Show. Hear the fizzle, pop and
BANG as soda explodes, and marvel at • Walker Tire and Auto Service Center is a
•
The museum store offers science
place for kids to work and play on cars.
massive bubbles dancing in the air. The kits, games, books and more to keep
science shows change every month so learning at home. • Tinker Lab is a maker-space suited for
there’s always something new to see. young kids.
26You can also read
