Omaha Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Omaha. Read on for a week-long itinerary, food and drink recommendations, and tips on local customs and safety.


Introduction to Omaha

Omaha, situated on the Missouri River, is a vibrant city in Eastern Nebraska. It is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and outdoor pursuits. Once the gateway to the West, Omaha has preserved much of its heritage, making it an attractive destination for history buffs. The city’s modern cultural offerings, dining scene, and outdoor activities also make it a popular tourist spot.

List of Places to Visit in Omaha

Whether you are looking for museums, parks, or historic landmarks, Omaha has something to offer. Here are some of the top places to visit in Omaha:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Durham Museum: The museum, housed in the renovated Union Station, offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s history with exhibits on transportation, communication, and the settlement of the West.
  • Joslyn Art Museum: The museum boasts an impressive collection of art from different cultures and time periods, including European, American, and Native American art.
  • The Omaha Children’s Museum: With interactive exhibits on science, art, and culture, this museum is perfect for families with children.
  • The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium: Named one of the top zoos in the world, the zoo houses a diverse collection of animals, an aquarium, and a butterfly and insect pavilion.

Natural Attractions of Omaha: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Fontenelle Forest: The forest offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and canopy walks.
  • Heartland of America Park: The park boasts beautiful fountains and a lake perfect for paddle boating.
  • Chalco Hills Recreation Area: This recreation area offers hiking, biking, fishing, and boating opportunities.
  • Riverfront Trail: The trail follows the Missouri River and offers stunning views of the river and the city.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Omaha

Whether you are an avid hiker or looking for a leisurely bike ride, Omaha has plenty of trails to explore. Here are some of the popular routes:

  • Keystone Trail: This 15.4-mile trail from Omaha to Papillion offers scenic views of the countryside.
  • Big Papio Trail: The 11.6-mile trail is perfect for hiking and biking and passes through several parks.
  • Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge: The bridge spans the Missouri River and offers stunning views of the city and the river.

Best Things to Do in Omaha: Activities and Tours

Omaha offers a wide range of activities and tours for every taste. Here are some of the best things to do in Omaha:

  • Old Market District: The historic district is home to shops, galleries, and restaurants.
  • Lake Manawa State Park: The park offers a range of water sports such as swimming, boating, fishing, and camping.
  • Omaha Walking Tours: Explore the city’s history and culture on a guided walking tour with a local.
  • Omaha Culinary Tours: Experience the city’s food scene on a guided culinary tour, sampling local dishes and drinks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Omaha

Day 1: Visit the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, and have dinner at the Old Market District. Day 2: Spend the day at Lake Manawa State Park, and have dinner at a local restaurant. Day 3: Explore the city’s history at the Durham Museum and Joslyn Art Museum, and have dinner at a steakhouse. Day 4: Hike or bike the Keystone Trail, and have lunch at a local café. Day 5: Visit the Omaha Children’s Museum or the Fontenelle Forest, and have dinner at a local brewery. Day 6: Take a guided walking tour of the city, and have lunch at a food market. Day 7: Visit the Heartland of America Park and the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, and have dinner at a local restaurant.

Food and Drink Scene of Omaha

Omaha’s food scene is diverse, with a mix of classic American fare and international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Omaha Steaks: A meal of Omaha steaks, served with sides such as garlic mashed potatoes or creamed spinach, is a classic dish.
  • Runza Sandwich: A Runza sandwich, filled with seasoned ground beef, onions, and cabbage, is a local favorite.
  • Reuben Sandwich: The Reuben sandwich was first served in Omaha and is still a staple in many local restaurants.

Local Beverages

  • Omaha Craft Beers: The city is home to several breweries, such as Zipline Brewing and Brickway Brewery.
  • Kool-Aid: Kool-Aid was invented in Omaha, and a visit to the Kool-Aid Museum is a fun activity for families.
  • Nebraska Wines: Nebraska is becoming known for its wines, with several wineries located around Omaha.

Where to Stay in Omaha: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Omaha offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Here are some recommendations:

  • Magnolia Hotel Omaha: This boutique hotel offers luxury accommodation in the heart of the Old Market District.
  • Sheraton Omaha Hotel: The hotel offers modern amenities and a convenient location near the Nebraska Medical Center and the Omaha zoo.
  • Oasis Bed and Breakfast: This charming B&B is located in a historic neighborhood and offers a cozy and comfortable stay.

What to Buy in Omaha: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to take home, here are some of our top picks:

  • Omaha Steaks: You can purchase Omaha steaks and other meat products at the Omaha Steaks store or online.
  • Old Market District: The district is home to several shops selling local art, gifts, and souvenirs.
  • Honey Creek Creamery: You can purchase locally made cheese and other dairy products at the Honey Creek Creamery store.

Local Culture and Customs of Omaha

Omaha is known for its Midwestern hospitality, and locals are friendly and welcoming to visitors. Tipping in restaurants and bars is expected, and a tip of 15% to 20% is customary.

Best Time to Visit Omaha

The best time to visit Omaha is from May to September when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities and events. The city hosts several festivals and events during the summer, such as the Omaha Farmers Market and the Shakespeare on the Green festival.

Do’s and Don’ts of Omaha

Do:

  • Do explore the city’s history and culture by visiting museums, historic landmarks, and local shops.
  • Do try local dishes and drinks, such as Omaha steaks, Reuben sandwiches, and Nebraska wines.
  • Do take part in outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and water sports.

Don’t:

  • Don’t skip the Old Market District, an iconic area of the city with unique shops, galleries, and restaurants.
  • Don’t forget to tip in restaurants and bars.
  • Don’t underestimate the size of the city. Plan ahead and use public transportation or rental cars to get around.

Safety and Health

Safety in Omaha

Omaha is generally safe, but visitors should take precautions in crowded tourist areas and downtown at night. It’s always a good idea to keep valuables out of sight and to be aware of your surroundings.

Health in Omaha

Visitors to Omaha should ensure that their routine vaccinations are up to date. Insect repellent is recommended during outdoor activities.

Getting to Omaha: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Omaha

  • Eppley Airfield: This is the main airport serving Omaha and is located about four miles northeast of downtown.

Bus Stations Near Omaha

  • Greyhound: The bus station is located in downtown Omaha and serves several destinations.

Other Options

  • Amtrak: The Amtrak station is located in downtown Omaha and serves several routes.
  • Rental Cars: Several rental car companies operate at the airport and in the city.

How to Get Around in Omaha

Omaha has several transportation options for visitors:

  • Public Transit: The Metro Transit operates buses throughout the city.
  • Bike Share: The Omaha B-cycle program offers bike rentals at various stations around the city.
  • Rental Cars: Several rental car companies operate at the airport and in the city.

Where to Go Next from Omaha: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Omaha is located in the heart of the Great Plains, making it a convenient location for exploring other destinations in the area. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Lincoln, Nebraska: Located about 50 miles southwest of Omaha, Lincoln is the state capital of Nebraska and features several museums and cultural attractions.
  • Missouri River Valley: The valley offers scenic views, hiking trails, and historic landmarks.
  • Council Bluffs, Iowa: Located just across the Missouri River, Council Bluffs is home to several casinos and a historic district.

Conclusion

Omaha is a city with something for everyone – history, culture, outdoor pursuits, and food. With this comprehensive tour guide, you can plan an unforgettable trip to this Midwestern gem.

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