Your Guide To An Amazing Weekend In Omaha (From A Local!)

When people ask me what to do in my hometown, Omaha, Nebraska, I have a long list.  Let me fill you in about Omaha. We’re located in eastern Nebraska, on the border with Iowa and we’re bigger than you might think (almost 1 million people). Omaha is perfect for a few days or a long weekend. Here are some attractions and restaurants you might want to check out on for a fabulous weekend in Omaha. 

Omaha Things to Do & Places to Go Around Town

Arbor Day Farm  

Located about 45 minutes south of Omaha, Arbor Day Farm, in Nebraska City, is a whole lot of year-round fun.

Come to enjoy the outdoors at the 260-acre Arbor Day Farm. I’ve enjoyed countless days of apple picking, picnicking,  and taking in the super popular Applejack Festival that happens every Fall.

The lodge here is gorgeous so you just may want to book a room and stay for the weekend. 

Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge 

Head down to the Omaha Riverfront and explore the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge that spans 3,000 feet between Omaha, NE, and Council Bluffs, IA. 

Make sure you put one foot in each state and snap a pic as you cross. It’s extra cool when it’s lit up in ever-changing colors at night.

Durham Museum 

We’ve been going to the Durham Museum since my kids were tiny.  Located in Union Station, I love the historic vibes of the 1920s art deco architecture and the great-for-all-ages lineup of things to see here.

The Durham is simply stunning, and with all the different exhibits, it’s even more fascinating. Don’t forget to stop at the old-time soda fountain while you’re here for all kinds of tasty ice cream treats, and even hot lunches.

And if you come at Christmastime, enjoy the gigantic, decorated Christmas tree and a plethora of holiday activities.

Fontenelle Forest 

Calling all hikers, bird watchers, and nature lovers! Fontenelle Forest is your spot to chill.  Fontenelle Forest is located in the town of Bellevue, NE, just a suburb of Omaha – located on the south side of town, about 10 minutes from the Old Market. 

Here you’ll find over 2000 acres to explore 24 miles of hiking trails and lots of wildlife.

Funplex Waterpark 

Helloooo – who doesn’t like a waterpark? Funplex is a good time whether you’re 5 or 75! You’ll find me in the lazy river! 

Or maybe lounging around the bar with a cold one. I like this place now more than ever. It’s great fun to go as an adult with no kids to worry about.

If you do bring your littles, know that Funplex gets super duper crowded so keep an eagle eye on them!! Buy tickets online for the lowest price.

More Things to Do During Your Weekend in Omaha

Gene Leahy Mall at The Riverfront

Check out the new urban wonderland in Downtown Omaha. This totally redone Gene Leahy Mall is a relaxing place to walk, play at the splash pad, take your turn going down the huge slides,  sit by a fire pit, lay in a hammock or just chill.

You’ll find food trucks lining the Gene Leahy Mall at lunchtime and on weekends. 

Heartland of America Park at the Riverfront

Heartland of America Park, set against the Missouri River, is the largest of the parks in the riverfront development.

I like to walk around the lake and head over to the river overlook to check out the Mighty Mo. You’ll see great views of the water. The skate ribbon is super fun, as is the playground by the Luminarium.

Kiewit Luminarium

The Kiewit Luminarium is a newish Omaha venue where you can delve into science and art live never before.

This one-of-a-kind interactive experience will blow you away. It’s a space for all ages – anyone who’s interested in exploring is welcome here. 

Lauritzen Gardens

Oh the flowers are gorgeous at Lauritzen Gardens.  Any time of year is a good time to visit.  The grounds are spectacular, and the location is near downtown so it’s super close if you’re staying downtown (which I recommend!).

Old Market

The Old Market is one of the best spots in the city. Omaha’s Old Market is fun and you shouldn’t miss it. Shop, eat, drink, people watch, walk in the parks, hit the food trucks, listen to music, you can do all this and more in the Old Market. 

One of my favorite areas of the Old Market is the Old Market Passageway – check out the shops and restaurants here. It’s stunning during the holidays. See more about what I recommend in the Old Market.

Omaha Children’s Museum

There is no place like the Omaha Children’s Museum for kids.  The kids will love the interactive exhibits and play space. We spent many Saturdays at the museum when the kids were little, and from what I hear the museum is better than ever. 

With over 10 permanent exhibits plus ever-changing temporary exhibits, there’s always something fun to do here.  The museum is open everyday but Mondays. 

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

When you come to Omaha, the Omaha zoo is the ONE thing that you should not miss.  The Henry Doorly Zoo is regularly on the best zoo anywhere list and is considered to be in the top 5 in the entire world.  Pretty impressive stats, and yes, it lives up to the hype.

We love to go year-round – the indoor aquarium in winter is awesome. Watching those penguins dive into the water is a favorite of mine. 

I also love the Butterfly House, the Desert Dome, the Skyfari, the Imax movies, and the list goes on.  Just go here when you’re in town and you’ll see what I mean. 

Steelhouse Omaha

 You can see top shows and concerts at this live music venue, and the Steelhouse Omaha location down at the riverfront is super convenient if you’re staying downtown or in the Old Market. 

Storm Chasers Game

If you like baseball head over to Werner Stadium to watch the world-famous Omaha Storm Chasers. OK, maybe they’re not quite world-famous (yet), but what a great way to spend an afternoon or evening!

I am a big baseball fan and Werner Park is a great venue for minor-league baseball. They have awesome deals on tickets & concessions, especially on weekdays.

Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum

The Strategic Air Command (SAC) & Aerospace Museum, located between Lincoln and Omaha near Interstate 80, is the place to go for all things space. With over 300,000 square feet of exhibit, education, and event space, you won’t believe all there is to see and do here. Be sure to check out the planetarium shows, the virtual reality experience, and of course, the cafe! 

Union Pacific Railroad Museum

Train enthusiasts will enjoy seeing the Union Pacific Railroad Museum. Packed with railroad history, wander through the exhibits and get a feel for train travel of yesteryear, and how trains contributed to the building of our nation.

It’s fascinating stuff for a history nerd like me.  This free museum is located across the river in Council Bluffs, Iowa, and is open a few days per week, usually toward the end of the week.

Vala’s Pumpkin Patch and Apple Orchard

If you’re in Omaha during the fall, Vala’s is something you do not want to miss. I worked here for a season a few years ago and even I don’t even know how to describe Vala’s. It started out years ago as a pumpkin patch. It’s morphed into a full-blown fall entertainment center that adults love just as much as the kids.

They have all the fall activities you’d expect plus SO much more. Check out the corn maze, egg spinner, hayrack rides, pig races, and train rides, and that’s just the beginning. Don’t get me started on the food! People go to Vala’s just to sample all the scrumptious food at Vala’s. When you go, get the tasting passport so you can try it all.

Wildlife Safari Park

Located near the Strategic Air & Space Museum, we usually hit both the Wildlife Safari Park and the museum on the same day since they’re so close. The Wildlife Safari Park is the brainchild of Dr. Lee Simmons’ of the Henry Doorly Zoo, so you know it’s a winner.

It’s actually been voted the number one safari park in the country. Escape through the outdoors as you drive the 4-mile route through the park. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, and take advantage of the pit-stop areas where you can get out and roam. 

Weekend In Omaha: Where to Stay

Where to Stay – Best Hotels In Downtown Omaha

A weekend in Omaha can be anything you want it to be. Omaha has a lot of great choices, including hotel choices. Since most of the things to do in Omaha I’ve listed are near downtown, I’m concentrating on the best hotels downtown.

Best Hotels Downtown

Omaha Marriott Capital District

A Marriott property is usually a terrific choice and the Omaha Capital District proves this point. The rooftop pool, the Jewell Jazz Club, all the amenities you’d expect from Marriott make this one a winner. Plus the location in the heart of the Capital District is a blast. The Omaha Capital District Marriott is a great choice if you’re looking for an elevated property in a great location.

You’ll be able to walk to practically everything you want to see and do in downtown Omaha. From the newly built Riverfront Parks, the new Steelhouse concert venue,  Luminarium, TD Ameritrade baseball stadium (home of the College World Series), the Slowdown for live music, Film Streams movie theatre, all the Capital District bars and restaurants – including The Blatt for good food and great views of the stadium.

Plus the Old Market is just a little to your south and you can walk there, too. Marriott Capital District is a great choice for every body. Whether you’re weekend in Omaha is with the family, the kids, the girl’s or any combo, this Marriott has it all.

Hyatt Place Downtown Old Market 

Location, Location, Location. Located directly in the heart of the Old Market, right off 12th & Howard, you are in the THICK of it right here. Walk to everywhere in the Old Market.

Hyatt Place Downtown Old Market delivers a comfy stay and I like the suite option so you can have more people stay in one room. This makes for an economical stay.

At this location, you’re within walking distance to all the best bars and restaurants in the Old Market (I like pretty much everything on Howard Street & Harney Street for starters. Check out my Old Market post).

Walk to the Riverfront parks, the Lumanarium, The Kaneko, Old Market Artist Co-op, the Holland Performing Arts Center, and all the fun in the Capital District, including TD Ameritrade Park. A little further west you have The Orpheum Theatre, fantastic food at Block 16 and cool craft cocktails at Mercury. The Hyatt is always a solid choice.

Weekend In Omaha: Where to Eat in Omaha

I could write a book about all the fantastic places to eat in Omaha. People are so shocked by the awesome food scene here. Our restaurants are top-notch, by any standard. Your weekend in Omaha will be fantastic if you try some of these local restaurants.

Omaha is home to multiple James Beard Award finalists, award-winning cocktail bars, authentic ethnic restaurants of all styles, and of course some of the best steaks in the country. If you can’t find good food in Omaha, you’re not trying!! 

Best Breakfast in Omaha 

So many places to try I wrote a post on Best Breakfasts in Omaha!

Saddle Creek Breakfast Club

8734 Pacific Street – Countryside Village 

There are hotspots and then there are hotspots. SCBC is one of the hottest breakfast places in town. Everything I’ve had here is amazing. I love that they have vegan breakfast options and gluten-free breakfast choices.  Go early or be prepared to wait! It’s worth it. 

Lisa’s Radial Cafe

827 N 40th St – the North Side 

Lisa’s is one of Omaha’s OG breakfast cafes and one of my favorite places to have breakfast in Omaha.  It’s a fantastic spot for breakfast any day of the week, but I (and MANY others) usually hit Lisa’s on the weekends. Try the carmel apple stuffed French toast. OMG!!

Louie M’s Burger Lust.

1718 Vinton Street – South O

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at another one of my local favorites, Louis M’s Burger Lust. The name implies lunch, but they open early for awesome breakfast. Have a seat at the counter or grab a table in one of the two dining areas.

The place is pretty busy, especially on weekends, so get there early or be prepared to wait. Your wait will be worth it. I like the corned beef hash and they have the best toast. I know – toast is toast, right? Wrong. Louie M’s uses bread from Orsi’s – a local bakery- that is outstanding. It makes me throw my low-carb plan out the window. 

Petit’s Pastries 

502 N 16th – North downtown

Petit’s Pastries is an old-school donut shop that has been a staple in downtown Omaha for 65+ years. I’m a cake donut fan and theirs are some of the best.  

Tupelo Honey 

830 Harney St – Old Market 

Who doesn’t love brunch? Tupelo Honey puts on a good brunch, complete with fun & boozy cocktails. The biscuits and jam here are pretty much my favorite thing on the menu. They do have plenty of fantastic brunch options – including the popular chicken and waffles.

Best Restaurants for a Weekend in Omaha: Lunch and Dinner

Innerail Food Hall 

63rd & Pine – Aksarben

Come to the Innerrail for a variety of local spots at this food hall. Order at the counter, grab your food, and enjoy a spot inside or out on the heated patio. You’ll find a wide variety of cuisine and a full bar. Plus music bingo on select nights, and music at the adjacent outdoor bar Sonny’s. Aksarben (yes it’s Nebraska spelled backwards!) is a good time.

Cascio’s 

No weekend in Omaha would be complete without some Omaha beef. Discover an OG steakhouse in Omaha. Located just south of the Old Market on 10th street. Cascio’s is a dark and moody steakhouse with a great bar and even better steaks.  

Dinker’s Bar & Grill 

2368 S. 29th – South O

This South O staple will knock your socks off with their fabulous burgers. Even better are the weekend steak specials at prices that will blow your mind – in a good way.  It’s not fancy. It’s ust good. 

Fizzy’s 

1408 S. 13th – LIttle Bohemia 

A fun spot in Little Bohemia, Fizzy’s delivers classic food and drink in a retro-inspired decor. Order on the phone and your fried bologna sandwich, footlong, or other classic entree will be delivered to you. This soda fountain for adults focuses on retro eats, killer drinks, and boozy concoctions from the soda fountain. And the decor is amazing! 

Ika Ramen

6109 Maple St – Benson

This little hole-in-the-wall joint with legit ramen and a really fun bar downstairs delivers the goods. The stairs going down to the bar at Ika Ramen  are steep, but the vibe is so cool. 

Jim & Jennie’s Greek Village

3026 N 90th Street

Head to Jim & Jennie’s if you’re hungry for authentic Greek cuisine. This neighborhood spot on the north side of town has been in business for as long as I can remember. I always get the gyro platter. 

Johnny’s Cafe

4702 S 27th – South O

A cafe, it ain’t. This is a good old-fashioned steakhouse with JUST the right vibe. From the minute you walk in you’ll realize you are in for a treat. Johnny’s is an Omaha institution,  and has been at this location for over 100 years.  Thank goodness Johnny’s didn’t get torn down when the Omaha stockyards left town. They don’t make places like this anymore.

Jonesy’s Taco House

1502 S 60th – Midtown Omaha

Taco Tuesday (and every day) gets high praise at Jonesy’s. Dig into a basket of fried-flour shells for a ridiculously low price. Dip into the homemade salsa that’s SO good. Grab a margarita while you’re at it! Jonesy’s is on this girl’s weekly rotation. Nothing pretentious here.  Just good Mexican chow.

La Buvette

511 S 11th St – The Old Market 

On the short list of my all-time favorite restaurants in town, LaBuvette. LaBuvette bills itself as a French wine bar, and it is. But it’s so much more. They have an eclectic menu with different, unusual things all the time. They also have the best patio in Omaha. Grab a glass or two of wine, sit back, and settle in for GREAT people-watching.

Mula 

3932 Farnam – Blackstone

Mula is a popular Mexican hotspot in Blackstone that you need to visit. Grab a spot out back on the deck and enjoy a cocktail – I like the jalapeno margarita. Dig into a guacamole or salsa flight to start off your meal. Leave room for the elote. Sit on the patio out back and sip a jalapeno margarita.  

Virtuoso Pizza

6056 Maple Street – Benson

This solid old-school pizza joint serves authentic pizza made by a certified Pizzaiolo. Grab a whole pizza or pizza by the slice – everything’s housemade and fresh at Virtuoso. Don’t sleep on the Italian beef sandwich. It just may be the BEST in town!

Omaha Ice Cream & Sweets 

I love to finish up my day or night with a sweet treat. We have you covered. Here are some of my favorites for you to explore on your weekend in Omaha.

Coneflower Creamery

3921 Farnam Street – Blackstone

Don’t leet the line outside Coneflower Creamery scare you. While there is nearly always a line, it does move. Known for their use of uber fresh, local ingredients and sometimes wacky-good flavors, Coneflower won’t disappoint all you ice cream lovers out there. 

Ted & Wally’s 

6123 Maple Street – Benson

1120 Jackson – Old Market 

Made from scratch ice cream with super creative and unique flavors. Ted & Wally’s will knock your socks off!

Sweet Magnolia’s

813 N. 40th

Sweet Magnolia’s has all the wonderful treats you’d expect from a neighborhood bakery. Scones, donuts, cinnamon rolls, coffee cake and wedding cakes. All homemade!

Coffee Shops

If you run on caffeine you’ll want to hit Omaha coffee shops. 

Zen Coffee

How about a coffee flight and a toast flight?  Yes! Zen is so creative. Who knew coffee could be so good and so fun! Multiple locations in Omaha including downtown, One Paciic Place and West. 

Hardy

Coffee, teas, pastries and more. Hardy has a homegrown cool vibe. Multiple Omaha locations including Benson, Downtown, North O and West. 

Bonus:  Local Omaha Things You Need to Do During Your Weekend In Omaha

Try a Runza

Go Retro Shopping at Vintage Oasis

Find the speakeasy in Little Bo

Go to the Tiki Bar in the Old Market 

Hit a Creighton Bluejay basketball or soccer game

Look at albums at Homer’s

Omaha FAQ’s

Is Omaha Nebraska Worth Visiting?

Omaha is totally worth visiting! We’re the biggest city in the state of Nebraska and home to tons of fun things to do. We’re also a foodie city with SO many great places to eat and drink. 

What is Omaha Famous For?

Omaha is famous for being home of the largest show on dirt, the College World Series, held each year in June.  It’s quite a blast, even if you don’t love baseball.

Is Downtown Omaha Walkable?

Downtown Omaha is super walkable.  Whether you’re in the Old Market or the Capital District, or the Riverfront, they all connect and are super pedestrian friendly.

What is the Best Part of Omaha to Stay in?

I tell people to stay downtown. There’s so much to do in close proximity downtown. You have the Old Market, the Capital District, the Riverfront, multiple parks and so many excellent restaurnts, all within walking distance.

What is the Nicest Area of Omaha, Nebraska?

Omaha has a lot of nice areas. It depends on what you’re looking for.  Entertainment-wise, I’d vote for downtown in the Capital District, the Old Market or Blackstone. The best park in Omaha (the one I like best anyway) is Elmwood Park – located at 60th & Dodge. It’s a beauty. 

The Wrap-Up: Weekend in Omaha

Omaha has so many things to see and do you’ll never be bored! Come for a day or a week.  Once you visit you’ll come back for more!

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