Although it’s not on everyone’s must-see list — yet — there’s literally something for everyone in Omaha, Nebraska, a steadily growing city on the Missouri River with friendly, walkable neighborhoods. Smart redevelopment is shaping the metro area into a destination for culture, entertainment and dining. Art and music fans will find thriving contemporary art and indie music scenes.
History buffs will delight in the one-of-a kind Durham Museum, located inside a magnificent art deco train station. While steak lovers can certainly indulge their appetites, there’s plenty more food to enjoy here, like inventive farm-to-table cuisine and mouthwatering vegan fare.
This itinerary will take you through the highlights of this former pioneer town turned lively city on the Great Plains.
As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning your trip.
Friday: Explore the Old Market District
Start your weekend downtown on the brick and cobblestone streets of the Old Market. The historic district was the epicenter of Omaha’s commercial activity during the rail boom of the late 1800s. Today, it’s an eclectic, revitalized hub of restaurants, shops and galleries that’s ideal to explore on foot. Order a flat white and beignets with jam at Culprit Café, a prime Old Market spot for people-watching.
After you’re adequately caffeinated, spend the morning exploring the quirky shops in the area. Duck into Hollywood Candy, a sweets emporium where you can also play pinball in a retro arcade; flip through the huge selection of used vinyl LPs, cassettes and CDs at Homer’s Music; and scour the racks for fashion-forward clothing and accessories at Nouvelle Eve.
When hunger strikes, head to Wilson & Washburn for a Reuben, which locals proudly claim was first made in Omaha. Afterward, walk south and get in touch with your creative side at KANEKO and Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts. Both cultural organizations host innovative exhibits, performances and public programs.
Also nearby is the treasured Durham Museum, featuring restored train cars, 1940s storefronts, and exhibits on the region’s history — all inside a landmark art deco rail station. (A short drive away are two other renowned museums: the Joslyn Art Museum and Omaha Children’s Museum.)
For dinner, enjoy the Midwestern farm-to-table offerings at Boiler Room, where two-time James Beard Award nominee Tim Nicholson changes the menu regularly. For a more casual supper, slurp some noodles at Ika San Ramen & Izakaya next door (the entrance is through the alley behind the building).
Finish up the evening with a craft cocktail at Berry & Rye, a glass of vino at La Buvette, or an IPA brewed on-site at Upstream Brewing Company.
Saturday: Discover Midtown, the Waterfront and the Capitol District
After a jam-packed Friday, spend Saturday morning exploring more laid-back neighborhoods in the midtown area. Start in the historic Blackstone District at brunch hot spot Early Bird, where you can sample a bacon flight or indulge in “Cereal Killer Pancakes.”
Stroll along revitalized Farnam Street before heading to neighboring Midtown Crossing, which blends retail, entertainment and residences in a sophisticated pocket near Turner Park, a 7.5-acre green space that often hosts outdoor yoga classes and free jazz concerts.
Also worth checking out: Spielbound Board Game Café, where you can play any of its 2,500-plus games, and Corky Canvas/Corky Boards, a make-your-own-art studio. For lunch, tuck into the inventive I-can’t-believe-it’s-vegan comfort food at plant-based restaurant Modern Love.
A short drive from Midtown Crossing is the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, one of Omaha’s most popular attractions. Affectionately called “Bob” by locals, this graceful 3,000-foot-long curving walkway spans the Missouri River between Omaha and Council Bluffs, Iowa.
Be sure to snap a selfie with Omar the Troll, a beloved sculpture created by Nebraska artist John Lajba. You’ll find the happy troll — where else? — under the bridge. If you’re up for a lot more walking, Bob connects to more than 150 miles of nature trails.
Next up: The busy North Downtown and Capitol District areas, adjacent to the riverfront. Home to sports stadiums, concert arenas, smaller venues and plenty of bars, the neighborhood comes alive at night.
After noshing on food in one of the pubs or restaurants nearby, take your pick of evening entertainment: live jazz at the Jewell, an art house flick at Film Streams or a rock show at acclaimed indie-music venue the Slowdown.
Sunday: Wrap Up the Weekend at Aksarben Village
On your last day, drive away from the hustle and bustle and get closer to nature. Just 15 minutes from downtown lies 1,400-acre Fontenelle Forest, with miles of hiking trails, a nature center, and a thrilling high-ropes course. (Need sustenance for the ride? Stop by top-rated Archetype Coffee in Little Bohemia for a nitro brew and a fresh-baked breakfast biscuit.)
Alternative outdoor attractions include the world-class Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, and the breathtaking, 100-acre Lauritzen Gardens, near downtown.
After a morning on your feet, recharge your batteries in youthful Aksarben Village, located in the geographic heart of Omaha. The winkingly named neighborhood (read it backwards) occupies the site of a former horse track and coliseum.
The area now features restaurants and entertainment options surrounded by green spaces, bike trails and the campuses of both the University of Nebraska-Omaha and the College of St. Mary.
Choose lunch from the diverse vendors at Inner Rail Food Hall: a Nepalese dumpling stand, a crêperie, a burger joint and more. Or enjoy a cold one and some pub grub while catching a game at DJ’s Dugout Sports Bar. For a pick-me-up of the sweeter variety, Jones Bros Cupcakes offers macarons and bubble waffles in addition to its popular cupcakes.
If you get a second wind, stroll the trails that adjoin nearby Stinson Park. Prefer to bike? Download the Heartland BCycle app and rent a cruiser from the closest station. (When you’re done, simply return your ride to one of the bike-sharing program’s six area docking stations.)
Of course, no visit to Omaha would be complete without a nice, juicy steak. Cap off your Nebraska weekend with dinner at the Drover, located on the edge of Aksarben Village. For more than 40 years, the landmark chophouse has been serving its whiskey-marinated Angus rib-eyes and filets in rustic Western surroundings.
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