Omaha in a Weekend: Food, Fun, and Nature

Discover the heartland charm of Omaha, where history meets modernity.

03 May 2023

Omaha, United States is a great choice for tourists seeking a relaxed vacation while enjoying Midwestern charm. Visitors can explore the vibrant Old Market District, take a stroll along the scenic Omaha Riverfront, and experience the world-class exhibits at the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Omaha is also a great destination for foodies, with a diverse culinary scene featuring everything from classic steakhouses to farm-to-table restaurants.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Roaming Through Omaha’s Best Attractions

  • -Check into the urban chic Magnolia Hotel in downtown Omaha
  • -Start with a visit to the Joslyn Art Museum for its impressive permanent collection
  • -Head over to the Old Market, a trendy neighborhood with stores, galleries, and restaurants
  • -Explore the Durham Museum to learn about Nebraska history and see vintage trains
  • -Enjoy a scenic stroll or bike ride along the picturesque Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
  • -End the day with a beer and classic pub fare at the Upstream Brewing Company
Day 2

Family Fun and Nature in Omaha

  • -Indulge in a breakfast burrito at Early Bird Cafe, a cozy brunch spot in Midtown
  • -Visit Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium to see penguins, sharks, and the world's largest indoor desert
  • -Next up is Fontenelle Forest, a nature center and park with hiking trails and a treetop canopy walk
  • -Head to the Old Market again for a late lunch at Block 16, known for their inventive burgers and poutine
  • -End the trip with a drive to the Bobcat Ridge Natural Area, a serene spot to watch the sunset and see prairie dogs
  • Omaha may not be on everyone's radar, but with its mix of cultural institutions, natural beauty, and vibrant neighborhoods, it’s a Midwest gem that’s worth a stop.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Omaha by plane is to fly into Eppley Airfield, which is the city's major airport. Several major airlines, including American Airlines and Delta, offer frequent flights to and from Eppley Airfield. From there, you can easily reach downtown Omaha by taxi or public transportation.

Car

If you have access to a car, driving to Omaha is a great option as the city is easily accessible from the surrounding states. Interstate 80 runs through Omaha, making it easy to reach from the east and west. From the north or south, you can take Interstate 29 or Interstate 35 which connect to 80. There are also several rental car companies, including Hertz and Enterprise, located at Eppley Airfield for those who need to rent a car.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Omaha. However, you can take Amtrak to nearby cities such as Lincoln or Omaha, and then take a bus or rent a car to get to Omaha. The Amtrak station in Lincoln is located at 201 North 7th Street, while the closest Amtrak station to Omaha is in Creston, Iowa.

Boat

Unfortunately, there are no ports or harbors in Omaha, so it is not possible to get there by boat. The nearest major waterways are the Mississippi River and the Missouri River, but they are still quite far from Omaha. If you are looking for a scenic boat ride, you can consider taking a river cruise that stops in nearby cities such as Kansas City or St. Louis.

Bus

Taking a bus to Omaha is a convenient and affordable option, with several bus companies serving the city. The Greyhound bus station is located at 1601 Jackson Street in downtown Omaha, while the Megabus stop is at the Crossroads Mall on 72nd Street. You can also take a shuttle bus from Eppley Airfield to downtown Omaha, with several companies offering the service.

More travel plans

Omaha Adventure: A 5 Day Budget-Friendly Guide

Exploring Omaha on a limited budget is possible through various affordable accommodations, local transportation, and low-cost attractions. Budget-friendly options such as staying in a hostel or camping in a nearby park can save money on lodging. Visiting the Omaha Zoo, Joslyn Art Museum, and Lauritzen Gardens are just a few of the affordable activities the city has to offer.

Fun-Filled Family Adventure: Exploring O-Mazing Omaha!

Omaha, known as the Gateway to the West, offers a multitude of family-friendly activities and attractions that will keep everyone entertained. Explore the vast Omaha Children's Museum, where interactive exhibits and hands-on activities make learning fun for kids of all ages. Visit the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, home to a diverse range of animals, from lions and giraffes to penguins and sea creatures, providing an exciting and educational experience for the whole family.

Omaha: Where Adventure Meets History and Tasty Treats

Omaha, located in the heartland of the United States, offers a vibrant and family-friendly destination for a memorable trip. Families can explore the renowned Henry Doorly Zoo, where kids can get up close with a diverse range of animals and enjoy the interactive exhibits. Additionally, Omaha provides numerous family-friendly attractions like the Omaha Children's Museum and the Lauritzen Gardens, ensuring that there's never a dull moment for both children and adults alike.

Two Days of Family Fun: Omaha on a Budget!

Omaha, located in the heart of the United States, offers a perfect destination for a family friendly trip. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse attractions, this city has something for everyone. Families can explore the world-class Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, discover intriguing artifacts at the Durham Museum, and bond over thrilling rides and games at the Fun-Plex Amusement Park & Waterpark.