Omaha in 3 Days: Fun and Affordable Adventures!

Explore Omaha without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

A trip to Omaha, United States on a limited budget can be both fun and cost-effective. Starting with budget-friendly accommodations, visitors can explore the Joslyn Art Museum, stroll through the Old Market District, and grab a bite at affordable local eateries. Taking advantage of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and touring the strategic air and space museum, visitors can make the most of their trip without breaking the bank.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Fun and Free

  • Check into the Magnolia Hotel, a chic and affordable option located in the heart of downtown Omaha.
  • Start your morning with a walk around the historic Old Market district, marveling at the unique architecture and browsing the eclectic shops.
  • Visit the Omaha Children's Museum with its plethora of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities perfect for kids and the young at heart!
  • Grab a bite to eat at Ted and Wally's ice cream parlor, a beloved local spot serving up delicious homemade creations.
  • Wind down the day with a stroll through Heartland of America Park, taking in the scenic views of the lake and fountain.
Day 2

Art and Culture

  • Head to the Joslyn Art Museum, an impressive collection of art from around the world housed in a stunning Art Deco building.
  • Take a break for lunch at Block 16, a trendy and delicious sandwich shop with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.
  • Spend the afternoon at the Durham Museum, housed in a former train station and showcasing the history of Omaha and the Midwest.
  • Catch a show at the Orpheum Theater, a beautifully restored venue hosting musicals, concerts, and other performances.
  • Finish the day with dinner at The Boiler Room, a cozy and elegant farm-to-table restaurant showcasing local ingredients.
Day 3

Outdoor Adventure

  • Start the morning with a visit to Lauritzen Gardens, a picturesque botanical garden full of seasonal flowers and foliage.
  • Drive out to Fontenelle Forest, a sprawling nature preserve with hiking trails, wildlife viewing areas, and treehouse cabins available for rent.
  • Grab a bite at Upstream Brewing Company, a local brewery offering tasty pub grub and plenty of beer options.
  • Tee off at Tiburon Golf Club, a challenging and picturesque course set among rolling hills and scenic lakes.
  • End the day with a picnic at Zorinsky Lake Park, complete with fishing, boating, and beautiful sunset views.

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.

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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.

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Omaha, located in the state of Nebraska in the United States, offers a variety of attractions for budget travelers. Visitors can explore the city's museums and parks, including the Joslyn Art Museum and the Lewis and Clark Landing, which offers great views of the Missouri River. In addition, Omaha boasts a vibrant food scene with affordable eats, such as local favorites like Runza and Zesto's.