Fun-Filled Long Weekend in Omaha

Discover the heart of the Midwest in Omaha.

22 April 2023

Explore the bustling city of Omaha, known for its world-renowned museums, including the Joslyn Art Museum and the Durham Museum. Discover the lively Old Market District, filled with vibrant restaurants, distinctive boutiques, and art galleries. Indulge in the city's famous steak, stroll along the Missouri River, and catch a game at the TD Ameritrade Park for an unforgettable experience as a tourist in Omaha.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Omaha Charm

  • Check-in at the chic Magnolia Hotel Downtown, housed in a historic building with contemporary decor.
  • Walk around Old Market, a bustling historic district with cobblestone streets, art galleries, and local boutiques.
  • Fuel up on rich espresso and hearty pastries at Culprit Cafe, a trendy spot in the heart of Old Market.
  • Take a stroll through the Gene Leahy Mall, a lush park with a rose garden, a giant slide, and a tranquil lagoon.
  • Catch a show at the ornate Orpheum Theatre, a grand venue that hosts Broadway tours, concerts, and comedy gigs.
Day 2

History and Culture

  • Visit the Joslyn Art Museum, a stunning neoclassical building with a vast collection of American and European art, including works by Monet, Rembrandt, and Cassatt.
  • Wander through the Durham Museum, a former train station turned museum with immersive exhibits on the history of Omaha and the Midwest.
  • Pay homage to the Union Pacific Railroad at the Heartland of America Park, which has a towering fountain and a replica of the Golden Spike.
  • Savor a juicy steak at the iconic Drover, a legendary steakhouse with a cozy and rustic atmosphere.
  • Imbibe a craft cocktail at Berry & Rye, a speakeasy-style bar where you have to ring a doorbell to enter.
Day 3

Outdoor Adventures

  • Hike, bike, or picnic at the scenic Fontenelle Forest, a nature preserve with miles of trails, a visitors' center, and a treetop lookout tower.
  • Explore the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, a world-class facility with diverse animal habitats, including a desert dome, a rainforest, and a shark tunnel.
  • Chill out at the Fun-Plex, a water park and amusement park with slides, wave pools, mini-golf, and go-karts.
  • Dig into authentic Mexican cuisine at Maria's Mexican Restaurant, a family-owned joint known for its sizzling fajitas and refreshing margaritas.
  • Sip on a cold beer at the Benson Brewery, a trendy microbrewery with a cozy taproom and a sunny patio.
Day 4

Offbeat Delights

  • Get your caffeine fix at Hardy Coffee Co., an airy and minimalist cafe that serves specialty coffee and tea from around the world.
  • Visit the Museum of Shadows, a quirky museum with an eerie collection of haunted objects, serial killer memorabilia, and spooky artifacts.
  • Play some games at Beercade, a retro arcade bar with classic video games, pinball machines, and craft beer.
  • Devour a quintessential Reuben sandwich at the iconic Crescent Moon Alehouse, a cozy pub with a vast beer selection and an adjacent deli.
  • Shop for eclectic souvenirs and gifts at the Curbside Clothing and Accessories, a funky boutique with vintage-inspired fashion, funky art, and cool decor items.

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's Best: History, Nature, and Family Fun!

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.

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.

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.

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.