Things to do in Omaha
With its indie music scene and various arts initiatives, including the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts residency programme, Omaha is becoming a beacon for progressive creatives. Rooted in the Midwest, however, it's also a great place for families, who will enjoy the zoo, Omaha Children's Museum, and Fun Plex, Nebraska's largest water park.
Old Market is the undisputed tourist hub of the city, thanks to its many wonderful shops, restaurants and historic buildings. When pounding Old Market's charmingly uneven pavements becomes tiring, the Heartland of America Park next door is perfect for leisurely strolls along the mighty Missouri River and a rest in the shade.
Visitors can also explore the largest indoor rainforest in the US at the famous Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium; historic aircraft and missiles at the Strategic Air and Space Command, the foremost museum of its kind; and perhaps catch a glimpse of one of America's richest men and lifelong Omaha resident, Warren Buffett, dining at Gorat's, his favourite local steakhouse.
For financial gurus, the only time to visit is in the spring, during the annual Berkshire Hathaway meeting, when Omaha becomes the centre of the financial universe for one weekend. Even for the less stock-savvy, spring is a good choice, as is autumn, when the weather is milder than in summer and winter.
Omaha Zoo
At Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, visitors can also explore exhibits such as the Suzanne and Walter Scott Aquarium, Desert Dome and Cat Complex, as well as Hubbard Gorilla …
Omaha Zoo
At Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, visitors can also explore exhibits such as the Suzanne and Walter Scott Aquarium, Desert Dome and Cat Complex, as well as Hubbard Gorilla Valley, Orangutan Forest and Lied Jungle, America's largest indoor rainforest. The zoo offers train and tram rides, the TreeTops Restaurant overlooking the rainforest and a variety of other fun activities, attractions and refreshment options. For those who don't want to visit the restaurants, there are lovely picnic areas at the zoo and plenty of snack kiosks. The zoo is widely acknowledged as being one of the best in the USA and should delight visitors of all ages. It can easily fill a whole day with family entertainment if explored thoroughly.
Website www.omahazoo.com
Strategic Air and Space Museum
The Strategic Air and Space Museum in Omaha, regarded as the nation's foremost facility of its kind, showcases World War II and Cold War era aircraft and artefacts to illustrate th…
Strategic Air and Space Museum
The Strategic Air and Space Museum in Omaha, regarded as the nation's foremost facility of its kind, showcases World War II and Cold War era aircraft and artefacts to illustrate the historical role of strategic air command in securing peace. The museum's exhibits, multimedia displays and educational programmes are also forward-looking, generating excitement among the next generation about the future of aviation, aerospace and engineering. The whole family should enjoy a visit to this interesting attraction, which is both educational and entertaining. Many special events and exhibitions are also hosted by the museum so travellers should check the official website for information on what's showing during their visit.
Website www.sacmuseum.org
Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts
The Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, just south of the Old Market district, was founded on the principle that exceptional talent deserves to be celebrated. Artists from around t…
Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts
The Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, just south of the Old Market district, was founded on the principle that exceptional talent deserves to be celebrated. Artists from around the world apply to participate in the centre's residency program, in which they are given studios and accommodation, freeing them to focus on creative growth and experimentation. The centre presents more than 20 exhibitions annually in its three main galleries, featuring emerging and established artists and spanning all visual media.
Website www.bemiscenter.org
Omaha Children's Museum
This fun-filled and award-winning interactive museum is designed to educate and engage kids of all ages. The various exhibits and activities include the ever popular Imagination Pl…
Omaha Children's Museum
This fun-filled and award-winning interactive museum is designed to educate and engage kids of all ages. The various exhibits and activities include the ever popular Imagination Playground and Sandy's Splish-Splash Garden. The Charlie Campbell Science and Technology Center features the Inventor's Workshop, the amazing whirligig station and live science presentations such as Whiz Bang Super Science and The Amazing Bubble Show. At the Creative Arts Center children can release their inner artist and create their own masterpieces in whatever medium takes their fancy. Although the exact diversions on offer may change from time to time, the Omaha Children's Museum guarantees a great day out for kids and adults alike.
Website www.ocm.org