Most people often overlook this midwestern town that’s tucked away in the middle of America, but there’s a lot to enjoy in this charming metropolitan.
If you’re looking for some of the best things to do in Omaha you’ve come to the right place!
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TreeRush Adventures at Fontenelle Forest
You only have to go a short distance to escape the city and explore this beautiful little dense forest. Best part is it’s located about 9 miles outside of downtown Omaha.
At the center of this gorgeous forest you will find TreeRush Adventures at Fontenelle Forest. This incredible rope course gives you the best vantage point of the trees.
This ropes course is designed for all levels, and includes bridges, tunnels, swings and zip lining. Training is provided before starting the ropes course to ensure safety.
They are open 9 am – 10 pm, but I would recommend getting here in the evening so you can climb below the glowing lights.
It felt so dreamy being up in the trees with the twinkling lights overhead and the sun setting. My husband and I are both afraid of heights, but we had SO much fun!!!
This place is easily one of the BEST things to do in Omaha! And if you’re not feeling up to the challenge, you can still find lots of trails around here to explore.
Vala's Pumpkin Patch
You know that feeling when you just want to pass out because you’re so taken by how cute everything is? This place IS.IT!!!
The downside is this place is only open seasonally from September through October.
You will catch yourself saying “this is so cute” around every corner of this farm!
There are so many fun activities that are included with admission like a haunted house and graveyard golf!
My favorite feature was the peddle bikes available to ride through so many cute paths! I highly recommend making a stop here.
You can smell fresh cider donuts and kettle corn throughout the farm, and you do not want to skip out! The food was so SO good!!
Of course this place also makes the best backdrop for your next instagram photo, so make sure you have enough space in your phone to capture all these cute spots.
To book tickets go here.
Holy Family Shrine
I have to confess this place is located 26 miles southwest of Omaha, but I had to include it because this place is the most charming church you didn’t know existed!
This church is located off interstate 80 with the idea of attracting visitors to come pray and develop their faith.
The unique architecture was inspired by this church located in Arkansas we visited almost 1 year ago by coincidence.
The Holy Family Shrine has created a place of refuge and inspiration since 2002 and is definitely worth visiting.
The Old Market
This historic neighborhood in downtown Omaha is filled with tasteful local restaurants and lovely shops.
Taking a stroll down these old cobblestone streets will make you feel like you have stepped into a Hallmark special.
While you are here I recommend you check out these places:
I about died when I walked into this place, because this shop is filled with the best vintage collection!
You will find an entire room filled with antique pinball machines and an old movie theater that still screens free movies!
You will also find hand-made candy, fudge, 150+ flavors of soda and an actual 50’s style diner here!
I just couldn’t resist adding this to the list of best things to do in Omaha.
This darling little art gallery was founded in 1981 and the building was designated a historic landmark in 1982 due to the building being around since 1886!
It features some incredible art by 21 local artists. I recommend you pop in to admire all the different art featured here.
If you’re anything like me and wish Christmas was around all year long, than you will definitely want to visit Tannenbaum. You will find some delightful Christmas decor and gifts!
This shop doesn’t exclusively sell Christmas items though, you will also find some of the best souvenirs and gifts here! You won’t want to miss this adorable place.
Omaha Zoo
Chances are if you ask someone from Omaha where to visit 10 out of 10 will say the Omaha Zoo and for good reason. This place is ranked as one of the WORLD’S best zoo’s!
This place even outranks the San Diego Zoo! It’s also nationally recognized as a leader in animal conservation and research.
The Desert Dome is the world’s largest indoor desert! Plant and wildlife from three different deserts can be found here.
The Omaha Zoo can also brag about having the world’s largest indoor rainforest!
This 70 foot shark tunnel makes you feel like a character in the Little Mermaid, and I was not definitely mad about it.
You can easily spend an entire day exploring this 130 acre park and all the amazing exhibits found here, so make sure to add this to your list of things to do in Omaha!
Popular Dining Spots
This guide wouldn’t be complete without including some popular eateries among locals:
A cute neighborhood cafe located in Dundee.
They are most well known for their brunch.
Speaking of brunch, you won’t want to miss this adorable place. The food is SO good!
What makes this place even better is that it’s next door to a local donut shop and the menu here actually incorporates fresh donuts from next door. What’s not to love?!
This is the donut shop next door to Early Bird Brunch, and the donuts are good!
Also, how cute is this shop??
A popular place among locals, so much so that this coffee shop has 3 different locations!
You will also find popular dessert items here like fresh cinnamon rolls.
Had to save the best for last, this darling soda shop is a must see!!!
You place your order using the phone found on the wall of each booth for a fun twist. The food is delicious and the fresh pie of the day is just too good to pass up.
I hope this guide helps you find some of the best things to do in Omaha!
Don’t forget to snag your free itinerary! It’s delivered straight to your inbox when you fill out the form below.