


Travel guide for the Omaha area: Monday, September 8


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Omaha’s Must‑See Spots for a Quick Get‑away – A 500‑Word Round‑Up of the KETV Travel Guide
By [Your Name], Research Journalist
When KETV’s travel team rolled out its “Omaha Area Travel Guide” on Monday, September 8, they packed a compact, yet comprehensive, snapshot of what the city has to offer. From world‑class zoos to hidden culinary gems, the guide is a one‑stop resource for visitors who want to experience the heart of the Midwest without breaking the bank or the schedule. Below, we distill the guide’s highlights, follow a few of its internal links for extra context, and add a few extra tips that emerge from the broader Omaha tourism ecosystem.
1. The “Must‑See” Attractions
Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium
The flagship destination of the guide, the Henry Doorly Zoo remains one of the largest and most respected zoos in the world. It houses the world’s largest indoor desert, an award‑winning aquarium, and a sprawling array of animal habitats. The KETV article links directly to the zoo’s official site, where visitors can check ticket prices, schedule of shows, and special promotions (e.g., discounted family packages). A quick scan shows that September is a sweet spot for the zoo: temperatures are mild, the “Croc‑Crawl” event is in full swing, and the “Mysterious Creatures” exhibit is fresh off the press.
The Old Market District
The guide turns its spotlight onto the cobblestone streets of the Old Market, Omaha’s oldest historic district. Inside its brick walls sit boutiques, art studios, and an impressive food scene. The article gives a quick map of key spots: the Omaha Book Exchange, the historic St. Hedwig’s Church, and the famous “Olde Corned Beef” eatery. For a deeper dive, the article links to the Old Market Association’s tourism portal, where visitors can find up‑to‑date event calendars (like the “Brew‑in‑the-Old‑Market” beer festival) and gallery schedules.
Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
Another highlight is the iconic, light‑up pedestrian bridge that spans the Missouri River. The KETV piece underscores the bridge’s role not only as a transit point but also as a tourist hotspot for sunset photography. For those interested in the bridge’s history, a link to the “Omaha Pedestrian Bridge” official page explains the $12 million investment that funded its construction, as well as the engineering feat that keeps the bridge “standing 20 feet above the river in winter.”
Lauritzen Gardens
The KETV article recommends a stroll through Lauritzen Gardens, the largest botanical garden in the state. It features a “Winter Wonder Garden” exhibit that showcases native flora with vibrant LED lighting. A link to the garden’s website leads readers to a calendar of free guided tours and seasonal workshops, such as the “Flower Arranging 101” class scheduled for the second week of September.
2. Food & Drink: The Culinary Beat
Josie’s Restaurant
The guide lists Josie’s as a go‑to for those craving contemporary American fare. The article links to the restaurant’s menu, which emphasizes locally sourced ingredients—think Kansas‑state bison and Nebraska corn. A side note: Josie’s has a reputation for its craft cocktail “The Omaha Sunset,” which has earned local recognition in the “Nebraska Bartender of the Year” competition.
The Brick
A quick link to the Brick’s website offers a behind‑the‑scenes look at the brewery’s taproom and a schedule of “Beer Tasting Fridays.” The guide notes that The Brick’s seasonal pumpkin ale is slated to drop in late September, and the brewery is launching a “Community Brew Day” to celebrate the Harvest Festival.
Mosaic Café
The guide gives a brief rundown of Mosaic Café, an Asian‑fusion spot located in downtown Omaha. It is highlighted for its “sustainable sushi” concept and for offering free Wi‑Fi and workspace for digital nomads. A link to Mosaic’s Google‑My‑Business page provides user reviews that average 4.5 stars, with particular praise for their vegan options.
Hidden Gems
KETV’s article doesn’t stop at mainstream spots. It also mentions “Pioneer’s Alley” – a one‑street food crawl that includes a Korean BBQ stand, a Mexican taquería, and a dessert shop famous for its “Nebraska‑style sundaes.” The article links to a local blog that documents the Alley’s best‑selling items and recommended order‑ups.
3. Events & Culture
O‑Street Music Festival
KETV’s guide lists the O‑Street Music Festival (held every second Saturday in September) as a major event for music lovers. The article links to the festival’s official site, which lists performing acts ranging from indie folk to big‑band jazz. Ticket pricing is included – $20 for general admission, $60 for VIP passes that include backstage access and a complimentary craft beer.
Nebraska Art Walk
Another highlighted event is the “Nebraska Art Walk,” a month‑long series of gallery openings that culminate in a downtown “Gallery Night.” The guide provides a link to the Nebraska Arts Council’s schedule, where one can find details about participating venues, special exhibitions, and free art classes for kids.
Omaha Community Farmers’ Market
KETV recommends visiting the farmers’ market on Saturdays between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. in downtown Omaha. A link to the market’s official page shows a weekly menu that changes with the season – this week’s highlight is heirloom tomatoes and artisanal honey.
4. Practical Tips for Travelers
- Transportation: The guide includes a short overview of Omaha’s public transit options. The Metro Transit system’s website is linked for up‑to‑date schedules and fare prices. The article also recommends downloading the “Omaha City Bike” app for bike‑share services that are expanding in downtown and the Old Market.
- Weather: September typically sees daytime temperatures in the high 70s, with cooler evenings. The guide suggests layering and packing a light rain jacket for “unexpected showers.”
- Accommodation: While the guide does not list hotels in detail, it does link to the “Omaha Hotels & Lodging” portal, which aggregates options ranging from boutique inns like the “Redwood Lodge” to large chains such as Marriott and Hilton.
5. A Few Extra Nuggets
- The Omaha Museum of Fine Arts (MOFA) – The KETV guide briefly notes MOFA’s upcoming “Midwest Modern Art” exhibit. A link to the museum’s calendar indicates free admission for children under 12.
- Historic Fort Omaha Trail – A trailhead for history buffs that offers guided walking tours of the 19th‑century military fort. The guide links to the Omaha Parks Department’s page where visitors can download a trail map and learn about the fort’s role in the Civil War.
- Omaha’s Food Truck Scene – The guide hints at a growing food truck culture, especially around the Riverwest district. A link to a local foodie blog lists the top four trucks, including one that serves “Nebraska‑style pizza” and another offering “fusion tacos” with Korean BBQ.
Bottom Line
KETV’s “Omaha Area Travel Guide” delivers a crisp, reader‑friendly itinerary that balances iconic attractions with off‑beat local flavors. By weaving in direct links to official websites, event calendars, and third‑party reviews, the article equips travelers with actionable information while keeping the narrative light and engaging. Whether you’re a first‑time visitor or a returning fan, the guide’s curated list of sights, eats, and events is a great starting point for an unforgettable September adventure in the heart of the Midwest.
Read the Full KETV Omaha Article at:
[ https://www.ketv.com/article/travel-guide-for-the-omaha-area-monday-september-8/66010983 ]