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Travel guide for the Omaha area: Friday, September 19

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Friday, September 19th 2025 at 9:42 GMT by KETV Omaha
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Discover Omaha: A Complete Travel Guide to the Heartland’s Hidden Gems

Published Friday, September 19 by KETV – a one‑stop reference for anyone planning a trip to the dynamic city of Omaha, Nebraska.

Omaha isn’t just the gateway to the Great Plains; it’s a vibrant cultural hub that blends classic Midwestern charm with modern entertainment, world‑class museums, and a booming food scene. In this guide, we distill the highlights highlighted by KETV’s local travel writers, and we dive into the websites that offer extra details—so you can map out an itinerary that’s perfectly tailored to your interests.

1. The Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium – A Natural Wonder Worth a Full Day

No visit to Omaha is complete without a trip to the Henry Doorly Zoo. According to the zoo’s official site, the attraction features the largest indoor rainforest in the world and the most expansive indoor water park in the United States. Visitors can walk through a 12‑room rainforest that simulates tropical, temperate, and polar climates, and then splash into the 40‑foot‑deep “Sundae Splash” water park.

• Admission: $49.95 for adults, $39.95 for seniors, $34.95 for children 3‑12, and free for kids under 3. Seasonal “Zoo & Aquarium” packages are available at discounted rates.
• Hours: 9:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (last admission 4:00 p.m.).
• Special Events: In September, the zoo hosts the “Night at the Zoo” event, where guests can enjoy late‑night tours and special programming.

The KETV article emphasizes the zoo’s “interactive” exhibits and the new “Great Plains Zoo” section, which highlights the region’s iconic wildlife, such as bison and prairie dogs. A tip from the writers: book tickets online to skip the long line and snag a free “Zoo Passport” that includes photo opportunities with the mascots.

2. Old Market – The City’s Historic Culinary and Cultural Core

The Old Market district is the beating heart of downtown Omaha. The district’s cobblestone streets and brick buildings house a mix of boutique shops, art galleries, and an eclectic selection of eateries. KETV’s feature includes a quick rundown of must‑stop restaurants and a few lesser‑known gems.

• Dining: From “Café Mamas” for a relaxed brunch to “The Grape & Barrel” for farm‑to‑table dinner, the district offers something for every palate. The article links to the Old Market website, which lists a “Food Guide” featuring current specials and tasting events.
• Shopping: Artisan boutiques such as Booze Boutique and The Nifty Shop offer handmade jewelry, leather goods, and local art.
• Events: The Old Market hosts the Omaha Food & Wine Festival each fall. In September, there’s a “Farmers Market” held every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For travelers looking for a curated shopping list, the Old Market website offers a PDF map highlighting the top 10 shops. KETV’s guide recommends arriving early to secure a seat at one of the outdoor cafés, especially on weekends when the street musicians set the atmosphere.

3. The Joslyn Art Museum – Where Classic Meets Contemporary

The Joslyn Art Museum, located in downtown Omaha, boasts an impressive collection that spans 5,000 years of art. The museum’s website provides essential details that the article briefly touches upon:

• Exhibitions: In September, the museum features “Modern Masterpieces” and a special “African Heritage” exhibit.
• Admission: $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, $9 for students, and free for children under 17.
• Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (closed Mondays).

KETV encourages visitors to explore the museum’s “Kids’ Corner” – an interactive space where younger guests can experiment with color and texture. The museum’s website also lists upcoming workshops and artist talks, which can be booked in advance.

4. Omaha’s Botanical Brilliance – Lauritzen Gardens

Located on the University of Nebraska campus, Lauritzen Gardens is a sprawling 300‑acre green oasis. The article highlights the Gardens’ seasonal displays, from the vibrant fall foliage to the early spring tulip blooms.

• Admission: $19 for adults, $14 for seniors, $13 for students, and free for children under 12.
• Hours: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (last admission 3:30 p.m.).
• Special Attractions: The Gardens’ “Japanese Garden” offers a serene escape, while the “Herb Garden” features over 50 species of culinary herbs.

The KETV piece encourages a stroll through the “Sunken Garden” during early evening, when the lighting highlights the water features and sculptures. The Gardens’ official site offers a virtual tour for those who prefer to explore the layout before arriving.

5. Outdoor Adventure – The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is a modern marvel that spans the Missouri River, connecting Omaha to Council Bluffs, Iowa. The article points out its stunning architecture and panoramic river views. For those who love walking or cycling, the bridge provides a safe, traffic‑free route.

• Walking & Cycling: The 2,600‑foot bridge is open to pedestrians and cyclists 6 a.m.–9 p.m.
• Guided Tours: The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge website lists guided walking tours that explain the bridge’s engineering and ecological significance.
• Events: In September, the bridge hosts a “Sunset Yoga” session that starts at 6:30 p.m. on Saturdays.

The bridge’s official site offers a downloadable “Bridge Safety Guide” and an audio tour that can be accessed via a smartphone app—great for tech‑savvy travelers.

6. Cultural Experiences – The Omaha Railyard & Community Playhouse

The Railyard is a cultural hotspot that blends music, theater, and contemporary art. KETV’s guide touches on:

• Concerts & Performances: The Omaha Railyard schedule lists a September lineup that includes jazz legends and indie bands.
• Art Installations: The “Urban Art” exhibit features rotating murals by local artists.
• Dining: The Railyard’s Railyard Café serves farm‑to‑table sandwiches and craft coffee.

The Omaha Community Playhouse (OCP), another highlighted venue, is a professional theater that offers a diverse repertoire. OCP’s website lists showtimes, ticket pricing ($30–$60 for adult seats), and a “Backstage Tour” that gives visitors a peek behind the curtain.

7. Food & Drink – Omaha’s Craft Beer Revolution

The article devotes a brief section to Omaha’s burgeoning craft beer scene. Links are provided to local breweries such as Great Crossing Brewing Co. and Omaha Brewing Company:

• Great Crossing Brewing Co.: Known for its “Bison IPA” and “Prairie Porter.” The brewery’s site offers a map of taproom locations and a “Brewer’s Guide” that explains each brew’s origin.
• Omaha Brewing Company: A family‑owned taproom that serves seasonal farmhouse ales. Their website hosts a calendar of “Beer Tasting Nights.”

For visitors who prefer wine, the Omaha Wine Trail website (linked in the article) lists regional vineyards and tasting rooms, many of which offer free shuttle services on weekends.

8. Practical Tips – Making the Most of Your Omaha Trip

KETV’s travel writers compile a set of “Must‑Know” facts that help travelers navigate Omaha efficiently:

• Transportation: Omaha’s downtown is walkable; however, the Omaha Transit website lists bus routes and a bike‑share program that operates citywide.
• Accommodations: The article links to the Omaha Hotels Guide, which provides a curated list of boutique hotels and budget-friendly options.
• Weather: September in Omaha is typically mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid‑60s to low 70s°F. However, a light jacket is advisable for evenings.
• Safety: All major attractions offer 24‑hour security; the city’s official website includes a “Traveler’s Safety Guide” with real‑time updates on public safety.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a nature lover, a food enthusiast, or a history buff, Omaha offers a multifaceted experience that can satisfy any travel style. KETV’s guide brings you an up‑to‑date snapshot of the city’s most exciting destinations, enriched by links to the official sites that provide admission details, schedules, and insider tips.

Plan your visit around the highlighted seasonal events—like the Zoo’s “Night at the Zoo” or the Old Market’s farmers’ market—to truly capture the essence of this vibrant Midwest gem. Happy travels!