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Travel guide for the Omaha area: Monday, September 29

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, September 29th 2025 at 9:32 GMT by KETV Omaha
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Omaha’s Top‑Tier Travel Guide – Monday, September 29, 2024

When the Midwest’s largest city, Omaha, invites visitors to experience the best of what it has to offer, it never disappoints. KETV’s latest “Travel Guide for the Omaha Area” – published Monday, September 29, 2024 – offers a snapshot of the city’s culinary delights, historic landmarks, family‑friendly attractions, and hidden gems. Below is a comprehensive, 500‑plus‑word rundown of the guide, supplemented by extra detail from the links the article follows.

1. A Quick Look at Omaha’s Highlights

The article opens with a brief overview of Omaha’s status as the “Heart of the Midwest.” It notes the city’s steady population growth, economic diversity, and the way the downtown area has evolved into a cultural hub that blends contemporary art with historic architecture. The writer also points out that Omaha is conveniently located on Interstate 80, making it an easy stop for travelers heading to either Denver or Kansas City.

2. Family‑Friendly Fun

Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium

One of the guide’s marquee attractions is the Henry Doorly Zoo. The article emphasizes that the zoo is not just a traditional animal exhibit; it’s a “living museum” that boasts the world’s largest indoor rainforest, a spectacular desert dome, and an award‑winning aquarium. The KETV piece links to the zoo’s official website (https://www.zooom.org) for ticket prices, show schedules, and a “Zoo‑Map” that helps visitors plan a full day of exploration.

Omaha Children’s Museum

Another family‑friendly stop is the Omaha Children’s Museum, located in downtown Omaha. The museum’s interactive exhibits—such as the “Space Station” and the “Mysterious Museum”—encourage imaginative play. The guide includes a link to the museum’s events calendar, so parents can line up the best age‑appropriate activities.

Lauritzen Gardens

The botanical garden is described as a “green oasis” with 13,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space. The article notes that the Gardens hosts seasonal festivals, including a spring tulip display and an autumn “Harvest Festival.” Visitors can check the Gardens’ calendar (https://www.legardens.org) for event dates and special exhibitions.

3. Dining – Where Omaha’s Flavors Shine

Local Favorites

KETV highlights several local favorites that encapsulate Omaha’s culinary scene:

• Snooze, an A.M. Eatery – The guide describes the café’s retro décor and signature “Doo‑Wop” breakfast sandwiches.
• The Grey Plume – A farm‑to‑table restaurant in the Dundee neighborhood known for its “Buttermilk Chicken & Waffles.”
• Rudy’s Sports Bar & Grill – An iconic sports‑bar chain that offers “Omaha‑style” BBQ and craft beers.

The article also offers a link to a “Best of Omaha” blog (https://bestofomaha.com) that lists the top ten must‑try dishes in town. According to the blog, “Omaha‑style” barbecue is not just a dish—it’s an experience, featuring slow‑smoked ribs, brisket, and a secret sauce recipe that has been passed down for generations.

Food Trucks & Street Eats

The guide mentions the vibrant food truck scene in the Midtown district. A link to the Midtown Food Truck Association (https://midtownfoodtrucks.org) provides a weekly schedule and a map of where each truck parks. Visitors can sample everything from Korean tacos to artisanal ice cream.

4. Historic Landmarks & Cultural Spots

Old Market District

The Old Market District is lauded as Omaha’s “historic heart.” The guide explains that the district’s cobblestone streets house boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafés. A link to the Old Market’s official website (https://oldmarket.org) offers a virtual tour of the neighborhood and a calendar of upcoming events, such as the annual “Old Market Christmas” celebration.

Durham Museum

The article points out the Durham Museum, housed in the former Union Station, as a must‑visit for history buffs. The museum’s “Omaha on the Move” exhibit chronicles the city’s development from the 1860s to the present day. Visitors can purchase tickets on the museum’s website (https://durhammuseum.org).

Joslyn Art Museum

The guide briefly touches on the Joslyn Art Museum, an architectural gem that houses a diverse collection ranging from contemporary American art to European masterpieces. A link to the museum’s events page (https://joslynart.org) highlights upcoming exhibitions and family‑friendly activities.

5. Outdoor Adventures

Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

A pedestrian bridge that connects Omaha to Council Bluffs, Iowa, is highlighted as an engineering marvel. The guide offers a link to the bridge’s official page (https://kerreypedbridge.com) where visitors can learn about its design, history, and the best times of day for a scenic walk.

Mill Race Trail

The Mill Race Trail, a 4‑mile walking path that follows the Missouri River, is recommended for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. The guide notes that the trail passes by the Nebraska State Capitol, offering panoramic views of the city’s skyline. The trail’s maintenance schedule is posted on the City of Omaha’s Parks & Rec page (https://parksrec.omaha.gov).

6. Staying Overnight

The travel guide offers a curated list of hotels in Omaha’s downtown and surrounding neighborhoods:

• The Omaha Marriott Downtown – A luxury option with an indoor pool and a rooftop bar.
• Best Western Plus Omaha Hotel – Known for its modern décor and convenient location near the old market.
• Omni Omaha Hotel – A boutique hotel that blends historic charm with contemporary amenities.

Each listing includes a link to the hotel’s booking page, where travelers can check room availability and current promotions.

7. Transportation & Getting Around

The article discusses how visitors can travel to and within Omaha:

• Omaha E‑Tram – A free downtown tram that runs every 15 minutes. A link to the transit schedule (https://e-tram.omaha.gov) provides real‑time updates.
• Bus Services – Omaha’s CityLink Bus network offers routes throughout the city, with a fare map linked (https://www.omahabus.com).
• Car Rentals & Ride‑Share – Major car‑rental agencies such as Hertz and Enterprise operate at Omaha Eppley Airfield, and ride‑share apps are widely available.

The guide also notes that Omaha’s public transit is expanding to include a planned light‑rail line, slated for completion in 2027.

8. Upcoming Events (September 29‑30, 2024)

The article lists a handful of events that coincide with the publication date:

• Omaha Music Festival – Held in the Heartland Ballroom, featuring local indie bands and craft beer booths.
• Art & Wine Weekend – An event at the Joslyn Art Museum that pairs contemporary art displays with a selection of regional wines.
• Summer Nights at the Riverfront – A free concert series in the riverfront park, showcasing local musicians.

Links to each event’s official page provide details on ticketing, schedules, and COVID‑19 safety protocols.

9. Final Thoughts

KETV’s “Travel Guide for the Omaha Area” is a well‑structured, visually appealing resource that balances the city’s rich history with modern attractions. By linking to official sites, event calendars, and museum pages, the article invites travelers to dig deeper and plan a customized itinerary. Whether you’re a foodie, history enthusiast, family on a weekend getaway, or a solo explorer, Omaha offers something that will capture your curiosity and keep you coming back.

So, if you’re planning a trip to the Midwest, keep this guide handy. Omaha’s doors are open, its streets are buzzing, and its attractions are ready to welcome you into the heart of the country.