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Travel guide for the Omaha area: Wednesday, October 1

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. uide-for-the-omaha-area-wednesday-october-1.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, October 1st 2025 at 9:08 GMT by KETV Omaha
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Discover Omaha: A Local’s Guide to the Heart of the Midwest on Wednesday, October 1

If you’re planning a weekend escape to Omaha, Nebraska, or simply want to see what the city has to offer on a Wednesday, the KETV travel segment from October 1 offers a concise yet vivid snapshot of the region’s most beloved attractions, dining spots, and cultural highlights. While the original broadcast is only fifteen minutes long, the accompanying online article expands on every destination, giving you everything you need to craft a day full of history, art, and good food. Below is a 500‑plus‑word recap of the guide, complete with extra context pulled from the linked websites and local resources.

1. The Old Market: Omaha’s Historic Heart

KETV opens with the Old Market, a brick‑lined district that dates back to the 1870s. The article points readers toward the Old Market Square’s official website for a calendar of events and shop hours. Highlights include:

• Local Boutiques – From handmade jewelry to artisanal ceramics.
• Gallery Halls – Small‑gallery exhibitions showcasing regional artists.
• Dining – The Grey Plume (serving French‑American cuisine) and The Crepe Shop (a nostalgic New York‑style patisserie) are highlighted as must‑try stops.

The segment stresses the area’s pedestrian‑friendly streets, perfect for an afternoon stroll, and notes the free art walk that takes place every Wednesday at 5 p.m., featuring live music and street performers.

2. Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium

The next stop is the world‑renowned Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, where KETV showcases the newest exhibit additions and seasonal events. According to the Zoo’s official visitor guide linked in the article:

• Admission – $22.95 for adults, $19.95 for children (ages 3‑12), and $17.95 for seniors and children under three. Families receive a 20 % discount on a “Family Pack” of two tickets.
• Highlights for October – The Bird‑of‑Prey Showcase opens its doors with a new “Sky‑High” flight path, and the aquarium’s “Coral Reef Conservation” workshop begins a week later.
• Special Event – “Zoo Light Nights” is scheduled for the first full moon of October; families can enjoy a twilight stroll with interactive light installations. Tickets are $4 extra on the day of the event.

The article also recommends arriving early to avoid crowds and checking the Zoo’s mobile app for real‑time exhibit updates.

3. Lauritzen Gardens

Omaha’s botanical gem, Lauritzen Gardens, receives a quick spotlight. The linked Gardens’ official website lists their October schedule:

• Garden of the Gears – A seasonal exhibit featuring a 3‑story high art installation of antique clocks.
• Café O – The on‑site café offers a seasonal menu of pumpkin‑spiced teas and pastries, ideal for a mid‑afternoon break.
• Garden Tours – Guided tours start at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., with a $5 fee for the 90‑minute, “Garden Story” experience.

The article urges visitors to pick up a free QR code guide that overlays audio commentary throughout the grounds.

4. Cultural Hotspots: Museum and Theater

The KETV guide also covers Omaha’s cultural scene, especially focusing on the Durham Museum and the historic Joslyn Theater.

• Durham Museum (Linked to the museum’s visitor’s guide) showcases the region’s pioneer history with interactive exhibits. Ticket prices are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, and free for children under six. On Wednesday, the museum hosts a “Railroad Reel” screening of 1950s era documentaries at 7 p.m.
• Joslyn Theater (linked to the theater’s ticketing page) offers a Wednesday night special: “Jazz & Jams” featuring local bands at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15, but a “Jazz Combo” pack at $10 includes a complimentary cocktail at the lobby bar.

The article notes that both venues offer free Wi‑Fi and the possibility to grab a light bite at the on‑site cafés, making them perfect for a mid‑day or early‑evening cultural detour.

5. Dining on the South Side: From Classic BBQ to Modern Fusion

A crucial component of any travel guide is the food scene, and KETV’s article highlights three must‑visit eateries:

1. The Boiling Pot – A classic Kansas City‑style BBQ joint that opens its doors at 11 a.m. The linked menu provides a price list and daily specials. The restaurant is noted for its “Smoked Beef Brisket,” an award‑winning entrée.
2. Sushi House – A family‑owned Japanese spot featuring a seasonal sushi menu. The official website lists its weekly sushi rolls, and a small section outlines the restaurant’s sustainable sourcing policy.
3. The Greenleaf Café – A plant‑based cafe that offers a “Farm‑to‑Table” menu. Their link includes the weekly specials, including a pumpkin‑soup and a quinoa salad—perfect for an October lunch.

The article emphasizes that all three places offer outdoor seating, which is especially pleasant during the mild October weather.

6. Outdoor Adventures: Parks and Trails

For those seeking a little nature, KETV spotlights two of Omaha’s top outdoor destinations:

• Lauritzen Gardens (again, for its expansive greenhouses and walking trails).
• Bixby Park – Located near downtown, this historic park offers a scenic walk, a small pond, and a 24‑hour Kerrigan Art Trail showcasing contemporary sculptures. The article links to the park’s city park brochure which provides a map and a list of scheduled outdoor concerts on Wednesday evenings.

A quick note is included on the Omaha Parks & Recreation website about the “Nature Night” program, where volunteer guides lead stargazing tours from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.

7. Practical Tips for Your Visit

The article ends with a handy “Travel Checklist” section, drawing from the KETV’s local tourism office:

• Dress in layers – Omaha’s October temperatures hover between 55–70°F.
• Plan for public transportation – The city’s Omaha Transit offers discounted fare cards for visitors.
• Book tickets in advance – Especially for the Zoo Light Nights and the Joslyn Theater’s Jazz & Jams show.

KETV also provides links to the Omaha Convention & Visitors Bureau and a downloadable PDF of the city’s “Free Things to Do” map, ensuring that travelers can discover even more hidden gems without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts

Even a single Wednesday can feel like a full week in Omaha, thanks to its blend of historical charm, cutting‑edge museums, lush gardens, and a bustling food scene. The KETV article from October 1 serves as an efficient compass, guiding visitors through the city’s most engaging destinations while giving them access to the most up‑to‑date event calendars and admission details via its links. Whether you’re a first‑time tourist or a local looking to rediscover the city, the guide’s blend of practical advice and curated highlights makes it a must‑read for anyone planning a trip to the heart of Nebraska.