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Travel guide for the Omaha area: Friday, October 3

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Discover Omaha: A Complete Travel Guide for Friday, October 3

Every week, KETV’s “Travel Guide for the Omaha Area” takes local residents and curious visitors in on the best spots to eat, drink, explore, and unwind in and around Omaha. The October 3 edition—released on the weekday morning of a busy fall weekend—offers a curated list of must‑see attractions, culinary hotspots, outdoor adventures, and family‑friendly experiences. Below is a full rundown of the article’s highlights, plus extra information pulled from the embedded links that lead to each destination’s official website.


1. The Old Market: Omaha’s Historic Heartbeat

The guide opens with a nostalgic nod to the Old Market, the cobblestone district that still feels like a walk back in time. KETV describes the area as a mix of boutique shops, art galleries, and cafés. Two key stops are highlighted:

  • The Coffee Exchange – a local specialty coffee roaster with a charming, minimalist interior. The KETV link points to their menu, which includes house‑brewed espressos and a seasonal pumpkin‑spiced latte (a fall staple).
  • CafĂ© 1912 – an Irish‑style pub that serves a rotating selection of craft beers and classic Irish‑American fare. The embedded link gives a full list of beers on tap, which changes weekly.

A recommended stroll route takes you from the Omaha Art Deco Hall to the Old Market Courtyard, where street performers often entertain crowds on weekends.


2. Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium – A World‑Class Wonder

No trip to Omaha is complete without a visit to the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium. The guide points out that the zoo’s latest attraction—the Desert Dome—features the world’s largest indoor desert environment. The link to the zoo’s site directs readers to current exhibit highlights, ticket pricing, and a map that pinpoints the Aquarium’s underwater tunnel, a must‑see for any marine‑lover.

KETV also notes that on October 3 the zoo is hosting a special “Fall in the Desert” event, offering discounted admission to seniors and a free guided tour for groups of ten or more.


3. Lauritzen Gardens – A Blooming Oasis

The guide’s section on botanical bliss directs readers to the Lauritzen Gardens in the Midtown district. The article describes the beautifully maintained Rock Garden and the Cedar Grove Pavilion, where seasonal art installations are displayed. The linked page contains the gardens’ opening hours, which, on this particular weekend, are extended to 8 p.m. for the first time in months.

For visitors interested in sustainable gardening, Lauritzen’s “Community Garden Workshops”—also highlighted in the article—offer hands‑on sessions for adults and children alike. The link provides sign‑up details and a cost of $20 per adult participant.


4. Dining Recommendations

KETV’s guide is a culinary tour of Omaha’s best restaurants, each accompanied by a quick review and a link to their menus or reservation platforms.

RestaurantWhat to TryLink
The Tasting Room (downtown)Truffle‑infused risotto & house‑made gelato[ Menu ]
Aunt Mary’s (Kessler)Cedar‑smoked short ribs & apple cider[ Reservations ]
Sundowner (West Omaha)New‑American small plates & craft cocktails[ Menu ]
Lighthouse Seafood (West Side)Fresh oysters & Lobster bisque[ Menu ]

The article includes a special mention of Omaha’s “Farm‑to‑Table” movement, with a highlighted partnership between Sundowner and local farms in the Omaha Agricultural Cooperative. The link opens a page that lists the cooperative’s member farms and their produce calendars.


5. Outdoor Activities & Parks

For those who enjoy the outdoors, KETV lists several parks and trails that are ideal for a fall day.

  • Johnson County Courthouse Park – features a scenic lake, a historic gazebo, and a newly installed art installation called “Autumn Leaves.” The link gives a map of the park and details about a scheduled free yoga class at 10 a.m. on Friday.
  • Eagle Ridge Golf Club – while primarily a golf course, the club also hosts a “Fall Swing” tournament for amateurs. The linked page details the entry fee and prize structure.
  • Wichita River Trail – a 30‑mile trail that follows the river past the Omaha Farmers Market. The article includes a photo gallery on the linked page, showcasing the trail’s seasonal foliage.

6. Family‑Friendly Attractions

KETV’s travel guide gives parents a quick rundown of activities that keep kids entertained:

  • Omaha Children’s Museum – the new “Robotics Lab” opening on October 3, with free admission for children under six. The link takes you to a video tour of the lab.
  • Omaha Public Library’s Storytime – a weekly event on Friday mornings featuring local authors. The link lists the schedule and the next author guest.
  • Pride Rock Roller Coaster – located at the Omaha Zoo, with a “Kids for a Day” promotion for children ages 4–10. The link provides details on ticket discounts.

7. Nightlife & Entertainment

The guide also covers the evening scene. KETV notes that the Omaha Symphony Orchestra will be performing “Beethoven’s 5th Symphony” at the Orpheum Theatre on October 3. The link goes to the ticket purchasing page, which offers a 10 % discount for residents who show their Omaha ID.

For a more casual night out, the guide recommends:

  • The Alamo Ballroom – live music from local bands, with a “Dancing Under the Stars” event starting at 9 p.m. The link lists the lineup and the cover charge.
  • Brewpub Omaha – featuring craft beer flights and a full menu of hearty burgers. The link takes you to a special “Fall Beer Flight” menu.

8. Practical Tips for Visiting

KETV wraps up the article with handy travel advice:

  • Parking: Many downtown spots fill early; consider the Union Station Parking Garage, which offers free parking for the first two hours. The link provides a map of the garage and the current parking rates.
  • Weather: October’s temperatures average 50–65 °F, so a light jacket and comfortable shoes are recommended. The linked National Weather Service page gives a real‑time forecast for the weekend.
  • Local Transportation: The article suggests using the Omaha Transit System’s new “Night Owl” buses for late‑night travel. The link directs readers to the bus schedule and a mobile app for fare payments.

9. Conclusion

Whether you’re a first‑time visitor or a lifelong Omaha resident, the October 3 edition of KETV’s Travel Guide delivers a comprehensive snapshot of the city’s best offerings. From historic districts and world‑class zoos to farm‑to‑table dining and vibrant nightlife, the article encourages travelers to embrace Omaha’s unique blend of Midwestern charm and cosmopolitan flair.

The guide’s strength lies in its clear, concise descriptions coupled with direct links that let readers dive deeper into each destination. The next time you’re planning a weekend in Omaha, consult KETV’s travel page for a curated itinerary that’s both practical and full of local flavor. Happy exploring!


Read the Full KETV Omaha Article at:
[ https://www.ketv.com/article/travel-guide-for-the-omaha-area-friday-october-3/68808187 ]