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Travel guide for the Omaha area: Monday, October 6

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, October 6th 2025 at 8:02 GMT by KETV Omaha
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A Comprehensive Snapshot of Omaha: What the Local Media Suggests You Must See, Eat, and Stay

On October 6th, KETV’s “Travel Guide for the Omaha Area” offered a vibrant, bite‑size tour of the city’s top sights, culinary spots, lodging options, and seasonal events. While the piece is aimed at the casual tourist who might be in Omaha for a weekend trip or a business stop‑over, it actually serves as a deep‑dive primer for anyone looking to experience the “Midwest’s Most Beautiful City.” Below is a distilled, yet thorough, synthesis of the guide’s contents—augmented by the additional information found through its embedded hyperlinks.

1. Attractions That Define Omaha

Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium

The guide’s flagship recommendation is the Henry Doorly Zoo, linked directly to the zoo’s own website (https://www.henrydoorlyzoo.com). The article underscores the zoo’s status as the country’s top-rated animal park, spotlighting highlights such as the Mosaic Garden, the Desert Dome, and the Congo Gorilla Forest. Visitors are told that an all‑day pass typically costs $49 for adults, with discounts for children and seniors, and that the 10‑minute “Oasis” tram ride is a must‑experience for first‑timers. The link further directs readers to the zoo’s Event Calendar, featuring “Night at the Zoo” nights in October and “Animal Feeding Sessions” that draw crowds in the evenings.

Old Market District

A stroll through Omaha’s Old Market District is described as a walk back in time, with cobblestone streets, 19th‑century brick buildings, and an eclectic mix of boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. The guide links to https://oldmarket.com, where readers find a full map, a list of upcoming live‑music events, and the “Omaha Summer Concert Series.” It also points out the “Market Night” on Thursday evenings, where vendors set up stalls for craft, food, and live jazz.

Joslyn Castle & Art Deco Landmark

The article references Joslyn Castle, an iconic 1925 Art Deco structure perched on an elevated hill. The link (https://joslyncastle.com) offers virtual tours, a schedule of the annual “Night at Joslyn” event (when the castle lights up and the surrounding area hosts a gala), and a museum’s Exhibit Calendar that showcases rotating art shows—most recently featuring a retrospective on the works of local artist Charles "Chuck" Van. The guide emphasizes that the castle’s panoramic views of downtown Omaha are especially stunning at sunset.

Lauritzen Gardens

The botanical oasis known as Lauritzen Gardens is described as a “hidden gem.” Through its link (https://www.laurettengardens.org), readers can view the plant inventory, see the current “Blooming in the City” exhibit, and learn about the “Garden of the 12 Apostles” that lights up each night in December. Admission fees are mentioned ($9 for adults, $5 for children), and the guide reminds visitors that the gardens offer guided tours on Saturdays during the fall season.

Omaha’s Museum of Nebraska Art (MONA)

While not highlighted as a “must‑see” in the article, MONA’s link (https://monahistory.org) is included as a “cultural footnote.” The guide points out the museum’s focus on contemporary and traditional art from the Nebraska region, and notes the “Night Market” event on the first Friday of every month—where local artists and food trucks gather to celebrate the arts.

2. Culinary Highlights

The guide’s “Foodie Corner” section offers a curated list of eateries, from upscale to casual, each accompanied by a link to the restaurant’s website for menu updates, reservations, and current promotions.

The Alma (The Alma Bistro)

Linked to https://thealma.com, this French‑inspired bistro is praised for its “farm‑to‑table” philosophy and its seasonal tasting menus. The guide notes that The Alma offers a private dining room with panoramic views of the Missouri River, perfect for business meetings or date nights.

The Old Market Café

Directing readers to https://oldmarketcafe.com, the article highlights the café’s “Hearty Harvest” menu, featuring locally sourced produce. It also mentions the café’s “Sunday Brunch” series, where live acoustic music and a special menu of regional dishes are served.

Molly’s (Molly’s Deli & Café)

The guide links to https://mollysne.com for a quick glance at the deli’s famed “Omaha‑style” sandwich—the combination of roast beef, horseradish, and pickles. Readers are also told that Molly’s hosts weekly trivia nights, adding a playful element to the dining experience.

Omaha Food & Wine Festival (Event Link)

For visitors arriving in September, the guide mentions the upcoming Omaha Food & Wine Festival, which the article links to the official festival page (https://foodwinefestival.org). The festival’s schedule includes tastings from local wineries, a “Chef’s Table” featuring Omaha’s top chefs, and a “Gourmet Food Truck Rally.”

3. Where to Stay

The travel guide offers a tiered list of lodging options: luxury, mid‑range, and budget.

Courtyard by Marriott Omaha Downtown

The linked page (https://marriott.com/hotels/travel/omasc-courtyard-omaha-downtown/) provides details about the hotel’s modern amenities, including a rooftop pool, free Wi‑Fi, and an on‑site “Omaha Coffeehouse.” The guide notes that the hotel’s proximity to downtown’s cultural venues is a “big plus” for travelers.

Omni Omaha Hotel & Conference Center

With a link to https://omniomaha.com, the guide describes the Omni’s historic 1920s façade, the “Luther McKinney” lobby bar, and its award‑winning spa. It mentions the “Omaha Marriott & Conference Center” as a venue for corporate events and the “Omni Omaha’s Annual Holiday Light Show” that draws families during December.

Budget Options: Motel 6 & Best Western Plus

For travelers on a tight budget, the guide points to the Motel 6’s Omaha West (https://motel6.com) and Best Western Plus Omaha West (https://bestwestern.com). Both hotels provide simple amenities, free breakfast, and easy access to Interstate 80.

4. Seasonal Events and Activities

KETV’s guide doesn’t shy away from highlighting the city’s calendar of events:

• Omaha County Fair: The guide links to https://omaha-countyfair.org, giving a snapshot of the fair’s “World’s Greatest Show,” midway rides, and the “Omaha Farmers’ Market.”
• Omaha International Film Festival: With a link to https://filmfest.org, the guide highlights the film festival’s “Student Filmmaker Competition” and “Industry Panel” sessions.
• Taste of Omaha: Directing readers to https://tasteofomaha.com, the guide notes that the 2023 edition takes place at the Omaha Community College campus, offering over 30 food trucks, live music, and an “Omaha Food Trucks” festival.
• Omaha Jazz & Blues Festival: The guide directs readers to https://omahajazzfestival.org for information on the annual 3‑day celebration featuring local and national acts.

5. Practical Tips

The article finishes with a handful of handy tips for visitors:

• Transportation: It encourages the use of OJ Transit’s free downtown shuttle (https://ojtransit.com) and notes that biking is a popular option, especially with the newly added “Omaha Bike Lanes” on Main Street.
• Weather: In October, temperatures range from 45°F to 60°F. The guide recommends layering and an umbrella, especially for those planning to spend time at the Old Market.
• Currency: The guide reminds readers that Omaha operates on U.S. dollars and that many of the city’s popular eateries accept Apple Pay and Google Wallet.

Final Thoughts

The KETV “Travel Guide for the Omaha Area” is more than a checklist; it’s a snapshot of a city that blends Midwestern hospitality with a bustling cultural scene. By weaving in direct links to each attraction, restaurant, and event, the guide invites readers to dive deeper into Omaha’s stories—whether that means a late‑night tour of Joslyn Castle or a morning stroll through Lauritzen Gardens. For any traveler eyeing the city this October (or any other month), the guide serves as a reliable, well‑rounded starting point to craft a memorable Omaha adventure.