



Travel guide for the Omaha area: Thursday, October 16


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Omaha’s Best of 10/16: A Quick‑Guide to the City’s Highlights
Omaha’s Thursday, October 16, is a day of local culture, outdoor activity and culinary delight. The KETV travel guide breaks the day into a handful of themed blocks that highlight the city’s diverse offerings—from history and science to food and art. Whether you’re a first‑time visitor or a lifelong resident, the article maps out a full‑day itinerary that fits most budgets and interests.
1. Start With a Historic Stroll
The guide opens by recommending a morning walk through Omaha’s Old Market. The cobblestone streets and 19th‑century brick buildings house an eclectic mix of boutique shops, galleries and cafés. The article points out that the Old Market Public Art Project displays rotating installations that can be viewed on the sidewalk. A brief detour to Linden Tower offers a 360‑degree view of the Missouri River, and the local guide notes the tower’s LED light show that plays on the 7th‑floor balcony at 8 p.m. every Thursday.
For a deeper dive into the district’s history, the article links to the Omaha History Center website, which hosts a virtual tour of the Old Market’s founding year. The center’s “From Past to Present” exhibit showcases photographs from the 1880s alongside contemporary street‑level footage.
2. Cool Down at the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium
After a morning in the Old Market, the next stop is the world‑renowned Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium. KETV highlights the Desert Dome—the planet’s largest indoor desert—and the newly opened Giraffe Habitat. The guide reminds readers to arrive early, as the “Morning Tea with the Giraffes” event is limited to the first 50 guests. Ticket prices are listed ($37.95 for adults, $30.95 for children), and the article offers a coupon link that provides a 10 % discount for online purchases.
A side note in the article points to the zoo’s “ZooKeeper Q&A” livestream that starts at 11 a.m. It’s free and provides an inside look at the animal care staff’s daily routine. The guide also notes the zoo’s Café La Piraña—a local staple that serves Mexican‑inspired pastries and coffee—located near the South Gate.
3. Afternoon Art & Culture
At noon, the article shifts gears to the Joslyn Art Museum, a hidden gem in downtown Omaha. The museum’s current exhibition, “American Masters: The Great Lakes,” is praised for its immersive 3‑D displays. The guide links to the museum’s calendar, which lists a free guided tour at 1:30 p.m. for the day. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes, as the museum spans four floors and includes a sculpture garden that is especially vivid when the autumn light hits the bronze pieces.
Shortly after the museum, KETV suggests a stop at the Omaha Theatre Company for the “Othello” performance, which opens at 7:30 p.m. Ticket pricing and a reservation link are provided in the article. The company’s website includes a backstage video tour, which the guide recommends for theatre enthusiasts.
4. Sunset on the Missouri River
The article recommends concluding the day with a sunset walk along the Missouri Riverwalk. The guide details the various scenic points, such as the Riverside Park and the Waldorf Park Bridge, and notes that the riverfront hosts an open‑air cinema that shows classic films from 8 p.m. onward. The “Riverwalk Map” link supplies a downloadable PDF of the entire route, along with parking instructions and bike‑share station locations.
The guide also highlights the Omaha Farmers Market that runs from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday mornings. Vendors sell fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handcrafted goods, and the article recommends grabbing a “Farmers Market Trail Mix” from The Root Cellar—a specialty food store adjacent to the market.
5. Nightcap & Dining
For dinner, the article features Plum Street’s “Bistro 23,” a modern French bistro praised for its seasonal tasting menu. The guide notes that reservations are essential, and it includes a phone number and a link to the bistro’s booking system. For a more casual option, the guide recommends “The Dock”, a waterfront bar that offers craft beers and a rooftop view of the city skyline.
Finally, the guide wraps up with a quick look at transportation: a recommendation to use the Omaha Public Transit (OMAT) “Blue Line” for downtown routes, along with tips on parking in the city’s downtown parking garages. For those who prefer to walk, the guide includes a “Walk Score” metric and a printable city map.
Bottom Line
KETV’s 10/16 travel guide gives readers a complete, easy‑to‑follow plan that starts with history, moves through science and art, and ends with a sunset riverside stroll and a delicious dinner. By weaving together the city’s top attractions, cultural events, and practical tips, the article provides a snapshot of Omaha’s vibrant fall atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to explore museums, enjoy outdoor scenery, or savor local cuisine, the guide ensures that every minute of your day is packed with something memorable.
Read the Full KETV Omaha Article at:
[ https://www.ketv.com/article/travel-guide-for-the-omaha-area-thursday-october-16/69055944 ]