Thu, November 13, 2025
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Start Your Day in Omaha's Historic Old Market: Cafe O'Leary and Artisan Vibes

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Omaha’s Thursday, November 13 Travel Guide – A Day of Culture, Cuisine, and Outdoor Charm

If you’re planning a weekend escape to the heart of the Midwest, KETV’s “Travel Guide for the Omaha Area” has you covered with a thoughtfully curated itinerary for Thursday, November 13. Whether you’re a first‑time visitor or a seasoned Omaha local, the guide weaves together history, art, nature, and Southern‑style hospitality to give you a taste of what makes this city uniquely inviting. Below is a concise rundown of the day’s highlights, complete with practical details that came straight from the guide’s own links and official websites.


Morning: Start in the Historic Old Market

The guide opens with a call to begin the day in the cobblestone lanes of Omaha’s Old Market district. A 1918‑era warehouse now houses boutique shops, art studios, and an eclectic mix of cafés. KETV recommends grabbing a cappuccino at Café O’Leary, which prides itself on locally sourced beans and a daily pastry rotation. For a quick bite, Old Market Coffee offers freshly baked bagels and hearty breakfast sandwiches.

  • Address: 1000 S 12th St, Omaha, NE 68102
  • Hours: 7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • Parking: Street parking is abundant; paid lots are located on 12th Street and near the Market.

While strolling, take a moment to admire the Victorian‑style brickwork and stop by the Omaha City Market for a glimpse of local artisans. If you’re interested in local history, the Durham Museum (linked in the guide) sits just a short walk away and offers rotating exhibits on Nebraska’s pioneer past and industrial heritage.


Late Morning: The Arts at Joslyn Museum

Next on the itinerary is the Joslyn Art Museum, a stone‑laden Beaux‑Arts landmark that boasts a diverse collection ranging from European masters to contemporary African art. The KETV guide notes that the museum hosts a special “Omaha 2024: Art & Culture” exhibition featuring works by local and regional artists. Admission is free on Thursday evenings, but the museum recommends purchasing a timed ticket in advance for entry during peak hours.

  • Address: 1004 N 12th St, Omaha, NE 68102
  • Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  • Website: https://joslynmuseum.org

While you’re there, the guide suggests checking out the museum’s gift shop, which offers locally made jewelry, prints, and culinary treats that showcase Nebraska’s farm‑to‑table ethos.


Lunch: Hearty Comfort at Brickhouse Pizza & Grille

For lunch, KETV directs you to Brickhouse Pizza & Grille in the historic Mill District, an Omaha staple that delivers hearty, wood‑oven pizzas alongside craft beers brewed on site. The guide specifically highlights the “Brickhouse Burger” and the “Pecan Pecan Salad” as must‑try dishes that showcase Nebraska’s local produce.

  • Address: 1333 W 24th St, Omaha, NE 68118
  • Hours: 11:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.
  • Website: https://brickhousepizza.com

The restaurant’s open‑air patio is especially pleasant in late autumn, and the guide notes that reservations are highly recommended during the weekend.


Afternoon: Nature and Relaxation at Lauritzen Gardens

After lunch, head to Lauritzen Gardens, a 40‑acre botanical paradise that offers a serene escape from the urban bustle. The guide links to the gardens’ official site, where you’ll find information on seasonal exhibits. In November, the “Fall in Bloom” display highlights native prairie flowers and amber‑tinted foliage.

  • Address: 1300 S 3rd St, Omaha, NE 68102
  • Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  • Website: https://www.lauritzengardens.org

The gardens also feature a “Canoe and Kayak” rental service for those who wish to glide across the nearby Lake Manawa—a quick detour that KETV suggests for a scenic water‑front experience.


Evening: Live Entertainment at the Omaha Performing Arts Complex

As night falls, the guide recommends catching a performance at the Omaha Performing Arts Complex. Whether you prefer an intimate concert by the Omaha Symphony or a Broadway‑style show at the Omaha Community Playhouse, the guide links to each venue’s event calendar. For November 13, the Omaha Symphony’s “Winter Wonderland” is highlighted—a family‑friendly program featuring holiday classics played by the full orchestra.

  • Omaha Performing Arts Complex: 1001 W 13th St, Omaha, NE 68102
  • Omaha Community Playhouse: 1201 W 12th St, Omaha, NE 68102
  • Tickets: https://omaha.com/arts-and-entertainment (check both sites for pricing and availability)

The guide advises arriving at least 30 minutes early to soak up the pre‑show ambiance and explore the on‑site gift shop, which sells local crafts and souvenir artwork.


Nightcap: Cozy Drinks at L’atelier

Conclude your day with a relaxed drink at L’atelier, a chic wine bar located in the heart of the Old Market. The guide notes that the bar hosts “Wine & Dine” nights featuring small plates and a rotating selection of Nebraskan and international vintages. For a sweet ending, try the “Chocolate Soufflé” that pairs perfectly with a glass of port.

  • Address: 1041 S 12th St, Omaha, NE 68102
  • Hours: 4:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
  • Website: https://atelierwinebar.com

Practical Tips & Extra Resources

  • Parking: Downtown Omaha offers several paid lots and street parking. The guide recommends using the Downtown Parking Garage on 12th Street for a safe, covered spot.
  • Transportation: For those preferring public transit, the Omaha Public Transportation (OMAT) routes run through the downtown corridor, with a convenient stop near the Joslyn Museum.
  • Weather: November in Omaha can be chilly, with average highs around 55 °F and lows near 35 °F. Layering is key; a light jacket and comfortable shoes are advisable.
  • Event Calendar: KETV’s guide encourages readers to visit the official Omaha tourism website (https://www.visitomaha.com) for a comprehensive events calendar, including festivals, farmer’s markets, and seasonal art fairs.

Wrap‑Up

KETV’s travel guide for Thursday, November 13 offers a balanced mix of cultural enrichment, culinary delight, and natural beauty—all within a walkable radius of Omaha’s downtown core. By following the recommended stops—from the historic Old Market to the Joslyn Art Museum, the relaxed vibe of Brickhouse Pizza, the tranquil gardens, and an evening of live performance—visitors can experience the depth and diversity that makes Omaha a true Midwestern gem. Whether you’re in town for a weekend or just visiting a stopover, this itinerary ensures you’ll taste, see, and feel what Omaha has to offer.


Read the Full KETV Omaha Article at:
[ https://www.ketv.com/article/travel-guide-for-the-omaha-area-thursday-november-13/69422855 ]