If you’re considering a family getaway, don’t overlook Omaha, Nebraska. This vibrant city is rich in culture and history, offering a plethora of activities for children. Need some inspiration? Here are fantastic options for family-friendly fun in Omaha.
Kid-Friendly Attractions in Omaha
Start your adventure at the Omaha Children’s Museum, where your kids can immerse themselves in countless interactive exhibits, a massive ball machine, a splash pad, and much more.
At the Joslyn Art Museum, Art Works provides a spacious 1,500-square-foot area where kids can engage with art in a hands-on way. And the best part? Admission to both venues is free, though some special exhibits may require a fee, making it a fantastic option for families visiting Omaha.
If you have an aspiring actor in your midst, check out The Rose Theater. Once a vaudeville stage, it now showcases performances suitable for children. There’s even a soundproof room for restless little ones, allowing you to keep an eye on the show via live video feed.
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is another essential stop. Known for its conservation efforts, the zoo features some of the largest indoor rainforests and deserts in North America. For a unique experience, consider the Sleeping Bag Safari, which lets families explore the zoo after dark. Reservations are required and kids must be 4 or older.
For a dose of history, visit The Durham Museum, located in the stunning Art Deco Union Station. This museum highlights the culture and history of the region, and if your family gets hungry, you can grab a nostalgic snack at the original soda fountain or enjoy treats from the candy shop.
Family-Friendly Dining in Omaha
Omaha’s culinary scene is fascinating, being the birthplace of the TV dinner, Reuben sandwich, and butter brickle ice cream. While the first may be hard to find, the latter two can be enjoyed at some of the best kid-friendly restaurants in the city.
Gerda’s German Restaurant is renowned for its Reuben sandwiches served on fresh-baked pumpernickel bread. The kids’ menu features classic options like sloppy Joes, hamburgers, grilled cheese, and German mac-and-cheese. Just a heads-up: Reservations are necessary for groups of four or more.
For dessert, don’t miss Coneflower Creamery, where you can find butter brickle ice cream year-round, along with a variety of other homemade flavors and vegan options.
If you don’t mind some mess, Hartland Bar-B-Que offers free meals for kids with an adult dinner purchase, featuring delicious baby back ribs and smoked chicken.
Dundee Dell, an 85-year-old pub, serves kid-friendly meals, including their world-famous fish and chips, along with a “Wall of Scotch” for the adults looking to unwind.
Ideal Hotels in Omaha for Families
The Hilton Garden Inn is conveniently situated downtown near many attractions for kids. It features a pool, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a Family Fun package that includes breakfast.
If you’re traveling with pets, the boutique Magnolia Hotel is pet-friendly and boasts a restaurant, a bar with a generous happy hour, and free homemade cookies each evening.
For a more rustic experience, consider the Peter Klewit Lodge in Mahoney State Park, which offers rooms with views of the park or the Platte River.
Outdoor Adventures for Kids in Omaha
Omaha is home to over 80 miles of walking, biking, and hiking trails, offering plenty of outdoor activities for families. Fontenelle Forest is perfect for hiking and wildlife encounters, while the 103-acre TreeRush Adventures aerial park features a special area for younger kids.
Take a moment to enjoy nature at Lauritzen Gardens, a 100-acre botanical center with a dedicated children’s garden and model trains. You can even print out a scavenger hunt list to make the visit even more engaging.
For water fun, check out Tubing & Adventures for tubing, kayaking, and fishing on the Elkhorn River. Their partner, The Neighborhood Offshore, provides stand-up paddleboard rentals too.
Make a splash at Fun-Plex, the largest waterpark in Nebraska, complete with waterslides, mini-golf, go-karts, and more.
You can also enjoy various activities in Mahoney State Park, from swimming to hiking, and even zip-lining for older kids. Winter fun includes cross-country skiing, sledding, ice skating, and fishing.
Unique Experiences in Omaha with Kids
Only in Omaha can you experience the thrill of “Bobbing,” which means standing in both Nebraska and Iowa simultaneously on the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge over the Missouri River.
Another exciting spot is the Old Market neighborhood, featuring historic brick streets, art galleries, street performers, and a variety of eateries and shops. Don’t miss the nightly light show at Heartland of America Park, where kids will be amazed as one of the fountains shoots water up to 320 feet high.
For more about navigating parenthood with toddlers, check out The Diaper Change Challenge with Toddlers: Tips for a Smoother Experience. For those on a fertility journey, Couples’ Fertility Journey for Intracervical Insemination is a valuable resource, and NHS has excellent information on IVF for pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, Omaha is brimming with family-friendly activities that cater to all interests, from educational experiences to outdoor adventures and delicious dining options.