Omaha - county seat of Douglas County, Nebraska, United States

Omaha is the largest city in the US state of Nebraska, with about 486,000 residents in 2020. It is on the Missouri River border with Iowa, along Interstates 29 and 80. Tourist attractions in Omaha include history, sports, outdoors and cultural experiences. Its principal tourist attractions are the Henry Doorly Zoo and the College World Series. The Old Market in Downtown Omaha is another major attraction and is important to the city's retail economy.

Understand

Omaha has some unusual traits, as it has the most millionaires per capita in the nation, and is also home to billionaire Warren Buffett, one of the world's richest and most famous investors. Conversely, it also has one of the highest rates of African Americans living under the poverty line. It is still quite racially divided, with the affluent west side and Midtown being predominantly white, the south side Latino, and the northeast side African American.

Residents are friendly and polite, and Omaha has a well-deserved reputation for hospitality.

• Omaha Convention & Visitors Bureau, 1001 Farnam Street (in Downtown Omaha near the Old Market, at the southwest corner of 10th and Farnam Streets), 41.25741°, -95.92945°, +1 402-444-7762. The official resource for events, attractions, hotels, restaurants, transportation, meetings and conventions and the film office. Pick up a copy of the Omaha Visitors Guide.

Get in

By plane

• Omaha Eppley Airfield (IATA: OMA), 41.302°, -95.893667°. A medium-sized airport served by all major airlines and some low-cost carriers, and has flights from most major cities in the US. The terminal has on-site rental car services at the baggage claims, and free high-speed wireless internet access. Commercial airlines serving Eppley include Alaska, Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, and United. The airport is also served by two FBOs for General Aviation services, and at least two charter operations.

Secondary airports serving the area are Millard Airport 📍 (IATA: MIQ) in West Omaha, Plattsmouth Municipal Airport 📍 (KPMV) in South Omaha, North Omaha Airport 📍 (), Fremont Municipal Airport 📍 (IATA: FET) and Council Bluffs Municipal Airport 📍 (IATA: CBF) in Iowa, across the Missouri River east.

By train

Amtrak serves Omaha with the California Zephyr, which runs daily between Emeryville (in the San Francisco Bay Area) and Chicago. It has several stops along the way, with connections throughout America. Omaha once had a grand Union Station like Chicago, but it is now retired as a museum. The current Omaha Amtrak station 📍 is on 1003 South 9th Street.

By bus

The Intercity/Interline Bus Station 📍 for Burlington Trailways and Jefferson Lines south of downtown at 1601 S Jackson St while Express Arrow serves the airport. Check schedules & websites. (Some of these companies also have (additional) stops in other parts of the city.) From here buses typically come from Denver to the west on I-80/76; and from Chicago to the east along I-80/88. There are other bus services going north & south between Sioux City, IA and Kansas City, MO as well:

• Burlington Trailways. Travels along I-76 and 80 between Denver and Omaha via Ogalalla, North Platte, Lexington, Kearney, Grand Island and Lincoln in Nebraska. Another route along I-80 from Chicago, across Iowa via Davanport, Iowa City and Des Moines; to Omaha. 2015-08-04
• Express Arrow (Black Hills Stage Lines), +1 402 341-1906. Travels along I-76 and 80 between Denver and Omaha via Ogalalla, North Platte, Lexington, Kearney, Grand Island and Lincoln in Nebraska on one route. There's another route along US-Hwy 81 & 30 from Norfolk via Madison, Humphrey, Columbus, North Bend & Fremont to Omaha. They have additional (local) stops at Omaha Eppley (Airport) and at Sappo Brothers at 4620 N Broad in Fremont for the route going out towards Norfolk. 2015-07-19
• Greyhound Lines, +1 402-341-1906. Greyhound no longer serve Omaha or anywhere in Nebraska but they do serve as a booking agent for Burlington Trailways, Express Arrow, and Jefferson Lines,. 2015-07-19
• Jefferson Lines, +1 402-341-1906. Travels primarily on Interstate 29 between Kansas City, Omaha, Sioux City and Sioux Falls. A variation of the route detours from St Joseph, MO up to Maryvile, MO and Clarinda, IA along US Hwy 71 and over towarads I-29 via Shenandoah, IA along SR-2 2015-07-19

There are additional companies offering intrastate transportation out of the airport (see 'By shuttle' in below).

By shuttle

• Navigator Airport Express, +1 308-234-6066, navigatorexpress@navigatorbus.com. Formerly Eppley Express. Provides limited shuttle service between Omaha and several Nebraska cities including Kearney, Grand Island, Hastings, Lincoln and York. Two pick-up/drop-off locations are available in Omaha: Eppley Airfield and Holiday Inn at 72nd & Grover just north of I-80. Service is limited to specific days and times depending upon your destination. Reservations available on-line.
• Omalink, +1 402-475-5465. Provides limited shuttle service between Omaha and Lincoln including their respective airports.

Get around

Districts

Neighbourhoods of Omaha are generally ill-defined and rarely used. When describing a location, Omahans are more likely to give an intersection. For example "39th & Davenport" for Joslyn Castle or "156th & Center" for Zorinsky lake. Roughly speaking: Downtown is between I-480 and the Missouri River, Midtown is between I-480 and I-680, and West Omaha is west of I-680.

By car

By far the easiest and most convenient way of getting around. The city is a grid and easily navigable, numbered streets run north-south and increase in number as you go west. Parking is plentiful and often free outside of downtown, and traffic jams are rare. All major rental car companies operate in Omaha.

By bus

The Omaha Metro has regular bus services serving around Omaha. Fares are $1.25-1.50 for adults, $1 for students, and $.60 for seniors.

By taxi

Taxi service is available, but there is much less than in major cities. Taxis are always available at the airport and train and bus stations, but you won't be able to hail a cab downtown; you must call and arrange for a taxi to pick you up. Rates are fixed by city ordinance and do not vary among companies. Ride-sharing companies Uber and Lyft are also present.

• zTrip (Happy Cab), +1 402-292-2222.

See

Zoo

• Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, 3701 S 10th St (take Exit 454 on I-80, for 13th St South toward Stadium-Zoo), 41.224703°, -95.928701°, +1 402-733-8401. 9AM-5PM. This nationally renowned zoo is Nebraska's number one paid attraction. It features an expansive and aquarium, "Kingdoms of the Night" (world's largest nocturnal exhibit and indoor swamp), the Lied Jungle (world's largest indoor rainforest), and the "Desert Dome" (world's largest indoor desert). $20.95 adults, $13.95 children, $19.95 seniors and military 2021-04-16
• The Zoo also runs a drive-through Wildlife Safari Park 📍 near the city of Ashland that has elk, wolves, eagles, buffalo, and other native animals.

Museums

Omaha has quite a few museums and art galleries:

• Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge St, 41.260413°, -95.946001°, +1 402-342-3300. Tu W F-Su 10AM-4PM; Th 10AM-8PM. Has works by El Greco, Degas, Monet and Renoir and an extensive ancient Greek pottery display. The Joslyn also has a glass sclupture by Dale Chihuly hanging in the atrium. free
• Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 South 12th St, 41.252619°, -95.932303°, +1 402-341-7130, info@bemiscenter.org. Tu-Sa 11AM-5PM. A nationally recognized artist-in-residence program and art gallery that consists of three galleries in a warehouse-style studio. Tours are available by reservation and parking is free. free
• Various other Old Market and Benson galleries. Omaha has a "First Friday" gallery crawl through both neighborhoods every first Friday of each month.
• Omaha Children's Museum, 500 S 20th St, 41.255121°, -95.942911°, +1 402-342-6164, info@ocm.org. Tu-F 10AM-4PM, Sa 9AM-5PM, Su 1-5PM, longer hours in summer. An art center, science center, and a mock grocery store. $9 adult, $8 senior
• Durham Western Heritage Museum, 801 S 10th St, 41.251462°, -95.928379°, +1 402-444-5071. Summer: Su 1-5PM; M W-Sa 10AM-5PM; Tu 10AM-8PM. A renovated art deco-style train station, it is believed to be the best example of art deco in the country with exhibits such as the Byron Reed Coin and Document Collection, the Trans-Mississippi Exposition Gallery, restored train cars, a teepee, an earth lodge, and more. Adults $9, seniors $7, children $6
• El Museo Latino, 4701 S 25th St, 41.211921°, -95.94815°, +1 402-731-1137, info@elmuseolatino.org. M W F 10AM-5PM, Tu Th 1-5PM, Sa 10AM-2PM. A Latino art, history, and cultural museum. It is the first in the Midwest and one of 11 Latino museums in America. $5 adult, $4 student, $3.50 concession, military free
• Love's Jazz and Art Center (North Omaha Music And Arts), 2510 N 24th St, 41.281944°, -95.947222°, +1 531-867-4280. Tu-F 11AM-5PM, Sa 11AM-3PM. Dedicated to the history of jazz, North Omaha, and Preston Love. $10/adult, $7/concession, children free
• Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters, 601 Riverfront Dr, 41.264913°, -95.924136°, +1 402-661-1804. Summer M-F 8AM-5PM, Sa Su 9AM-5PM; Winter M-F 8AM-4:30PM. The National Park Service regional headquarters contains a small free visitor center about Lewis & Clark on its first floor. free
• Museum of Shadows, 1110 Douglas St, 41.258938°, -95.931294°, +1 402-885-7557. W-Su 2-10PM. A place for those who are a fan of the spooky, paranormal, or just plain creepy. Contains a collection of haunted artifacts from around the world. As a result, the building itself is now considered haunted. While there is no age limit, the owners state their museum deals with dark and mature themes and is not recommended for young children. $15 per person 2021-04-16

Landmarks

Omaha has many unique landmarks.

• Malcolm X Birthsite, North Omaha, 41.290511°, -95.963581°. His home no longer exists, but a marker stands on his former address.
• Joslyn Castle (George and Sarah Joslyn Home), 3902 Davenport St, 41.261694°, -95.971806°, +1 402-595-2199, info@joslyncastle.com. It is the Scottish-Baronial style home of two of Omaha's most respected citizens and boasts four stories and 35 rooms. Tours are available to the public. $6 adult, $5 concession
• Mormon Trail Center, 3215 State St, 41.3355°, -95.9647°, +1 402-453-9372, HSWinter@ldschurch.org. Daily 9AM-9PM. It has various monuments, including part of the route the Mormons took. The site known as the Winter Quarters marks the pioneers' winter camp of 1846, and 359 Mormons are buried in a nearby cemetery. Free
• Gerald R. Ford Birthsite and Gardens, 3212 Woolworth Ave (near Hamscom Park and I-480), 41.245329°, -95.959954°, +1 402-444-5955. It pays homage to the late U.S. president. Twice destroyed by fire, the gardens stand where his house was.
• Boys Town, Visitors centre 13628 Flanagan Blvd, 41.261389°, -96.130278°, +1 531-355-1126. Once well outside of the city, now in the middle of West Omaha. Has a visitors center, two museums, and several religious attractions. "Step-on Guide" tours, where a guide will join you and direct you on a driving tour through the town are $3/person, self-tours are available for free.

Do

Parks

Many parks and recreational areas are scattered throughout Omaha.

• Gene Leahy Mall, 41.25816°, -95.93060°. Nestled in downtown Omaha, this park features walking paths through grassy knolls, slides, a sandy playground, and a horseshoe pit. 2017-09-06
• Heartland of America Park, 41.2574°, -95.92405°. Runs along the riverfront and has two fountains. The Heartland of America fountain shoots water into the air and has a colorful nighttime show. There are also boat rides for a quarter per person. 2017-09-06
• Memorial Park, 41.26237°, -96.00211°. A playground, a baseball field, paths, trails, and plenty of open space. The park is unique because of its floral displays and historical monuments. 2017-09-06
• Elmwood Park, 41.25451°, -96.00528°. Adjacent to Memorial Park. Has an 18-hole golf course, two baseball fields, a swimming pool, and many other things. 2019-03-12
• Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St (take exit 454 off I-80 and head north on S 13th St, turn right on Bancroft St), 41.2369°, -95.9162°, +1 402-346-4002. M-Tu 9AM-8PM, W-Su 9AM-5PM. This botanical garden and arboretum boasts plants from all over the world, situated in exhibits designed to represent their natural habitat. Water features and manicured plants are also on display. Gift shop and cafe are available on site. The garden also hosts the annual Omaha Antiques Show. $10 adults, $5 children 2021-05-03

Sports

• NCAA Men's College World Series, 41.26695°, -95.93136°. Every June, the best college baseball teams from around the nation gather in Omaha for the Men's College World Series (MCWS, or just the CWS). The series is always a sellout event, so be sure to plan ahead. The MCWS is held at Charles Schwab Field Omaha in NoDo (North Downtown). 2022-06-16
• If you can't make it to the MCWS but still want to see quality baseball, take a short drive to the southern suburb of Papillion to catch an Omaha Storm Chasers game at Werner Park 📍. The Storm Chasers are the Triple-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals, one step down from Major League Baseball.
• Each September, the River City Roundup takes place. The event includes a festival of events, a professional rodeo, stage shows, expositions, parades, kiddie rides and more.
• During hockey season, the Omaha Lancers take the ice in the Ralston Arena 📍 in the southern suburb of Ralston.
• The Omaha Beef is Omaha's indoor football team, which also plays at the Ralston Arena.
• Union Omaha is Omaha's professional men's soccer team, playing in the third-level USL League One and sharing Werner Park with the Storm Chasers.
• The Creighton Bluejays, the sports teams of Creighton University, are also a big part of Omaha life. Jays men's basketball especially, played at the CHI Health Center (formerly Qwest Center and CenturyLink Center), is a big draw for students and residents alike. Creighton also has a great soccer team that plays in one of the best soccer stadiums in the country, Morrison Stadium, located right on campus.
• The Omaha Mavericks, representing the University of Nebraska Omaha, have a Division I hockey team that is usually a top 20 team. The Mavericks hockey team plays in the on-campus Baxter Arena, also home to Mavericks men's and women's basketball.
• For a taste of subculture sports, check out the Omaha Roller Girls, Omaha's one-and-only flat track roller derby team.
• Omaha has been home to four editions (2008, 2012, 2016, 2021) of the U.S. Olympic Swim Trials at the venue now known as CHI Health Center. Heats and finals usually begin the last week of the Men's College World Series and tickets are open to the public.

Events and festivals

Omaha hosts many festivals throughout the year.

• Every Thursday night throughout the summer, you can take part in Jazz on the Green where local and regional musicians present programs ranging from reggae to swing at this annual concert series sponsored by the Joslyn Art Museum. Bring a blanket, picnic dinner, beverages and your dancing shoes!
• Another summer event is Shakespeare on the Green is an offering of Shakespearean works, a drama and a comedy running in repertory and draws more than 35,000 playgoers during its annual three-week run.
• Every summer, the Omaha Farmers Market takes place in the downtown Old Market area and is open Saturday mornings.
• The Taste of Omaha festival is usually held between the Lewis & Clark Landing & Heartland of America Park downtown. Held in early June, this is a great way to sample food from various local vendors. There is also live music and other fun events.
• In the winter months, the Holiday Lights Festival takes place in Downtown Omaha. Lights are put up on many buildings and trees, and different activities take place throughout the festival, including ice skating, singing performances, and fireworks.
• The West-Omaha Neighbourhood of Millard hosts Millard Days, usually the last week in August.  Great for families, events include a parade, carnival, and horseshoes tournament.

Theater

• Orpheum Theater, 409 S 16th St (follow Dodge St east onto Douglas St, turn south onto 16th St), 41.256317°, -95.936194°, +1 402-661-8501, info@O-pa.org. Built in 1927, this 2600-seat theater hosts Broadway plays, stand up comics, and musical performances. Parking is available to the south, across the road. See ticketomaha.com for pricing 2021-06-04
• Film Streams, +1 402 933-0259. Two single-screen movie houses showcasing lesser known films and foreign titles. One location is in the Dundee neighborhood and the other is near the baseball stadium downtown. Adult $12, concession $9, child under 12 $5 2022-04-07
  • Dundee Theater, 4952 Dodge St, 41.25981°, -95.98964°. 2023-01-24
  • Ruth Sokolof Theater, 1340 Mike Fahey St, 41.26601°, -95.93427°. 2023-01-24
• Omaha Community Playhouse, 41.2639°, -96.0203°. Has a long and storied history as the nation's largest community theater. Marlon Brando's mother gave Henry Fonda his stage debut in the 1925-26 season. Community members and local professionals perform regularly in plays and musicals.
• Shelterbelt Theatre, 41.26469°, -95.96099°, boxoffice@shelterbelt.org. An organization that produces new works by local playwrights.

Music

• Omaha is home to the Saddle Creek record label, which carries bands such as Bright Eyes, The Faint, and Cursive. These bands are part of the "Omaha Sound" and frequently play in Omaha. Check out venues such as Sokol Auditorium 📍, Slowdown 📍, and the Waiting Room 📍 to see if they, or any other bands of your liking, are playing.
• You can also check out what bands are playing at the CHI Health Center 📍 which hosts national acts.
• Baxter Arena, 2425 S 67th St, 41.2361°, -96.0129°, +1 402-554-6200, info@baxterarena.com. Opened on the UNO campus in October 2015 and replaced the Omaha Civic Auditorium (closed in 2014) as the city's main mid-sized indoor venue. 2020-08-09
• Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St (follow Dodge St east onto Douglas St, at the corner of 13th and Douglas), 41.2592°, -95.9324°, +1 402-345-0202, info@O-pa.org. A sleek, modern concert hall and home of the Omaha Symphony. Hosts events as well. Parking is available on the north side of Dodge St. See ticketomaha.com for pricing 2021-06-04

Activities

• A trip to Omaha is not complete without a trip to the Old Market. The area still retains its brick streets and covered sidewalks, and rides on horse-drawn carriages are available. It is a good area to take a stroll and do some window shopping at the eccentric shops and upscale boutiques found throughout the area. Common sights include street performers, musicians, artists, and other vendors. In the summer, it is home to the Omaha Farmers Market.
• Lucky Bucket Brewery, 11941 Centennial Road, Suite 1 (La Vista), 41.16989°, -96.09936°, +1 402-763-8868. Offers tours of the brewery and a tasting room.,
• Fun-Plex Waterpark & Rides, 7003 Q St, 41.2028°, -96.0224°, +1 402-331-8436. 2020-12-23
• Sky Zone Omaha, 41.2180°, -96.1208°.

Learn

There are three major universites present in Omaha: University of Nebraska Omaha, Creighton University, and University of Nebraska Medical Center.

• University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO), 6001 Dodge St, 41.2596°, -96.0051°, +1 402-554-2800. M-F 8AM-5PM. The only public university in Omaha. Spread out over three campuses across the city, with the main campus located near 72nd and Dodge St. Well known for its Criminal Justice program and hockey team. Part of the University of Nebraska network. 2021-05-04
• Bellevue University, 1000 Galvin Rd S (Bellevue), 41.15056°, -95.91824°, +1 402-293-2000. 2023-01-20
• Clarkson College, 101 S 42nd St, 41.25899°, -95.97809°, +1 402-552-3100. 2023-01-20
• College of St. Mary, 7000 Mercy Rd, 41.23996°, -96.02208°, +1 402 399-2400. The only all women's Catholic college in the region. 2023-01-20
• Creighton University, 2500 California Plaza, 41.26559°, -95.94644°, +1 402-280-2700. Jesuit Catholic university. 2023-01-20
• Metropolitan Community College, +1 531-622-2400. 2023-01-20
• Nebraska Methodist College, 720 N 87th St, 41.26353°, -96.04840°, +1 402-354-7000. 2023-01-20
• University of Nebraska Medical Center, 42nd and Emile, 41.25491°, -95.97598°, +1 402-559-4000. 2023-01-20

Work

Omaha has a thriving employment market in finance, healthcare, and IT.

Despite its relatively small population, Omaha is home to the headquarters of five Fortune 500 companies: Berkshire Hathaway 📍, Union Pacific 📍, ConAgra Foods 📍, Kiewit Corporation, and Mutual of Omaha Insurance.

Other major employers in the area include Charles Schwab, First National Bank of Omaha, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska 📍, and the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

Buy

• Borsheims, 120 Regency Parkway, 41.25999°, -96.07183°. Owned by famed investor Warren Buffet. It is the largest independent jewelry and gift shop in the United States with an inventory of products that makes the Tiffany's catalog look small.
• Nebraska Furniture Mart. The largest furniture store in the country, with over of retail space, also owned by Warren Buffett. Primarily contained in two adjoining buildings, it features a vast array of furniture, electronics, appliances, and home decor.
• Oak View Mall, 41.2292°, -96.1344°. An extensive complex near 144th & West Center Road with many stores including a Dick's Sporting Goods, Kohls, Sears, JCPenney, Dillards and Younkers. A megaplex theater is also nearby.
• Old Market, 41.2556°, -95.9306°, +1 402-916-1796. Has many restaurants and upscale shopping.
• Village Pointe, 41.2608°, -96.1822°. An upscale, open-air lifestyle center near 168th & West Dodge Road. Scheels, Best Buy, Brix, an Apple store, and other specialty stores and restaurants are found here.
• Westroads Mall, 41.266389°, -96.068333°. Largest mall in Nebraska. The mall contains Dick's Sporting Goods, JCPenney, Von Maur, Younkers, and an AMC Classic movie theater.
• Midtown Crossing, 31st and Farnam St, 41.2589°, -95.9592°. The result of a decade-long urban renewal effort in midtown Omaha. This development provides shopping space, dining, contemporary condominiums and apartments in a single location.

Grocery store

Supermarkets are ubiquitous and multiple brands are available. Big-box stores Walmart and Target are also present.

• Hy-Vee. Ubiquitous and good value, loved by Omahans. Most locations also offer postal services, a pharmacy, dry cleaning, and an ATM. Some also have an attached bank and gas station. 2020-05-22

• Baker's. Local brand of Kroger. Sign up for a free Baker's plus card to get sale prices. 2020-05-22

Eat

It's said that Omaha has more restaurants per capita than almost anywhere else in the world. Omaha and much of Nebraska are known for high quality corn-fed beef. Smoking is illegal inside all restaurants in Nebraska. Smoking on outdoor patios is legal, but rare. Below are a selection of locations to eat in Omaha.

Budget

• California Tacos and More, 3235 California St (from US-6/Dodge St, head north on 33rd St), 41.264786°, -95.961449°, +1 402-342-0212. M-Sa 11AM-9PM, closed Su. Specializing in fried "puffy-shell" tacos, this small taco place offers filling Mexican food, quick and cheap. Tables get scarce in the afternoon. Happy hour is 4PM-5PM. 2021-04-14
• Chopsticks House, 5522 N 103rd Street, 41.308625°, -96.075457°, +1 402-965-3333. 11AM-9PM. A small, family-run Chinese restaurant. Serves some more exotic dishes alongside the usual fare of Chinese food. Very friendly staff. 2021-04-14
• Coneflower, 3921 Farnam Street (from US-6/Dodge St, turn south onto 42nd St, then left onto Farnam), 41.257629°, -95.972931°, +1 402-913-2399. Tu-Sa noon-10PM, Su 11AM-8PM. Local artisanal ice cream. Offers both traditional and experimental flavors. 2021-06-07
• Dinker's Bar, 2368 S 29th St, 41.236726°, -95.954612°, +1 402-342-9742. M-Sa 11AM-1AM. Since 1965, this bar and grill has been serving up high class burgers and beer. A great place to relax after a long day. 2021-04-14
• Feta's Greek Restaurant. M-Th 11AM-8PM, F 11AM-8:30PM. Serving homestyle Greek food. Gyros, kebobs, and baklava are all made in house. They also sell their in-house dressing at local grocery stores. 2021-04-13
  • Miracle Hills Square, 743 N 114 St, 41.26593°, -96.08975°, +1 402-504-4976. 2023-01-20
  • Midtown, 119 S 40th St, 41.25910°, -95.97300°, +1 402-558-5623. 2023-01-20
• Jade Garden, 2068 N 117th Ave, 41.278623°, -96.099270°, +1 402-498-8833. M-Th 11AM-9:30PM, F Sa 11AM-10:30PM, Su noon-9:30PM. Chinese restaurant serving up a variety of traditional dishes. As of Apr 2021, take-out only. 2021-04-14
• King Kong. Serves Greek food and is the home of the Triple-Kong burger. Free drinks with a student ID.
• El Pollo Tote, 5007 Grover St (take exit 451 off I-80 and head north on 42nd St, turn west on Grover St), 41.227001°, -95.991783°, +1 402-913-8146. M-W 8AM-9PM, Th 8AM-10PM, F Sa 8AM-11PM, Su 8AM-8PM. Offering breakfast and specializing in roasted chicken. An authentic Mexican experience. 2021-06-07
• Los Portales, 2614 S 13th St, 41.234326°, -95.933887°, +1 402-991-1190. M-Th 8:30AM-11PM, F 8:30AM-2:30AM, Sa 7:30AM-2:30PM, Su 9:30AM-11PM. Authentic Mexican that caters to the more adventurous diners. Examples include steak served with cactus, quail, and tongue burritos. 2021-04-14
• Runza. 10AM-10PM. Home of the famous Runza sandwich, a Nebraskan staple. 2021-04-05
• Spaghetti Works. All-you-can-eat spaghetti dinners, including garlic bread and salad bar, for under $10. Many choices of sauces and pastas. Full bar.
  • undefined, 502 S 11th St, 41.25531°, -95.93090°, +1 402 422-0770. Su-Th 11AM-9PM, F-Sa 11AM-10PM. 2023-01-20
  • undefined, 8416 Park Dr (Ralston), 41.20298°, -96.04380°, +1 402 592-1444. Su-Th 11AM-9PM, F-Sa 11AM-10PM. 2023-01-20
• Ted & Wally's. Su-Th 11AM-10PM, F Sa 11AM-11PM. Homemade old-fashioned ice cream with several flavors and a menu that's constantly changing. Voted best ice cream in Omaha. Vegan options available. 2021-04-14
  • undefined, 1120 Jackson St, 41.25468°, -95.93161°, +1 402-341-5827. 2023-01-20
  • undefined, 6023 Maple St, 41.28475°, -96.00567°, +1 402-551-4420. 2023-01-20
• Valentino's. Great pizza and pasta for take-out or delivery. Many locations also have great buffets!
• Zio's Pizza. Uses natural ingredients and has huge calzones and great pizza.

Mid-range

• Avoli Osteria, 5013 Underwood Ave, 41.26465°, -95.99108°. A Northern Italian restaurant, located in the historic Omaha neighborhood of Dundee.
• Ahmad's Persian Cuisine, 4646 Dodge St, 41.25993°, -95.98477°, +1 402-341-9616. Great, authentic Persian food. All meals are prepared by the restaurant's owner, Ahmad, an Iranian immigrant. Located in the Old Market.
• Charlie's on the Lake, 4150 S 144th St, 41.21837°, -96.13950°. A lively atmosphere with some of Omaha's finest martinis, including the Pelini Martini named after Huskers coaching legend, Bo Pelini. Lush patio environment features breathtaking lakeside view and easy access to live duck sanctuary where restaurant owner Yves Menard gavages the stock. During summer months, patrons can select a duck and enjoy some of the finest foie gras and wine pairings in the Midwest.
• Hiro 88, 3655 N 129th St, 41.29089°, -96.11494°, +1 402-933-0091. Great Japanese restaurant that serves some of Omaha's freshest sushi and sashimi.
• The Jaipur, 10922 Elm St (take Exit 1 off I-680 and head east of W Center Rd), 41.23286°, -96.08389°, +1 402-392-7331. Sa-W 4-9PM; Th F 11AM-2PM, 4PM-9PM. One of the few East Indian restaurants in the city. A modern take on Indian classics. 2021-07-03
• Blue Sushi Sake Grill, 14450 Eagle Run Dr., Ste. 210 (flagship of multiple locations in Omaha), 41.28818°, -96.13944°, +1 402-445 2583. Modern sushi with an energetic vibe, offers an extensive menu of raw, non raw, and vegan sushi, all paired with a collection of premium sake. 2017-11-06
• Over Easy, 16859 Q Street, 41.20435°, -96.17883°, +1 402-934 2929. 7AM-2PM. Chic breakfast spot located uptown with a fresh take on traditional breakfast foods, featuring a drive through. 2017-11-07
• Block 16, 1611 Farnam Street, 41.257449°, -95.937880°, +1 402-342-1220, block16info@gmail.com. M-Sa 11AM-3PM, Th-Sa 5-9PM. Nationally recognized street food. A large menus featuring juicy burgers, fried chicken, and poutine. Alcoholic drinks available as well. 2021-04-15

Splurge

• The Boiler Room, 1110 Jones St, 41.25351°, -95.93102°, +1 402-916-9274. The Boiler Room is a hidden gem in the south side of the Old Market tucked in the gutted boiler room of an old warehouse. The food is usually sourced locally and has a heavy emphasis on gourmet French-style cooking, especially meat. Try the boar's head or scorpionfish. The menu changes daily.
• Gorat's Steak House, 4917 Center St, 41.2413°, -95.9886°, +1 402-551-3733. Favored by Warren Buffett, a dear friend of the family and a valued customer. 2020-12-23
• Mahogany Prime Steakhouse, 13665 California St, 41.265403°, -96.12908°, +1 402-445-4380. M-Th 5-9PM, F Sa 5-10PM, closed Su. A great restaurant where you can get your fill on prime-grade steaks, Australian lobster, and Alaskan king crab legs. The food is amazing and they have a great wine list to complement whatever you order. Chain Restaurant. 2021-04-07
• V. Mertz, 1022 Howard St, 41.255567°, -95.930126°, +1 402-345-8980, mail@vmertz.com. Tu-Su 5:30-9PM, M closed. An intimate and romantic ambiance residing in the Old Market. The menu, which changes weekly, is continental but also offers some innovative culinary creations from a range of cuisine types. Great for special dinners. Famous clientele have included Bono of U2, Warren Buffet, and Bruce Springsteen. Reservations only. 2021-04-16
• Spencer's for Steaks and Chops, 102 S 10th St (inside the Hilton Garden Inn, on the corner of 10th and Dodge St.), 41.259417°, -95.929745°, +1 402-280-8888, heather@spencersomaha.com. Su-Th 5-9PM, F Sa 5-10PM, bar opens at 4PM. Aged, hand cut and seared meats. Featuring USDA prime beef from Stockyards Beef of Chicago, Spencer’s restaurant offers sizzling hot porterhouses, juicy filet mignon and the bone-in ribeye for which Spencer’s is named. Validated parking in the Hilton Garden Inn Garage. Reservations preferred. 2021-04-16
• 801 Chophouse, 1403 Farnam Street (on the south side of the Paxton building), 41.257155°, -95.936897°, +1 402-341-1222, 801chophouseOMA@801restaurants.com. M-Sa 4PM-10PM, Su 4-9PM. A white cloth dining establishment in downtown Omaha. Offers lobster, American Waygu, and single malt scotch. Reservations only. Chain Restaurant. 2021-06-04
• Hiro 88, 1308 Jackson Street (multiple locations, including two uptown and one in Lincoln), 41.25465°, -95.9338°, +1 402-933 5168. Hiro 88 is an upscale Pan-Asian restaurant group. With the help of renowned architects like Japan’s Nakamura-san, restauranteur Milton Yin has created distinct atmospheres at each location, each inspired by its surrounding neighborhood. Serving Chinese cuisine and some of Omaha’s best sushi. 2017-11-06

Drink

All restaurants, bars, and coffee shops in Omaha are smoke-free indoors. Smoking on outdoor patios is legal, though rather uncommon. All bars in Omaha must close by 2AM. Beer, wine, and liquor can be purchased in grocery stores. Hard liquor cannot be served or sold before noon on Sunday.

Bars

• The Crescent Moon, 3578 Farnam St, 41.257961°, -95.966389°, +1 402-345-1708. Tu-Th 11AM-1AM, F Sa 11AM-2AM, Su M 11AM-11PM. A large pub with a German Bier Hall down below. Checkout Max and Joe's tasting room next door. If you find a drink you like, stop in Beertopia to grab a six-pack of it, or any other craft beer you'd like, both owned by the same people. A must visit for all lovers of beer. 2021-04-07
• The Homy Inn, 1510 N Saddle Creek Rd, 41.273604°, -95.988694°, +1 402-554-5815. 1PM-2AM. Champagne on tap. This cozy bar is decorated with collectibles and memorabilia from yesteryear. Friendly atmosphere and a relaxed place to kick back. 2021-04-07
• The Max, 1417 Jackson St, 41.25417°, -95.93549°, +1 402-346-4110. Daily 4PM-2AM. Ostensibly the region's largest dance club and gay bar. Two dance floors (electronica on one, hip-hop on the other), three bars, and a huge courtyard. On the weekends it's mostly straight people and expect a $5 cover.
• The Down Under Lounge, 3530 Leavenworth St, 41.25251°, -95.96478°. Eclectic bar with unique, quality cocktails. Be prepared to wait a few minutes while the bartenders mix them. Free live music W-Sa. Diverse and agreeable crowd. Before 9PM, order take-out from Mother India just a block west.
• Upstream Brewery, 514 S 11th St, 41.25474°, -95.93076°, +1 402-344-0200. In the Old Market. Has pool tables and on Wednesday nights $7 pizzas and $2 microbrews are served. Also has a full menu and great food at a reasonable price. Try the sample platter of microbrews and get your favorite in a growler to go.

Other fun bars include the Old Market Tavern 📍, the Dubliner 📍, Billy Frogs 📍, and Barry O's 📍, all within a few blocks of each other in the Old Market District.

Coffee shops

• Blue Line Coffee, 4924 Underwood Ave., 41.26531°, -95.98972°. Resides in a walkable area of Omaha, the Dundee neighborhood. Stop in and get "Green Beret", then walk down the block to 'Great Harvest' for a free slice of bread of your choice. Alternatively, walk west to the Bread Oven, a French bakery featuring traditional French breads.
• 13th Street Coffee Company, 519 S 13th St, 41.25470°, -95.93304°. In Downtown, it serves a variety of coffee-based drinks. Desserts and sandwiches are also served. Occasionally there is live music on Fridays. Free wi-fi.
• Scooters. This fast-growing regional chain seems to have drive-up kiosks on every other corner, a testament to its popularity. Locations with seating offer free wi-fi. Original location is in Bellevue.

Sleep

• Best Western Plus Midwest Inn, 4706 South 108th St, 41.21165°, -96.08237°, +1 402-339-7400. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: Noon. Beautifully remodeled award-winning hotel with spacious sleeping rooms that include free high-speed internet, microwaves, refrigerators, 37' flat screen TV, free local calls, iron/ironing boards, hairdryers, indoor water playland, exercise room, meeting space and Perkins Restaurant. Pets are welcome.
• Old Mill Inn, 650 North 109th Ct, 41.26592°, -96.08645°, +1 402-431-1246.
• Wyndham Omaha/West Dodge, 655 North 108th Ave, 41.26579°, -96.08209°, +1 402-496-0850. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: 11AM.
• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Omaha Downtown, 1616 Dodge St, 41.26038°, -95.93796°, +1 402-346-7600. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: Noon.
• Element Omaha Midtown Crossing, 3253 Dodge St, 41.25958°, -95.96061°, +1 402-614-8080. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: Noon.
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Omaha Downtown Old Market, 555 South 10th St, 41.25461°, -95.92957°, +1 402-346-9000. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: 11AM.
• Magnolia Hotel Omaha, 1615 Howard St, 41.255278°, -95.937847°, +1 402-341-2500. This downtown hotel offers stylish rooms & suites near many major corporate headquarters and offices. The hotel also features meeting & event facilities and extended stay accommodations.
• Omaha Marriott, 10220 Regency Circle, 41.26065°, -96.07287°, +1 402-399-9000. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: Noon.
• Sonesta ES Suites Omaha, 6990 Dodge St, 41.26110°, -96.02021°, +1 402-553-8898. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: 11AM.
• Hilton Garden Inn Omaha Downtown/Old Market Area, 1005 Dodge St, 41.25942°, -95.92949°, +1 402-341-4400. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: Noon. Great location in downtown Omaha within walking distance to the Old Market Area with great shopping and dining. Grab breakfast at the Great American Grill and dinner at Spencer's. Guests can enjoy free hi-speed Internet access, business center, meeting/banquet facilities, indoor pool & whirlpool, fitness center and an Unconditional 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.
• Hampton Inn & Suites Omaha Downtown, 1212 Cuming St, 41.26833°, -95.93268°, +1 402-345-5500. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: 11AM. Great location in downtown Omaha within walking distance to Qwest Center and the airport with free shuttle service. Enjoy an On The House Hot breakfast, free hi-speed Internet, business center, indoor pool & whirlpool, fitness center and 100% Hampton Guarantee.
• Hilton Omaha, 1001 Cass St, 41.26313°, -95.9304°, +1 402-998-3400. Closest Hilton to TD Ameritrade Park, offers a full service spa, fitness center, indoor pool, and 4 dining options.
• {{sleep | name=Omaha Marriott | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/omawe-omaha-marriott/ | email= | address=10220 Regency Circle | lat=41.26096160000001 | long=-96.07292989999996 | directions= | phone=+1 402-399-9000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price= | lastedit=2015-03-27 | content=Close to CenturyLink Center and TD Ameritrade Park. Free local shuttle service within a radius and complimentary WiFi throughout the hotel. }}
• Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel, 302 S 36th St, 41.257222°, -95.966389°, +1 402-810-9500. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: 11AM. Omaha's grand old hotel, originally completed in 1916 as the Blackstone Hotel. It closed in 1976 and was used as office building from 1984-2017, before being renovated and reopening as a luxury hotel once again in 2020. 2022-01-26

Stay safe

Severe Weather Sirens

Outdoor warning sirens are installed throughout Omaha to warn people who are outdoors of impending severe weather. An activated siren usually (but not always) indicates a tornado warning. If you hear a siren while you are outside you should seek shelter immediately.

Sirens are tested regularly March-October, on the first Wednesday of every month at 11AM. Testing is cancelled if severe weather is in the area. Tests outside of the regular schedule will be published by local media.

Sirens are not intended to be heard indoors. Severe weather radios should be used inside, most hotels and businesses have a built-in tornado warning system.

Omaha is generally a safe city, but still use common sense. Simply using caution and avoiding any situation in which you are uncomfortable will basically keep you out of trouble. The vast majority of violent crime occurs in North Omaha, roughly defined as the area North of Lake St, between 24th and 72nd St. Exercise a bit of additional caution when in this area after dark.

Omaha is in Tornado Alley, so severe weather can erupt between the months of April and August with the main threats being hail, high winds and street flooding, but tornadoes can sometimes be a threat. Tornado alert sirens are located throughout the city. At 11AM on the first Wednesday of the month, the sirens are tested. If in doubt, ask a resident. Local stations KETV Channel 7 (ABC), WOWT Channel 6(NBC) and KMTV Channel 3 (CBS) break into programming if a severe weather event is in progress. Radio services 1110 AM and 590 AM also provide severe weather coverage. Omaha is in Douglas County in the state of Nebraska, as meteorologists often point out warnings this way.

During winter months, Omaha often sees cold temperatures as well as snow or ice events. There are steep hills in the city, and precaution should be taken during slick driving conditions. Blizzards are often possible, the entire city normally shuts down during one of these.

Cope

• The Omaha World-Herald; the city's largest newspaper.
• Nebraska Examiner; local non-profit online newspaper, mainly focused on investigative journalism.
• The Omaha Star; Newspaper published in North Omaha, primarily covering the black community.
• Silicon Prairie News; covers the midwestern tech industry

Consulates

• 🇲🇽 Mexico, 7444 Farnam St.

Go next

• Council Bluffs, Iowa is just across the Missouri River. Gambling is illegal in Nebraska, so Omaha residents visit Council Bluffs for its casinos. There are also some interesting historic sites here.
• The nearby cities of Bellevue, La Vista, Papillion and Ralston have various shopping areas. See Eastern Nebraska for details.
• Visit Lincoln ( west on I-80) to explore various museums and shopping there. Or catch a University of Nebraska football game, where every home game has been sold out for over 50 years.
• Nebraska City - Has orchards and vineyards (Kimmel Orchard and Vineyard or Arbor Day Farm) about an hour drive from Omaha.