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31 Fun Things to Do in Omaha, Nebraska & Best Place To Visit

Omaha is the largest city in Nebraska.

It is home to several sports teams and venues, including the NCAA’s College World Series, which attracts millions of visitors yearly.

The city also has many cultural attractions, such as the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, and the Durham Museum.

Omaha is also home to great museums like the Joslyn Art Museum and the Lauritzen Gardens & Sculpture Park.

We have compiled a list of the fun things to do in Omaha, Nebraska for you. 

In addition, the city has plenty of restaurants and bars where visitors can enjoy delicious food or drinks while in town.

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Atlanta:

1. Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

Melissa A. Woolf | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.8★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 705 Riverfront Dr, Omaha, NE 68102

  • It was opened in 2008
  • It is 154m long

Why you should go: The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is a pedestrian bridge that crosses the Missouri River in Omaha.

The bridge connects America’s Byway System and the Great Plains Nature Trail and provides access to the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium and other attractions within the city’s riverfront parks.

Things to do: The bridge, which connects Omaha’s downtown and North Omaha, is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon.

It features a breathtaking view of the Missouri River and is ideal for walking and biking.

Wander along the pedestrian path on the east side of the bridge that offers perfect views of Downtown Omaha and North Omaha.

Fancy watching the sunrise or sunset in Omaha? Take a walk along the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge for a breathtaking experience.

2. Joslyn Art Museum

EQRoy | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 2200 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68102

  • It is a fine arts museum
  • It opened in 1931

Why you should go: The Joslyn Art Museum, located in the heart of Omaha, is one of the oldest art museums in the region.

This art museum is a gem on many levels; it houses one of the best collections of American art and hosts fine exhibitions from around the world.

A visit to this museum will not only give you an insight into the world of art but also provide you with a leisurely day trip from anywhere in the state.

Things to do: Omaha’s Joslyn Art Museum is a treasure trove of art from around the world.

The museum is home to an impressive collection of European, American, and Asian art.

It also hosts special exhibitions that change regularly.

Visitors will see famous paintings by artists like Rembrandt and Rubens, explore works by contemporary artists such as Jasper Johns and Andy Warhol, as well as take in special exhibitions that change often.

Note that: Joslyn Art Museum is undergoing renovation and will reopen in 2024.

3. Malcolm X House Site

@Michigan State Historic Preservation Office

Rating: 4.0★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 3448 Evans St, Omaha, NE 68111

  • It is a National Historic Place
  • It is the former home of human rights activist Malcolm X

Why you should go: The Malcolm X House Site in Omaha is a historic site that was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. 

The site features a memorial plaque, which includes a quote from Malcolm X’s autobiography.

The house was the home of Malcolm’s father, Earl Little, and his mother, Louise Little until they were forced to move out in 1926 when Malcolm X was a year old. 

Things to do: The house where Malcolm X lived for several years has been preserved, and anyone interested in seeing it is welcome.

Learn about Malcolm’s life at the Malcolm X House Site with an audio tour narrated by local historians.

In addition, you can take photos of yourself next to the plaque to commemorate your visit!

4. The Durham Museum

@The Durham Museum

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $13, Children (3-12): $7, Seniors: $10, Military: $10, Children 2 and below: Free

Address: 801 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68108

  • It is a history museum
  • It was established in 1975

Why you should go: The Durham Museum is a multi-cultural history museum in Omaha.

The museum’s mission is to preserve and interpret the history of the greater Omaha area through exhibitions, programs, and events that engage people in their community.

Things to do: The Durham Museum has permanent and changing exhibits on topics such as Native American culture, Nebraska history, early European settlers in Nebraska, and the city of Omaha.

It also hosts traveling exhibits from around the world.

Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the permanent exhibits, watch an IMAX movie at the museum’s OMNIMAX Theater, or explore the contemporary art collection.

The museum remains one of the best things to do in Omaha.

5. Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

Lost_in_the_Midwest | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.8★ 

Entry tickets: Adults (12+): $25.95, Children ) 3-11): $18.95, Seniors: $24.95, Military Adults (12+): $24.95, Military Children (3-11): $17.95, Children 2 and below: $Free

Address: 3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68107

  • It was opened in 1894
  • It has over 962 animal species

Why you should go: Who wouldn’t want to visit the number 1 attraction site in Nebraska? It happens to be in Omaha.

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is the largest in Nebraska.

It is home to over 17,000 animals representing more than 900 species.

The zoo also has a botanical garden with over 8,000 plants from around the world.

Things to do: The zoo has different exhibits showcasing various animals.

The Aquarium of Nebraska is an indoor exhibit that features fish from all over the world.

You can see sharks and rays up close in their aquariums or walk through a tunnel filled with thousands of colorful fish.

The Wilds is home to some of the most endangered animals in North America, including red pandas, snow leopards, and grizzly bears.

You will never run out of things to do and see at the zoo, which is ideal for families with kids.

6. Tranquility Park

@Source | Chad A. Kurovski

Rating: 4.4★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 12222 W Maple Rd, Omaha, NE 68164

  • It is home to one of the longest trails in Omaha
  • It is a recreational park

Why you should go: Tranquility Park is a unique and beautiful park that features a pond, walking trails, and plenty of open space for picnics, playing games, or just relaxing.

It is an excellent place to spend time with family or friends while enjoying nature.

Furthermore, the park is in the heart of downtown, so you’ll have plenty of other things to do while you’re there.

Things to do: Take a walk through the park and enjoy the scenery.

Trees and flowers are abundant here, which makes it easy to lose track of time while walking around.

There are two separate playgrounds here – one for younger children, and one for older kids.

The fountains here are always running during the summer months, so if you want something cool to drink, just fill up your cup from one of them!

Tranquility Park is open year-round from dawn until dusk.

7. Wildlife Safari Park

@Wildlife Safari Park

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Adults (12+): $9, Children(3-11): $7, Seniors (65+): $8, Children (2 and below): Free

Address: 16406 292nd St, Ashland, NE 68003

  • It sits on 440 acres of land
  • It opened in 1998

Why you should go: Wildlife Safari Park is an ideal place for families with kids, especially those who love animals.

It is located outside Omaha in Ashland but is one of the best things to do near Omaha.

There are so many things to do at Wildlife Safari Park in Omaha that you may not even realize how much fun you’re having until it’s too late.

Things to do: Wildlife Safari Park is home to many exotic animals from around the world.

It’s a great place to see big cats, giraffes, and rhinos, but there’s so much more to do at Wildlife Safari than just seeing the animals.

You can drive around the park and make stops to take pictures of animals and the beautiful scenery.

If you love animals and the outdoors, you will enjoy your visit to the park.

8. The OPPD Arboretum

@Omaha Public Power District

Rating: 4.6★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: Omaha, NE 68164

  • It is an outdoor education area
  • It is family-friendly

Why you should go: The OPPD Arboretum is located on the banks of the Missouri River near downtown Omaha.

It offers expansive views of the riverfront, along with various outdoor activities.

With the perfect balance of nature and culture, the OPPD Arboretum is the ideal place to spend a day or two in Omaha.

Things to do: Take a walk through the trails on your own or with one of the docents guiding the way.

If you want to learn more about the native plants and animals that call this area home, take a guided hike or birding walk.

You may even see some rare birds like hawks and eagles during migration season.

Want a place where you can enjoy a relaxed day with your kids? Have the OPPD Arboretum on your list of things to do in Omaha.

9. Freedom Park

@Freedom Park (Omaha, Nebraska)

Rating: 4.5★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 2497 Freedom Park Rd, Omaha, NE 68110

  • It is an outdoor park and museum
  • It was built in 1944

Why you should go: Located on the bank of the Missouri River, Freedom Park is renowned for being home to the minesweeper USS Hazard of World War II and submarine USS Marlin of Cold War-era training.

It features a lake and beautiful green gardens and is an ideal attraction site for both adults and children.

Things to do: So, what do you do at Freedom Park? Well, there are several things!

You can walk around the lake, hang out in the playground, or rent kayaks/canoes from one of the vendors at the lake.

There is also a small water park with slides and fountains for kids to play in (it’s only open seasonally).

You can also learn the history of the military aircraft and artillery pieces that are on display.

10. Gene Leahy Mall at The RiverFront

Suzanne Tucker | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.4★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 1001 Douglas St, Omaha, NE 68102

  • It is set on 9.6 acres of land
  • It is also known as the Central Park

Why you should go: Gene Leahy Mall at The RiverFront is a pedestrian-friendly park in downtown Omaha.

The park is on the south bank of the Missouri River, between the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge and the Heartland of America Park.

It has plenty of places to sit down and relax while enjoying your lunch break or an evening out with friends.

Things to do: Gene Leahy Mall at The RiverFront has many things to do for all ages.

There are several sculptures throughout the park that were created by local artists.

Additionally, there is also a small amphitheater where you can enjoy live music or watch movies on summer nights.

The park has many paths that are great for walking, running, or biking.

It’s also a great place to watch boats go by on the Missouri River.

The park is also surrounded by great restaurants where you can get a fill in case you get hungry.

11. River City Star

@River City Star

Rating: 4.2★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 151 Freedom Park Rd, Omaha, NE 68102

  • It is an entertainment venue
  • It is located inside a paddle-wheel riverboat

Why you should go: River City Star riverboat is a historic paddle-wheel riverboat that has been serving Omaha and the surrounding communities for more than 60 years.

It is the only paddle-wheel riverboat in Nebraska offering a wide array of entertainment for families, groups, and corporate parties.

Things to do: If you are looking for a fun and unique thing to do in Omaha, this is it.

The River City Star riverboat has a first-class dining area with seating, a lounge area, and an observation deck with panoramic views of the riverfront.

Furthermore, the boat also has a full bar and dance floor.

12. Florence Mill

@Williams For OPPD

Rating: 4.5★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 9102 N 30th St, Omaha, NE 68112

  • It was built in 1847
  • It is a National Historic Place

Why you should go: What makes Omaha worth visiting? It is the historic attractions like the Florence Mill, a historic building, built in 1846, and was one of the first brick buildings on Florence Boulevard. 

The historic mill is located on the bank of the Missouri River and boasts a beautiful view of downtown Omaha.

Things to do: Today, the Florence Mill is home to Winter Quarters Mill Museum, Art-Loft Gallery, and a summer Farmers’ Market.

It attracts visitors who are interested in agriculture, art, and history.

The best time to visit the attraction site is between mid-May and the first weekend of October for the Sunday Farmers Market.

13. Nebraska Crossing

@Nebraska Crossing

Rating: 4.4★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 21209 Nebraska Crossing Dr, Gretna, NE 68028

  • It is a shopping mall
  • It opened in 2013

Why you should go: The Nebraska Crossing is a modern shopping center located in Omaha’s North Downtown neighborhood, near the Gene Leahy Mall.

The mall is anchored by Target, TJ Maxx, and Dick’s Sporting Goods.

This is a popular shopping center that offers many services and facilities to its customers.

Additionally, the mall also has several restaurants, a movie theater, and an AMC Theater.

Things to do: Nebraska Crossing is the go-to destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

The North Face store features an interactive climbing wall, an indoor rock climbing wall, a bouldering cave, and a retail space.

Furthermore, the mall features many stores including Target, Kohl’s, Best Buy, GameStop, and more, where visitors can enjoy a shopping experience.

It is also lined up with restaurants where you can grab a bite during your shopping spree.

14. Gerald R. Ford Birthsite and Gardens

@Wandermore’s Visit531Nebraska

Rating: 4.3★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 3202 Woolworth Ave, Omaha, NE 68105

  • It was the home of U.S. President Gerald R. Ford
  • It features a beautiful garden

Why you should go: The Gerald R. Ford Birthsite and Gardens is a museum dedicated to the life of President Gerald R. Ford.

The museum is located at the site where President Ford was born on July 14, 1913.

The house has been preserved with period furnishings and displays depicting family life during the 1920s and 1930s

Things to do: Today, the house contains many artifacts relating to the President’s life.

Some of them include photographs, political memorabilia, family furnishings, and personal items such as clothing worn by President Ford during his Presidency.

Apart from learning the site’s history, you can explore the beautiful and scenic gardens and soak up the view.

If you are looking for free things to do in Omaha, the Gerald R. Ford Birthsite and Gardens should be top of your list.

15. General Crook House

@Source | Clifford Crowell

Rating: 4.6★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $5, Students: $4

Address: 5730 N 30th St, Omaha, NE 68111

  • It is located in Fort Omaha
  • It was opened in 1879

Why you should go: The General Crook House is a historic house museum in Fort Omaha in the Miller Park neighborhood.

It was home to General George Crook, an American Civil War general who later led U.S. Army forces against Native Americans in the American West.

His home has been preserved as it was when he lived there: complete with furniture, books, and other personal belongings from his family’s collection.

Things to do: The General Crook House is open to visitors who are interested in historical events.

You will learn all about General Crook and his contribution to the American Civil War.

Besides this, visitors get an opportunity to explore the house which is still in great shape, as well as the heirloom garden located here.

16. Heartland of America Park

Nagel Photography | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.5★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 800 Douglas St, Omaha, NE 68102

  • It is located in downtown Omaha
  • It is set on 31 acres of land

Why you should go: Heartland of America Park is a great place to visit if you’re looking for something fun and educational, or simply want to enjoy an afternoon outside.

With all kinds of activities including paddle boats and nature trails, there’s sure to be something for every age group.

Things to do: Wondering if there is anything cool to see in Omaha? Heartland of America proves there is with its immeasurable magnificence.

It features a beautiful fountain in the middle, which will capture your attention the moment you enter the park.

At night, the fountain lights up in color forming one of the most beautiful views you’ve ever seen.

Besides seeing the fountain, visitors can take a leisure walk in the park, take advantage of the playground if they have children, or enjoy a picnic while soaking up the scenic views.

17. Joslyn Castle

Erwin Widmer | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.6★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $10, Seniors/Military/Students: $8

Address: 3902 Davenport St, Omaha, NE 68131

  • It was built in 1903
  • It is a National Historic Place

Why you should go: One of the top things to do in Omaha is a visit to Joslyn Castle.

It is a historical mansion that is one of the most beautiful architectural structures in Nebraska.

The mansion has been converted into a museum and is one of the most popular attractions in the area.

Things to do: There are many things to do at the Joslyn Castle Museum.

You can visit their permanent collection, which includes works by Rembrandt, Rubens, Van Gogh, and more artists from around Europe and America.

You can also see temporary exhibitions that change every few months or so.

These include exhibits on Asian art as well as African-American artworks by African-American artists such as Jacob Lawrence and Romare Bearden.

It is an ideal place to visit alone or as a family.

18. Omaha Children’s Museum

@Omaha Children’s Museum

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $15, Children (2-15): $15, Seniors: $14, Members: Free, Children below 2: Free

Address: 500 S 20th St, Omaha, NE 68102

  • The best children’s museum in town
  • Perfect for visitors of all ages

Why you should go: If you are traveling to Omaha with children, the Omaha Children’s Museum is one of the places that will ensure you have a great time as a family.

It is one of the best museums in the state with exhibits featuring dinosaurs, marine life, and more.

The museum also offers classes for kids ages 3-10.

Things to do: This children’s museum has a variety of things for kids to do during their visit.

The Discovery Zone is an area where children can explore different activities such as building with blocks or painting on the floor with chalk.

In addition, the Imagination Playground allows kids to build their own playground using sand and water tables, climbing structures, and other toys.

Whatever you choose, you can rest assured that your children will remember this visit.

19. Lauritzen Gardens

@Lauritzen Gardens

Rating: 4.8★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $10, Children (6-12): $5, Children 6 and below: Free

Address: 100 Bancroft St, Omaha, NE 68108

  • It was founded in 1982
  • It is located in the South Omaha neighborhood

Why you should go: For nature lovers, Lauritzen Gardens is an attraction site you don’t want to skip during your visit to Omaha.

It is a botanical garden that features plants from around the world, including an alpine rock garden, an English garden, and a rose garden.

This is the ideal place to enjoy the outdoors and breathe some fresh air.

Things to do: Lauritzen Gardens has several walking paths throughout the park, as well as an outdoor amphitheater where concerts are sometimes held on Sundays during the summer months.

There are also several water fountains throughout the park that kids can play in while you relax on the benches nearby!

If you love nature, then this is a place for you!

20. Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts

@Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts

Rating: 4.6★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 724 S 12th St, Omaha, NE 68102

  • It was founded in 1841
  • It is located in downtown Omaha

Why you should go: Interested in art? Make the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts your first stop in Omaha.

This is one of the largest contemporary art museums in the Midwest.

Located in downtown Omaha, in the Old Market Historic District, it showcases art from around the world by emerging, mid-career, and established artists.

Things to do: As one of the top free things to do in Omaha, there is no reason why you should fail to visit the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts.

The art museum houses five galleries that showcase contemporary art from around the world.

Furthermore, the museum hosts lectures by visiting artists, movie screenings, and concerts.

Besides this, there is a museum gift shop, a bar, and a cafe where you can grab a bite or drink before you leave.

21. The Old Market

EQRoy | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.5★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: Omaha, NE 68102

  • It’s a historic neighborhood
  • It is a National Historic Place

Why you should go: The Old Market is the ideal location to explore if you want to have an authentic feel of Omaha and its culture.

It’s a historic district that contains a large collection of small businesses and restaurants.

The area is filled with cobblestone streets and brick buildings that date back to 1886 when the city was founded.

Things to do: There are plenty of things to do at The Old Market, including:

Eat at one of the many restaurants.

There are many different types of restaurants in this area that serve food made with local ingredients.

Most of these dishes cannot be found anywhere else in the state of Nebraska!

Furthermore, you can visit an art gallery to get a deeper insight into the history of Omaha or shop for antiques.

22. Fontenelle Forest 

Lindasj22 | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.8★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $11, Children (2-17): $8, Seniors: $10, Children below 2: Free

Address: 1111 Bellevue Blvd N, Bellevue, NE 68005

  • It is set on 1,400 acres of land
  • It is a nature preserve

Why you should go: If you love the outdoors, you should have Fontenelle Forest as one of the must-do things in Omaha.

It is a great place to go for a hike. 

Additionally, it’s also the site of Fontenelle Reservoir and is home to many different species of wildlife.

If you’re looking for a day trip that’s close to home, Fontenelle Forest is worth a visit.

Things to do: There are more than eight miles of hiking trails through the woods at Fontenelle Forest.

In addition, there are several picnic areas and open fields where you can enjoy nature without worrying about getting lost.

There are several picnic areas throughout the park that offer tables and benches, as well as grills.

The Fontenelle Forest Nature Center also has displays about local wildlife and plants found in Omaha as well as a gift shop.

23. Kenefick Park

@Kenefick Park

Rating: 4.8★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 100 Bancroft St, Omaha, NE 68108

  • It was founded in 1891
  • It is located next to the Lauritzen Gardens

Why you should go: You do not want to miss an opportunity to visit one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Omaha.

And what’s more? It’s absolutely free to enter!

Kenefick Park is a great place for families and friends to spend time together.

It is in South Omaha, just a few miles from downtown Omaha.

Things to do: There are many things to do at Kenefick Park for both adults and children.

The playground at the park has swings, slides, monkey bars, and more for kids of all ages.

There is also a basketball court nearby where you can play ball with your kids.

Furthermore, the picnic shelter is perfect for hosting parties or family gatherings.

Other attractions at the park include tennis courts and a baseball/softball Field.

24. Fun-Plex Waterpark & Rides

@Fun-Plex

Rating: 4.3★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: (10-65): $34.99, Children (3-9): $29.99, Seniors: $24.99, Children 2 and below: Free

Address: 7003 Q St, Omaha, NE 68117

  • It was opened in 1979
  • It is an amusement park

Why you should go: Fun-Plex Waterpark & Rides is a great place to spend the day.

With fun rides, water slides, and more, this amusement park is sure to become your favorite summertime destination.

It is the perfect place for family fun and entertainment and hands down one of the most fun things to do in Omaha!

Things to do: From its signature roller coaster to its indoor water park, Fun-Plex has something for everyone!

Splash down with water slides and tube rides!

Kids love the thrill of speeding down a four-story drop into a splash pool below.

Ride the Tornado, which twists and turns to send riders flying through the air over and over again.

In addition to the indoor water park attractions, Fun-Plex features an outdoor wave pool where you can spend all day enjoying the waves!

25. Fort Atkinson State Historical Park

Ruth McNeill Photography | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.6★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $2, Children (4-12): $1, Children 3 and below: Free

Address: 201 S 7th St, Fort Calhoun, NE 68023

  • It was established in 1963
  • It is located in Fort Calhoun

Why you should go: Fort Atkinson State Historical Park is a little-known gem in Fort Calhoun, Nebraska.

The park features a replica of Fort Atkinson, which was built in 1819 and served as a fur trading post for the American Fur Company.

It also features several nature trails and picnic areas.

Things to do: Go for a hike through the woods on one of the park’s trails.

There are two trails.

Both trails feature interpretive signs that tell you about the history of the fort and how it was used by Native Americans, Europeans, and Americans.

The Fort Atkinson Museum features exhibits about Native American history, pioneer life, and military life at Fort Atkinson.

Other activities include birdwatching, fishing, and picnicking.

Even though it is not located in Omaha, Fort Atkinson State Historical Park is one of the most amazing things to do near Omaha.

26. Standing Bear Lake

ARamsdell | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.6★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 6404 N 132nd St, Omaha, NE 68164

  • It is also called Dam Site 16
  • It was created in 1977

Why you should go: Standing Bear Lake is a pristine lake located in West Omaha.

The lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming.

Standing Bear Lake was created in the early 1960s when the Missouri River was dammed to create Lake Manawa.

The lake still retains much of its natural beauty and offers visitors a variety of recreational opportunities.

Things to do: The lake offers access to many parks and picnic areas, as well as three marinas that rent boats and equipment.

It also has two public golf courses, as well as several hiking trails.

This makes it perfect for those who love nature and those looking for fun activities to do on their vacations.

Other activities that make Standing Bear Lake one of the most fun things to do in Omaha include boating, sailing, fishing, and picnicking.

27. Alpine Inn

@Alpine Inn “Home of the Wildlife”

Rating: 4.5★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 10405 Calhoun Rd, Omaha, NE 68112

  • It is a restaurant in the woods
  • Famous for its delicious chicken

Why you should go: Alpine Inn is a local favorite.

Commonly referred to as “Home of the Wildlife”, the restaurant serves the most delicious chicken in town.

In fact, previous visitors have stated that they went for the raccoons and came back for the chicken.

That’s how good their chicken is.

Things to do: Feeling hungry? After a long day exploring everything that Omaha has to offer, your energy will be depleted.

You need to replenish in a place where a quality meal is guaranteed.

That place is Alpine Inn.

Besides delicious food, the restaurant serves a scenic view of trees and greenery.

You can also enjoy a drink at the bar, live music, and play pool.

28. Lake Manawa State Park

Ruth McNeill Photography | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.4★ 

Entry tickets: General Admission: $5

Address: 1100 S Shore Dr, Council Bluffs, IA 51501

  • It is set on 1,529 acres of land
  • It is a recreational park

Why you should go: Lake Manawa State Park is a unique and popular place to enjoy the outdoors. 

Lake Manawa State Park is located in Southern Omaha and offers many recreational opportunities, including camping, boating, fishing, hiking, and more.

Although the lake itself is primarily used for fishing and boating, the park also has picnic areas and playgrounds for families to enjoy.

Things to do: The lake is a perfect fishing ground as it is home to many varieties of fish including bluegill, crappie, and channel catfish.

You can rent boats from the marina at Lake Manawa State Park or bring your own boat to enjoy boating.

Several trails within Lake Manawa State Park offer beautiful views of both the lake and surrounding neighborhoods.

Whatever you choose to do, you are assured of enjoying yourself.

29. Chalco Hills Recreation Area

@Angie Jean Photography

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 8901 S 154th St, Omaha, NE 68138

  • It covers 1,186 acres of land
  • It is located in Sarpy County

Why you should go: Chalco Hills Recreation Area is a great place for families to spend a day or two.

The park has a lot of activities and attractions that are perfect for kids, including an amphitheater, picnic areas, hiking trails, playgrounds, and even a dog park.

It’s an outdoor recreation area with plenty of things to do and see.

The park is open year-round and offers something for everyone in the family.

Things to do: This beautiful park offers many different areas where you can relax and enjoy the view.

You can hike along the trails that wind through the woods or relax on any one of the many benches along your journey.

Furthermore, visitors can also take advantage of the many picnic tables scattered throughout the Chalco Hills Recreation Area for lunch or dinner!

There are also several playgrounds throughout the park, which makes it a great place for kids who need some energy released on a hot day!

30. The Grenville M. Dodge House

@Source | A.L. Herman

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Adults (19-64): $10, Seniors (65+): $5, Students (6-18): $5, Veterans: $5, Children (6 and below): Free

Address: 605 S 3rd St, Council Bluffs, IA 51503

  • It was opened in 1869
  • It is a National Historic Place

Why you should go: The Grenville M. Dodge House is one of the most popular historic sites in Iowa.

It’s located in Council Bluffs and offers guided tours, self-guided tours, special events, and educational programs.

It was the home of Grenville M. Dodge, an American politician, and a general during the Civil War. 

Things to do: Visitors can see original furnishings from Dodge’s time here, including antique furniture pieces from places such as England and France.

In addition, you will see items from all over the world that were collected by Grenville during his travels on behalf of President Ulysses S. Grant.

The grounds surrounding the Grenville M. Dodge House are also worth exploring.

There are two museums on site: one that displays artifacts from the Civil War era and another that explores how life changed during this period of history.

Despite its location in another city, it is one of the most interesting things to do near Omaha.

31. Roberts Park

@Source | Joe Hose

Rating: 4.3★ 

Entry tickets: Adults (13+): $7

Address: 730 N 78th St, Omaha, NE 68114

  • It sits on 20 acres of land
  • It is a recreational park

Why you should go: Roberts Park is one of the most popular parks in Omaha.

Located on the south side of the city, this park offers many activities, including a boat ramp and fishing pier.

Additionally, it offers a variety of things to do for families, individuals, and groups.

From picnics and playgrounds to concerts and baseball games, there is something for everyone at Roberts Park.

Things to do: Looking for a place to enjoy a picnic in Omaha? Roberts Park is a great place to relax and enjoy nature and the outdoors.

The park has several trails that meander through lush green forested areas, along the beautiful winding creek, and even into open prairie land.

Furthermore, The park has playgrounds, baseball fields, tennis courts, basketball courts, horseshoe pits, volleyball courts, and more!