According to Indian legend "Omaha," translates to "above all others upon a stream." That stream, the Missouri River, was an integral part of the formation of the city. The City of Omaha was originally laid out in 1854 by a ferry company operating between Iowa and the new Nebraska territory. The town experienced rapid growth as the nation's first transcontinental railroad broke ground there in 1863. Over the years Omaha has transformed from a rugged frontier town to the cosmopolitan city it is today. The city's residents demand a high quality of life with availability to the arts and cultural events, plenty of restaurants with a variety of cuisine, low crime rate, and good education. Residents and visitors alike enjoy the amenities that are made available by these standards. Whether partial to the arts, shopping, fine dining, historic exploration, outdoor recreation or sports, Omaha will surprise you with its diversity. Best Western Omaha Nebraska.
Things to do in Omaha
Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts
The Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts features an international artist-in-residency program located in the historic Old Market area. Artists from around the world live and work in second floor studios. Three galleries exhibit contemporary art collections. Located at 724 S. 12th Street. Call 402-341-7130 for more information.
Benson Park Golf Course
Benson Park is a public 18-hole course with rolling hills, tree-lined fairways, ande are water hazards that come into play on six holes. Located at 5333 N. 72nd Street. Call 402-444-4626 for more information.
Boys Town
A National Historic Landmark, the Boys Town village was founded for children by Father Flanagan and made famous in the 1938 Academy Award-winning movie "Boys Town," featuring Spencer Tracy. It is the national headquarters for Girls and Boys Town programs across the country. Visitors can tour the scenic grounds with historic buildings, lush flower gardens and natural wildlife. The village includes a number of interesting and unique attractions, including Spencer Tracy's Oscar at the Hall of History, Father Flanagan's restored original home, beautiful gardens, Father Flanagan Shrine, and the world's largest stamp ball. Located at 137th & W. Dodge Road. Call 402-498-1140 for more information.
Cancer Survivor's Park
Cancer Survivor's Park is an inspirational retreat designed to encourage people to understand and fight cancer. Life-size sculptures lead to a tower of light. Located at 105th & Pacific Streets. Call 402-444-5955 for more information.
Chalco Hills Recreation Area / Wehrspann Lake
Located within the recreation area is Wehrspann Lake, a 250-acre lake considered to be one of Nebraska's best fishing locations. The lake is surrounded by 940 acres of trees and grasses. Recreational opportunities include fishing, hiking, biking, picnicking, cross country skiing and nature study. The Chalco Arboretum, designed to educate and enhance the outdoor experience, features thousands of trees and shrubs that are compatible with the Nebraska climate. The Natural Resources Center, headquarters of the Natural Resources District, is located at Chalco Hills. Call 402-444-6222 for more information.
Durham Western Heritage Museum
Durham Western Heritage Museum is housed in a beautifully restored art deco landmark. Visitors can explore history with 50,000 square feet of exhibitions showcasing train cars, a teepee and earth lodge, early city homes, a covered wagon, exciting traveling displays and much more. The Byron Reed coin collection has some of the world's rarest and most valuable coins. Located at 801 S. 10th Street. Call 402-444-5071 for more information.
Eagle Run Public Golf Course
Built in 1990, Eagle Run Golf Course is benchmark for golf in northwest Omaha. The Links executive course and Meadows par 3 course are ideal for golfers who are venturing into the most popular of all sports. This beautiful layout will test even the best with its fast undulated greens and torturous par 3 holes. Located at 132nd Street & Maple Street. Call 402-498-9900 for more information.
El Museo Latino
El Museo Latino is first Latino art and history museum in the Midwest. The museum features works from pre-Hispanic to contemporary artists through exhibits and educational programs. Programs include bilingual guided visits, art classes, lectures, performances, and special events in music, dance and theater. Located at 4701 S. 25th Street. Call 402-731-1137 for more information.
Elmwood Park Golf Course
Built on hilly terrain, Elmwood Park has open fairways and fast medium-sized greens. Water comes into play on two holes. Located at 6232 Pacific Street. Call 402-444-4683 for more information.
Field Club of Omaha
This traditional course has narrow fairways that are lined with mature trees. The small greens are well bunkered and fast, but easy to read. Located at 3615 Woolworth Avenue. Call 402-345-6347 for more information.
Florence Mill
The Florence Mill portrays the evolution of the grain industry with many technological changes from pioneer times. The mill originated as the Mormon Winter Quarters gristmill in 1846 when hand-hewn and pegged beams were a part of the sturdy construction. Today it is home of the Winter Quarters Mill Museum and Loft Gallery. The mill is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Open Memorial Day - Labor Day. Located at 9102 N. 30 Street. Call 402-551-1233 for more information.
Fontenelle Forest Nature Center
Owned and managed by the Fontenelle Nature Association, the Fontenelle Forest Nature Center encompasses over 1,400 acres of woods, wetlands and waterways overlooking the scenic Missouri River Valley. The area features 26 miles of Oak Savanna, Prairie and Wetland trails, 40 varieties of trees, and 200 species of birds. The Katherine and Fred Buffett Forest Learning Center serves as the main visitor's center, and offers permanent historical and children's exhibit galleries. Hundreds of nature programs and environmental education classes are offered year-round for the general public, schools, and youth groups. A gift shop is also available. The entrance to the forest and to the visitor's center is located at 1111 N. Bellevue Blvd. Call 402-731-3140 for more information.
Fontenelle Hills Golf Course
The Fontenelle Hills Golf Course offers 18 holes of golf in a scenic forest setting. With hilly terrain and medium size greens, the narrow tree-lined fairways are bordered by a standard cut of rough. Located in the Fontenelle Hills area of Bellevue at 1102 Country Club Court. Call 402-292-2500 for more information.
Fontenelle Park Golf Course
Fontenelle Park is a 9-hole public course with enough variety to challenge any skill level. The signature hole is #5, a 310-yard, par 4, requiring a tee shot over water and up a dogleg fairway. Located at 4575 Ames Avenue. Call 402-444-5019 for more information.
Freedom Park Navy Museum
Freedom Park is the home of the WWII USS Hazard AM240 (a National Historic Landmark), an LSM45, and the USS Marlin SST2 Submarine, and more. Open April through September. Located at 2497 Freedom Park Road. Call 402-345-7788 for more information.
FunPlex
FunPlex is Nebraska's largest water amusement park. Rides operate from mid-March - October with weather permitting. Water attractions are open Memorial Day - Labor Day. The billiard center is open year-round. Included in the exciting attractions at the park are a motion ocean, water slides, lazy river, kids pool, go karts, slick track, bumper cars & bumper boats, tilt-a-whirl, spider, swings, batting cages, red baron & paratrooper. Located at 70th & Q Streets. Call 402-331-8436 for more information.
Gene Leahy Mall
Gene Leahy Mall is a ten-acre park set against a backdrop of historic and modern architecture in the heart of downtown. Within the mall are a lagoon and waterfalls, walking paths, gardens, playground, horseshoes, an amphitheatre and sculpture. Connecting to Heartland of America Park, this area is the centerpiece for the annual Holiday Lights Festival. Located at 1302 Farnam on the Mall. Call 402-444-5955 for more information.
General Crook House at Fort Omaha
General Crook was headquartered at Fort Omaha during the Indian Wars and defended Ponca Chief Standing Bear in a landmark 1879 trial. The general's authentically restored home with 19th century furnishings is listed on the National Register. A highlight of the site is the Victorian Heirloom Garden that boasts 107 varieties of 1880 flowers. Located at 30th and Fort Streets. Call 402-455-9990 for more information.
Gerald R. Ford Birth Site and Gardens
Gerald R. Ford Birth Site and Gardens is a memorial to the 38th President of the United States, born in Omaha. The memorial includes birth site information and presidential mementos. A colonnade and Rose Garden modeled after the White House's complete the site. Located at 3202 Woolworth Avenue. Call 402-444-5955 for more information.
Gerald R. Ford Conservation Center
Adjacent to the Gerald R. Fort Birth Site, the Conservation Center is a regional center for the care of historical, cultural, and educational collections. The center houses a small exhibit on Ford. Open by appointment. Located at 1326 S. 32nd Street. Call 402-595-1180 for more information.
Great Plains Black History Museum
The Great Plains Black History Museum provides visitors with insights into neglected areas of history through art exhibits, archives and an interpretive center. Exhibitions reveal interesting facts about the African-American experience on the Great Plains of Nebraska. The museum presents information on a variety of topics, including farmers, businessmen and women, cowboys, soldiers, scientists, entertainers, athletes, religious leaders, politicians, educators, inventors and more. Located at 2213 Lake Street. Call 402-320-5105 for more information.
Heartland of America Park & Fountain
The Heartland of America Park is a beautiful 31 acre park located on the Missouri riverfront in downtown Omaha, only a few blocks from Omaha's historic Old Market District. The showpiece of the park is a 300-foot fountain with a colored light show. Visitors can enjoy outdoor concerts in the park on Friday nights during summer. Relaxing cruises on Venetian gondolas are offered in the ConAgra Lagoon seasonally. Located at 8th & Douglas Streets. Call 402-444-7275 for more information.
Henry Doorly Zoo
Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo has four primary objectives: conservation, research, recreation, and education. A world renowned attraction and leader in environmental education, the popular zoo offers a variety of exciting exhibits, attractions and activities. Visitors can experience the world's largest indoor desert, rain forest and nocturnal exhibits, a 70-foot underwater tunnel, an aquarium, a new gorilla habitat and more. The Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari is home to bison, elk, cranes, pronghorn antelope, wolves and other native animals of the scenic Platte River Valley. An IMAX theater with a screen as tall as four giraffes, as wide as seven rhinos shows regularly the world premiere of "Lewis and Clark: Great Journey West" as well as other features. For a complete picture of all it has to offer, visit the zoo's Web site. Better yet, visit the zoo! I-80 Exit 454, 3701 S. 10th Street. Call 402-733-8401 for more information.
Historic Florence
Built on the ruins of an abandoned Mormon settlement, Florence was settled by pioneers in the Territorial era and annexed by Omaha in 1917. The Mormon Pioneer Cemetery, Florence Mill, 1856 Bank, 1870s Depot, Keirle House and Volunteer Firehouse all witnessed a colorful past. The Mormon Trail Center is open 9am - 9pm daily. Call 402-453-4280 for more information.
Historic Sites of Bellevue
Bellevue, Nebraska's oldest city, offers a variety of historic sites, including a Presbyterian church (the oldest church building in Nebraska), a log cabin, Fontenelle Bank, railroad depot, and Pioneer Cemetery - all dating from the mid-19th century. Call for guided tours. Located on the southern edge of metropolitan Omaha. Call 402-292-1880 for more information.
Indian Creek Golf Course
Indian Creek offers 27 holes of championship golf over three courses: Red Feather, a spectacular 9-hole course with water, bunkers and large mounds; Black Bird, a demanding 9-hole course with long holes, water and bunkers to test players' accuracy; and Gray Hawk, a 9-hole course with wider fairways but with water and well-bunkered greens that call for greater accuracy on all approach shots. Additional amenities include quality practice facilities, pro-link GPS system on each cart, staffed bag drop, fully stocked pro shop, day lockers with showers, full service grill, and banquet room. Located at 20100 W Maple Rd in Elkhorn. Call 402-289-0900 for more information.
Ironwood Golf & Country Club
The course at Ironwood will challenge the player with tree-lined fairways, hilly terrain and difficult-to-read greens. Located at 12627 Pacific Street. Call 402-333-3606 for more information.
Johnny Goodman Golf Course
Named for the inspirational golfer who graduated from Omaha's South High School, the Johnny Goodman Golf Course is a public 18-hole course located at 6111 South 99th Street in Omaha. Call 402-444-4656 for more information.
Joslyn Art Museum
Nebraska's premier center for the visual arts, Joslyn Art Museum features works from antiquity to the present. The museum focuses on art from 19th and 20th-century Europe and America, and houses an extensive collection of art of the American West. Impressive works by El Greco, Veronese, Monet, Degas, Grant Wood, and Jackson Pollock are on display, among others. In addition, the museum is world-renowned for Karl Bodmer's watercolors and prints, which document his 1832-1834 journey to the Missouri River frontier. The building itself is one of the finest examples of art deco architecture in the nation. Located downtown at 24th & Dodge Streets. Call 402-342-3300 for more information.
Joslyn Castle
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Joslyn Castle is the first historic landmark Arboretum of Nebraska. The 1903 Scottish four-story, 35-room house was designed by John McDonald on the original plated 5.5-acres existing in Omaha. The conservatory was designed by Jens Jensen. Open the first and third Sunday of each month. Located at 3902 Davenport Street. Call 402-595-2199 for more information.
Kountze Planetarium
The Kountze Planetarium is a domed theater that uses a star projector and various other effects to present both astronomy fact-based shows, and entertainment-based laser light shows. Located on the main floor of the Durham Science Center at the University of Omaha, the planetarium presents both entertaining and educational shows from simple lectures and discussions to multi-media astronomical presentations using state-of-the-art technology, to entertaining shows with special effects of light and sound. The Durham Science Center is located at 68th & Dodge. Call 402-554-2219 for more information.
Lauritzen Gardens - Omaha Botanical Gardens
Lauritzen Gardensm, Omaha's botanical center, offers 100 acres of solitude in beauty in its outdoor gardens. Visitors can enjoy a rose garden with over 2000 roses in a formal setting; a spectacular Victorian perennial garden; and indoor, ever-changing floral display hall, gift shop, cafe and more. Located at 100 Bancroft Street. Call 402-346-4002 for more information.
Lewis & Clark Landing
Omaha's new riverfront begins on the original site of the Lewis & Clark landing in 1804. The 23-acre landing provides a variety of opportunities to relax by the Missouri River. A boardwalk on the 8-foot-high river wall leads to a restaurant featuring indoor/outdoor dining and live jazz nightly. A circular stairway leads down to the colorful river-level plaza filled with colorful umbrella tables and chairs. A walking trail winds along the river's edge and a bike trail runs west of Riverfront Drive. A riverfront marina features about 30 slips available for the public. Located at 6th Street on the Missouri River, north of Heartland of America Park. Call 402-444-5900 for more information.
Malcolm X Birth Site
The state of Nebraska has honored Malcolm X by erecting an official marker on the now vacant site of his birth in 1925. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the 12-acre developing site is open to the public. Located at 2448 Pinkney Street N.W. of 30th & Maple Streets. Call 402-455-5253 for more information.
Memorial Park
Monuments in Memorial Park honor men and women of the armed forces who were killed or missing during service in World War II, Korea and Vietnam. A park favorite is the All-American Rose Society Garden. Located at 6005 Underwood Avenue. Call 402-444-5955 for more information.
Metropolitan Area Trails Network
Omaha's Metropolitan Area Trails Network is a system of more than 85 miles of paved, interconnected recreational trails and greenbelts. The trails are available to walkers, joggers, bicyclists, skaters, cross country skiiers and hikers, and are accessible to those with disabilities. Many of the trails follow the Natural Resource District's flood control levees along the Missouri and Platte Rivers and the Big, Little and West Branch Papio Creeks. A complete map of the trail system can be viewed on the NRD Web site. Call 402-444-6222 for more information.
Miracle Hill Golf & Tennis
Miracle Hill offers a challenging 18-hole par 70 golf course, complete practice facility, GPS finders on carts, complete pro shop, locker rooms with showers, and more. Eight indoor tennis courts are also featured at the facility. Located in the heart of Omaha between Dodge and Blondo Streets. Call 402-498-0220 for more information.
Mormon Trail Center at Historic Winter Quarters
Visitors to the Mormon Trail Center can relive a pioneer adventure on the Mormon Trail while taking a guided tour through numerous artifacts, including a full-size covered wagon with ox team, log cabin, handcart and interactive electronic and fiber optic exhibits. A selection of DVD historical-motivational movies in three theaters provide additional information about this time and place. Periodic art or cultural exhibits can be found in the large gallery. The center is adjacent to the Winter Quarters cemetery and temple. Located at 3215 State Street. Call 402-453-9372 for more information.
Mt. Vernon Gardens
Mt. Vernon Gardens sits atop a Missouri River bluff with a panoramic view similar to George Washington's Mount Vernon view of the Potomac. The gardens are half the size of the Mount Vernon estate and a popular location for weddings. Located at 6011 S. 13th Street. Call 402-444-5955 for more information.
N.P. Dodge Park
N.P. Dodge Park offers public access to the Missouri River via 2 double-wide boat ramps, fishing, hiking, bike & horse trails, tennis, a pavilion, picnic shelters, camping facilities, and a softball and soccer complex. Located at 11000 N. River Drive next to the Missouri River. Call 402-444-4673 for more information.
Neale Woods Nature Center
The 550-acre Neale Woods Nature Center features 9 miles of trails through hilltop forests, native prairies and riverside woodlands along the Missouri River, offering an excellent opportunity to view wildlife and natural vegetation. Nebraska's largest observatory resides at the center. The visitor center offers exhibits, live animal displays, gift shop and visitor services. Located at 14323 Edith Marie Avenue at the northern edge of Omaha. Call 402-453-5615 for more information.
Old Market
This turn-of-the-century marketplace of brick streets and buildings features a variety of unique shops, boutiques, pubs, restaurants and entertainment. Shop bookstores to bakeries, art galleries to antiques, clothing to collectibles, and dine in one of more than 30 area restaurants. Located from 10th to 13th Streets & from Farnam to Jackson Streets. Call 402-341-1877 for more information.
Omaha Children's Museum
Children and adults alike can experience learning and fun wrapped up in one at the Omaha Children's Museum. Quality hands-on exhibits entertain and inform on various topics in the sciences, arts and humanities. In addition to a collection of favorite permanent exhibits, major traveling exhibits, programs and special events are featured. Located at 20th Street & St. Mary's Avenue. Call 402-342-6164 for more information.
Omaha Community Playhouse
Founded in 1924, the Omaha Community Playhouse has grown into the largest community theatre in the nation. Two theatres with state-of-the-art sound and lighting equipment feature 11 productions annually. Alumni include Henry Fonda, Dorothy McGuire, and Dorothy Brando (mother of Marlon Brando). The season runs August through June. Located at 6915 Cass Street. Call 402-553-0800 for more information.
Omaha Theater Company for Young People
One of the oldest and largest children's theaters in America, Omaha Theater Company educates and stimulates young minds and imaginations through the use of live theater. The season runs from September through May located at Rose Blumkin Performing Arts Center, 2001 Farnam Street. Call 402-345-4849 for more information.
Orpheum Theater
Built in 1927 and located in downtown Omaha, the celebrated Orpheum Theater hosts the finest in local, national and international performing arts. A $10 million renovation preserved the ornate splendor of this 2,500 seat proscenium theater and enhanced the facility for both patrons and artists. The venue presents the very best of the performing arts to the Omaha community, including the Omaha Symphony, Opera and the Broadway Series. Call 402-345-0202 for more information.
Pacific Springs Golf Club
Surrounded by tall mature trees, Pacific Springs offers a challenging round of golf for players of all skill levels. Although the course is short, undulating greens, sand bunkers, and water hazards make it somewhat tricky to navigate. The club also features a wonderful clubhouse and putting course. Located at 16810 Harney Street. Call 402-330-4300 for more information.
Players Club at Deer Creek
Golfers of all skill levels will enjoy playing the Players Club. Designed by legendary PGA golfer Arnold Palmer, the course was built on 350 acres of Nebraska farmland. Golf Digest rated the course "One of the top ten courses in the state of Nebraska." Located at 12101 Deer Creek Drive. Call 402-963-9950 for more information.
Prospect Hill Cemetery
Prospect Hill is Omaha's 1858 pioneer cemetery, where many of Omaha's ancestors rest, both famous and infamous. The cemetery includes many interesting monuments and a special section for soldiers from Fort Omaha. Call 402-556-6057 for more information.
Riekes Museum of the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society
The Riekes Museum is a re-creation of a neighborhood shul, as well as a timeline and history of synagogues in Nebraska. The JCC also features other exhibits and displays depicting the history of the Jewish community. Located at 333 S. 132nd Street . Call 402-334-6441 for more information.
River City Star Riverboat
The River City Star is Omaha's only premier riverboat that presents an unforgettable experience that truly captures the personality of a great river city - Omaha. The magnificent vessel sails day and night and offers a wide variety of relaxing cruises on the Missouri River. The season starts in April. Located at Miller's Landing on the Omaha Riverfront just north of downtown. Call 402-342-STAR for more information.
Rosenblatt Stadium
Rosenblatt Stadium is home to the Omaha Royals AAA Baseball and the NCAA College World Series. The stadium is located at I-80 Exit 454, 13th Street S. Call 402-444-4750 for more information.
Sarpy County Historical Museum
The Sarpy County Historical Museum serves as the headquarters for the Sarpy County Historical Society, whose mission is to collect, preserve, display and interpret the history of Sarpy County. The museum features Native American artifacts, furnished period rooms, historical documents, and photographs relating to Sarpy County. Open year round and located at 2402 Clay Street. Call 402-292-1880 for more information.
Stone Creek Golf Course
Stone Creek is a public course designed to entertain both the novice and established golfer. The 27-hole championship course features five sets of tees, 93 bunkers, seven ponds, and a winding creek that snakes through several key golf holes. Golfers of all skill levels will appreciate the vast diversity and beauty of the challenging terrain. Other amenities include an excellent driving range, pro shop, as well as GPS in all golf carts. Located at 6220 N. 160th Avenue. Call 402-965-9000 for more information.
Tara Hills Golf Club
Tara Hills is an 18-hole public course in located in Papillion at 1410 Western Hills Drive. Call 402-592-7550 for more information.
Tiburon Golf Club
Tiburon, located 20 minutes from downtown Omaha, combines the serenity of the rolling countryside with the challenge of 27 holes of championship golf. The original layout, designed by Lee Trevino is a wonderful experience for players of any level. Located at 10302 S. 168th Street. Call 402-895-2688 for more information.
Tregaron Golf Club
Tregaron Golf Club offers enjoyable and challenging golf for players of all skill levels in a dramatic natural setting. The 6,500-yard, 18-hole course features rolling rye-grass fairways, large undulating greens, and water in play on nine holes. Natural wetlands, winding creeks and four lakes add to the scenic design. Located in Bellevue at 13909 Glen Garry Circle. Call 402-292-9300 for more information.
Union Pacific Railroad Museum
The Union Pacific Railroad Museum showcases railroad artifacts and interactive exhibits that chronicle the history of America - from construction of the first transcontinental railroad of the nation to our current high-tech rail transportation system. Located in Council Bluffs, Iowa at 200 Pearl Street. Call 712-329-8307 for more information.
Walnut Creek Lake and Recreation Area
Built across Walnut Creek one mile southwest of Papillion, the Walnut Creek Lake and Recreation Area is the newest of six flood control reservoirs surrounding the Omaha metro area. The Papio-Missouri River Natural Resource District project is to create a 105-acre reservoir serving as the centerpiece of a rustic 450-acre park. The beautiful park features 3 miles of hiking and biking trails, a boat dock, ramp and fishing pier, campgrounds, a 3 ½ mile equestrian trail, and picnic areas. Eventually, over 40,000 newly-planted trees will enhance the tall-grass landscape surrounding the lake. This is a pack-in pack-out park. Located south of Highway 370 and west of 96th Street. Call 402-592-8877 for more information.