Omaha: More Than a Flyover City

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is consistently ranked as one of the top zoos in the world. With world-class animal exhibits and conservation efforts being done worldwide, this is something that the people of this area are so incredibly proud of. Walk through immersive exhibits, get nose to whiskers (through glass, of course) with sea lions, and hear the lions sounding off as they make their presence known as the kings and queens of Omaha.

Omaha's Historic Old Market District, once the warehousing district for the city, is now a bustling downtown area with countless "mom and pop" shops, restaurants, and some truly amazing hotel options. Adjacent to the CHI Health Center Arena and Charles Schwab Field, you won't have to go far for big-name entertainment and sports events. In town on a Saturday during the summer? Visit the Old Market Farmer's Market to get some of the freshest produce, baked goods, and more, all from local businesses!

Strategic Air Command (SAC) & Aerospace Museum, a Smithsonian Affiliate, although technically outside of city limits, is a true wonder that has to be experienced by anyone who considers themselves an aviation fan. The moment you walk in the doors, you know you're in for a treat as you're greeted by one of the most iconic planes to have ever been made: the SR-71 Blackbird. Take a trip back in time and explore the history of the United States Military with the "Flying Fortress," walk under the wings of a B-52 "Stratofortress," and marvel up close and personal at the wonders of stealth and precision with the F-117 "Nighthawk."

Lauritzen Gardens, Omaha's Botanical Center, is for more than just the flower lovers. This massive riverfront development spans 100 acres and is home to a $20 million greenhouse that hosts exotic fauna from around the world. Outside, enjoy the rose garden, walk through the model railroad garden, visit the arboretum and bird sanctuary, meet the sandhill crane sculptures and, in the spring, keep a watchful eye for the polliwogs and tadpoles and an open ear for the sound of frogs in the marsh!

The Durham Musem, formerly Omaha's Union Station, is a beautiful tribute to Omaha's glory days as one of the biggest rail transportation hubs in the United States. Opened in 1931 as Union Station, it once had, on average, 10,000 people traveling through daily! Now, as a Smithsonian Affiliate, you can walk into the grandeur of the Great Hall with its terrazzo floors and stunning chandeliers and imagine what it would have been like to traverse through the thousands of people coming through Omaha to get to their final destination. Walk through railcars, visit one of Omaha's original streetcars, immerse yourself in the history of how the city came to be, and get to know some of Omaha's most notable figures. While you're there, treat yourself at the authentic soda fountain, enjoying ice cream, root beer floats, shakes, and more!

Jams Old Market has the best upgraded classic American food options, mixed with some amazing flavors from the Southwest. And if you're a salad person, check out their whiskey Cobb!

Upstream Brewery is former firehouse turned brewery and restaurant! This multi-level building is in a prime location for people watching and grabbing a local beer or root beer on tap! Oh, and trust me, you want to have the artichoke cheese dip and mini Bavarian pretzels as starters.

Plank Provisions really is one of the best seafood restaurants I've had the pleasure of dining at in the Midwest. For people who say "I'm not eating any seafood in the Midwest," I challenge you to check this place out. Bring your appetite, because the oyster bar is going to put your stomach to work!

M's Pub is famous in Omaha, and you will most definitely need a reservation to get in here. Located in the heart of the Old Market, M's has been in operation since 1972. During a large fire in the Old Market back in 2016, M's was one of several businesses that was impacted. Since their reopening, however, it's like nothing has changed—this team didn't miss a beat. One of the things that this restaurant is best known for is their lavosh. Yes, really. Trust me, it's worth it.

The Committee Chophouse inside The Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel is a throwback to a classic steakhouse if there ever was one. This restaurant pays homage to the original "Committee," which gathered at the Blackstone hotel for late-night games of poker. The hotel, known for its role in history-making events, is absolutely making a mark on the food scene in Omaha, bringing fine dining front and center once again. While you're here, don't miss out on their craft cocktails!

Keep heading towards Midtown Omaha in the AKSARBEN neighborhood and you'll find yourself getting a taste of New Orleans at Herbe Sainte! Food and drink alike have made their way from the Crescent City to the Big O, and your tastebuds will thank you for taking them along for the ride. Enjoy Big Easy classics like gumbo, red beans and rice, muffuleta, étouffée, and even King Cake bread pudding!