Gene Leahy Mall Omaha – Downtown Park With Slides, Events & Riverfront Views
Gene Leahy Mall blends nature, art, and entertainment. Stroll, relax, or attend concerts in this beautifully redesigned downtown Omaha park.
Jul 15, 20251 Shares1.3K Views
Location & Overview
Gene Leahy Mall is a public park located in downtown Omaha, Nebraska. It covers 9.6 acres and stretches from 13th Street to 8th Street between Douglas and Farnam Streets. The park is named after Eugene A. Leahy, who served as Omaha’s mayor. Originally called Central Park Mall, it opened in 1977 and was one of the first efforts to bring green space and community activity back into the downtown area. Today, it’s part of The RiverFront project that links three major parks along Omaha’s riverfront.
History & Redevelopment
Construction of the original mall began in the 1970s and officially opened to the public in June 1977. A central lagoon was added in 1982 to give the park a unique look. Over time, the park became outdated and underused, so a major renovation plan was launched in 2018 as part of a $300 million downtown riverfront redevelopment project. During the redesign, the lagoon was removed, the land was raised to street level for easier access, and many new features were added. The fully renovated Gene Leahy Mall reopened on July 1, 2022.
Main Features & Amenities
The updated park keeps popular features like the big metal slides and sculpture garden. New additions include a large modern playground for children, a shaded dog park, and splash fountains for summer play. There is also a performance pavilion for live concerts, an amphitheater for public events, a remote-control boat cove, and picnic areas with seating. Wide, open lawns provide space for relaxing or hosting events. The park also includes a walking path that connects to nearby neighborhoods and the Old Market district.
Design & Lighting
The redesign of Gene Leahy Mall was led by OJB Landscape Architecture. They created a layout that supports activity both during the day and at night. The west side of the park is brighter and designed for gatherings and performances, while the east side uses softer lighting to create a calm and peaceful atmosphere. The balance of lighting and open space makes the park feel welcoming and safe at all hours.
Connectivity & Surroundings
Gene Leahy Mall is located near many downtown Omaha attractions and is part of the larger RiverFront project, which includes Heartland of America Park and Lewis & Clark Landing. The mall is next to the historic Old Market area, restaurants, hotels, and major buildings like the Mutual of Omaha tower. It is easy to reach by walking, using bike-share stations, city buses (ORBT line), ride-share services, or parking in nearby garages and metered spots. The park is designed to be accessible to everyone.
Community Impact & Use
The new Gene Leahy Mall is a major hub for the Omaha community. It hosts public concerts, festivals, outdoor movie nights, and cultural events. The park was redesigned with input from residents, who asked for safer, more family-friendly features and more usable green space. The result is a modern park that supports both recreation and large events. It also boosts the local economy by attracting visitors, supporting nearby businesses, and increasing property values in the area.
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