Top 10 Best Things To Do In Omaha, Nebraska (2025 Guide)
Discover the top 10 best things to do in Omaha, NE, from zoos to mini-golf, museums, gardens, and more. Explore Omaha like a local with this 2025 travel guide.
Jul 07, 2025175 Shares4.1K Views
Omaha, Nebraska is a city full of exciting attractions, family-friendly activities, and hidden gems waiting to be explored. Whether you're visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, Omaha offers a unique mix of history, culture, nature, and fun. This guide highlights the top 10 best things to do in Omaha, NE for 2025. Each spot has something special to offer, from world-famous zoos to creative indoor spaces.
1. Visit Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo And Aquarium
Henry Doorly Zoois one of the top-rated zoos in the world. It features the largest indoor desert, the largest indoor rainforest, and a popular aquarium. Visitors can enjoy the Skyfari ride, the Lied Jungle, and the Desert Dome. The zoo is perfect for all ages and is open year-round.
- Location: 3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68107
- Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM daily
- Entry Fee: Adults $29.95, Children (3–11) $22.95
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall mornings
- Website: omahazoo.com
2. Explore The Historic Old Market
Old Marketis a charming district in downtown Omaha. It features cobblestone streets, local shops, coffee houses, restaurants, and art galleries. Street performers and horse-drawn carriages add to the lively atmosphere. It’s the best place for walking, shopping, and people-watching.
- Location: Downtown Omaha
- Hours: Open 24/7 (business hours vary by shop)
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: Evening or weekend afternoons
3. Experience The Kiewit Luminarium
The Kiewit Luminariumis a hands-on science and technology center located along the riverfront. It features interactive exhibits that explore light, sound, motion, and human perception. It's a great stop for curious minds of all ages.
- Location: 345 Riverfront Dr, Omaha, NE 68102
- Hours: Wed–Sun: 10 AM – 5 PM (closed Mon–Tue)
- Entry Fee: Adults $15, Youth $10, Under 5 Free
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings
- Website: kiewitluminarium.org
4. Meet Alpacas At Alpacas Of The Heartland
Alpacas of the Heartland, located just outside Omaha, offers guided tours where you can feed, pet, and take pictures with alpacas. The farm also sells alpaca wool products. It’s a peaceful outdoor experience, especially for animal lovers and families.
- Location: 7016 County Road 39, Fort Calhoun, NE 68023
- Hours: By appointment only (check online)
- Entry Fee: $10–$15 per person
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and early Fall mornings
5. Try Mini Golf At The Fat Putter
The Fat Putteris a trendy indoor mini golf course and bar. It features 9 or 18-hole games with a modern atmosphere, neon lights, and music. It’s perfect for date nights, friends, and families looking for a fun evening.
- Location: 111 N 14th St, Omaha, NE 68102
- Hours: Mon–Thu 4 PM – 11 PM, Fri–Sun 11 AM – Midnight
- Entry Fee: Around $10–$15 per round
- Best Time to Visit: Evenings and weekends
6. Have Fun At Smash Park
Smash Parkis an entertainment center offering pickleball, arcade games, axe throwing, and a full-service bar and kitchen. It’s a top spot for social groups, parties, and casual visitors who want to play and relax.
- Location: 707 N 102nd St, Omaha, NE 68114
- Hours: Mon–Thu 11 AM – 11 PM, Fri–Sat 11 AM – 1 AM, Sun 10 AM – 10 PM
- Entry Fee: Varies by activity; pickleball starts at $10/hour
- Best Time to Visit: Evenings and weekends
- Website: smashpark.com
7. Walk Across The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridgeis a 3,000-foot pedestrian bridge that connects Nebraska and Iowa over the Missouri River. It offers beautiful skyline views and photo opportunities. Visitors love standing in two states at once on the marked state line.
- Location: 705 Riverfront Dr, Omaha, NE 68102
- Hours: Open 24/7
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: Sunset or early morning
8. Discover Lauritzen Gardens
Lauritzen Gardensis Omaha's botanical garden, offering 100 acres of themed gardens, walking trails, and seasonal displays. Visitors enjoy the rose garden, model train garden, and tropical conservatory. It’s a peaceful escape from the city.
- Location: 100 Bancroft St, Omaha, NE 68108
- Hours: Daily 9 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee: Adults $15, Children $9
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall
- Website: lauritzengardens.org
9. Tour The Museum Of Shadows
The Museum of Shadowsis a spooky museum that features haunted objects and paranormal exhibits. It has been featured on national TV shows. Visitors can take daytime tours or try the overnight stay experience if they dare. It’s one of the most unusual attractions in the Midwest.
- Location: 111 N Main St, Ashland, NE 68003
- Hours: Thu–Sun 12 PM – 6 PM
- Entry Fee: General Admission $15; Overnight $75
- Best Time to Visit: Evenings or near Halloween
- Website: museumofshadows.com
10. Test Your Skills At Entrap Games (Escape Room)
Entrap Escape Gamesoffers themed escape rooms where players solve puzzles to "escape" within 60 minutes. Themes include spy missions, haunted rooms, and secret labs. It’s a popular activity for groups, friends, and team-building.
- Location: 7905 L St #110, Omaha, NE 68127
- Hours: Daily 12 PM – 10 PM
- Entry Fee: Around $25 per person
- Best Time to Visit: Evenings or rainy days
- Website: entrapgames.com
Conclusion
Omaha, Nebraska has a wide range of attractions for every kind of traveler. From outdoor adventures to indoor discoveries, these top 10 things to do in Omaha make the city a fun and exciting place to explore in 2025. Whether you’re a family, a couple, or a solo traveler, Omaha has something for you. Plan your trip today and enjoy the best that this vibrant Midwest city has to offer.
Jump to
1. Visit Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo And Aquarium
2. Explore The Historic Old Market
3. Experience The Kiewit Luminarium
4. Meet Alpacas At Alpacas Of The Heartland
5. Try Mini Golf At The Fat Putter
6. Have Fun At Smash Park
7. Walk Across The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
8. Discover Lauritzen Gardens
9. Tour The Museum Of Shadows
10. Test Your Skills At Entrap Games (Escape Room)
Conclusion
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