visit omaha or lincoln

• Nebraska Tourism
• Nebraska Hotels
• Nebraska Bed and Breakfast
• Nebraska Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Nebraska
• Nebraska Restaurants
• Things to Do in Nebraska
• Nebraska Travel Forum
• Nebraska Photos
• All Nebraska Hotels
• Nebraska Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Nebraska
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Best place for 2 day tourist stay. Lincoln vs Omaha - Nebraska Forum

• United States    
• Nebraska (NE)    

Best place for 2 day tourist stay. Lincoln vs Omaha

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• United States forums
• Nebraska forum

Personally (and I live in Lincoln), I think Omaha would be preferential, however, it really depends what you're looking for. Staying in the Historic Haymarket (Lincoln) or the Historic Old Market (Omaha ) would allow you walking distance to many restaurants and activities.

Hopefully someone else will chime in with some input!

Where are you at in Florida?

Thx. I live in the Clearwater area

We visit south of there (AMI) often. You are fortunate to live in such a beautiful area!

I have enjoyed both cities and they both have much to offer.

Lincoln does have a beautiful, unique Capitol building worth seeing and visiting. And a few limited things downtown. The university is also in Lincoln if that type of thing interests you.

I'd say Omaha too. You will find more stuff to entertain you there.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Hotel with nearby restaurants Apr 16, 2024
• 43.12 Hours in Kearney, NE - March 22-24, 2024 Mar 30, 2024
• Sandhill Cranes Mar 30, 2024
• Suggestions for Nebraska trip Mar 05, 2024
• 15 day road trip in Nebraska Feb 15, 2024
• Best steak in Omaha? Jan 19, 2024
• Steak recommendations Jan 14, 2024
• Family reunion hotel Oct 30, 2023
• Fall colors Oct 05, 2023
• Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital Oct 03, 2023
• places to stay in lincoln Oct 03, 2023
• Secure parking near Amtrak in Omaha Oct 02, 2023
• Nebraska from Ireland Sep 23, 2023
• Shuttle with your own kayaks? Aug 30, 2023
• Motels/Hotels along I-80 5 replies
• From KC to Sioux Falls, South Dakota - I-29 closures 11 replies
• Driving I-80 from Chicago to Denver? 2 replies
• Sandhills/ Western Nebraska Lodging??? 6 replies
• Driving I-76 & i-80, Denver to Des Moines, Ia = sights? 6 replies
• Traveling across the state on highway 80 7 replies
• Nearby Lakes/Cabins? 3 replies
• Overnight along I80 between Kearney and Lincoln 3 replies
• Ashfalls Trip 2 replies
• Long Pine, Nebraska 2 replies

Nebraska Hotels and Places to Stay

25 Best Things To Do In Lincoln, Nebraska In 2023

Lincoln is one of those Nebraska cities that makes a great day trip visit no matter the season. If you have a little extra time, though, you can make a weekend of it going to fantastic restaurants, world-class shows, and enjoying the great outdoors. There’s so much to do in Lincoln, Nebraska, you’ll need the whole weekend!

Things to do in Lincoln

Stop and smell the flowers

Rarely does the public get to enjoy such beautiful botanical gardens for free, but Sunken Gardens are just that. While it’s not a huge place to explore, it’s worth a stop to stroll and admire all the work volunteers put into it. Sunken Gardens are part of a much larger park called Antelope Park.

• Sunken Gardens , southwest corner of 27th Street and Capital Parkway
• Hamann Rose Garden and Strolling Garden , 27th and C streets

Walk through Robber's Cave

For more than a century, Robber's Cave has been used as a hideout, brewery storage, concert venue, daycare, and the ulitmate college party spot. Now, you can reserve a tour and learn about its fascinating history.

• 925 Robbers Cave Road

Lincoln Children's Museum

Three stories of fun, that’s what Lincoln Children’s Museum is. Play in the treehouse, splash at the water table, and explore the imaginative kid-size world. My kids loved the nutty cuckoo clock area when they were little.

• Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St.

Active family fun

Doesn’t matter your age, you will be tired after spending a few hours jumping, climbing and playing indoors at Lost in Fun! or Urban Air Adventure. But if you see more thrills, check out the city’s putt-putt golf centers, laser tag facilities, and paintball park.

• Lost in Fun! , 8531 Cody Drive
• Urban Air Adventure , 2840 S. 70th St.
• Adventure Golf Center , 5901 S. 56th St.
• Sun Valley Lanes' Laser Tag Laser Tag, 6600 N. 27th St.
• CJ’s Paintball Park , 16500 SW 14th St., Mortell, Neb.

Lincoln Children's Zoo

A fun afternoon at the zoo is in order. See more than 400 animals, a lot of them you can see up close. This zoo has a good amount of annimal interactions from a pettting zoo to feeding a giraffe.

• Lincoln Children’s Zoo, 1222 S. 27th St.

Haymarket District

Brick roads and revitalized warehouses filled with local shops and restaurants are quintessential Haymarket. You’ll find some pretty unique places to hang out, either to watch a Husker game on TV or enjoy a drink before a show.

Cheer on the Huskers

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln has several great Division I teams, but none can compare to the women's volleyball team. Home games are played at the Devaney Center. The Devaney Center is home to games and matches for Husker wrestling, men's and women's gymnastics, women's swimming and diving, and track and field, as well.

Football, many will argue, is also a must-see. Be a part of the Sea of Red on game day at Memorial Stadium.

• Devaney Center. 1600 Court St.
• Memorial Stadium, 1 Memorial Stadium Driv

Immerse yourself in state history

The University of Nebraska State Museum – most commonly referred to as Morrill Hall – is the state’s best natural history museum filled with fossils and interactive exhibits. The Hall of Mammoths is something to be behold. This is also where you’ll find Ralph Mueller Planetarium.

• Morrill Hall, UNL campus, 14th and Vine streets ( Note : the museum will be temporarily closed in the fall of 2023)
• Nebraska History Museum , 131 Centennial Mall North

Nebraska State Capitol

It’s a rite of passage for most Nebraska fourth graders, but you can tour the Nebraska State Capitol no matter what age you are. Tours point out the mosaics and sculptures throughout the building, as well as details the uniqueness of being the nation’s first truly vernacular state capitol.

• Nebraska State Capitol, 1445 K St.

See a live concert

Being a college town, major touring acts plan tour stops in Lincoln. My favorite venues are the Rococo Theatre and Pinewood Bowl, but if you want an arena experience, get tickets to a show at Pinnacle Arena.

• The Rococo Theatre , 140 N. 13th St.
• Pinewood Bowl Amphitheater , 3201 S. Coddington Ave.
• Pinnacle Bank Arena , 400 Pinnacle Arena Drive
• The Bourbon Theatre , 1415 O St.

Watch an arthouse flick

Some of the best independent and foreign films are shown on the two screens at The Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center. I’ve seen a few thought-provoking documentaries at the theater.

• The Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center, UNL campus, 313 N. 13th St.

Eat all the food

I’ve been visiting Lincoln for years, first because of family and now because I love some restaurants there. Here are a few favorites.

• The Green Gateau , 330 S. 10th St. (downtown)
• The Oven , 201 N. Eighth St., suite 201 and 101 Pioneer Woods Drive, suite 110
• Honest Abe’s Burgers & Freedom (several locations, but my favorite is 126 N. 14th St.)
• Ivanna Cone , 701 P St., suite 101 (Haymarket)
• UNL Dairy Store , UNL East Campus, 1625 Arbor Drive (North Lincoln)
• 9 South CharGrill, 844 S. St. (South Lincoln)
• Copal Progressive Mexican Cuisine , 4747 Pioneers Blvd., suite 300 (South Lincoln)

Go ice skating

For the better part of the year, public ice skating is available indoors at Breslow Ice Hockey Center and The Ice Box. Seasonally, outdoor rinks are at Holmes Lake and Oak Lake Park.

• John Breslow Ice Hockey Center , 433 V St.
• The Ice Box , 1880 Transformation Drive (home of the Lincoln Stars)
• Holmes Lake , 70th Street and Normal Boulevard
• Oak Lake Park , Charleston Street and Sun Valley Boulevard

Watch live theater

Lincoln’s theater scene is a mix of excellent community theater productions, professional regional theatre, as well as Broadway tours. For marquee titles, keep an eye on the upcoming season at Lied Center for Performing Arts.

• Lied Center for Performing Arts, UNL campus, 301 N. 12th St.
• Lincoln Community Playhouse , 2500 S. 56th St.
• Nebraska Repertory Theatre , UNL campus, 215 Temple Building, 12th and R streets
• TADA Theatre , 701 P St.

Pose in front of murals

The results of a 2021 mural project, Emerge LNK, can be seen throughout University Place. They’re so colorful, you’ll want to snap a selfie.

• 2601 N. 48th St.
• 2621 N. 48th St.
• 2633 N. 48th St.
• 2723 N.48th St.
• 2700 N. 48th St.
• 2626 N. 48th St.
• North 50th Street and Huntington Avenue
• 2431 N. 48th St.
• 3100 N. 38th St.
• 6102 Havelock Ave.

Shop your heart out

I’m a sucker for locally-owned shops, so I love dropping by Indigo Bridge for a new book or browsing one of the boutiques in the Haymarket when I get the chance. Here are a few shops I recommend you check out.

• Indigo Bridge , 1245 S. 14th St.
• From Nebraska Gift Shop , 803 Q St.
• Licorice International , 230 N. Seventh St. and 4725 Prescott Ave.

Breweries and cideries

In 1990, the state of Nebraska had one brewery, Empyrean Brewing Co., and it was in Lincoln.. That brewery has evolved into Lazlo’s Brewery & Grill, and thtey still servee Empyrean.

Nowawadays, you can’t throw a rock without hitting a brewery in Lincoln (I don’t recommend trying). Try a taste of local beer or ciders at one of these.

• Lazlo’s Brewery & Grill , 210 N. Seventh St., next door to Empyrean Brewing Co., 729 Q St.
• Backswing Brewing Co ., 500 W. South St., suite 8
• Boiler Brewing Co. , 129 N. 10th St., suite 8, and 5800 Hidcote Drive, suite 100
• Catalyst Brewing Co. & Taproom , 5730 Hidcote Drive
• Code Beer Co ., 200 S. Antelope Valley Parkway
• Corn Coast Brewing Co ., 1433 Dahlberg Drive, suite A
• Cosmic Eye Brewing , 6800 P St., suite 300
• Kinkaider Brewing Co. Taproom , 201 N. Seventh St.
• Saro Cider , 1746 N. St.
• Schillingbridge Cork & Tap House , 575 Fallbrook Blvd., suite 109
• White Elm Brewing Co. , 2717 S. Eighth St., suite 1 and 801 R St.
• Zipline Brewing Co. , 2100 Magnum Circle, suite 1, and 5740 Hidcote Drive.

Free things to do

A few places have been mentioned already, like Pioneers Park Nature Center and Sunken Gardens. A few other great, free places to visit include Gallery Alley in the Haymarket (especially lit up at night) and Centennial Mall in downtotwn.

• Pioneers Park Nature Center , 3201 S. Coddington Ave.
• Gallery Alley , 719 P St.
• Centennial Mall , seven blocks in downtown Lincoln

Go to a park

The city has its own herd of bison and elk and you can find them at Pioneers Park. It’s also a great space for hiking through prairie and wetlands. There are about 8 miles of hiking trails. Don’t skip the nature center.

• Pioneers Park , 3201 S. Coddington Ave.
• Antelope Park , 23rd & N Streets and Sheridan Boulevard (largest playground in the city that’s ADA accessible)
• Prairie Pines Nature Preserve , 3100 N. 112th St.
• Wilderness Park , First and Van Dorn streets (the city’s largest park with 22 miles of trails)

Outdoor Adventures

It’s not just for university students! Outdoor Adventures featuring rock climbing walls, a challenge course, and workshops. You can also rent equipment for paddling, cross country skiing, hiking, camping and more.

• UNL Outdoor Adventures , 930 N. 14th St.
• Lincoln Paddle Co. , book online and they will meet you at the lake shore with rental kayaks or SUPS

Sheldon Museum of Art is a gorgeous modern art museum located on the campus of UNL. Browse the grounds nearby – there are more than 30 sculptures from the museum’s collection on exhibit.

• Sheldon Museum of Art , UNL campus, 12th and R streets
• Great Plains Art Museum , 115 Q St.
• International Quilt Museum , UNL campus, 1523N. 33rd St.

If you’re visiting Lincoln during the holiday season, you must check out this article featuring the city’s can’t-miss holiday events !

Where to stay in Lincoln, Nebraska

Even with Lincoln being a short drive from Omaha, I’ve stayed overnight in the city several times. Usually, I prefer staying in the Haymarket area since restaurants, attractions and stores are all within walking distance. The downside to Haymarket, though, as well as many downtown Lincoln hotels, is that parking is extra, typically.

Here are a few of the hotels I recommend for families:

• The Graduate Hotel (read my review …got kids? It has a pool)
• Hyatt Place Haymarket (also has a pool)
• And then there are these highly-rated Lincoln hotels with free breakfast that might suit your family.

No kids? Stay at some place a little more special:

• The Scarlet Lincoln
• The Rogers House Inn B&B

Frequently asked questions about Lincoln

What are some things to do this weekend in lincoln.

Lincoln is a busy place on the weekends, but it depends on your interests. If you like fresh food and live music, the Farmers Market held on Saturdays in the Haymarket is a good bet for entertainment from early May to mid-October. Fantastic touring performances come to Lincoln from rock to Broadway, so a few places to check for weekend show dates include Pinnacle Bank Arena , Lied Center For Performing Arts , and Rococo Theatre .

Looking for something to do with the kids? Pick a park! Our favorite is Antelope Park, but Lincoln has so many playgrounds to choose from.

What are some popular annual events and festivals in Lincoln?

Lincoln, Nebraska, has a lot of annual events to look forward to. In the spring, a few favorites include Lincoln Earth Day in April and the Lincoln Marathon in early May. Lincoln Calling, an art & music festival, is also in early May. Football fans also look forward to the Husker Spring Game.

In the summer, the city celebrates the Fourth of July with several events and one of the great, free celebrations is the Uncle Sam Jam at Oak Lake Park. In late August 2023, the city also brought back the very popular Lincoln Air Show.

Fall is a great time for pumpkin patches, and a nearby favorite is Roca Berry Farm’s Fall Festival in October. Roca isn’t too far from Lincoln. Lincoln Children’s Zoo holds Boo at the Zoo in late October, and it’s a blast for kids to trick or treat through the zoo.

The Lincoln zoo’s Zoo Lights is an annual highlight in the winter. It features one of the region’s largest lighting displays.

What are the local dining and restaurant options in Lincoln?

Some of our favorite restaurants are in Lincoln! For breakfast, I recommend Cultiva or Good Evans. And for brunch, the must-visit place is The Green Gateau. For breakfast pastries and great coffee, there’s nothing better than The Mill Coffee and Tea in the Haymarket.

For lunch, try a burger at Honest Abe’s Burgers & Freedom (there are a few locations) or go to Yia Yia’s for pizza. For dinner, good casual options include Lazlo’s Brewery & Grill, Blue Sushi Grill & Sake, Copal Progressive Mexican Cuisine. For a date night, try dinner at The Oven, which has some of the state’s best Indian dishes, or Dish, whose chef has been a James Beard nominee.

What are the best places to get ice cream in Lincoln?

This is one of our favorite questions to research! A classic ice cream shop in the Haymarket is Ivanna Cone. And, if you’re willing to drive away from all the city’s main attractions, go to UNL’s Dairy Store on the university’s East Campus. The handmade ice cream there is delicious!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Home » Travel Guides » 25 Best Things to do in Omaha (Nebraska)

25 Best Things to do in Omaha (Nebraska)

Omaha is often overlooked by tourists and commonly planned into an itinerary as a quick stop off point. These opinions and plans soon change however when visitors set foot in the historic Old Market area of the cit, stroll along the riverfront or walk in the Dundee neighborhood and get a whiff of what’s cooking.

In the past Omaha was an important hub for transport but now it is one of the top ten cities in America with the most billionaires per capita. They are catered for well with great food and culture but all that can be enjoyed by us with less money to burn anyway.

Here is our list of the 25 best things to do in Omaha !

1. Visit the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

Omaha’s zoo boasts not only one of the worlds largest indoor deserts but also North America’s largest indoor rainforest.

That’s not all; there is also over 7 acres of indoor exhibits, thousands of animals and underground caves covering a total of 130 acres! Plus the zoo is open all year making it great for rainy days too!

2. Sample beer at the Omaha Craft Brewery Tour

Stopping at nine breweries the Omaha craft brewery tour is the best way to sample the tastiest beer you are ever likely to find. All the featured beers are produced by dedicated locals who have made beer their entire lives.

Request a free explorer journal and you will receive all the information you need plus coupons for nine free beers, cheers!

3. Explore the historic Dundee Neighborhood

The Dundee Neighborhood offers a true culinary adventure making it one of the best places in Omaha to find top notch flavors. You will find a mix of garlic filled pasta, juicy burgers, tender pork belly and to finish; the sweetest,  saltiest desserts.

The streets are filled with tempting scents thanks to hard working chef based restaurants who source all their ingredients locally. Not hungry? Then head on down to Dundee Dell where you will find the nations largest collection of Scotch whiskey.

4. Ride a Historical train at The Durham Museum

Found in the stunning 1931 art deco union station, The Durham Museum offers numerous exhibits including an extensive range of refurbished trains, 1940’s shops, an array of artifacts featuring some of the worlds rarest coins and documents.

Be sure to visit the soda fountain for an authentic phosphate or perhaps a malt.

5. Potter around at The Old Market

The Old Market stretches across several blocks and is jam packed with charming buildings hosting obscure shops, art galleries, restaurants and flea markets. Winning itself a certificate of excellence on Tripadvisor the market is bursting with life day and night.

For breakfast why not head on down to the traditional diner on the corner of 12th st. and after a stroll choose from a variety of restaurants welcoming you in with a daily specials menu. Locals boast about the fun, friendly vibe no matter the time of day making it a great stop off for families of all ages and sizes.

The Old Market is large enough to keep yourself busy but small enough to feel like you have conquered it in a day. Be sure to sit and soak up the atmosphere and while you’re at it why not indulge in a craft beer whilst listening to some of the top rated street musicians in Omaha.

6. Relax at the Lauritzen Gardens

A truly unique museum offering an all year round plant display, the Lauritzen Gardens is a hidden oasis in the heart of the busy city. Wonder the 100 acres of breathtaking beautiful displays featuring themed gardens such as the Victorian garden of the brand new Marjorie K. Daugherty conservatory.

Be sure to hop on a tram for a tour, its the best way to get a feel for the calming atmosphere the garden provide. Its a great day out for all the family, Kids will love the model railroad and children garden!

After a mornings exploration why not take a long relaxing lunch in beautiful surroundings at the Lauritzen garden cafe, and don’t forget to visit the great little get shop offering a range of novelty fun gift for children and an extensive botanical book collection.

7. Learn about Nebraska’s wildlife at the Wildlife safari park

With a petting zoo and a very hands on approach children are sure to have a great day out at The Wildlife Safari Park. stretching across four miles the park is a drive-through adventure, customers boast about their close encounters with animals such as sandhill cranes and bald eagles.

Why not make a day of it and take picnic in the dedicated picnic area located at the wolf woods parking lot or stop off at the visitors center which offers a wide range of refreshing drinks and snacks.

The park is host to an amazing variety of beasts from Elk to bison and wolfs to eagles. don’t forget to visit the gift shop on your way out where you will find animal themes quality merchandise including stuffed toys, sweatshirts and more.

8. Stroll across the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

This artsy 3,000 ft pathway crosses the Missouri river offering an on foot tour of Omaha’s beautiful skyline. Relish in the 3 acre plaza where you will find a whole host of entertainments from an interactive water fountain to the River Critters Environmental play area.

Connecting over 150 miles of outdoor trails and walks the Bob Kerrey Bridge offers a whole host of activities whether you visit by bike or on foot you are sure to have a great day!

If you are visiting in May or June why not pop down on a friday and catch some live music in the Plaza area which is surrounded by an amphitheater style grassy meadow. take a few blankets and chairs for a great day of music and adventure!

9. Visit the Joslyn Castle

Joslyn castle officially named “lyndhurst” is a 1903 mansion located on 3902 Davenport st (the Gold Coast historical district of Omaha). George and Sarah Joslyn were among the elite in Nebraska earning their fortune in the ready-print news industry, between them they built a home that mirrored their success in the business world.

The grounds are rich with a rare and exotic botanical collection from all over the globe. The plan for the property was designed by John McDonald and involved a carriage house, large green house, lily pond and more.

10. See a submarine at the Freedom Park Navy Museum

Located on the banks of the Missouri river and far off the beaten trail Freedom Park is an outdoor museum better suited to warm dry days. On display you will find a whole host of exciting historical military artifacts and many including the thrilling cold war era training submarine which has a dedicated tour.

The submarine is the only target a training USN submarine still around today. There is plenty more to see, freedom park is home to a large collection of aircraft including a helicopter, jets, a captains gig, lots of rocket launchers and more.

11. Hit the shops

Hosting a wide range of specialty shops Omaha is a great place to bag a quirky gift. One shop which rouses particular interest is the Tannebaum Christmas Shop rammed with everything jingly and wintery to get you in the festive spirit.

Jackson street booksellers offer a great selection of literature and art books, with a friendly cozy atmosphere and a special area for children, this little bookshop shop is well worth a visit. Sample the cities favorite fudge at the Old Market Candy Shop described on Tripadvisor as “Fun inside and in your tummy”

• 12.  See a concert

The CHI Health Center, situated in the North Downtown area of Omaha, is one of the city’s top venues for seeing a concert, game of sports or even visiting a convention. The modern appearance of the building is striking and hosts a variety of performances such as concerts and stand up comedy.

The conventions that take place at the Center include award ceremonies, work events and motivational speakers.

13. See the iconic fountain at the Heartland of America Park

The star of the show at the Heartland of America Park is its water fountain which springs from the ground to a towering height of 320 feet. The accompanying light show is also worth seeing and regularly attracts large crowds.

The park also has a World War 2 memorial and gondola rides courtesy of Heartland Gondolas.

14. Visit Boys town

Boys Town is the name of the National Historic Landmark District home to the Hall of History and Father Flanagan House. Annually, over 100,000 visitors from around the United States visit the town where Father Flanagan’s vision for a better America was founded.

Children were saved from lives of misery in the village and they begin new lives with better opportunities and hope.

15. Witness history at Florence Mill

The Florence Mill, in the Northeast of Omaha, is another of the city’s landmarks that has found its way onto the National Register of Historic Places. It is also a Nebraska State Historic Sight.

The mill is believed to have been built in 1846 and operated well into the mid 20th Century. The area of Florence is believed to have been inhabited by European settlers long before Nebraska existed. The settlers in the area made their livelihood from trading fur.

16. Pop round to General Crook House

The former, now restored, home of General George Crook is situated at Fort Omaha and is a top example of a 19th Century American home. The building has won awards in the past and is authentically restored to fit the period of General Crook’s residence.

The garden is also somewhat of a draw for visitors and has 110 different species of prized flowers and plants within. Entry to the house costs a reasonable $7 and it is open seven days of the week.

17. Visit the birthplace of a former president

President Gerald R Ford, the 38th President of the United States, was born in the city of Omaha and is honored by this tactful memorial on Woolworth Avenue. Information about the memorial, and the president’s birth site, are housed in a building based on the design of the original house’s turret.

The memorial also features a rose garden which is modeled on the White House’s own. Entrance to the memorial is free.

18. Visit the birthplace of Malcolm X

Another famous birthplace within the city of Omaha is the birthplace of Malcolm X which was built, and continues, to pay respect to the Omaha native.

The memorial spans 14 acres and has an official marker which allows guests to pay their respects to the human rights activist. Nearby, and also worth visiting, is the Afroamerican bookstore.

19. Walk the Mormon Trail

The Mormon Trail is located at the Historic Winter Quarters in Omaha. The trail and Trail Center explore the history of 90,000 migrating Mormons on their way to the Rocky Mountains.

Displays in the Trail Center include a full sized log cabin that Mormons would have inhabited at the time as well as handcarts, oxen and wagons that would have also been part of the mass migration.

20. Admire some contemporary art

The best place to see contemporary art in the city of Omaha is without a doubt the Bemis Center for Contemporary Art. The center is an artist in residence program and is located in the Old Market area of the city.

Artists from all over the world live, work and showcase their talent in the studios on the second floor of the building. Entrance is free but donations are welcomed.

21. Admire some Jewish art

An art gallery with a difference, the Jewish Community Art Gallery is home to some of world’s leading art from the Jewish community. The gallery is also a great place to learn about Judaism in general and regularly hosts educational and historical exhibits to complement the artwork collections.

The gallery changes it exhibits on a monthly basis so there are always fresh and interesting things to see here.

22. Experience the country

A trip to Omaha wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the Nebraskan countryside. The Bellevue Berry and Pumpkin Ranch offers tourists the perfect chance to do just that.

The ranch allows visitors the chance to pick their own berries and pumpkins as well as seeing the livestock of the ranch up close and personal.

The children’s play areas at the ranch allow kid’s to experience what it was like at a play area 50 – 100 years ago. Other activities include hay rides through the woods and tree houses.

23. Watch Herons

Heron Haven is, as you would expect from the name, a great place to see herons. The sanctuary is spring fed and is one of the last Oxbow wetlands in the Big Papillion Creek.

The area is a great place to chill out during your time in Omaha and the birds are beautiful. The area is within Omaha city limits.

24. Watch the Missouri River go by

Lewis and Clark Landing provides 23 acres worth of space to relax, sit back and admire the views of the Missouri River passing by.

The landing also plays host to a number of concerts and events throughout the year. There is also a firefighter memorial monument and the largest labor monument in the United States. The riverfront walk here is a great way to access the Bob bridge.

25. Ponder some fine art

The Anderson O Brien Fine Art Gallery has been the go to venue for the art community in Omaha for over 30 years now.

The gallery is regularly changing its exhibits which feature some of the best fine art from local artists in the Midwest region. Works on display here range from painting to sculpture.

25 Best Things to do in Omaha (Nebraska):

• Visit the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
• Sample beer at the Omaha Craft Brewery Tour
• Explore the historic Dundee Neighborhood
• Ride a Historical train at The Durham Museum
• Potter around at The Old Market
• Relax at the Lauritzen Gardens
• Learn about Nebraska’s wildlife at the Wildlife safari park
• Stroll across the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
• Visit the Joslyn Castle
• See a submarine at the Freedom Park Navy Museum
• Hit the shops
• See the iconic fountain at the Heartland of America Park
• Visit Boys town
• Witness history at Florence Mill
• Pop round to General Crook House
• Visit the birthplace of a former president
• Visit the birthplace of Malcolm X
• Walk the Mormon Trail
• Admire some contemporary art
• Admire some Jewish art
• Experience the country
• Watch Herons
• Watch the Missouri River go by
• Ponder some fine art

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Things To Do

There are countless reasons why Lincoln was named the happiest city in America. Our people are warm and welcoming and our city is brimming with award-winning attractions, breathtaking art galleries, an exploding craft brewery scene and so much more.  Located in the middle of everywhere, Lincoln truly offers something for everyone. We can’t wait for you to discover for yourself what the buzz is all about.

Attractions

Arts & entertainment, museums & history, family friendly activities, itineraries, pet-friendly adventures, receive your free visitor's guide, sign-up to receive our enewsletter, follow us on social media.

14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Lincoln, NE

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

As the capital of Nebraska, Lincoln is home to a wealth of museums and cultural attractions, but it is also a university city with an active and vibrant atmosphere. If you decide to pull off the highway and spend a bit of time here, you'll find no shortage of things to do.

In the city center is the Historic Haymarket District, an interesting area with shops, galleries, and restaurants, popular with both locals and tourists. The area around the capitol building has a number of important sites, including the Governor's Residence.

On the University of Nebraska campus, conveniently located in the heart of the city, are the Sheldon Museum of Art and the University of Nebraska State Museum. Outside the city center, but still within easy driving distance, some unique attractions are worth checking out, including the Speed Museum and the Quilt Museum.

For more ideas on things to do, see our list of the top attractions in Lincoln.

See also: Where to Stay in Lincoln

1. Stroll through the Historic Haymarket District

2. tour the nebraska state capitol, 3. visit the university of nebraska state museum, 4. take in a game at memorial stadium, 5. relax at the sunken gardens, 6. see historic cars at the museum of american speed, 7. engage in wildlife spotting at pioneers park nature center, 8. catch up on culture at the sheldon museum of art, 9. feed the animals at the lincoln children's zoo, 10. take the kids to the lincoln children's museum, 11. international quilt study center & museum, 12. tour the governor's residence, 13. national roller skating museum, 14. lester f. larsen tractor test and power museum, where to stay in lincoln for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in lincoln, ne, lincoln, ne - climate chart.

The Historic Haymarket District is a wonderful place to stroll around, grab a bite to eat, or just people watch. The area is compact and consists of beautifully renovated and restored late 19th-century brick warehouses, brick streets, a large water tower, and a unique clock.

The Haymarket District has a lively vibe, as the University of Nebraska is nearby and the students frequent the many establishments packed into this small area. The most notable building is the Lincoln station . Once a railway depot, today it houses the visitor center and a restaurant. In the summer, the streets are frequently closed off for festivals and farmers markets.

Location: 7th and P Streets, Lincoln, Nebraska

It took three tries for Nebraska to construct a capitol building that would last. The building today, the third one on this site, is unique in respect to other state capitols. It doesn't have the traditional dome, but instead, it incorporates a 400-foot tower containing offices.

The cost of the building was 10 million dollars and construction took 10 years, starting in 1922. The Nebraska State Capitol is well worth a visit for its limestone exterior depicting 3,000 years of democracy through carvings, and its ornate interior of marble columns, mosaic floors, and murals. The figure on the very top is a 19-foot-tall bronze figure of The Sower .

Address: 1445 K Street, Lincoln, Nebraska

Official site: http://capitol.nebraska.gov/index.php/visit

For fans of paleontology, the University of Nebraska State Museum, a Smithsonian Affiliate , is a must-see attraction in Lincoln. Housed here is the world's largest articulated mammoth, along with a well-regarded exhibit of fossilized elephants. As a result, the museum is sometimes referred to as Elephant Hall. The museum has other collections related to the natural history of Nebraska and is home to the Mueller Planetarium .

A trip to the museum can be part of a pleasant stroll around the lovely grounds of the University of Nebraska campus in Lincoln and can also be combined with a visit to the Quilt Museum and the Lester F. Larsen Tractor Test and Power Museum

Address: 645 North 14th Street, Lincoln, Nebraska

Official site: http://museum.unl.edu/

Nebraskans are fanatical about their sports teams, and the Cornhuskers are no exception to this rule. If the team is playing when you are in town (and you can get tickets), a visit to the stadium during a home game is a fun thing to do. The nearly 90,000-person crowd is not shy about showing their allegiance, and the roar when the home team scores can be deafening.

Even if no games are scheduled, and you are a fan of college football, check out the Hall of Fame walk outside the arena and take the free self-guided tour. Some of the main highlights include the Bob Devaney statue, a set of historic columns dating from 1892, the trophy case, and, of course, the Huskers store full of all kinds of jerseys and other team swag. The self guided tour also allows you to enter the stadium and look at the playing field from gate 23A.

You can take the self guided tour any day of the week, although on game days and the lead up to game days, certain areas may be inaccessible. If you'd like a guided tour, these are available on Wednesday and Thursday mornings.

Official site: https://huskers.com/sports/2019/4/16/210004196.aspx

The beautiful Sunken Gardens are a work of natural art that pleases all the senses. Founded in 1930 and renovated in 2004, the gardens are a point of civic pride in Lincoln.

The park has three main gardens: the Healing Garden, where all the plants bloom white; the Perennial Garden; and the Annual Garden. In the Annual Garden, more than 30,000 plants are used each year to create new designs and themes. The gardens are relatively small, covering less than two acres so they can be visited quickly, however don't be surprised if you end up staying longer.

Address: 27th and Capitol Parkway, Lincoln, Nebraska

Official site: https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/City/Departments/Parks-and-Recreation/Parks-Facilities/Public-Gardens/Sunken-Gardens

Fans of race cars, engines, and generally anything that goes fast will enjoy the Museum of American Speed. The museum was founded in 1922 and today boasts 135,000 square feet of exhibition space.

In addition to an extensive archive collection, there are three major exhibitions, namely Automobilia, Cars and Engines, and Toys and Models. The museum can be tricky to find as it is located in an industrial park, but it is worth the effort, use the GPS coordinates provided on the website.

Tours are offered in the afternoons, weekdays only, and last two hours. If you prefer to go at your own pace, the museum is set up to be self-guided as well.

Address: 599 Oak Creek Drive, Lincoln, Nebraska

Official site: http://www.museumofamericanspeed.com/default.dlp

Pioneers Park Nature Center is ideal for those on a budget looking for free outdoor fun with some education thrown in. The park is set on 668 acres and is a great place to get back to nature, this is what the Great Plains used to look like before the advent of modern farming.

Eight miles of hiking trails wind around the property, and visitors will see herds of bison, white-tailed deer, and elk. Those with keen eyes may also spot red-tailed hawks, barred owls, and wild turkeys.

In the Nature Center building, caged animals can be seen up close, and for those wishing to touch a turtle or a snake, it can be easily arranged simply by asking.

A children's play area has climbing structures and a big patch of dirt with digging toys provided.

Address: 3201 S. Coddington Ave, Lincoln, Nebraska

Official site: https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/City/Departments/Parks-and-Recreation/Parks-Facilities/Pioneers-Park-Nature-Center

The fascinating Sheldon Museum of Art consists of 12,000 pieces of art spanning many different media. This museum is just a short stroll from the University of Nebraska State Museum , and along the way are unusual sculptures that are part of the Sheldon Museum's collection.

Of particular note is the untitled big head by the artist Jun Kaneko, on the steps of the museum. There are more than 30 sculptures, with pieces by Jacques Lipchitz, Claes Richard Serra, and William Tucker among others. Inside, the main focus of the museum is on American Art. Notable artists in the collection include Mary Cassatt, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Andy Warhol.

Address: 12th and R Streets, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, Nebraska

Official site: www.sheldonartmuseum.org

With its more than 400 animals, the Lincoln Children's Zoo is an ideal family thing to do in Lincoln. One of the highlights of a visit is a ride on the scale model train . In operation for over 55 years, the train delights young and old as it travels around the zoo. There is a small fee to ride.

Another fun activity is feeding the giraffes. Bundles of feed are available for a modest fee, and the animals are keen to participate. Be sure to check out the Animal Encounter Stage , where you can get up close and personal with a range of creatures, including armadillos, owls, boa constrictors, and an alligator. Guided horse rides are also available.

Address: 1222 South 27th Street, Lincoln, Nebraska

Official site: https://www.lincolnzoo.org/

Ideal for children of all ages, the Lincoln Children's Museum is both fun and educational. Colorful and exciting exhibits are spread out over 20,000 square feet and three floors. The interactive nature of the displays will be sure to keep little people entertained for hours.

The museum allows children to be active and creative in a learning environment. Exhibits change all the time, so visitors may want to check in advance to see what experiences they can expect to find during their trip.

Address: 1420 P Street, Lincoln, Nebraska

Official site: www.lincolnchildrensmuseum.org

Housed in a unique modern building on the East Campus of the University of Nebraska, the International Quilt Study Center & Museum is an unexpected delight. Quilting aficionados will not want to miss the main collection showcasing 400 years of quilting, with 3,500 items from more than 30 countries. Even those without any knowledge of quilting will find the colors and patterns displayed here mesmerizing.

The museum also hosts a regular roster of traveling exhibits and offers a diverse set of educational programs and activities.

Address: 1523 N 33rd Street, Lincoln, Nebraska

Official site: www.quiltstudy.org

Set on beautiful grounds with large trees, colorful gardens, and manicured lawns, the Governor's Residence is a picture-perfect mansion. The building, originally opened in 1958 and extensively remodeled in 1997, contains 31 rooms, but only five bedrooms.

The architectural style is modified Georgian Colonial. The mansion is just a short walk from the Nebraska State Capitol, and the two can be combined in one visit. Forty-minute guided tours are available once a week on Thursdays only and need to be booked at least two weeks in advance. Tours are free.

Official site: https://governor.nebraska.gov/governors-residence

This free attraction is a worthwhile stop and not something you see every day. Those of a certain age will be impressed by the wide range of roller skates and memorabilia on display.

The museum focuses on five different types of rolling fun: Inline skating, Artistic Skating, Roller Hockey, Speed Skating, and Roller Derby. The tour is self-guided, so you can take as long as you'd like to browse through the exhibits; staff are on hand to answer any questions.

Some of the highlights are the powered skates, the elevator skates, and one pair dating from 1814.

Address: 4730 South Street, Lincoln, Nebraska

Official site: https://www.rollerskatingmuseum.org

This small museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of gas-powered tractors and their impact on farming. Located on the East Campus of the University of Nebraska, the museum can be a bit tricky to find.

A wide variety of beautifully restored tractors dating back to 1915 are on display along with other farm implements. A very knowledgeable guide is on staff to answer questions. As the museum is located on the university campus, a visit here can be combined with stops at the State Museum and the Quilt Museum. Admission is by donation.

Address: 1925 N 37th Street, Lincoln, Nebraska

Official site: https://tractormuseum.unl.edu/

Luxury Hotels:

• The Kindler Hotel is Lincoln's newest hotel. Small and luxurious with the finest amenities, the hotel has only 49 rooms and is in a great location.
• The Graduate Lincoln oozes hipness and cool. Check out the corn wallpaper, ping pong table, and pinball machines. The hotel is in the heart of the Haymarket District.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The Hilton Garden Inn Lincoln Downtown / Haymarket has an indoor pool with a whirlpool, a 24-hour fitness center, and complimentary airport shuttle.
• Nearby is the new Hyatt Place Lincoln Haymarket . All rooms come with breakfast, and there are great restaurants nearby.
• For larger rooms with kitchens, check out the Embassy Suites by Hilton Lincoln . The rate includes a complimentary breakfast with made-to-order omelets, and the property has an indoor pool.

Budget Hotels:

• A good-value option is the Comfort Suites University . On offer are spacious suites, an indoor pool and Jacuzzi, and a small fitness room. Just off Interstate 80 is the family run and recently renovated Horizon Inn Motel.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Nebraska: Whether you are passing through Nebraska or planning your vacation here, be sure to see our article on the top-rated tourist attractions in Nebraska . If you are heading to Omaha, one of Nebraska's top places to visit, be sure to see our article on the top-rated tourist attractions in Omaha .

More on Nebraska

18 Things No One Tells You Before Visiting Omaha Nebraska

18 things no one tells you before visiting Omaha, Nebraska.

I spent the past weekend in Omaha, Nebraska on a coffee high ( too many cafes. not enough time ). It was my first time visiting Omaha and I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. I didn’t know much about the city ( apart from what I had read in books ).

So with adulting-crisis filled romance novels as my only reference, I kind of thought everyone in town was constantly falling in and out of and back in love, messily and wholly.

But that wasn’t the case. Omaha is a solid city.

It’s the birthplace of Malcolm X. It’s the home of the Reuben ( no matter what New Yorkers say ). It hosts the largest Sudanese refugee population in America ( so there are lots of amazing East African restaurants in-and-around the area ).

It’s an incredible city. Friendly. Welcoming. Lively. I can’t even begin to list all the things to see and do in the Gateway To The West ( though I try exactly that here ).

So if you want to make the most of your trip, here are eighteen things no one tells you…

Table of Contents

About Parking While Visiting Omaha

You’ll Probably Be Parking On The Street

I love when there is street parking available in any city ( street parking is usually an indicator that there are walkable blocks, which means there are sidewalks – wide sidewalks – and I don’t have to run across each street looking back-and-forth like a crazed chicken ).

And in Omaha, there is plenty of street parking . You’ll find street parking in most districts and occasionally the lots ( for the lots, especially in Old Market District, you’ll need to know your license number ).

You’ll Need Quarters

There’s an app for Omaha parking but as I’ve had a run of bad luck with city parking apps in the past ( I’ve just given up at this point. But if you’ve used the Omaha parking app and liked it, let me know in the comments below . I’ll try it next time ), I went with the old fashioned coin method.

You’ll want to bring at least $10 worth of quarters as most of the slots only accept George Washington’s face. Sorry, Lincoln. First come, first served.

Don’t Put In The Full Time Immediately

Omahans know where all the free parking is in town. And if you ask, they’ll happily tell you.

Some restaurants even have little maps with a star when you enter that says “where you parked” and a “where you could have parked for free”.

I mean, can every business in every city do this? Here I am, shouting from the rooftops, thank you Omahans. You have no idea how much I appreciate this.

Omahans just get it. No one likes paid-for parking. So ask around and you’ll easily find a place to park for free.

But even if you do end up parking in a paid-for parking spot, it’s still pretty cheap ( $1 per hour ). Free on Sundays.

About Visiting Omaha In Winter

Omaha Gets Really Cold In Winter

Omaha gets really cold in winter, like bone-chilling, freezing, do-I-really-want-to-go-outside, I-think-I’ll-stay-home-and-read-a-book cold.

It’s constantly on The Weather Channel’s list of top ten coldest large cities in the United States. And y’all, that list includes Anchorage, Alaska.

The Best Time To Visit Is Fall

So if you’re planning on visiting Omaha during the off-season and want to take advantage of the price drops but aren’t a fan of deep snow ( like me ), late September and October are great times to visit .

I visited in February and the weather was decent ( but this isn’t always the case. some winters are bad. some winters are historically bad ).

About Finding Accommodation Before Visiting Omaha

Hotels Are Dirt Cheap

But hotels are cheap in general . Fancier four-star hotels start at $120 a night , which is pretty much unheard of in the states ( where plush boutiques tend to cost an arm and a leg and a Shylock demanded pound of flesh ).

AirBnB Is Even Cheaper

And the AirBnB listings are even cheaper than the hotels.

Whilst visiting Omaha, I booked a cute AirBnB in Benson for roughly $23 a night . It was a sweet little upstairs room with an adorable double bed and a tiny bookshelf.

Our host, Jenessa, also left a giant compendium ( in a glitzy gold glitter binder no less ) of local recommendations and travel tips!

About The Locals You’ll Meet While Visiting Omaha

Omahans Love Sharing Their City

Jenessa’s Omaha guidebook was my introduction to Omaha locals. Omahans love sharing their city with travelers. When I say love, I mean really love.

Everywhere I went, the locals were incredibly happy to share the best recommendations ( from food to attractions to boutiques ) in-and-around town.

And I’m so glad because their friendliness 100% made my trip there magical ( sprinkle fairy dust here ).

Omahans give Southerners a run for their money .

About The Location Of Omaha

Omaha Is On The Border Of Iowa And Nebraska

Omaha sits on the border of Iowa and Nebraska . I found this out after entering directions for a coffee shop one morning.

Vyas: Are you sure this is the right shop? It’s in Iowa.

Me: It’s not in Iowa. It can’t be in Iowa.

Vyas: The address says Iowa.

Me: It’s two miles away from downtown Omaha. How in the world could it be in Iowa? Don’t be silly.

Vyas: It says Iowa.

Me: Google has it all wrong.

Two and a half miles later, we were in Iowa. Sorry, hon.

So if you’re looking for an easy, no-effort day trip to another state , consider western Iowa ( like Council Bluffs ).

There’s A Reason You Get 1-800 Calls From Omaha

In the mid-19th century, travel companies ( hotels and rental car agencies ) wanted to stop depending on connect calls. Hence, the rise of the toll-free number.

With the story of 1-800 came the tale of call centers. And the very first call centers were located near strip malls in Bedford , a neighborhood twenty minutes away from downtown Omaha . The number of call centers grew and grew and eventually, Omaha had a new moniker – Res City.

Because there were so many call centers, Omaha was able to generate 1-800 numbers fast. Really fast. The turnaround time in Omaha was a day versus a week elsewhere .

About Giving Back While Visiting Omaha

You Can Give Back Through TAGG

TAGG is an app that’s popular in the Omaha area. You’ll see a lot of businesses sporting signs for it in their front window.

The app isn’t Omaha specific but it’s one that’s championed by the city. TAGG stands for Together A Greater Good ( which sounds like Gellert Grindelwald’s rally cry but I promise, the app has the best intentions for Muggles everywhere ). It’s a way to give back after making a purchase in the local community.

Once you download the app and create an account, you’ll be able to select a charity of your choice.

After that, go ahead and order as usual while dining out. Ask to print out your receipt. Scan it with TAGG and a percentage of your portions will go to the charity you selected earlier.

I had never heard of the TAGG app before visiting Omaha but it’s now one of my all-time favorite apps!

About The Food In Omaha

Farm-To-Table Movement Is Big Here

Speaking of restaurants, the farm-to-table movement is big in Omaha , which makes sense considering that Nebraska is 93% farmland .

But I was still taken aback by how many restaurants offered fully farm-to-table menus. There’s Kitchen Table. Block 16. Society 1854. The Boiler Room.

There are even farm-to-table ice-creameries .

Ice Cream Is Also A Big Deal

Omaha has multiple ice-cream joints ( each equally popular. most locals are split between Team eCreamery and Team Coneflower ).

Our first night in Omaha, it was below freezing. 28 degrees Fahrenheit. We were walking around the Blackstone District, a hub of eateries, and saw a line tracing around a historic block.

Locals were huddled in big, fluffy jackets and waiting in line in the below-freezing cold for…. ice-cream? I didn’t understand it at all. Who has ice-cream in the winter? Omahans, apparently. Lots of them.

So I shrugged my shoulders and thought, why not join the queue and see what all the fuss is about ( because I’m equal parts crazy and curious )?

Because Butter Brickle Lives Up To The Hype

But it’s really no surprise why when you taste butter brickle ( Next time I visit Omaha, I’m bringing a freezer and stocking it with butter brickle and taking the carton straight to Texas ).

When I tasted butter brickle, all the jagged pieces of the why-eat-ice-cream-now mystery fell into place.

OMG. This is it. This is the best thing on the planet. I’d be here if it was zero degrees.

About What To Do While Visiting Omaha

The Museums Take A While To See

I allotted three hours for each museum whilst visiting Omaha and I really should have allotted a half-to-full day .

Each of the big museums in Omaha ( Joslyn, Union Station ) are huge. They’re multiple floors and long and wide and take time to fully see.

And the museums in Omaha are great at giving context behind the displays .

For each of the works of art at the Joslyn Museum , the placards detail what the painting techniques are, what the techniques mean, and how they affect the painting as a whole. It’s like every display is a mini-art lesson.

It’s less about the artist themselves. And more about what they did technically that made them so great ( though I still have my doubts about Pollock ).

You Can Go Rare Book Shopping

Jackson Street Booksellers specializes in rare and out-of-print books . It’s a used bookstore, a little chaotic and a little rustic.

Jackson Street Booksellers is a big shop . It’s undergone multiple expansions over the years and is still growing.

The bookstore is a favorite of many Omaha locals and travelers alike. Even Silver Linings Playbook director David O. Russell has raved about i t.

Although most of the works are collectible editions, there are a few affordable titles in-house as well.

Omaha Is A Dog-Friendly City

Although the Nebraska Food Code prohibits any live animals on food establishments, Douglas County, where Omaha is located, has issued a dog-friendly patio variance ( yes. just yes ).

So from quick-service coffee shops to upscale restaurants, you’ll see a lot of dog-friendly location stickers around the Omaha area.

Most of these stickers are provided by Omaha.dog , a website that catalogs all the dog-friendly spots in the city.

The blog was initially started as a push to make Omaha more dog-friendly and today, the city ( by our unofficial claim ) is one of the dog-friendliest places in America.

There Are More Districts Than Old Market

Old Market is one of the top tourist spots in Omaha. It’s a complex pathway of red-brick roads and red-brick buildings . You’ll see antique stores by the dozen, a few coffee shops, some restaurants, and more antique stores.

But Old Market isn’t the only neighborhood in Omaha. There’s Dundee and Benson and Gifford Park and Blackstone ( my favorite ).

Each neighborhood has a completely different air. Pass the close of one and you’ll be looped into a different part of town.

Dundee is historic. Benson is gentrifying. Gifford Park is splat with street art. And Blackstone offers contemporary takes on classics .

If you’re planning on visiting Omaha, you’ll want to explore as many districts as possible. I traveled to five of the districts over the weekend and am saving the rest for my next trip to Omaha!

Planning a trip to  Omaha ? Here are our top recommended hotels :

• Magnolia Hotel:  boutique property conveniently situated blocks away from Old Market ( read reviews & compare hotel prices here )
• Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel:  situated in the revamped historic Blackstone district, Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel is all elegant, understated Midwestern glamour. There’s also a really chic pool – just saying ( read reviews & compare hotel prices here )
• Hotel Deco:  stunning art deco hotel in Omaha ( read reviews & compare hotel prices here )

Did you enjoy these tips for visiting Omaha? Have you ever visited Omaha? Let me know in the comments below! As always, I love hearing from you.

Editor-In-Chief

Anshula grew up with a love of stories and places. Thirty-five states and 100 bookstores later, she's made her hobbit home in Middle Tennessee. Her Tookish side still takes over and leaves her chasing window seats, literary destinations, adventure books, sunrise coffee, and indie bookshops. She's appeared as a travel source on HuffPost, Reader's Digest, and MSN.

Related Posts

Durham Museum: How To Visit Union Station In Omaha

11 Best Coffee Shops In Omaha Nebraska

5 Romantic Omaha Date Ideas

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of new posts by email.

What are you looking for?

31 Best Stops Between Lincoln and Omaha

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

How long is the drive from Lincoln to Omaha?

The direct drive from Lincoln to Omaha is 59 mi (95 km) , and should have a drive time of 58 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Lincoln to Omaha, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Council Bluffs , as well as top places to visit like Museum of American Speed and Nebraska State Capitol, or the ever-popular Makovicka Winery.

Top city between Lincoln and Omaha

• Council Bluffs

Best stops along Lincoln to Omaha drive

Makovicka winery.

Museum of American Speed

Nebraska State Capitol

Memorial stadium, lincoln children's museum.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Sunken Gardens

Lincoln children's zoo, woodland hills golf course, saunders county historical society, fremont state recreation area, strategic air command & aerospace museum, eugene t. mahoney state park, wildlife safari park, woody's airboat tours, slattery vintage estates.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Vala's Pumpkin Patch & Apple Orchard

Kimmel orchard & vineyard educational foundation, arbor lodge state historical park, chalco hills recreation area, warehouse grille & drinkery, omaha's henry doorly zoo and aquarium.

The Durham Museum

The old market, lauritzen gardens, harrah's council bluffs hotel and casino.

All travel reservations in 1 place

Never dig through your emails again — access all your flights, lodging, and any reservations in 1 place.

Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge.

Fort atkinson state historical park, horseshoe council bluffs casino, keg creek brewing co., bodega victoriana winery & wedding barn, top searches in omaha, other popular road trips from lincoln, explore nearby places.

• Carter Lake
• Honey Creek
• Fort Calhoun
• Springfield
• Plattsmouth
• Cedar Creek
• the Missouri Valley

All related maps of Omaha

• Map of Omaha
• Map of Carter Lake
• Map of Council Bluffs
• Map of Ralston
• Map of La Vista
• Map of Crescent
• Map of Bellevue
• Map of Papillion
• Map of Boys Town
• Map of Honey Creek
• Map of Bennington
• Map of Fort Calhoun
• Map of Springfield
• Map of Treynor
• Map of Plattsmouth
• Map of Cedar Creek
• Map of Glenwood
• Map of Gretna
• Map of Waterloo
• Map of the Missouri Valley
• Map of Louisville
• Map of the Valley
• Map of Blair
• Map of Murray
• Map of Minden
• Map of Modale
• Map of Malvern
• Map of Manley
• Map of Ashland
• Map of Logan
• Map of Hastings

Omaha throughout the year

• Omaha in January
• Omaha in February
• Omaha in March
• Omaha in April
• Omaha in May
• Omaha in June
• Omaha in July
• Omaha in August
• Omaha in September
• Omaha in October
• Omaha in November
• Omaha in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Omaha?

Get inspired for your trip to Omaha with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Omaha Itinerary
• 2-Day Omaha Itinerary
• 3-Day Omaha Itinerary
• 4-Day Omaha Itinerary
• 5-Day Omaha Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from lincoln to omaha.

Yes! You can drive from Lincoln to Omaha.

How far is Omaha from Lincoln by car?

The drive from Lincoln to Omaha is 59 miles (95 km).

How long does it take to drive from Lincoln to Omaha?

Driving from Lincoln to Omaha should take you 58 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Lincoln to Omaha?

Gas from Lincoln to Omaha would cost around $5 to $12 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Lincoln to Omaha?

You could check out Museum of American Speed and Nebraska State Capitol, or the always popular Makovicka Winery!

What are the best cities to visit between Lincoln and Omaha?

People love visiting Council Bluffs, among others.

What's the weather like in Lincoln?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Lincoln in January
• Weather in Lincoln in February
• Weather in Lincoln in March
• Weather in Lincoln in April
• Weather in Lincoln in May
• Weather in Lincoln in June
• Weather in Lincoln in July
• Weather in Lincoln in August
• Weather in Lincoln in September
• Weather in Lincoln in October
• Weather in Lincoln in November
• Weather in Lincoln in December

What are some other road trips from Lincoln?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Lincoln.

• Lincoln to Chicago drive
• Lincoln to Kansas City drive
• Lincoln to Branson drive
• Lincoln to Saint Louis drive
• Lincoln to Denver drive
• Lincoln to Memphis drive
• Lincoln to Mexico City drive
• Lincoln to Dallas drive
• Lincoln to Colorado Springs drive
• Lincoln to Council Bluffs drive
• Lincoln to Louisville drive
• Lincoln to Minneapolis drive
• Lincoln to Oklahoma City drive
• Lincoln to Milwaukee drive
• Lincoln to Santa Fe drive
• Lincoln to Indianapolis drive
• Lincoln to Des Moines drive
• Lincoln to Fort Worth drive
• Lincoln to Wisconsin Dells drive
• Lincoln to Grand Canyon National Park drive
• Lincoln to Springfield drive
• Lincoln to Page drive
• Lincoln to Eureka Springs drive
• Lincoln to Custer drive
• Lincoln to Sioux Falls drive
• Lincoln to Rapid City drive
• Lincoln to Niagara Falls drive
• Lincoln to Hot Springs drive
• Lincoln to Madison drive
• Lincoln to Duluth drive

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

Violent Tornado Outbreak Hits Nebraska, Iowa

Sign up for the Morning Brief email newsletter to get weekday updates from The Weather Channel and our meteorologists.

A violent tornado outbreak unleashed destruction across the Plains Friday, with forecasters warning more dangerous storms were on their way.

The tornadoes left a path of devastation, leveling homes and structures, blowing a train off its tracks, flipping cars and leaving entire towns in a blackout. In Nebraska's Lancaster County, an industrial building collapsed with 70 people inside, resulting in multiple injuries, though none were life-threatening.

T​he National Weather Service office in Omaha has deployed five survey teams to collect information across several large damage paths. Two teams have also been dispatched in an area around Des Moines, Iowa.

(​MORE: The Latest Severe Weather Forecast )

T​he small town of Minden, Iowa, was especially hard hit. It sits in Pottawattamie County, about 25 miles northeast of Omaha.

Jeff Theulen, chief deputy of the Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Office, said 40 to 50 homes were completely destroyed. Two injuries were reported but were not life-threatening.

School buses were brought in to ferry residents out of town if they needed a ride, Theulen said. Non-residents were asked to stay away due to downed power lines and broken gas pipes.

(​MORE: Simple Steps You Need To Be Prepared For Severe Weather

“It’s heartbreaking to see these people who have lost houses, cars, essentially their life,” he said.

H​ere are our live updates as the storms moved through Friday:

(​8:29 p.m. ET) 'The Atmosphere Is Ready To Reload'

The storms are part of a classic springtime weather pattern that includes two rounds of widespread severe weather through the weekend in the Plains and in the Midwest.

From weather.com digital meteorologist Jonathan Belles : A tradeoff between two large-scale storm systems is expected tonight and into Saturday. The first storm that provided tornadoes from Nebraska to Texas on Friday will swing into the Midwest and Canada going into the weekend as a second, potentially stronger system arrives from the Rockies.

Saturday will be another day of tornadoes, hail and flooding across classic tornado alley. The second storm system will continue to bring energy and moisture to the Plains and Midwest into Sunday as well.

Just because storms have passed your area, don't think it is over. The atmosphere is ready to reload. Keep your severe weather plan ready to go this weekend.

(​8:15 p.m. ET) Nebraska County Says 'No Volunteers Needed'

P​eople are eager to help, but Douglas County, Nebraska, is saying 'not yet.'

A social media post from the county reads: "We would like to thank people for their urgency to help, but NO volunteers are needed at this time to assist first responders in Douglas County, Nebraska. We will let the public know when volunteers are needed and where they should go!"

(​7:53 p.m. ET) More Scenes Of Devastation In Omaha Suburb

(​7:23 p.m. et) 'thankful that there weren't more injuries'.

Lancaster County Sheriff's Office Chief Deputy Ben Houchin confirmed a semi was blown over and a train blown off its tracks near Lincoln earlier today.

I​n an update posted to social media, he confirmed three people sustained non-life threatening injuries in a roof collapse at a local business.

"​We are very thankful that there weren't more injuries and everyone is going to be okay," Houchin said.

E​arlier, the Sheriff's Office asked people to stay away from Interstate 80 and Highway 6. An update posted about 10 minutes ago by Lancaster County says first responders are still working to clear debris and restore power in the area.

(6:57 p.m. ET) D​angerous Tornado Now Moving Across Western Iowa

A​ tornado emergency was declared for the town of Minden, Iowa, about 25 miles northeast of Omaha, Nebraska.

P​hotos showed a tornado moving toward the nearby town of Shelby, Iowa.

(​6:53 p.m. ET) Flights Shut Down At Omaha Airport

O​maha's Eppley Airfield closed for damaged assessments after the storm.

"The OMA terminal is unaffected and passengers are out of shelters. Please contact your airline for any flight delays," the airport said in an update.

(​6:46 p.m. ET) Power Outages Climbing In Nebraska, Texas

M​ore than 29,000 power outages are being reported in Texas, according to PowerOutage.us. Most are across the eastern portion of the state. About 11,000 outages are being reported in Nebraska, also in the eastern part of the state.

(​6:24 p.m. ET) We're In The Peak Of Tornado Season

From weather.com digital meteorologist Jonathan Belles : Mother nature gave us the clearest signal that we're in the peak of tornado season. The springtime clash of heat and humidity brought, so far, numerous tornadoes and at least one that may have stretched for scores of miles. Today's atmosphere may have also supported one of the strongest kinds of twisters in eastern Nebraska. Today is a reminder that all of us should be prepared for severe weather.

(​6:18 p.m. ET) Photos Show Extensive Damage Near Omaha

I​mages shared on social media are showing first glimpses of the damage in Elkhorn, Nebraska, near Omaha.

(​6:10 p.m. ET) Dozens Of Reports Of Severe Weather

T​ornadoes, wind and hail damage have been reported in the past 36 hours across a wide swath of the U.S. from Wyoming to Arkansas. The worst damage appears to be today in Nebraska around Lincoln and Omaha.

(​5:56 p.m. ET) 'Significant Damage' In Nebraska Suburb

E​mergency response is still underway in Lancaster County, which includes the city of Lincoln.

"We’re still assessing damage," Lancaster County Emergency Management Director Jim Davidsaver told us minutes ago in a phone call. "The community of Waverly was significantly impacted.”

W​averly is on the northeast side of Lincoln.

D​avidsaver said that there are so far several reports of minor injuries, but stressed that emergency efforts are ongoing.

(​5:38 p.m. ET) Three People Reported Injured In Lincoln Roof Collapse

A​ roof collapsed on an industrial building in Lincoln, Nebraska, with 70 people inside, according to local news outlets.

T​hree people were taken to local hospitals with non-life threatening injuries, KOLN-TV reported.

T​he station cited Lancaster County Chief Deputy Ben Houchin as saying the storm hit Garner Industries near North 98th Street and Cornhusker Highway around 3 p.m.

(​5:29 p.m. ET) Video Shows Wrecked Houses

S​earch and rescue efforts are underway in some Omaha suburbs.

F​ootage aired on The Weather Channel shows heavy damage to homes in the area, including missing roofs and siding.

There are reports that some of the homes are in neighborhoods under construction, but that wasn't immediately clear.

(5:13 p.m ET) Severe Weather Threatens Large Area

Major metropolitan areas most at risk through tomorrow morning include Dallas, Kansas City and Omaha, Nebraska. Parts of Arkansas, Iowa and Oklahoma are also in the threat area. T​hreats include large hail, destructive straight-line winds and tornadoes.

(​5:06 p.m. ET) 'Violent Tornado' Moving Through Nebraska Communities

From the National Weather Service: "A violent tornado continues to impact areas south of Blair, just northwest of the Blair airport."

B​lair is about 20 miles northwest of Omaha.

(4:57 p.m. ET) Tornado Emergency In Eastern Nebraska

A tornado is potentially causing devastating damage in eastern Nebraska.

Radar shows a large swath of debris being lofted into the air west of Omaha.

(​4:35 p.m. ET) Severe Weather Fires Up

E​mergency personnel are responding to an area where a tornado touched down around Lincoln, Nebraska.

"Deputies are on Interstate 80 right now, please avoid the area. Let first responders get to the area," the local county sheriff's office said in a social media post. "Again please stay off the interstate."

S​irens blared around the city as the storm moved through.

T​ornadoes touched down this afternoon in central Nebraska near the community of Wolbach, about 35 miles north of Grand Island, and about 50 miles south of Dallas in Blooming Grove, Texas.

A​bout 14,000 power outages were being reported in Texas, mostly in the eastern part of the state, as of 3:30 p.m. EDT, according to PowerOutage.us.

E​arlier, a possible tornado was spotted in China Spring, Texas, about 10 miles northwest of Waco and large hail pelted homes near Dallas in Arlington.

H​undreds of flights were delayed at Dallas-area airports, according to airline tracker FlightAware.

A 65-mph wind gust was reported in Pittsburg County in southeast Oklahoma.

This outbreak started yesterday with reports of landspout tornadoes in Colorado, Oklahoma and Kansas.

T​here was also tree and roof damage in parts of Arkansas and Oklahoma.

I​nformation from The Associated Press was used in this report.

Weather.com reporter Jan Childs covers breaking news and features related to weather, space, climate change, the environment and everything in between.

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• Personal Finance
• AP Investigations
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Shopping
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• Election Results
• Delegate Tracker
• AP & Elections
• Auto Racing
• 2024 Paris Olympic Games
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Personal finance
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

Residents begin going through the rubble after tornadoes hammer parts of Nebraska and Iowa

People gathered Saturday morning in the streets in the Elkhorn area of Omaha amid the scattered remains of the homes.

A tornado plowed through suburban Omaha, Nebraska, on Friday afternoon. (AP video by Margery Beck)

Neighbors embrace Penny Thomsen outside of her home in Pleasant Hill, Iowa, on Saturday, April 27, 2024. The Des Moines suburb was one of multiple cities hit as tornados ripped across the state Friday evening. (The Des Moines Register via AP)

• Copy Link copied

Damaged homes are seen after a tornado hit the Newport Landing neighborhood in Bennington, Neb., Saturday, April 27, 2024. Dozens of reported tornadoes wreaked havoc Friday in the Midwest. (Chris Machian/Omaha World-Herald via AP)

Gopala Penmetsa walks past his house after it was leveled by a tornado near Omaha, Neb., on Friday, April 26, 2024. (Chris Machian/Omaha World-Herald via AP)

Two women help carry a friend’s belongings out of their damaged home after a tornado passed through the area in Bennington, Neb., Friday, April 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Josh Funk)

People pick through the rubble of a house that was leveled in Elkhorn, Neb., on Saturday, April 27, 2024. Residents began sifting through the rubble after a tornado plowed through suburban Omaha, demolishing homes and businesses as it moved for miles through farmland and into subdivisions. (AP Photo/Nick Ingram)

Terry Kicking sifts through the damage after a tornado leveled his home, Friday, April 26, 2024, in Omaha, Neb. (Nikos Frazier/Omaha World-Herald via AP)

A tornado is seen near north of Waverly, Neb., on Friday, April 26, 2024. (Chris Machian/Omaha World-Herald via AP)

BNSF train cars are seen derailed along U.S. Route 6 after a tornado, Friday, April 26, 2024, between Waverly and Lincoln, Neb. (Nikos Frazier/Omaha World-Herald via AP)

Damaged houses are seen after a tornado passed through the area near Omaha, Neb., on Friday, April 26, 2024. (Chris Machian/Omaha World-Herald via AP)

Damage is seen to houses after a tornado passed through the area near Omaha, Neb., on Friday, April 26, 2024. (Chris Machian/Omaha World-Herald via AP)

From left; Ally Mercer, Gabe Sedlacek Kaleb Andersen and Austin Young watch a tornado from a seventh floor parking garage on Friday, April 26, 2024, in Lincoln, Neb. (Kenneth Ferriera/Lincoln Journal Star via AP)

Debris is seen from a destroyed home northwest of Omaha, Neb., after a storm tore through the area on Friday, April 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Margery A. Beck)

A tornado touches down on Friday, April 26, 2024, in Lincoln, Neb. (Kenneth Ferriera/Lincoln Journal Star via AP)

Gopala Penmetsa walks past a damaged house after a tornado passed through the area near Omaha, Neb., on Friday, April 26, 2024. His house was leveled by the tornado. (Chris Machian/Omaha World-Herald via AP)

Damage is seen to Justin and Amanda Putnam’s bedroom after a severe storm damaged their neighborhood in Council Bluffs, Iowa, on Friday, April 26, 2024. (Anna Reed/Omaha World-Herald via AP)

Damage is seen to home after it was leveled by a tornado near Omaha, Neb., on Friday, April 26, 2024. (Nikos Frazier/Omaha World-Herald via AP)

Families sift through the destruction from a tornado, Friday, April 26, 2024, near Omaha, Neb. (Nikos Frazier/Omaha World-Herald via AP)

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Residents began sifting through the rubble Saturday after a tornado plowed through suburban Omaha, Nebraska, demolishing homes and businesses as it moved for miles through farmland and into subdivisions, then slamming an Iowa town.

Dozens of reported tornadoes wreaked havoc Friday in the Midwest, causing a building to collapse with dozens of people inside and destroying and damaging at least 150 homes in Omaha alone.

But no fatalities were reported, and fewer than two dozen people were treated at Omaha-area hospitals, said Dr. Lindsay Huse, health director of the city’s Douglas County Health Department.

“Miraculous” she said, stressing that none of the city’s injuries were serious. Neighboring communities reported a handful of injuries each.

The tornado damage started Friday afternoon near Lincoln, Nebraska. An industrial building in Lancaster County was hit, causing it to collapse with 70 people inside. Several were trapped, but everyone was evacuated, and the three injuries were not life-threatening, authorities said.

One or possibly two tornadoes then spent around an hour creeping toward Omaha, leaving behind damage consistent with an EF3 twister, with winds of 135 to 165 mph, said Chris Franks, a meteorologist in the National Weather Service’s Omaha office.

Ultimately the twister slammed into the Elkhorn neighborhood in western Omaha, a city of 485,000 people with a metropolitan-area population of about 1 million.

“We barely made it to the basement and then we heard the destruction going on upstairs,” said James Stennis, who moved to the Elkhorn neighborhood about a year ago. “Wow!”

Firefighters worked into the evening to make sure no one was trapped. By Saturday morning, the sounds of chainsaws filled the air there. Lumber from the damaged homes lay in piles. Fences were knocked over, and the trees were skeletal, missing most of their branches.

Staci Roe surveyed the damage to what was supposed to be her “forever home,” which was not even two years old. When the tornado hit, they were at the airport picking up a friend who was supposed to spend the night.

“There was no home to come to,” she said, describing “utter dread” when she saw it for the first time.

Power outages peaked at 10,000, but they had dropped to 4,300 by morning.

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen and Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds spent Saturday touring the damage and arranging for assistance for the damaged communities. Formal damage assessments are still underway, but the states plan to seek federal help.

“It is an extraordinary miracle that we’ve had this kind of cell come through and no casualties, no loss of life,” Pillen marveled at a news conference.

Douglas County Sheriff Aaron Hanson begged gawkers to stay at home, saying he and Pillen were stuck in multiple traffic jams while viewing the wreckage.

“And that’s because in large part there’s a lot of looky-loos who are very curious,” he said. Hanson said law enforcement would be out in force to safeguard the damaged property.

A second tornado then passed over Eppley Airfield on the eastern edge of Omaha, destroying four hanger buildings with 32 privately owned planes inside. No one was hurt, and the passenger terminal was not hit. The airport has resumed operations, although access to areas used by noncommercial pilots is limited so crew can clean up the mess, the airfield said in a news release.

Franks estimated that this twister was a slightly weaker EF2, capable of winds of 111 to 135 mph.

“Strong tornadoes, rare tornadoes,” he called the duo of twisters that hit the city.

After hitting the airport, the storm moved into Iowa, taking aim at the small town of Minden.

Forty to 50 homes were completely destroyed. Two injuries were reported but none were life-threatening, said Jeff Theulen, chief deputy of the Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Office, at a late Friday briefing.

“It’s heartbreaking to see these people who have lost houses, cars, essentially their life until they have to rebuild it,” he said, urging people to stay away because of downed power lines.

At the Minden United Church of Christ, which survived the storm and has become a community hub of help and support, there were plans to take 4-wheel-drive vehicles out to devastated parts of town to bring meals to those who need them, Pastor Eric Biehl said.

“A lot of people are just kind of in shock,” Biehl said. “It’s all overwhelming now.”

Tammy Pavich, who stores equipment on the west edge of town, said she “kind of breathed a sigh of relief” after the first round of tornadoes moved through Omaha. Then, she recalled, the storm “hit Minden dead-on.”

Todd Lehan, a lifelong resident of the town, said he took shelter in a windowless basement. “It sounded like a vacuum cleaner on top of your house,” he recalled.

Just west of the Iowa town of Pleasant Hill, a suspected tornado also damaged nearly 20 homes, injuring one person.

The damage was causing headaches for Nebraska football fans headed to the spring game.

“Be prepared for heavy traffic, buckle up and put the phone down,” warned the Nebraska Department of Transportation.

Even as the National Weather Service worked to evaluate the damage, the forecast for Saturday was ominous. It issued tornado watches for parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and Iowa. Large hail also was possible. Some schools canceled proms because of the forecasts.

“Tornadoes, perhaps significant tornadoes,” were possible Saturday afternoon and evening, said weather service meteorologist Bruce Thoren in Norman, Oklahoma.

Hollingsworth reported from Mission, Kansas and Martin from Atlanta. Associated Press writers Margery A. Beck and Josh Funk in Omaha, Nebraska; Ken Miller in Oklahoma City; Hannah Fingerhut in Des Moines, Iowa; Jack Dura in Bismarck, North Dakota; and Lisa Baumann in Bellingham, Washington; contributed to this report.

At least 5 people, including infant, dead after night of tornadoes, storms in the Midwest

Dawn broke over scenes of devastation in several counties across Oklahoma on Sunday, with reports of severe structural damage, closed highways, blackouts, injuries and at least five deaths. There have been 35 reports of tornadoes overnight so far.

Twenty-seven million people remained at risk of severe weather into Sunday, including wind gusts, hail, flood risk and potentially more tornadoes.

Saturday's severe weather came less than 36 hours after more than 100 tornadoes leveled homes and buildings in six states Friday, with Nebraska and Iowa being hit hardest, officials said.

The National Weather Service office in Norman, Oklahoma, confirmed late Saturday that multiple tornadoes were in its area, including one near Davenport and more than one in the area of Sulphur, a small town of about 5,000 people 80 miles south of Oklahoma City, which appeared to have taken the biggest hit.

On Sunday, the weather service's Norman office said that, based on preliminary damage survey results, tornadoes with ratings of at least EF3 tore through Sulphur and Marietta in Oklahoma. The service said more investigation would be necessary to determine whether the rating will go higher.

The Murray County Emergency Management reported “significant damage” in Sulphur. In Love County, patients had to shelter during storms that damaged Marietta Hospital, though no injuries were reported, the county emergency management office said.

Also in Marietta, four semitrucks overturned, killing one person, after a tornado ripped through Interstate 35 on Saturday night, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol said.

Oklahoma’s Office of Emergency Management confirmed three deaths, one near Marietta on I-35 and two others in Holdenville. Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt arrived Sunday afternoon in Sulphur, where he said a fourth person died in the downtown area.

One of the Holdenville victims was 4 months old, Stitt's press secretary said, citing Holdenville officials.

More than 170 storms were reported Saturday after days of severe weather. Storms were still expected through southern Missouri to southeast Texas on Sunday.

Flash flooding is also a concern for 18 million people from Kansas City to Lake Charles, Louisiana. Some flood warnings will continue into Monday.Video emerging on social media early Sunday showed heavy damage across Sulphur, including toppled trees and scattered bricks and wooden beams. Buildings in the downtown area sustained significant structural damage, including blown-out windows and missing walls. Others appeared to have been leveled and reduced to rubble.

The Oklahoma Health Department reported 100 injuries at area hospitals, according to the state Emergency Management Department. Of the injured, 25 were cut or had been pierced, 30 fell, 16 were hit by or struck against objects, 17 sustained transportation-related injuries, and 12 others were hurt by other means, the emergency services department said. The extent of each of the injuries was unclear.

Red Cross Oklahoma said early Sunday that it was opening a shelter in Sulphur and was in contact with officials in more than a dozen counties to help with the immediate needs of affected residents.

Stitt signed an executive order Sunday declaring a disaster emergency.

In neighboring Hughes County, officials reported four people injured, as well as several structures either damaged or destroyed, after a tornado ripped through its western part late Saturday.

On Sunday, Hughes County Emergency Management reported 14 homes were damaged or destroyed in Holdenville. In addition, officials said four properties were damaged in Okfuskee County, and Pottawatomie County Emergency Management reported seven damaged structures in Dale and unincorporated areas of Shawnee.

There were also "numerous injuries" and damaged structures in Wagoner County, officials said.

Homes and other structures were also damaged in communities in Garfield, Grant, Kay, Payne and several other counties in Oklahoma, officials said.

The National Weather Service in Norman said that as of 1:25 a.m. local time Sunday, some tornado warnings had passed but that flash flooding remained a threat.

Bruce Thoren, meteorologist for the agency's Norman branch, said teams will go out to the Marietta and Sulphur areas while others may be sent elsewhere through the week.

"We are aware of other places that received damage, but based on travel time and other factors they will be looked at in days to come, probably not today," Thoren said. "The area that we cover is pretty large compared to other forecast offices, so to travel down and back could be up to four hours. So we’ll for sure get there, and we know there’s damage — just trying to figure out where we go today."Oklahoma Gas and Electric Co. said early Sunday about 28,000 customers were without service as a result of the storms, primarily in southern Oklahoma.

The Oklahoma Transportation Department warned early Sunday that I-35 was closed in both directions in Love County because of storm damage cleanup.

More than 30 million people in Oklahoma City; Dallas; Wichita, Kansas; Omaha, Nebraska; Milwaukee; and Madison, Wisconsin, were in the path of severe weather Saturday.

This round of severe weather arrived even as parts of Nebraska and Iowa were still reeling from the damage caused by two tornadoes that struck the region.

Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert said Saturday that no deaths had been reported and that there were relatively few minor injuries.

Despite heavy damage to some residents' homes, including those belonging to three Omaha firefighters and two police commanders, officials Saturday were grateful it wasn't worse.Speaking at an afternoon news conference, Stothert said she planned to sign an emergency declaration, which would allow residents to tap state and federal recovery aid.

She credited the National Weather Service and local news media for warning the public about the tornadoes.

"I do want to thank our local forecasters for the clear and accurate warnings that they gave," she said. "I absolutely feel that this early warning, because of all of you, you prevented a lot of injury and probably death."

Lindsay Huse, health director for Douglas County, where Omaha is located, said by email that fewer than two dozen people suffered minor injuries. They were treated at medical facilities and have been released, she said.

"That's just miraculous," Huse said earlier at the news conference.

The National Weather Service assessed two tornadoes that struck the Omaha area Friday afternoon. One started in the area of Lincoln and ended up in western Douglas County, NWS meteorologist Chris Franks said at the news conference.It was preliminarily assessed at a "solid" EF3 on the 0-5 scale used by federal forecasters, he said. An EF3 tornado can produce sustained winds of 136-165 mph and shift homes off their foundations while peeling away exterior walls.

At Omaha Eppley Airfield, a tornado preliminarily assessed at EF2 struck Friday afternoon, Franks said. An EF2 tornado can produce sustained winds of 111-135 mph that can partly peel away rooftops and breach window glass.

Tornado activity was also reported in neighboring Iowa. Franks estimated that 80 tornadoes were reported in Douglas County and adjacent communities in Nebraska and Iowa on Friday.

In Lancaster County, Nebraska, a tornado was blamed for a train derailment and a semitruck rollover, according to National Weather Service notes on Friday's vortexes.

Omaha Police Lt. Neal Bonacci said hundreds of homes were damaged, most of them in the Elkhorn area in the western part of the city.

“You definitely see the path of the tornado,” Bonacci said.

Police and firefighters went door to door to help residents and search areas where people could be trapped, Omaha Fire Chief Kathy Bossman said.

"We’ll be looking throughout properties in debris piles, we’ll be looking in basements, trying to find any victims and make sure everybody is rescued who needs assistance," Bossman said.

Pat Woods, who lives in Elkhorn, told The Associated Press that he and his wife took shelter but could hear the tornado "coming through."

"When we came up, our fence was gone, and we looked to the northwest and the whole neighborhood’s gone," he said.

His wife, Kim Woods, said the neighborhood to the north of them was "pretty flattened."

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds declared a disaster emergency for Pottawattamie County after video on social media showed parts of Minden, about 30 miles northeast of Omaha, completely flattened.Jeff Theulen, the chief deputy of the Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Office, said at a news conference Friday evening that 40 or 50 homes were "completely destroyed." There have been two reports of injuries, one "fairly severe but not life-threatening," he told reporters.

By Sunday, officials estimated that the storms had damaged 300 homes and businesses in the county, Pottawattamie County said in a release. In the city of Minden, 48 homes were "completely destroyed."

Pottawattamie County added in the release that four people sustained storm-related injuries. Three were treated and released Friday evening. The fourth, who was previously listed as stable in critical condition, died overnight Saturday.

"It's very dangerous right now. We've shut off entrance to the city except for the people that live here," he said, noting that "50% of the town is damaged badly and then there’s light damage everywhere else."

In nearby Shelby County, about 40 homes were damaged, county emergency coordinator Alex Londo said. Officials were assessing the destruction, he said, noting there have been no reports of deaths.

National Weather Service offices surveyed damage ahead of more severe weather expected Saturday.

The service reported 106 tornadoes Friday in Nebraska, Iowa, Texas, Kansas and Missouri. Another tornado was reported Friday morning in Pottawatomie County, Oklahoma.Oklahoma was also affected by the unstable air and thunderstorms that marched eastward Friday, but the weather service listed no confirmed tornadoes in the state.

Among Friday's tornadoes getting a preliminary assessment by the weather service were two near Waco, Texas — one believed to be at EF2 strength — and the other assessed at EF1 (86-110 mph).

Minyvonne Burke is a senior breaking news reporter for NBC News.

Kathryn Prociv is a senior meteorologist and producer for NBC News. 

Christine Rapp is a meteorologist for NBC News.

Dennis Romero is a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital. 

Yuliya Talmazan is a reporter for NBC News Digital, based in London.

Rebecca Cohen is a breaking news reporter for NBC News.

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Lauritzen Gardens

Events & things to do this weekend in omaha, this weekend, be inspired and create your own adventure..

View nationally acclaimed exhibits , watch international recording artists light up the stage, or get loud at an adrenaline-pumping sports event . Each weekend in Omaha offers a unique experience. Don't miss out on future events, activities deals, and more! Sign-up for our eNewsletter . Browse below and find what’s happening this weekend in Omaha.