Omaha
Steakhouses, a world-class zoo and a riverfront that finally grew up.
Omaha rewards a short trip. The walkable Old Market puts cobblestones, cocktail bars and galleries within a few blocks of downtown hotels; Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium anchors an entire family weekend on its own; and the rebuilt riverfront parks connect the two with a pedestrian bridge into Iowa. It is an easy drive from Kansas City, Des Moines, Lincoln and Sioux Falls, which makes it one of the best value weekend cities in the Midwest.
Best time to visit
Late April through June and September through October. Book early for the College World Series in June and for Berkshire Hathaway's annual meeting weekend in early May, when downtown rooms sell out and rates spike.
Getting around
Eppley Airfield (OMA) is about 10 minutes from downtown. Downtown, Old Market and the riverfront are walkable; the zoo, Blackstone and Benson need a car or a rideshare of 10–20 minutes.
Local tips before you book
Stay in the Old Market if it's your first visit
You'll walk to dinner, drinks and the riverfront and never move the car. Rates dip Sunday through Wednesday.
Do the zoo at opening
Henry Doorly is huge. Arrive at open, hit the Desert Dome and Aquarium first, and be out before the afternoon crowd.
Parking is cheap, but not on event nights
Downtown garages run a few dollars a day and jump on CHI Health Center event nights. Prepay when you can.
Cross the bridge into Iowa
The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is a free ten-minute walk and the best skyline photo in the city at golden hour.
Browse Omaha
Filter by price, neighborhood and vibe — or switch to the map.
- Stays
Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel
4.7from ~$239/night
The restored Blackstone landmark — the nicest room in the city and a destination lobby.
- Upscale
- Date Night
Pins are schematic and show relative position across Omaha's neighborhoods.
Omaha guides
Top 10 Things to Do in Omaha This Weekend
A tight, walkable 48 hours built around the Old Market, the riverfront and one very good zoo.
8 min read
Best Family Hotels Near Henry Doorly Zoo
Where to stay with kids in Omaha: drive times, suite options, pools, and what parking actually costs.
7 min read
The Omaha Bleisure Guide: Boutique Stays & Upscale Dining
In town for a convention? Here's how to turn two work days into a very good extra 36 hours.
6 min read
The Omaha Date Night Guide
Cocktails, cobblestones and low-lit rooms — a locals' shortlist by neighborhood.
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