How to Spend an Exciting Summer Weekend in Omaha with Kids

This post, featuring exciting things to do in Omaha with kids, may contain affiliate links. Additionally, Visit Omaha sponsored our recent family trip to Omaha. All opinions expressed are my own. Read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information (linked below).

Looking for a Midwest destination that's low-key, affordable, and packed with family fun? Omaha, Nebraska, might just be your new favorite getaway. It is for us! Just 5.5 hours from Minneapolis (our home base), this vibrant city boasts historic charm (think verdant ivy along old brick facades) with endless kid-approved adventures-making it perfect for a long weekend. 

In this weekend guide to Omaha with kids, you'll find everything you need to plan a memorable summer trip, from sprawling green parks and hands-on museums to yummy local eats. Whether you're building your summer itinerary for Omaha with kids or dreaming up your next family vacation, this guide covers the best things to do, along with where to eat and stay. Here is how we recommend spending 3 days in Omaha with your family!

Tips for Omaha with Kids

If you are planning a weekend itinerary for Omaha with kids, there are a few things you should know first! From the best time to visit Omaha to a few packing tips, keep these tips in mind while planning your upcoming vacation to Omaha with your kids!

• Early summer (April – June) and fall are generally considered the best time to visit Omaha. All of the seasonal attractions are open and the weather is warm (but not too hot). True summer (end of June – early September) can be very hot and humid. We went in July and struggled a bit with the humidity. If you plan to go in the summer, pack extra water and take breaks in the afternoon.
• If you're traveling from Minneapolis (like we do), Omaha is a 5.5-hour drive. There is also an airport in Omaha (OMA).
• Pack based on the weather and your planned activities. Generally, summer visitors should pack light, breathable clothing (like linen) and comfortable shoes (you’ll be doing a lot of walking!). If you’re not used to high humidity, pack extra clothes that you can change into throughout the day (we promise, you’ll want them!).
• I’ll talk about this more later, but leave a whole day for the zoo. It’s massive and you don’t want to rush through it.
• Take advantage of the RiverFront. There are so many green spaces, splash areas, and places to play. This area is truly an urban gem!
• Check out Visit Omaha for their upcoming events and other fun things to do with kids!
• See our highlights on Instagram here!

Best Hotels in Omaha with Kids

Let's start planning your Omaha family vacation! No matter how you plan to spend your days, finding the best hotel in Omaha with kids makes all the difference. This is where you will unwind and end each day! You'll definitely want a place that's both convenient and comfortable.

Book Omaha Marriott Downtown at The Capitol District for Convenience + Comfort

When planning your summer itinerary, the Omaha Marriott Downtown at The Capitol District will quickly stand out as one of the best hotels in Omaha for families with kids. And, I can tell you from experience, it is a fantastic choice for your upcoming trip!

We stayed here, and the location was perfect for accessing local Omaha family attractions. In fact, many of our favorite stops were just a short walk away (less than 10-20 minutes)! Inside, the rooms are spacious and comfortable, providing a relaxing retreat after busy days exploring together. The hotel also features a lovely terrace-level pool-ideal for cooling off with the kids. Plus, there are several on-site dining options (including a Starbucks). We loved the live music and small plates at Jewell on Capitol (more on that later!). Ramp parking is also available on-site.

More Hotels in Omaha with Kids

If you’re looking for additional hotel options for your Omaha family vacation, here are a few more to consider. Like many major cities, Omaha also has several unique neighborhoods. Based on our experience, I would recommend staying in Downtown, Old Market, or Little Italy.

• Embassy Suites by Hilton Omaha Downtown Old Market
• Hyatt Place Omaha/Downtown-Old Market
• Magnolia Hotel Omaha
• The Peregrine Omaha Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton
• Hilton Omaha
• Cambria Hotel Omaha Downtown
• Hilton Garden Inn Omaha Downtown/Old Market Area
• Fairfield Inn & Suites Omaha Downtown

Day 1 in Omaha with Kids

Kick off your weekend in Omaha with a visit to Con Azúcar Café Downtown for a fun and flavorful breakfast with your kids! Just steps away, Gene Leahy Mall at The RiverFront is the perfect place to let kids burn some early morning energy. This downtown green space features massive slides, creative play areas, and a peaceful pond where little ones can spot ducks. It's a laid-back, kid-friendly start to your day. And, a great intro to the many fun things to do in Omaha with kids! 

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Embark on a Unique Tour with Woody’s Airboat Tours

Did you know Nebraska ranks second in the U.S. for airboats per capita-right behind Florida? This fact blew my mind!

Make your family trip to Omaha extra memorable with a ride on Woody's Airboat Tours, just under an hour from downtown. This one-of-a-kind adventure takes you speeding (smoothly!) down the Platte River, with plenty of chances to spot wildlife like bald eagles, turtles, and herons. If you're lucky, you may even get to see a golden eagle. We did!

Our daughter loved the ride, and Woody is the kind of guide who makes everyone feel welcome. And, the views? Absolutely unforgettable! The whole experience utterly blew us away. Private and group tours are available. 

After your airboat adventure, grab a late lunch at Runza on your way back to downtown Omaha-because no Nebraska trip is complete without at least one stop at this local favorite!

Learn About Omaha at The Durham Museum

Step into Omaha's past with a visit to The Durham Museum, one of the most memorable things to do in Omaha with kids. Housed in the stunning Art Deco Union Station, this massive museum offers a deep dive into local history alongside impressive traveling exhibits through its partnership with the Smithsonian. There are more than a dozen permanent exhibits at The Durham Museum!

We explored the Omaha history section and were fascinated by the stories and displays. Of course, our daughter especially loved climbing through the full-size train cars! We definitely needed more time here.

Be sure to treat yourself at the old-fashioned soda fountain. Whether you're into trains, history, or just exploring a beautiful building, The Durham is a can’t-miss stop on your family's Omaha adventure.

Play + Explore at Lauritzen Gardens

Lauritzen Gardens is a must-visit on any Omaha family vacation. It was one of our favorite stops! Lauritzen Gardens is a beautiful, peaceful space packed with kid-friendly fun. With more than twenty themed gardens to explore, it's easy to spend a few hours soaking in the scenery. 

Our favorites? The Japanese Park, which features a replica of Mt. Fuji and serene pathways. And, the enchanting Victorian Garden. This walled garden is filled with historic architectural touches and whimsical flowers. I just love a walled garden, and this one didn't disappoint! (Feels just like The Secret Garden!)

But the real hit for families is Sofia's Play Garden! This hands-on garden will delight kids of all ages! Sofia's Play Garden offers a "fun with a veggies garden", misting area (perfect for hot summer days!), a giant climbable net, scavenger hunt, and plenty of stroller-friendly paths. One of my favorite areas was the "Touch Garden.” My daughter loved seeing plants move under her touch and feeling each one. Shady benches throughout the garden make it pretty easy to relax while little ones explore. 

For a deeper look or a chance to get off your feet, hop on the narrated tram tour (additional rate). Whether you're wandering hidden trails, cooling off in the mist, or marveling at seasonal blooms, Lauritzen Gardens offers a perfect mix of play and nature for the whole crew.

Enjoy a Lovely Dinner at V. Mertz

Wrap up your first day with an unforgettable meal at V. Mertz. I think, it's one of the best restaurants in downtown Omaha for families who appreciate great food and beautiful spaces! The restaurant is tucked into the charming Old Market Passageway, a cozy, plant-filled spot that features a calming water feature. The restaurant has a thoughtful, seasonal menu. 

If you’re craving a perfectly cooked steak, you're in the right place! While there’s no official kids' menu, the kitchen is happy to accommodate-our daughter enjoyed a simple steak with a seasonal veggie. And, our family couldn't get enough of the cheese board! A relaxed yet elevated dining experience, V. Mertz was hands-down our favorite meal in Omaha.

Reservations are highly recommended.

Day 2 in Omaha with Kids

Day 2 of this family trip itinerary to Omaha is all about hands-on fun, outdoor exploration, and discovering more of what makes this city shine. From massive playgrounds to tree-top adventures, today offers plenty of fun activities in Omaha that will keep you and your kids laughing and making new memories together. Grab your walking shoes and sense of adventure-there's still so much more to see in Omaha with your kids!

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Start Your Day at the Omaha Farmers Market at the Old Market

Today starts in one of Omaha's most charming neighborhoods-the Old Market! I think one of the highlights of this Omaha summer itinerary is the Omaha Farmers Market. We love a good farmers’ market, and this is undoubtedly a new favorite for us.

The Omaha Farmers Market is a bustling, family-friendly experience that stretches for several blocks. You’ll find everything from fresh flowers and local produce to handmade soaps, jams, honey, and a variety of delicious treats. We grabbed coffee, biscuits and gravy, and a few sweets to share-definitely one of the best places to eat breakfast in Omaha with kids (if you're after variety and fun vibes!). With street musicians adding to the festive feel, it's the perfect way to start the day.

Zip Through the Trees at TreeRush Adventures at Fontenelle Forest

Ready for an unforgettable treetop adventure? TreeRush Adventures at Fontenelle Forest is one of the best things to do in Omaha with kids-especially if you've got thrill-seekers in the family! Spoiler-this was my daughter's favorite activity of the weekend!

This two-hour aerial adventure lets kids (ages 5+) and adults explore rope ladders, swinging bridges, and zip lines high up in a shaded old-growth forest. After a friendly safety demo, you'll feel confident tackling the courses. There are multiple difficulty levels and several routes in each. We completed a yellow and green course during our session. 

Honestly, our daughter didn't want to leave! The staff is super encouraging, and the cool forest setting makes it a great summer activity. Zip, climb, swing, and create unforgettable memories in the treetops!

Explore + Play at Fontenelle Forest

After your treetop adventure, spend more time on the ground exploring all that Fontenelle Forest has to offer. It's one of the most peaceful and fun outdoor things to do in Omaha with kids. 

Wander through shaded hiking trails and scenic boardwalks filled with butterflies and birds. The Riverview Boardwalk is stroller- and mobility-friendly, offering a relaxing, accessible walk through the woods with plenty of spots to pause and take in the view. This is the trail we did, and we really enjoyed it! If you're up for more of a challenge, there are several additional trails to choose from across the park.

Afterward (or right away!), head to Acorn Acres. It's the forest's MASSIVE natural playground. The fun play structure and open play area invite kids to climb, dig, and discover. My daughter loved trying all the slides and climbing to the top.

Inside the nature center, you'll find even more fun things to do. Habitat Hollow, a nature-based play area, is perfect for younger explorers. If you have extra time, the Raptor Woodland Refuge lets you observe rescued birds of prey up close. 

Lunch + Ice Cream in Millwork Commons

After an adventurous morning, a low-key lunch spot is definitely in order. Next, head to Millwork Commons. It's one of the coolest up-and-coming neighborhoods in Omaha. If you're wondering where to eat lunch in Omaha with kids, I highly recommend checking out this place!

Grab lunch at Heirloom Fine Foods, a cozy market and café serving up tasty sandwiches, salads, and all-day breakfast. While you wait for lunch, I recommend browsing the market. It's well-stocked with a wide range of products (think jams, pasta, and candy). We grabbed a fun box of pasta for the road.

After lunch, walk over to Coneflower Creamery for a scoop (or two!) of some of Omaha's most beloved ice cream. With a rotating menu focused on fresh, local ingredients, you'll always find something special. Trust us-this spot lives up to the hype!

Take a Spin on the Skate Ribbon at Heartland of America Park

I love adding new experiences that we've never done before to our family vacations. In Omaha, that was roller skating! My daughter had never gone before this trip (and, I hadn't gone since I was a kiddo!). While it was a tad more challenging than we expected, we had a blast trying it out!

Here's what to expect on your visit to the Skate Ribbon at Heartland of America Park. This beautifully designed space in downtown Omaha offers year-round skating-ice in the winter and roller in the warmer months. It's free if you bring your own skates. Or, rentals are super affordable if you don't. The staff is friendly and helpful. Beginners will quickly feel comfortable and ready to go! 

Additionally, with picnic tables, hammocks, and shady spots nearby, it's also an ideal spot to relax and recharge. Don't forget to complete the quick online skate waiver before you hit the ribbon! (You can also do it on-site with their QR codes if you decide to go last minute-there's no need to reserve a time.)

Enjoy Dinner + Show at Jewell on Capitol

We wrapped up our second full day back at the Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District with dinner and a show at Jewell on Capitol. It's one of the best restaurants with live music in Omaha for families. If your kiddos are anything like mine, they will love the moody ambiance and the chance to sit up close to the night's band! They offer live music most weekends.

This posh venue also serves up shareable small plates and a top-notch cocktail and wine list. We tried several plates, and the Smoked Brisket Empanadas were our favorite. The vibe is sophisticated yet welcoming-we caught an incredible R&B band during our visit. There's nothing like live music to make you feel truly present! Jewell on Capitol is a fantastic way to end your night on a high note (literally!).

Day 3 in Omaha with Kids

Your final day is here, but there's still plenty of fun to pack into your summer itinerary for Omaha with kids. Let's make the most of Day 3 with two more can't-miss stops. Here's how to end your weekend in Omaha with kids!

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Grab coffee + Walk Across the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

Start your last morning in Omaha with a quick coffee and breakfast (best enjoyed on the go at the next stop!) We just grabbed something fast from the hotel Starbucks, but there are several coffee shops in Omaha to choose from.

Then, head out for one of the best free things to do in Omaha with kids-a walk across the iconic Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. This architectural marvel spans the Missouri River, connecting Nebraska and Iowa with stunning skyline views and ample space to roam. Start below the bridge, where you can meet OMAR. Afterward, walk across the bridge. Kids will love standing in two states at once ("Bobbing" is a must!). And, everyone in the family will enjoy the scenic views and fresh air. It's a fun and easy stop that perfectly kicks off the last day of your summer itinerary in Omaha with kids.

See the Animals at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

No family trip to Omaha is complete without a visit to Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. It is truly one of the best things to do in Omaha with kids. We spent most of the final day here and still didn't see it all.

This massive, world-renowned zoo is packed with jaw-dropping exhibits, tons of shade (and mist zones throughout the zoo!), and plenty of chances to get up close to the animals. We loved seeing the baby elephants. And, of course, you can't miss feeding the giraffes (added fee)!

Our favorite exhibits included the Desert Dome, the spooky yet cool Kingdoms of the Night, and the immersive aquarium. The Desert Dome is worth the visit alone! It's such a unique feature and unlike anything we've seen before. The gator swamp and other nocturnal animals along the Kingdoms of the Night route left quite the impression on our daughter, too! It was so neat to see nocturnal animals active and engaged.

With multiple cafes for lunch breaks, you can honestly spend a whole day here without needing to leave the grounds. Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is undoubtedly the kind of place your family will talk about long after your trip!

Pro tip: Arrive at the zoo early to beat the heat and crowds!

More Fun Things to Do in Omaha with Kids

Looking to extend the fun or make a few swaps to this itinerary? Here are a few more summer itinerary ideas and fun things to do in Omaha with kids. 

• Omaha Children’s Museum
• Joslyn Art Museum
• Lewis & Clark Landing at The RiverFront
• Wildlife Safari Park
• More time at the Gene Leahy Mall at The RiverFront
• Arches Playground
• Rent a Heartland B-Cycle to explore Omaha; they are available citywide
• The Amazing Pizza Machine
• Catch a kid-friendly show at the Rose Theater
• Tubing & Adventures (best with older kids and teens who are confident paddlers and swimmers)
• Heron Haven Nature Center
• Fun-Plex Waterpark & Rides
• Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum (outside of Omaha)

Each of these Omaha family attractions adds even more fun and adventure to your trip! 

Have Fun Exploring Omaha with Your Kids!

From wild zoo adventures and treetop thrills to urban parks and local eats, Omaha is full of fun things to do with kids. It's one of my favorite top picks for your next Midwest family vacation. Whether you’re planning a week-long summer itinerary or a quick weekend getaway, this guide is a great place to start. I've included some of the best restaurants and hotels in Omaha, as well as plenty of unique, kid-friendly attractions. Have fun exploring Omaha with your kids!

Unless otherwise noted, all images in this article were taken by and belong to the blog's author, Antonia Grant. This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information.