Spring has sprung in Omaha, and it’s time to shake off the winter blues and explore the great outdoors! With a plethora of family-friendly activities in and around the city, there’s no shortage of fun to be had this season. From stunning parks and gardens to thrilling amusement parks and educational museums, Omaha is the perfect place to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. In this article, we’ll take you on a tour of the best family activities in Omaha, so get ready to spring into action!
Blooming Parks and Gardens
Lauritzen Gardens
Experience the beauty of nature in full bloom at Lauritzen Gardens, a 100-acre botanical paradise located in the heart of Omaha. Explore the 20 themed gardens, including the Rose Garden, Victorian Garden, and the Children’s Garden, where kids can have a blast learning about plants and interacting with unique exhibits. The Spring Flower Show in April showcases a stunning array of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths, creating a colorful and fragrant wonderland for the whole family to enjoy.
Fontenelle Forest
Immerse yourself in the serenity of nature at Fontenelle Forest, a 1,400-acre nature reserve that offers 26 miles of hiking trails, perfect for families with kids of all ages.
Fun-filled Amusement Parks
Fun-Plex
Get ready for non-stop excitement at Fun-Plex, Nebraska’s largest amusement and water park. With thrilling roller coasters, exhilarating water slides, and a plethora of games and attractions, Fun-Plex offers endless entertainment for the whole family. Kids will love the Kiddie Land, featuring pint-sized rides and attractions designed specifically for younger visitors.
Mahoney State Park
Located just a short drive from Omaha, Mahoney State Park is the ultimate destination for family fun. This expansive park offers a wide range of activities, including a family aquatic center, an ice-skating rink, and miles of scenic hiking trails. Test your courage on the park’s Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course, featuring zip lines, rope ladders, and swings, or take a leisurely horseback ride through the park’s picturesque landscape.
Boulder Creek Amusement Park
Boulder Creek Amusement Park is a hidden gem located in the Omaha metro area. This family-oriented amusement park features a variety of attractions, including miniature golf, batting cages, and a climbing wall. The highlight of the park is the Big Wheel Go-Kart Track, where visitors can zip around the track in single or double-seater go-karts. With its laid-back atmosphere and affordable prices, Boulder Creek Amusement Park is an excellent choice for a fun family outing.
Interactive Museums and Exhibits
Omaha Children’s Museum
The Durham Museum
Step back in time at The Durham Museum, a beautifully restored train station turned history museum that highlights Omaha’s rich past. Discover the fascinating stories of the region through captivating exhibits, interactive displays, and engaging events. The museum’s permanent collection includes authentic train cars, a replica of a 1940s grocery store, and a life-size replica of a historic streetcar. With its diverse offerings, The Durham Museum is an exciting and educational experience for the entire family.
Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum
Take flight at the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum, where you can explore the history of aviation and space exploration. This impressive museum boasts over 30 aircraft, including the legendary SR-71 Blackbird and the awe-inspiring B-36 Peacemaker. The museum also features interactive exhibits, such as flight simulators and a space shuttle replica, providing an out-of-this-world experience for visitors of all ages.
Outdoor Adventures and Wildlife Encounters
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
Embark on a wild adventure at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, recognized as one of the best zoos in the world. With over 17,000 animals from around the globe, this sprawling zoo offers an unforgettable journey through diverse habitats, including the Lied Jungle, the world’s largest indoor rainforest, and the Scott Aquarium, where you can walk through a 70-foot shark tunnel. Don’t miss the chance to feed giraffes, ride the Skyfari aerial tram, or cool off at the Alaskan Adventure splash pad.
Wildlife Safari Park
Get up close and personal with North American wildlife at Wildlife Safari Park, a 440-acre drive-through park located just outside Omaha. Marvel at bison, elk, and deer as they roam freely through the park’s sprawling prairies, and observe wolves, bears, and eagles in their natural habitats. The park also offers guided walking tours and educational programs, providing a unique and immersive wildlife experience for the whole family.
Hitchcock Nature Center
Explore the beauty of the Loess Hills at Hitchcock Nature Center, a 1,268-acre nature reserve located just a short drive from Omaha. With over 10 miles of hiking trails, including a boardwalk trail suitable for younger children, Hitchcock Nature Center is the perfect destination for a family hike. The park’s observation tower offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and the nature center provides interactive exhibits and educational programs designed to engage visitors in the wonders of the natural world.
Omaha is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities that offer endless opportunities for fun, learning, and adventure. From blooming parks and gardens to thrilling amusement parks and interactive museums, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. So gather your family, lace up your sneakers, and get ready to spring into action as you explore the very best that Omaha has to offer.
