Noteworthy Omaha Nebraska

Omaha, Nebraska, the state’s largest city, is a vibrant urban center steeped in history and strategically positioned along the Missouri River in the heart of the Midwest. Founded in 1854 by speculators from Council Bluffs, Iowa, who saw potential in its riverfront location, Omaha quickly grew into a key transportation hub with the arrival of the Union Pacific Railroad in 1865, cementing its role in America’s westward expansion during the Transcontinental Railroad era. Named after the Omaha Tribe, meaning “those going against the wind or current,” the city reflects a legacy of resilience and adaptation.

By the late 19th century, it became a booming meatpacking and stockyard center, earning the nickname “Gate City of the West,” while its diverse population—spanning German, Irish, Czech, and African American communities—shaped its cultural fabric. Today, with a population of over 480,000 (as of recent estimates), Omaha blends its rich past with modern innovation, boasting landmarks like the historic Old Market district, the world-renowned Henry Doorly Zoo, and a thriving economy anchored by companies like Berkshire Hathaway, led by native son Warren Buffett.

3 Activities to do in Omaha 

1. Explore the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
   Dive into a day of adventure at the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, located at 3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68107, widely regarded as one of the top zoos in the world. Spanning 160 acres, this sprawling attraction opens daily at 9:00 AM (closing at 5:00 PM, with buildings and grounds fully shutting down then), except on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Admission ranges from $19.95 for children (ages 3-11) to $26.95 for adults (12 and over), with discounts for seniors and military personnel. Start your visit at the Desert Dome, the world’s largest indoor desert, where you’ll walk beneath a massive geodesic dome housing arid landscapes with meerkats, camels, and klipspringers.

   Next, venture into the Lied Jungle, a 1.5-acre indoor rainforest with swinging monkeys, cascading waterfalls, and free-flying birds like scarlet macaws. Don’t miss the Scott Aquarium, where a 70-foot-long underwater tunnel immerses you in a vibrant marine world of sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles. For a hands-on experience, check the daily schedule for animal encounters—think feeding giraffes in the African Grasslands or watching penguins waddle during a keeper talk. Bring comfortable shoes, a reusable water bottle, and a camera; strollers and wheelchairs are available to rent if needed. Cap your visit with a ride on the Omaha Zoo Railroad ($5 extra) for a narrated tour of the grounds, offering a relaxing way to see sprawling habitats like the Asian Highlands, home to red pandas and Amur tigers.

2. Stroll Through the Old Market District and Dine Al Fresco
   Step back in time with a visit to the Old Market, Omaha’s historic arts and entertainment district, centered around Howard and 10th Streets in downtown Omaha (roughly 1000-1200 Howard St, Omaha, NE 68102). This pedestrian-friendly area, free to explore, features cobblestone streets lined with restored brick warehouses from the late 19th century, originally built during Omaha’s railroad boom. Begin your day browsing eclectic shops like The Old Market Candy Shop, where you can snag homemade fudge or retro candies, or Drastic Plastic, a vinyl haven for music lovers. Art galleries like the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts (724 S 12th St) offer free admission to rotating exhibits of cutting-edge works—check their schedule for artist talks or workshops.

   As hunger strikes, settle into a patio table at M’s Pub (422 S 11th St), a local favorite since 1972, known for its upscale pub fare like the signature “M’s Reuben” ($12) or lavender lemonade ($3.50)—perfect for people-watching on a warm afternoon. Afterward, wander to the Passageway, a hidden alley off Howard Street filled with boutique stores and twinkling lights, or catch live music at venues like The Dubliner, an Irish pub with free acoustic sets most weekends. Bring cash for smaller vendors, wear comfortable walking shoes, and plan for 3-4 hours to fully soak in the district’s bohemian vibe and historic charm.

3. Walk the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge and Enjoy the Riverfront
   Experience Omaha’s revitalized riverfront with a walk across the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, a 3,000-foot-long cable-stayed marvel connecting Nebraska and Iowa at 705 Riverfront Dr, Omaha, NE 68102. Open 24/7 and free to the public, this S-shaped bridge—nicknamed “Bob” by locals—offers a unique photo op at its midpoint, where you can straddle the state line with one foot in Nebraska and one in Iowa. Start on the Omaha side at the RiverFront plaza, a $300 million redevelopment area encompassing Heartland of America Park (800 Douglas St), where you’ll find a 36-acre lake, a towering fountain shooting water 300 feet high (visible day or night), and a Skate Ribbon for roller skating in summer or ice skating in winter (rental fees apply, around $8-$10).

   The bridge itself, completed in 2008, features sleek, modern design with twin 200-foot towers, and at night, it glows with colorful LED lights. Bring a bike or rent one from the Heartland BCycle station nearby ($8/hour) to explore the 150 miles of connected trails, or simply walk the bridge’s 10-foot-wide path—about a 15-minute stroll one way—enjoying panoramic views of the Missouri River and Omaha’s skyline. Afterward, relax at Lewis and Clark Landing (345 Riverfront Dr) with a picnic (bring your own or grab takeout from the Old Market) or watch barges drift by. Check the city’s event calendar for free summer concerts or festivals along the riverfront to enhance your visit.

Places to Eat

1. The Drover – Steakhouse
   • Location: 2121 S 73rd St, Omaha, NE 68124
   • Type of Food: American Steakhouse
   • Details: The Drover has been an Omaha institution since 1969, renowned for its whiskey-marinated steaks that draw both locals and visitors to this dimly lit, cowboy-themed spot near the Aksarben Village area. The interior exudes a rugged charm with wood-paneled walls, leather booths, and Western memorabilia, creating a cozy yet upscale vibe perfect for a hearty meal. The star of the menu is the bone-in ribeye, a juicy, 16-ounce cut soaked in a secret whiskey marinade that infuses it with a subtle, smoky sweetness—priced around $40, it’s a carnivore’s dream.
     
     Pair it with the classic salad bar (one of Omaha’s first), featuring crisp greens, cold metal plates, and homemade dressings, or opt for sides like the twice-baked potato loaded with cheese and bacon bits ($6). Other highlights include the filet mignon (8 oz for $35) and a surprisingly tasty burger ($12) for a lighter option. The service is warm and unpretentious, with servers who know the menu inside out. Open Monday-Saturday from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM (closed Sundays), reservations are recommended, especially on weekends when the place fills up with steak enthusiasts. Bring cash for the bar if you want a whiskey neat to match your meal—it’s a cash-only spot for drinks.
2. Yoshitomo – Sushi and Japanese
   • Location: 6009 Maple St, Omaha, NE 68104 (Benson neighborhood)
   • Type of Food: Japanese (Sushi and Yakitori)
   • Details: Tucked into the hip Benson district, Yoshitomo is a game-changer for Omaha’s dining scene, helmed by Chef David Utterback, the city’s first James Beard Award finalist in 2023. This sleek, minimalist restaurant, open Tuesday-Saturday from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, specializes in high-quality sushi and small plates, blending traditional Japanese techniques with creative flair. The omakase experience (around $100-$150 per person, reservation required) is the crown jewel—a multi-course tasting menu featuring nigiri like buttery hamachi, torched mackerel, or aged bluefin tuna, each piece handcrafted and served with warm rice and a dab of house-made soy.

     For a la carte options, try the “smoked fish” roll ($12) with charred salmon and pickled cucumber, or the yakitori skewers (grilled over binchotan charcoal) like chicken thigh with tare sauce ($4 each). The intimate space seats about 30, with a sushi counter where you can watch the chefs at work—book ahead, as it’s often packed. Pair your meal with a sake flight ($15-$20) from their curated list, or sip a Japanese whiskey highball ($10). The vibe is modern yet relaxed, with ambient lighting and a playlist of indie tunes, making it ideal for a date night or a foodie pilgrimage.

3. Block 16 – New American Street Food
   • Location: 1611 Farnam St, Omaha, NE 68102 (Downtown)
   • Type of Food: New American (Gourmet Burgers and Creative Comfort Food)
   • Details: A downtown gem since 2012, Block 16 is a casual, counter-service spot that elevates street food to an art form, located just blocks from the Old Market. Open Monday-Saturday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, it’s a favorite for its bold flavors and ever-changing specials, all served in a laid-back, industrial-chic space with exposed brick and communal tables. The signature Block Burger ($9.50) is a must—grass-fed beef piled with cheddar, bacon jam, pickles, and a fried egg on a brioche bun, served with duck fat fries that are crispy and addictive ($3 extra).
     
     Daily specials might include a short rib French dip ($14) with au jus or a “Nebraska Bowl” ($13) layering tenderloin, fried chicken, and tater tots over mashed potatoes—check their Instagram for the latest. Vegetarians rave about the mushroom poutine ($10), a pile of fries smothered in gravy and cheese curds with roasted fungi. The line moves fast despite the crowds, and the staff—led by owners Paul and Jessica Urban—are famously friendly. Grab a local craft beer ($6) or a house-made soda ($3) to wash it down, and eat at one of the outdoor tables if the weather’s nice. It’s cashless (cards only), so come prepared for a quick, delicious bite that punches above its weight.

RV Parks near Omaha

1. West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday – Gretna, NE
   • Location: 14601 Highway 6, Gretna, NE 68028
   • Distance from Omaha: Approximately 20 miles southwest (about a 20-25 minute drive via I-80 W)
   • Description: Situated just off Interstate 80 in Gretna, the West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday is a family-friendly RV park open year-round, perfectly positioned halfway between Omaha and Lincoln (40 minutes to the latter). This KOA boasts 75 spacious sites, including 36 pull-throughs with full hookups (water, electric 30/50 amp, sewer) and premium patio sites with concrete pads, fire pits, and patio furniture—rates range from $45-$65/night depending on season and site type.

     The park’s well-maintained facilities include a sparkling pool (open May to September), a sauna, clean restrooms with hot showers, and a laundry room. Kids and adults alike can enjoy a jumping pillow, mini-golf, sand volleyball, and a KampK9 dog park, while bike rentals ($5/hour) and a weekend movie night (summer only) add to the fun.

     The on-site store stocks RV supplies, snacks, and gem mining bags ($8), and they deliver made-to-order pizzas ($12-$15) to your site. Its proximity to attractions like the Nebraska Crossing Outlets (next door) and the Henry Doorly Zoo (20 minutes) makes it ideal for exploring Omaha. Guests praise the friendly staff who escort you to your site, though some note highway noise—bring earplugs if sensitive. Wi-Fi is free but spotty; Verizon and AT&T offer decent cell coverage (2-3 bars). Reserve online or call (402) 332-3010, especially for summer weekends when it fills up fast.

2. Eugene T. Mahoney State Park – Ashland, NE
   • Location: 28500 W Park Hwy, Ashland, NE 68003
   • Distance from Omaha: Approximately 25 miles southwest (about a 30-minute drive via I-80 W and NE-66)
   • Description: Nestled between Omaha and Lincoln, Eugene T. Mahoney State Park is Nebraska’s most popular state park, offering a 700-acre oasis along the Platte River with 58 RV sites for a nature-immersed escape. The modern campground features 34 full-hookup sites (50-amp electric, water, sewer) and 24 electric-only sites (30/50-amp), all on paved pads at least 50 feet long—perfect for big rigs—priced at $35/night for full hookups and $25/night for electric, plus a required park entry permit ($6/day or $35/year for residents; $8/day or $60/year for non-residents). Amenities include a shower house, restrooms, a dump station, picnic tables, and fire rings, with a fenced dog park and playground nearby.

     The park shines with activities: hike or bike scenic trails to two observation towers overlooking the river, fish in the Platte, or rent kayaks ($10/hour) at the Owen Marina (summer only). The Activity Center offers a water park ($10/day), treetop ropes course ($15), and an indoor ice rink (winter, $8 including skates). The on-site Walter Scott Jr. Lodge Restaurant serves Sunday brunch (May-October, $12-$15). Campers love the “beautiful scenery” and “state-of-the-art facilities,” though sites can be close together—book early online at outdoornebraska.gov or call (402) 944-2523 for the 19 reservable sites; the rest are first-come, first-served. Cell service is reliable (3-4 bars Verizon), but there’s no Wi-Fi.

3. Pine Grove RV Park & Campground – Greenwood, NE
   • Location: 25205 Pine Grove Rd, Greenwood, NE 68366
   • Distance from Omaha: Approximately 28 miles southwest (about a 35-minute drive via I-80 W and NE-63)
   • Description: Located off I-80 between Omaha and Lincoln (closer to the latter at 20 minutes), Pine Grove RV Park & Campground offers a quiet, country retreat on 25 acres of rolling hills. Open April to October, it features 70 sites, including 30 full-hookup pull-throughs (30/50-amp, water, sewer) and 40 electric/water sites, with gravel pads accommodating rigs up to 70 feet—rates range from $35-$45/night, with Good Sam discounts (10% off). The park’s standout amenities include a large swimming pool, a lodge with a big-screen TV, free Wi-Fi (surprisingly strong for a rural spot), and a fitness room with basic equipment.

     Families enjoy the playground, sand volleyball court, tennis court, and horseshoe pits, while spotless restrooms, private showers, and a laundry room ($2/load) keep things comfortable. The peaceful setting, with views of cornfields and stunning sunsets, is a hit with campers seeking a break from city life, though some note a lack of shade—bring an awning. It’s a short drive to Omaha’s attractions or the Strategic Air Command Museum (10 miles). Guests call it “a hidden gem” for its cleanliness and space, but it’s not ideal for long-term stays (30-day max). Book by calling (402) 944-3550; walk-ins are welcome but limited in peak season. Cell service varies (2-3 bars AT&T).

     RV Propane and Dump 

   • Gretna KOA West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday
   • Tractor Supply Co : Propane

Books about Omaha 

1. “The Gate City: A History of Omaha” by Lawrence H. Larsen and Barbara J. Cottrell Larsen
   • Summary: Originally published in 1982 and later expanded in a 1997 enlarged edition, “The Gate City: A History of Omaha” offers a comprehensive exploration of Omaha’s evolution from its founding in 1854 as a Missouri River ferry landing to a modern Midwestern metropolis.

     Authored by historians Lawrence H. Larsen and Barbara J. Cottrell Larsen, the book organizes its narrative around pivotal events that shaped the city, such as the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad, the homesteading surge on the Great Plains, the rise of the meatpacking industry, and the establishment of national defense systems like Offutt Air Force Base. The authors weave in rich details about the diverse ethnic groups—Czech, Irish, German, and African American communities—that fueled Omaha’s growth, alongside stories of urban unrest, vice, and crime that colored its development. This enlarged edition incorporates updated scholarship, providing a clear, cohesive look at political, social, and cultural affairs.

     Reviewers have praised its approachable style, noting it avoids overwhelming readers with minutiae while still delivering a vivid urban biography. Highlights include tales of town promoters, the impact of the Union Pacific, and the city’s role as a gateway to the West, making it an essential read for understanding Omaha’s historical identity.

   • Details: Published by the University of Nebraska Press; Enlarged Edition (July 1, 1997); 352 pages; ISBN: 978-0803279674.
   • Where to Buy:
     • Barnes & Noble
     • University of Nebraska Press

1. “A History Lover’s Guide to Omaha” by Eileen Wirth and Carol McCabe
   • Summary: Published in 2021 by The History Press, “A History Lover’s Guide to Omaha” is both a historical narrative and a practical guide, authored by Eileen Wirth, a Creighton University journalism professor emeritus, and Carol McCabe, a noted photographer. This 160-page book takes readers on eight self-guided tours through Omaha’s eastern neighborhoods (east of 72nd Street), spotlighting landmarks, parks, and institutions that define the city’s past.

     It covers quirky and significant moments alike, from the site of the first U.S. airmail flight in Aksarben to Duke Ellington’s performances at the Dreamland Ballroom, and the elaborate grave of a North Omaha madam. The book pairs concise historical snippets with striking old and new photographs, offering fresh perspectives on familiar places like the Old Market, Joslyn Castle, and the riverfront. It also delves into the contributions of immigrant communities and notable figures like Edward Rosewater, who boosted Czech settlement. Readers have lauded its accessibility and its ability to transform a casual stroll into a journey through time, making it ideal for both residents and tourists. The blend of narrative and visual storytelling captures Omaha’s eclectic history—from its Gilded Age mansions to its modern murals—while encouraging exploration of its lesser-known corners.

   • Details: Published by The History Press (May 17, 2021); 160 pages; ISBN: 978-1467148450.
   • Where to Buy:
     • Arcadia Publishing: Direct from the publisher
     • Barnes & Noble

Final Thoughts for The Smart RVer

Omaha, Nebraska, stands as a vibrant and diverse city that beautifully blends its rich historical roots with modern development. Known for its strong economy, thriving cultural scene, and friendly community spirit, Omaha offers a unique combination of big-city amenities and small-town charm.

Whether it’s the historic Old Market district, world-class zoos, or a growing culinary scene, Omaha continues to evolve while maintaining a strong sense of local pride. With its welcoming atmosphere and growth opportunities, Omaha remains a city on the rise, making it an appealing destination for both residents and visitors alike.