Family Fun in Omaha

Your local resource for family-friendly activities and events in Omaha.

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Cat Cafe

August 1, 2022

Spreading the love for cats thru a themed cafe experience.

Felius is a non-profit cat café and rescue organization.

They aim to improve cat care through programming, inclusive experiences, and rescue.
Their entire population of stray cats is adaptable and eager for cuddles! Discover your new best buddy when sipping coffee or tea.

Check out their website for more information. 

Filed Under: Family Fun, Helpful Hints

Cute Animal Farms

August 1, 2022

Scatter Joy Acres

Enjoy a day of relaxation with animals at this Nebraska Rescue Ranch.

If you’ve ever sat while spending time with an animal, you understand how healing it can be to cuddle a furry pet. The people who run this rescue ranch know animals’ capacity for healing and help, and they provide everyone the chance to do so. 

Scatter Joy Farm works with abused and at-risk kids. They believe that playing with the animals and spending time in the fresh air can help heal past hurts and teach empathy and responsibility.

Visit their website for more information.

 

Nelson Farm

Nelson Fam has a variety of animals, from goats to baby ponies to horses to cows. When purchasing your ticket, you can buy food to feed the animals. It is a fantastic method to expose youngsters to non-traditional pets. The grounds also have a three-story hay castle with slides visitors can enjoy exploring.

Visit their website for more information.

Filed Under: Family Fun, Helpful Hints

Drive Through Safari

August 1, 2022

 

Visitors travel through several distinct “lands” on the drive-through adventure zoo’s road, where they can see Sandhill Cranes, antelope, deer, and a sizable herd of buffalo. In this area of the county, most animals are free to wander. Visitors’ cars can view everything, but a short walk is needed to reach the Wolf Woods part. While outside the vehicle, you can explore the interactive nature exhibits.

Visit Wildlife Safari Park website to know more.

Address: 16406 N. 292 Street Ashland, NE 68003

Filed Under: Family Fun

Have you met BOB?

June 24, 2022

Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is the amazing bridge that connects two states, Iowa and Nebraska; and measures 3,000 feet long.  It starts in Iowa at Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park. This pedestrian bridge connects Council Bluffs, IA to Omaha’s Riverfront. This is also the first-ever pedestrian bridge that connects two states. The unique design of this infrastructure makes it architecturally interesting and attracts tourists. The s-curved style of this bridge makes you want to wander especially at night time when the weather is nice for taking a walk and just appreciating the Omaha Skyline view that this bridge offers. You must also see the colorful lights that are switched on at night. Since there are a lot of locals and tourists exploring and walking around the bridge, the government made sure that it is still a safe place to visit. They installed police call buttons for emergency purposes.

 Visitors and bikers can travel through Port of Omaha’s Miller Landing to One Renaissance Center in Council Bluffs. This Pedestrian Bridge has received multiple awards, including a Grand Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies.

There are also nearby restaurants and lots of fun things to do after you visit the bridge. Nebraska is the best place for sumptuous steak and craft beers, so after your long and tiring walk at the bridge, you can relax and enjoy your dinner with your friends and family.  

This bridge is open 24 hours a day. 

Filed Under: Family Fun Tagged With: Omaha

KINGDOMS OF THE NIGHTS

June 21, 2022

KINGDOMS OF THE NIGHTS IS ONE OF THE BEST ATTRACTIONS TO VISIT IN THE OMAHA ZOO

This amazing large indoor desert will surely take your breath away. It uncovers the darkness of the nocturnal animals.  It will give you a realistic experience of what it is like to be in the environment of nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat. 

As the guests enter the Desert Dome, they will slowly walk into the darkness and uncover the mystery of these nocturnal creatures. Be prepared, there are thousands of bats flying around to add to that thrilling experience.

The dome is divided into several exhibits. First, you’ll see naked mole rats and fossa burrowing through tunnels. Next, you’ll see how the bush babies, brush-tailed porcupines, and aardvarks interact. Lastly, as the guests travel deeper into the dome, they will see stalagmites and stalactites dripping into a “seemingly bottomless” water hole which is 16 feet deep. 

As the guests/visitors wander through the area, they will go through the “ Eucalyptus Forest” dedicated to the animals of Australia. 

You will also witness the world’s largest indoor swamp that consists of different kinds of amphibians and reptiles. The swamp also includes a realistic beaver dam so the guests/visitors can see the beavers enter and exit through a hole in the floor. 

These exhibits present dozens of species around the world that some of us might not have heard of. 

Aside from the fascinating experience, the goal of this exhibit is to educate the visitors about the mystery and unveil the beauty of the rare species of nocturnal creatures around the world.

The guides are also available throughout the exhibit to answer questions and provide more information about the animals. Educational kiosks and displays are available which are lighted throughout the journey to give us a brief background of a specific species.

Are you ready to enter and be thrilled by the magical world of the creatures at night with your family and friends? Be astonished with the amazing experience that Omaha Zoo has to offer.

Check out these ticket prices below:

Adult admission is $27.95 ages 12y +

Children admission is $20.95 ages 3y-11y

Children 2 and under may enter the park at no cost and do not need a ticket. 

Senior admission is $26.95 for ages 65y+

 Get information on ticket prices, hours, and other details by visiting: omahazoo.com

Filed Under: Family Fun Tagged With: Omaha

National Donut Day 2022

June 1, 2022

A close up of a donut with colorful sprinkles.

Celebrate National Donut Day on Friday, June 3, 2022, with these fun specials at participating locations!  YUM!!!

 

Join our growing community and keep updated on Omaha family-friendly events and activities and Sign up for our Free Email Newsletter!

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Please Note: It is always a good idea to verify with your favorite location before visiting.

National Donut Day

National Donut Day at Nebraska Furniture Mart – June 3 (11 a.m. – 1 p.m.), FREE

  • Donut-themed crafts, games and more! Plus, free donuts while supplies last.
  • Location: Nebraska Furniture Mart, 700 S. 72nd St., Omaha, NE. 

 

Dunkin Donuts – June 3 (all day), FREE w/ drink purchase

  • On June 3rd, Dunkin’ is offering its Omaha guests a free classic donut of their choice with the purchase of any drink.
  • Dunkin’ restaurants throughout Omaha, NE.

 

LaMar’s Donuts – June 3 (all day), FREE

  • Visit LaMar’s Donuts & Coffee on June 3rd and get a FREE donut.
  • 17202 Audrey St., Omaha, NE.

 

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts – June 3 (all day), FREE

  • Enjoy any FREE doughnut of your choice. 
  • In addition to ANY doughnut free on National Doughnut Day, June 3rd, guests can enjoy a $1 Original Glazed dozen with the purchase of any dozen or 16-count minis.
  • Participating Krispy Kreme Doughnuts locations.

Filed Under: Family Fun Tagged With: Omaha

$5 After 5pm on Tuesdays at The Durham Museum this Summer [June – August 2022]!

May 22, 2022

A sign on the side of The Durham Museum that reads, \"Omaha Union Station.\"

On Tuesdays from June – August (except June 14th) this Summer, visit The Durham Museum after 5 p.m. for $5!

From June 7-August 30, 2022 (except June 14), admission for all ages will be just $5 after 5 p.m. on Tuesdays.

Now through August 31, admission for all ages is just $5 starting at 5 p.m. on Tuesdays. Tuesday nights the museum stays open until 8 p.m. (except June 14*), giving guests the opportunity to visit late during the work week. 

** NOTE: On June 14th, the museum is closing at 6 p.m. for private event so admission will be $5 from 4-6 p.m. that Tuesday.

Join our growing community and keep updated on Omaha family-friendly events and activities and Sign up for our Free Email Newsletter!

Subscribe button to join the Family Fun in Omaha email newsletter

 

The Durham is bringing back “$5 after 5” to encourage guests to visit the museum after 5 p.m. on Tuesday evenings throughout the summer.

From June 7-August 30, 2022 (except June 14), admission for all ages will be just $5 after 5 p.m. on Tuesdays.

On Tuesday nights, the museum stays open until 8 p.m., giving guests the opportunity to visit late during the work week.

Normally, regular admission is $13 for adults, $10 for seniors and $7 for children 3-12. During this promotion, all admission levels will be granted the $5 admission; Durham members and little ones ages 2 and under remain free.

See The Durham Museum’s calendar here.

 

See the trains and model train exhibit, visit the current special exhibit Dinosaur Revolution! now – September 4, 2022, and enjoy the beauty of the Union Station!

Filed Under: Family Fun Tagged With: Omaha

10+ Things to Do in Omaha Over Memorial Day Weekend 2022

May 14, 2022

A close up of a group of American Flags.

Celebrate with your family this Memorial Day Weekend in Omaha!

Join our growing community and keep updated on Omaha family-friendly events and activities and Sign up for our Free Email Newsletter!

Subscribe button to join the Family Fun in Omaha email newsletter

Things to Do Memorial Day Weekend near Omaha

1) Honoring the Sacrifices of Our National Heroes – Omaha, NE Rally – May 24 (11:45 a.m.)

  • Join the Carry The Load Relay Team as they stop in Omaha along the Midwest Relay Route of the 2022 National Relay. Meet at Omaha National Cemetery (14250 Schram Rd., Omaha, NE) to honor the men, women, and families who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

 

2) Salute To Summer Festival in La Vista – May 28

  • Kick off summer with a one-day extravaganza, including a parade, entertainment, games, car show, and fireworks display!
  • See more Community Celebrations throughout the Summer here!

 

3) SumTur Family Fest – May 28 (6 – 10:30 p.m.), FREE

  • Featuring an evening of entertainment that includes magic from the Amazing Lindy at 6:00 pm, music by The String Beans from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm and the Pixar movie Soul at dusk.
  • Location: SumTur Amphitheater, 11691 S. 108th St., Papillion, NE.

 

4) 2022 Nebraska Passport Program – May 1 – Sept. 30

  • Imagine a scavenger hunt around the state to popular tourist attractions, unique restaurants, historical places, and locally owned businesses. Our favorite stops are to the hidden gems, some off the beaten path, that provide a unique way to explore in our own backyard. There are several locations in and around Omaha!

 

5) Water Fun

  • Some Spraygrounds and Pools and Waterparks open on Memorial Day!

 

6) Go Hiking & Discover a Waterfall

  • Discover the many hiking and walking trails in the Omaha area that you can enjoy with your kids, including the Waterfall Trail at Platte River State Park!

 

7) Enjoy some Shaved Ice or Try a New Ice Cream Spot

  • A perfect treat to celebrate the beginning of Summer! Try a new ice cream spot here!
  • Find a variety of Omaha Locations here for shaved ice!

 

8) Rent a Kayak or Stand Up Paddleboard

  • Paddlesports can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors! It is great exercise and a lot of fun. Choose from a variety of providers who offer Kayak and Stand Up Paddleboard Rentals and Tours in Omaha!

 

9) Explore a new playground

  • Enjoy many of the favorite playgrounds in Omaha!

 

10) Go on a Family Getaway

  • Looking for a Family Getaway near Omaha? Browse for ideas on: 
    • Cabins to Rent
    • Road Trips
    • Day Trips
    • Best Places to Go Camping
    • and more!

 

11) Dinosaur Revolution – May 28 – Sept. 4, 2022, Included with regular admission

  • Uncover dinosaur facts and fossils in Dinosaur Revolution as you live large in reptilian role-play activities, undertake three Mesozoic Missions spanning 150 million years, and mimic dinosaur behavior.
  • Location: The Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St., Omaha, NE.

 

12) Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Omaha

  • Find many more ideas for inspiration of fun things to do here!

 

We do our best to share current information in Family Fun in Omaha, but event details may change. It is always a good idea to verify the information before visiting.

Have a wonderful fun-filled weekend!

Filed Under: Family Fun Tagged With: Omaha

15+ Fun Places to Rent Cabins Near Omaha

May 1, 2022

The outside of a cabin at Mahoney State Park

Are you looking for the perfect cabin to rent within 3 hours of Omaha? 

Choose from many cabin rentals near Omaha that offer a variety of activities, family-friendly amenities, and a chance to enjoy the great outdoors!

Looking to more ideas? Find the perfect place for camping near Omaha, Romantic Getaways near Omaha, and exciting Day Trip Ideas from Omaha here!

 

PLEASE NOTE: As things continue to change during this time, it is always a good idea to verify details before visiting as some amenities and facilities may not be fully open. Additionally, many of these cabins may book up to one year in advance.  

Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, the website will earn a commission in you click through and make a purchase. 

 

RENTAL CABINS NEAR OMAHA

Waterfront Black Hawk Home: Game Room + Boat Dock!

Lake View, Iowa (approx. 2.25 hours NE of Omaha)
14 guests · 3 bedrooms · 4 bath

Experience a true one-of-a-kind Iowa getaway at this Lake View vacation rental. This 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath house has everything a family or group of friends could want in a rejuvenating retreat

Find Out More

 

Beaver Crossing Country Cabin

Beaver Crossing, Nebraska (approx. 1.5 hours West of Omaha)
10 guests · 3 bedrooms · 3 baths

A relaxing getaway to escape the city. The activities are endless near the Country Cabin. Hunting, fishing, boating, hiking, swimming, bird watching, stargazing, relaxing to recharge, and more.

Find Out More

 

Circle O Lodge & Tree Farm

Marceline, Missouri (approx. 3.5 hours SE of Omaha)
8 guests · 3 bedrooms · 3 baths

Families and small groups will enjoy the Circle O Lodge for its natural beauty and relaxing qualities. It is conveniently located near several local attractions.

Find Out More

 

Kottage Knechtion Treehouse B&B 

South Sioux City, NE (approx. 1.5 hours North of  Omaha)
2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bed · Half-bath

18 feet in the air nestled between 2 beautiful cottonwood trees sits this amazing Adult treehouse, built with reclaimed repurposed materials. The view captures our spectacular Nebraska sunrises as well as the sunsets while overlooking 5 acres of detailed landscaping. They have a beautiful lower deck for enjoying the perfect Nebraska evenings or mornings as well as an upper small deck amongst the squirrels and amazing breeze.

Find Out More

 

Kimberly Creek Retreat

30010 Kimberly Drive, Ashland, NE (approx. 40 minutes SW of Omaha)

Kimberly Creek Retreat offers a range of glamping cabins, pods and geo-domes in 22 acres of secluded woods. Activities include everything from hiking to hayrack rides.

See Reviews Here

Find Out More

 

Kinsmen Lodge 

Niobrara, NE (approx. 3.25 hours NW of Omaha)
6 guests · 2 bedrooms · 6 beds · 1 bath

Kinsmen lodge is located on the outskirts of Niobrara within view of the mighty Missouri River. They have a cabin duplex with each side a roomy 1000 square feet that can accommodate up to 6 guests. They have two bedrooms, private bath and full kitchen with a dining area and family room. 

Find Out More

 

Lake Icaria

1688 Lake Icaria Rd., Corning, IA (approx. 1:5 hours East of Omaha)

14 log-style sleeping cabins with an outdoor area facing the lake. and 2 large family style handicap accessible cottages with beds for 10. Enjoy boating, fishing, disc golf, swimming beach, trails, and more. 

Find Out More about Lake Icaria cabins here

 

Lake Wanahoo Luxury Cabin

Wahoo, Nebraska (approx. 45 minutes West of Omaha)
12 guests · 3 bedrooms · 3 bathrooms

This luxury cabin is located on Spencer Hill, a secluded treed acreage conveniently located just 30 minutes from Omaha or Lincoln and footsteps away from Lake Wanahoo. The 4+ acre property is 600 ft. from Lake Wanahoo which offers biking, hiking, kayaking, fishing and more.

Find Out More

 

Lazy H Campground

7o1 Hwy 12 S, Akron, Iowa (approx. 2.25 North of Omaha)

A new private campground is nestled between the Big Sioux River and the northern entrance of the scenic Loess Hills Byway in northwest Iowa. This picturesque campground features 8 private cabins on Little Pearle Lake, a 50-acre fisherman’s haven stocked with freshwater fish, miles of hiking/biking trails, water activities and more.

See Reviews Here

Find Out More

 

Lewis and Clark Resort

Yankton, SD (approx. 2:45 hours NW of Omaha)

The perfect spot for family weekend getaways, weddings, reunions, and more. Big or small groups welcome. Beachfront and 27 miles of bike trails await you. 24 modern rooms, 17 modern cabins, and a 4,000 Square foot lodge.

Find Out More

 

A house with a grass yard

Mahoney State Park

28500 West Park Hwy, Ashland, NE

A popular day trip from Omaha or Lincoln, Mahoney State Park offers a variety of activities including the huge Activity Center (indoor playground), Owen Marina, Arts & Crafts, horse trail rides, observation tower, Aquatic Center, hiking, and playgrounds. Visit the SAC Museum and Wildlife Safari Park nearby. 

See Reviews Here

Find Out More

 

Off-Grid Cabin on Four-Acre Pond 

Junction City, KS (approx. 4 hours SW of Omaha)
5 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bed · 1 bath

Enjoy a relaxing time away with beautiful scenery while you make s’mores around the camp fire, watch the kids jump on the trampoline and swing, go fishing on the dock, take a boat for a little ride, swim, relax in the screened-in porch, and more.

Find Out More

 

Poolside Cabin 178 at Bridges Bay Resort on East Okoboji Lake

Okoboji, Iowa (approx. 3:45 NE of Omaha)
14 guests · 3 bedrooms · 3 baths

Make yourself at home in this fully furnished cabin that comes with 6 Daily Pool Passes at Bridges Bay Resort (at time of posting. Verify with owner before reserving.).

Find Out More

Here’s another cabin at Bridges Bay to check out!

 

Platte River State Park

14421 346th St., Louisville, NE (approx. 30 minutes SW of Omaha)

Another popular day trip from Omaha or Lincoln, Platte River State Park offers the popular and picturesque waterfall trail. Visitors will also enjoy the Spray park, observation towers, fishing and paddle boating, and special events. 

See Reviews Here

Find Out More

 

Ponca State Park

88090 Spur 26 E, Ponca, NE (approx. 2 hours North of Omaha)

One of our favorite Nebraska State Parks to visit, Ponca State Park offers a variety of hiking trails, horseback rides, shooting complex and archery range, Aquatic Center, nearby golf course, and beautiful views. Special events throughout the year. 

See Reviews Here

Find Out More

 

Rustic Cabin Retreat 

Kearney, Nebraska (approx. 3 hours West of Omaha)
4 guests · 2 bedrooms · 1 bath

“This Rustic Cabin Retreat is surrounded by trees for privacy on 5+ acres, but is very close to town for the conveniences you may want while on a getaway!”

Find Out More

 

 

A yellow train caboose with the words Union Pacific.

Two Rivers State Recreation Area

Waterloo, NE (approx. 30 minutes West of Omaha)

For a unique experience, stay in one of 10 remodeled Union Pacific cabooses. The cabooses are air-conditioned and sleep six people. Each is equipped with a modern bathroom, which includes a shower. The kitchen includes stove, microwave, refrigerator, sink and a few cabinets. Families can also enjoy the deck with picnic table, grill and fire ring.

See Reviews Here

Find Out More

 

Willow Lake Recreation Area

6 miles northwest of Woodbine, IA (approx. 1 hour NE of Omaha)

Swimming beach, fishing lake, playground, and hiking trails. The Nature Encounter Center has natural history displays and live animals.

Find Out More

 

KOA Cabins

Cabin camping at KOA invites families to enjoy the outdoors and the fun of a cabin, while also enjoying the various amenities and recreational activities each KOA offers. Popular KOA campgrounds nearby include the West Omaha/NE Lincoln KOA and the Yankton KOA.

Find Out More

 

Find More Fun

  • Romantic Getaways near Omaha
  • Best Places to Camp near Omaha
  • Best Day Trips from Omaha
  • Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Omaha
  • Best Hiking and Walking Trails with Kids
  • Favorite Playgrounds
  • Visit the homepage for more Seasonal Fun!

Filed Under: Family Fun, Travel

8 of the Best Places to Go Camping Near Omaha

May 1, 2022

A gray tent on a grassy lot near a lake

Looking for the perfect camping spot near Omaha this Summer? Luckily, there are many to choose from within a short drive. 

Find one of the best campgrounds near Omaha below!

(Looking for a cabin rental instead? Find the perfect place to rent a cabin near Omaha here!)

 

PLEASE NOTE: As things continue to change during this time, it is always a good idea to verify details before visiting as some amenities and facilities may not be fully open. 

 

Branched Oak State Recreation Area

12000 West Branched Oak Rd., Raymond, NE (about 20 miles Northwest of Lincoln)

Swimming beaches, hiking trails, fishing, boating, and a picturesque setting near the largest lake in eastern Nebraska.

Find Out More

 

 

Hitchcock Nature Center

27792 Ski Hill Loop, Honey Creek, IA

Hitchcock Nature Center is a favorite place to hike with beautiful scenery. Visitors will also enjoy a Visitors Center, playground, and special events. 

Find Out More

 

Mahoney State Park

28500 West Park Hwy, Ashland, NE

A popular day trip from Omaha or Lincoln, Mahoney State Park offers a variety of activities including the huge Activity Center (indoor playground), Owen Marina, Arts & Crafts, horse trail rides, observation tower, Aquatic Center, hiking, and playgrounds. Visit the SAC Museum and Wildlife Safari Park nearby. 

Find Out More

 

A dock at Memphis Lake Recreation Area.

Memphis State Recreation Area

Eight miles northwest of Ashland, NE

A beautiful setting near a small lake provides a perfect backdrop for a Summer evening. This hidden gem offers RV and tent camping, fishing, hiking, and is perfect for canoes and kayaks.

Find Out More

 

Platte River State Park

14421 346th St., Louisville, NE

Another popular day trip from Omaha or Lincoln, Platte River State Park offers the popular and picturesque waterfall trail. Visitors will also enjoy the Spray park, observation towers, fishing and paddle boating, and special events. 

Find Out More

 

A wooden overlook at Ponca State Park.

Ponca State Park

88090 Spur 26 E, Ponca, NE

One of our favorite Nebraska State Parks to visit, Ponca State Park offers a variety of hiking trails, horseback rides, shooting complex and archery range, Aquatic Center, nearby golf course, and beautiful views. Special events throughout the year and cabin rental available. 

Find Out More

 

Waubonsie State Park

2585 Waubonsie Park Road, Hamburg, IA

This picturesque spot in Iowa’s Loess Hills is a favorite for hiking and beautiful views, plus a lake for fishing. Cabin rentals available. Arbor Day Farm and Arbor Lodge State Park are nearby in Nebraska City.

Find Out More

 

Willow Lake Recreation Area

6 miles northwest of Woodbine, IA

Swimming beach, fishing lake, playground, and hiking trails. The Nature Encounter Center has natural history displays and live animals like turtles and snakes. Cabins also available for rent.

Find Out More

 

Find More Fun

  • Best Places to Rent Cabins Near Omaha
  • Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Omaha
  • Best Hiking and Walking Trails with Kids
  • Favorite Playgrounds
  • Visit the homepage for more Seasonal Fun!

Filed Under: Family Fun Tagged With: Iowa, Midwest, Nebraska

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A group of cabins with overlay text that reads, Cabin Rentals. A table of food with overlay text that reads, Kids Eat Free. A close up of a waterfall with overlay text that reads, Day Trips.

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Family Fun in Omaha

Family Fun in Omaha is your local resource for family-friendly activities and events in Omaha! Created by a local Mom who loves finding new adventures with her family and wants to help you enjoy all that Omaha has to offer. We recommend starting here. Thank you for visiting!

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