Family Fun in Omaha

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Our Top Ten Things We Love About Fall

A fall treeline with overlay text that reads, Top 10 Things WE Loved About Fall.

Fall is such a beautiful season and it is a favorite for many of us!  It fills our senses with so much to take in and enjoy.  We asked our readers: “In addition to going to Pumpkin Patches, what do you love about Fall?”.  We loved the responses and put them all together and called it:

Our Top Ten Things We Love About Fall

1. Sights

Changing colors of leaves, beauty of nature, seeing the leaves fall, beautiful fall colors

2. Sounds

Leaves crunching under your feet, crackle of campfire

3. Touch

Cool, crisp weather, cozy hooded sweatshirts, snuggly sweaters, fun jackets, favorite jeans

4. Smell

Campfires, kettle corn cooking, foods baking, roasted pumpkin seeds

5. Taste

Hot chocolate, chili and soup, baking, kettle corn, candy corn (and peanuts!), hotdogs and marshmallows cooked over bonfires, s’mores, apple picking and eating/making apple pies, apple crisp, caramel apples, and apple cider

6. Football

Football, especially Husker football!

7. Everything pumpkin

Decorating and carving pumpkins, roasting pumpkin seeds, pumpkin pie, pumpkin pie flavored Blizzards and Shakes, pumpkin spiced coffees and creamers, pumpkin everything!

8. Pumpkin Patches

Going to Pumpkin Patches and Fall Festivals and enjoying all they have to offer – hayrack rides, picking pumpkins and apples, duck races, corn pits, being outside, fun activities, yummy food

9. Halloween

Halloween is one of those holidays that we can celebrate all month long!  We love decorating, haunted houses, and finding the perfect costume

10. Family

Enjoying Fall and everything it has to offer with your family was by far the most mentioned!  We enjoy snuggling up with kids for a family movie night, all the things available for families to do together, hunting, fishing, yardwork, celebrating traditions and creating new ones, just hanging out with the family, enjoying holiday feeling, indoor activities, family dinners, craft fairs, and building leaf piles and jumping in them!  Fall brings a feeling and sense of family.

What do you love most about Fall?  Anything more you would add? 

Railroad Days 2024 at Mile Zero

The large brick building with green grass at Union Pacific Railroad Museum.

Railroad Days, the annual celebration of all things train and track, is returning on September 21, 2024, to Council Bluffs, IA!

Railroad Days

Railroad Days is an annual celebration of all things train and track, and this year, all the fun will be happening in Council Bluffs! Celebrate CB’s rich railroad heritage and place in history as historic Mile Zero for Union Pacific Railroad. There will be numerous train-themed activities and locations to visit between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturday, September 21, 2024.

The Union Pacific Railroad Museum, RailsWest Railroad Museum, Pottawattamie Arts, Culture and Entertainment (PACE), the Historic General Dodge House, and the Historic 100 Block of Council Bluffs are again teaming up to offer this annual event. Kids will be excited to ride the trollies to each participating location and to take part in numerous hands-on activities with interactive technology and exhibits that explore the vast world of the railroad!

 

Railroad Days returns in 2024 to Council Bluffs, IA, to celebrate CB’s rich railroad heritage and place in history as historic Mile Zero for Union Pacific Railroad.

Ride the trollies to each participating location and take part in numerous hands-on activities with interactive technology and exhibits that explore the vast world of the railroad!

One $20 pass admits two adults and unlimited children under 18. An additional adult pass can be purchased for just $10. Passes can be purchased online and redeemed the day of the event at the Union Pacific Railroad Museum. Each person will receive a wristband that entitles you to unlimited rides on the trolleys and admission to both the RailsWest Railroad Museum and the Historic General Dodge House, as well as discounts and other benefits throughout Council Bluffs.

Enjoy the ride between locations as well as all the special activities that each location has to offer!

  • Union Pacific Railroad Museum
  • Historic 100 Block of West Broadway
  • Historic General Dodge House
  • RailsWest Railroad Museum
  • PACE Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center

 

Railroad Days – September 21, 2024

  • Ollie the Trolley will transport ticket holders to all venues. The trolley will depart and arrive on Pearl Street in front of the Union Pacific Museum.
  • Wristband includes unlimited rides on the trolleys and admission to both the RailsWest Railroad Museum and the Historic General Dodge House.
  • Location: Union Pacific Railroad Museum, 200 Pearl St., Council Bluffs, IA.

 

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Festive Drive-Thru & Walking Holiday Events near Omaha

A car driving on a city street filled with Christmas lights at night

Photo Credit Brad Williams Photography

This year, several local organizations and businesses have come up with creative and safe Drive-Thru Holiday events to enjoy from your car! Additionally, we have added Outdoor Holiday Events that are happening this Season. 

PLEASE NOTE: It is highly recommended to verify details, closures, cancelations, hours of operation before visiting. Thank You!

2025 Holiday Fun Guides

A graphic of a lighted Christmas Tree with overlay text that reads Holiday Events in Omaha     A house covered with Christmas lights with overlay text that reads Christmas Lights in Omaha

 

Drive-Thru Holiday Events Near Omaha

See Amazing Christmas Lights & Decorated Houses + Map in the Omaha Area

  • Find the best Christmas Lights in Omaha full of beautifully decorated houses with bright lights, inflatables, decorations, and some with thousands of lights choreographed to music!

Old Market, North Omaha, & South Omaha Lighting Displays – Thru Jan 1 (nightly), FREE

  • Old Market Display – The display will run from 10th to 13th Streets, and from Harney to Jackson Streets.
  • The North Omaha lighting display will be showcased along a six-block area around 24th and Lake Streets
  • The South Omaha lighting display will be showcased on 24th Street between L and Q Streets.

Light Up Bellevue: Christmas in Olde Towne Holiday Lights & Music – Nov 27th – Jan 4th 

  • The Light and Music Show starts Thanksgiving night and will run through January 6, 2024. It will feature new songs and some new light displays this year. Make sure you stop by and check it out the Bellevue tradition a few times over the Holiday Season!
  • Location: Entrance to this event will be at the intersection of Mission Ave and Franklin St. in Bellevue. 

Santa’s Rock ‘n Lights at Werner Park – Open select days November 21st – December 31st, $29.99-$36.99/vehicle. [Online Ticket Purchase Required]

  • More than 700 feet of light tunnels, including a new techno rainbow tunnel. 
  • Location: Werner Park – 12356 Ballpark Way, Papillion, NE

Frosty Nights Christmas Village & Lights – Nov 22nd – Jan 1st 

  • Frosty Nights, Christmas Village & Lights, offers the Omaha area a fully interactive Christmas experience, where friends and families can start a new holiday tradition.
  • Location: Falconwood Park – 905 Allied Rd, Bellevue, NE 68123

New Year’s Eve Fireworks Spectacular – Dec. 31 (7 p.m.), FREE

  • Enjoy the spectacular firework show in the warmth and safety of your vehicle or home!
  • The fireworks will be launched from Parking Lot D of the CHI Health Center.

 

Walking Holiday Events Near Omaha

Zoolightful – Nov 19th – Jan 11th – 6:00-9:30pm – Tickets Required

  • Something magical is coming soon! Be on the lookout for more details about Zoolightful: Omaha’s Wildly Bright Holiday Tradition!
  • Location: Omaha Zoo & Aquarium – 3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68107

Bright Nights – Nov 28 – Jan 4th – 4:00-9:00pm – Tickets Required

  • Once again, Lauritzen Gardens is making the holiday season merry and BRIGHT! The floral display hall and the Marjorie K. Daugherty Conservatory will be adorned and enhanced with light as the garden extends its hours to celebrate the beauty of the season. 
  • Location: Lauritzen Gardens – 100 Bancroft St., Omaha, NE

La Vista Wonderland in Central Park – December (Santa visits on select days) – Walk-Thru event

  • Enjoy elf character cutouts, candy cane lane, lights, and more as you walk along the path! See Santa and reindeer on select nights. 
  • Location: La Vista Wonderland, 8305 Park View Blvd.

Season of Lights at Midtown Crossing – Nov. 16 – Feb. 14, FREE

  • Stroll through tens of thousands of white LED lights strung throughout Turner Park and along Farnam Street. Plus, visit the beautifully decorated tree in Farnam Court.
  • Location: Turner Park (31st Ave. and Farnam St.), Omaha, NE.

 

2025 Holiday Fun Guides

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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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Cat Cafe

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. 

Cute Animal Farms

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.

Drive Through Safari

 

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

Have you met BOB?

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. 

Surviving a Road Trip with Children

A little girl sitting in a carseat hugging a stuffed bear with overlay text that reads, \"Surviving a Road Trip with Children.\"

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post written by Mutual 1st Federal. 

With young kids, planning an eight hour car ride could seem like a rough beginning to a weekend trip. You’re already imagining your child screaming in the back seat “Are we there yet?” and the formation of a headache. That is, if you didn’t plan ahead to keep your children happy and chillin’ in the back seat!

Mom, do yourself a favor and make the car ride a breeze with these easy tips:

1. Pack the snacks

Your child can’t complain if they have food in their mouth. Ok, maybe they can but it’s far less likely with their favorite fruit snacks in hand. This will help you spend less cash since you won’t have to hit up drive-thru’s along the way. Keep in mind the messiness of the snack, cheese flavor powder or sticky fingers may not be ideal. When the mess can’t be avoided, don’t forget baby wipes are great for finger cleaning. A trash bag already in the car will help with a fast cleanup, just ask your kids to throw wrappers in there instead of on the floor. For drinks pack small juice boxes, since they usually have less juice in them than what a sippy cup can hold. It will quench your child’s thirst without them over drinking and keep the bathroom breaks to a minimum.

2. Get comfy

Pack blankets and pillows in your backseat. This isn’t just a great tip for your child’s comfort but for yours, too! You’re going to be sitting for a while, might as will make your car’s seat into a throne of fluffy comfort (unless you’re in the driver seat). Bonus: if your child happens to fall asleep for a couple hours.

3. Entertainment Galore

Plan on more games than your child will be able to play; this is the make or break of a complain-free zone. Load the iPad with game apps or pack some DVDs for the portable player. Pack books; if your child is younger have an older passenger read to them. You can also play fun car games. Some great ones include:

  • Windmill: whoever spots a windmill calls it out and gets a point. This one is great for driving through the Midwest.
  • 21 Questions: someone thinks of something and you can only ask 21 questions to figure it out. Whoever guesses right gets to start the next round.
  • Spotting cows! Twist the classic game up a bit. Play left side of the car verse the right side. See a cow on your side say “Cows on my side!” See one on the other side before they do, steal their point and say “Cows on your side!” If you see a cemetery say “Ghost Cow” and steal all the other side’s points.

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post written by Mutual 1st Federal.

KINGDOMS OF THE NIGHTS

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

15+ Fun Places to Rent Cabins Near Omaha

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

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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

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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

 

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Welcome

Family Fun in Omaha

Family Fun in Omaha is your local resource for family-friendly activities and events in Omaha and beyond! We are a local family of 5 that loves finding new adventures and wants to help you enjoy all that Omaha and the surrounding area has to offer. We recommend starting here. Thank you for visiting!

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