Members of Omaha Public Library will soon be able to check out a FREE Pass to Fontenelle Forest!

Omaha Public Library (OPL) is joining Bellevue and Council Bluffs public libraries in a new initiative with Fontenelle Forest to offer free Forest admission to library members. All OPL branches will begin checking memberships out to patrons on Tuesday, May 1st. 

We love visiting Fontenelle Forest and enjoying many of the resources the Omaha Public Libraries offer, and are very excited about this new partnership!

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How It Works

Each of OPL’s 12 locations will have day passes available (one per day/per location) for check-out year-round to adults ages 18+ who are Douglas County residents or have a non-resident paid membership to OPL.

Passes are good for one-time admission on the day of the week designated on the pass. Each pass admits two adults and children from their household.

Individuals should check out the pass for the day they are interested in visiting Fontenelle Forest.

Only one pass may be issued per library card and customer.

Passes must be returned to any OPL location within five days of check-out. Unreturned or late passes will be subject to a $5 replacement fee.

 

How to See Which Passes are Available

To see which OPL locations have passes available for the day of the week you’re interested in visiting, visit omahalibrary.org and search for “Fontenelle Forest” in the online catalog. You may also call any OPL branch location to check availability.

 

Douglas County residents who do not have a library card may find more information about how to get a card at omahalibrary.org/get-a-library-card or by visiting their local branch.

Fontenelle Forest is the second community organization to offer free admission through Omaha Public Library. A similar partnership with Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium was announced in May 2017.

For more information, call or visit your neighborhood OPL branch location, or visit omahalibrary.org.

 

Find out more about the programs with the Bellevue Public Library and Council Bluffs Public Library here!

 

More Library Partnerships

• Lauritzen Gardens
• Omaha Zoo & Aquarium
• Omaha Children’s Museum

Find More Omaha Fun:

• FREE Things to Do in Omaha
• Hiking with Kids in Omaha
• Top 10 Things to Do in Omaha with Kids
• Indoor Playgrounds and Activities

Looking for an exciting and challenging adventure with your family?

Experience zip lines, rope obstacles, moving walkways, and other exciting challenges through the beautiful treetops at TreeRush Adventures at Fontenelle Forest!

Special thanks to TreeRush Adventures at Fontenelle Forest for partnering with us on our recent experience to help us share all about this exciting new attraction!

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

 

Exciting Challenges at TreeRush Adventures

All of the courses begin on one main platform where a staff member will double check your equipment before you begin your adventure.

 

Choose from a variety of difficulty levels with 2 Yellow Courses, 2 Green Courses, 2 Blue Courses, and a soon-to-come Black Course!

Each course involves a variety of challenges plus a Zipline or 2 that allows you to fly through the trees!

 

We started with the 2 Yellow Courses, which we loved! They were a perfect start to learn how to use the equipment and practice with the trolley for the Ziplines!

Then we tried the harder of the Green courses. It was definitely more difficult, with 2 challenges that really tested your strength and balance.

 

We then did the second Green Course, with fun obstacles, swinging challenges, and exciting ziplines!

 

Safety and Preparation

Upon arriving at TreeRush Adventures, guest begin on the platform where all of the gear is put on. It was great that each participant received gloves, which helped save your hands and fingers!

Then the staff led step-by-step directions on how to use the equipment, with safety as their #1 priority. Each participant was able to practice using their equipment on 2 ‘courses’ that were very near to the ground, with a staff member watching and able to answer any questions.

We felt completely safe throughout the entire experience. Several children needed to be assisted when they slipped from obstacles and were not able to get back on them (including my own), and it was very impressive how the staff was very encouraging and patient as they helped them get back onto the obstacle.

 

KidRush Adventure Park

For the younger participants, KidRush Park is perfect for ages 4 – 6 but is also fun for ages 7 and 8.

Young climbers can climb, crawl, and zipline while close to the ground!

 

Adventure Awaits!

 

We loved our experience at TreeRush Adventures at Fontenelle Forest and are excited about another exciting family attraction in Omaha!

Find out more and book your reservation online here (walk-ins also welcome as space is available.)

 

Find More Fun Here:

• Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Omaha
• Seasonal Guides

 

The Omaha Children’s Museum has been a family favorite of ours for years, and after countless trips exploring every inch of the museum, we have discovered many hours of fun and helpful tips along the way!

Whether you’re a first time visitor or are just looking for something new to experience on your next museum trip, we’ve got you covered!

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

Lockers/Strollers

Coat racks and locker rentals are available inside the main entrance to the left of the front desk. The museum is fully stroller compatible, but for your convenience, stroller parking is available near the Wiggle Room in the Imagination Playground. Use the elevator immediately outside the Imagination Playground for stroller access to the second floor.

 

Exhibits

• Art Smart Center
• Charlie Campbell Science Center
• Fantastic Future Me
• Imagination Playground
• S.T.E.A.M. Cave
• Tinker Lab
• Walker Tire Service Center
• Zooland
• Special Exhibits

Food

Depending on the length of your visit, you may want to consider having a snack or lunch at the museum. A variety of reasonably priced food options are available for purchase upstairs at the Rainbow Cafe. You are also welcome to pack food and enjoy it at the picnic tables outside, in the dining area immediately to the left of the main entrance, or upstairs near the Rainbow Cafe. Both levels have a microwave for guest use as well as high chairs for the littlest eaters.

Extras

Your museum entrance fee gets you access to all of the great exhibits, but you may want to consider budgeting just a bit more fun money for the carousel and train. Both rides are extra which can be purchased at the kiosk on the second floor, the front desk, or the Rainbow Cafe.

Older Children

There is truly something for everyone at the Omaha Children’s Museum, but if you are bringing older children, you’ll definitely want to stop by the Tinker Lab, Charlie Campbell Science Center, and the S.T.E.A.M. Cave. These areas offer opportunities to explore more challenging concepts and use real tools to build and create.

 

Younger Children

Omaha Children’s Museum has great accommodations for their younger guests. All restrooms have changing tables and a private, family restroom is available immediately outside of the Imagination Playground.

 

The Wiggle Room is designed especially for children three and under. You will find puzzles, blocks, and a variety of pretend play items for your little one to explore in a safe, calm environment. If your child finds themselves overwhelmed and in need of a break, the Family Room is a perfect place to settle down on a couch and read a book.

Babies

Visiting the museum is a breeze with babies! The building is very stroller-friendly and all restroom facilities include changing tables. You’ll definitely want to stop in the Wiggle Room which is equipped with soft, cushioned flooring perfect for tummy time or new sitters. Plus the wall of mirrors is especially appealing to little ones!

Breastfeeding mothers who want a quiet, private space to nurse are welcome to use the Nurture Room located within the Family Room.

Special Events

Omaha Children’s Museum has many special events scheduled throughout the year such as themed nights and seasonal celebrations. Take a look at the museum calendar to plan your museum trip with some extra family fun!

 

Helpful Tips when Visiting the Omaha Children’s Museum

Outdoor Attractions

The fun starts before you ever step foot into the museum! You’ll definitely want to leave some time to visit the Grass Patch, OCM’s outdoor playground. It features slides, climbing features, and plenty of green space to run around! You can also grab a book from the little free library to read on a shady bench.

Be sure to stop at the model fire truck right outside the museum’s main entrance. Kids love climbing all over and giving it a “test drive.” It’s also one of my favorite places to get photo opp!

If you plan to visit the Splish Splash Garden, you might want to throw a towel and a change of clothes in the car. The mini splash pad adjacent to the parking lot is the perfect way to end a summer day at the museum!

 

Messy Areas

We all know that kids are 100% washable, but if you’re looking to avoid potential messes there are just a couple of areas to be aware of. There is a face paint station and paint window in the Art Smart Center; however, in my experience the face paint washes off easily and my kids’ clothes have always come clean.

The water table in the Imagination Playground is also an area to watch for. If you’re concerned about clothing getting wet, the museum has waterproof aprons available for kids to use!

 

Join for Member Hours Perk

Member hours are my favorite part of my Omaha Children’s Museum membership. That extra hour of play at the beginning of each day is a game changer! The museum is much quieter and it’s easier for my little ones to navigate the exhibits. If membership isn’t in the cards for you, I recommend coming after lunch when many museum guests are clearing out to make it home for naps.

 

Daily Program Schedule

Upon arrival make sure you take a look at the video boards displayed throughout the museum. That’s where you’ll find special programming for the day such as Science or Bubble Shows, Storytime, and Character meet and greets. I usually snap a photo with my phone so I can easily reference the schedule throughout our visit.

There’s always something new to explore at Omaha Children’s Museum. I hope this guide helps you make the most out of each and every visit! Enjoy!

 

Omaha Children’s Museum

Location: 500 South 20th Street Omaha, NE 68102

Parking: Free parking is available in the lot south of the museum. While summer hours are in effect from Memorial Day to Labor Day, overflow parking is available across the street at Liberty Elementary School. There is also metered parking available on the surrounding streets.

Find out more about Admission Cost and Hours, Special Events, and Special Exhibits here!

 

Find More Fun Here:

• Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Omaha
• Indoor Playgrounds & Activities

 

The Standing Bear Lake Playground offers a unique play experience for kids of all ages. The playground features childhood classics like a slide and swings but also includes ropes and various climbing structures for open-ended play.

 

The canoe and various animal figures invite kids to create their own play scenarios and stretch their imaginations. And don’t worry about burning off that extra energy; the equipment offers plenty of opportunities to run, jump and climb!

 

Beyond being a fun change from your standard play structure, the scenery at Standing Bear Lake can’t be beat. Pack a lunch and enjoy the view from the picnic shelter or bring the bikes and take advantage of access to over three miles of trails!

 

Tip: Bring your sand toys for a fun surprise. Kids can dig for fossils and artifacts! Just make you cover them back up so someone else can excavate them next!

 

Location: Standing Bear Lake and Recreation Area Entrance 4, 6404 N. 132nd Street, Omaha. (off 132nd at Entrance 4 into Standing Bear Lake)

 

See More Favorite Parks and Playgrounds here!

 

Find More Fun:

• Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Omaha
• Outdoor Fun

Calling all expert gnome spotters!

Lauritzen Gardens has been overrun with roaming gnomes and you can join in a Scavenger Hunt to help find them all! You’ll spot these mischievous little characters (25 in all!) nestled between the trees of the arboretum with only their pointy hats and long beards giving away their sneaky hiding places!

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

 

Special gnome signage will lead you through the grounds to make sure you stay hot on their tracks, but be sure to stay on the path as to not disturb the gardens.

 

You can also follow along a kid-friendly StoryWalk of the book Go BIG or Go Gnome as complete your hunt. It’s a perfect way to keep kids of all ages excited and engaged!

 

Once your scavenger hunt is finished, hang out in the “Gnome Zone” for fun games like ring toss, bags, connect four, kerplunk and checkers. Make sure to take a moment to gnome yourself and snap a picture at the photo station!

 

Tips: It took my children and I just over an hour to complete the scavenger hunt. I suggest wearing tennis shoes as portions of the trail are wood chips. The arboretum is located directly across from the model train exhibit, so it’s a great opportunity to make a quick pit stop at a kid favorite!

 

What: The Great Gnome Escape

Where: Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft Street, Omaha. Gnome figurines are hidden throughout the wooded arboretum

When: June 1 – September 2, 2019.

Cost: Adults: $10 + tax; Children ages six to 12: $5 + tax; Free for Lauritzen Gardens Members and Children younger than six years of age.

Find Out More: http://www.lauritzengardens.org/; (402)346-4002

Members of the Omaha Public Library can also check out a Family Pass to visit, and for children who complete the Summer Reading Program, they receive a pass to visit also!

 

Upcoming Events:

Hanging with our Gnomies
On June 20 and August 1, the gardens will be open at night from 6-9pm for guests 21 and older.

World Record Attempt
On August 9 guests are invited to help break the Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of people dressed as garden gnomes. Start perfecting your best garden gnome “look” now!

 

Find More Summer Fun:

   

[Click on the image for a larger copy that links to each guide for further details!]

 

Create the BEST Summer with this Omaha Summer Fun Bucket List!

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

 

Omaha Summer Fun Guides

   

Celebrate National Donut Day on Friday, June 7, 2019, 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!

 

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

Where to Get Free Donuts for National Donut Day

Dunkin Donuts

Free classic donut of your choice with the purchase of any beverage. Good all day on National Donut Day, Friday, June 7, 2019, at participating locations while supplies last.

 

Krispy Kreme

On Friday, June 7, 2019, receive 1 free donut of your choice. No purchase necessary. Available only at participating shops across the U.S. and Canada.

 

LaMar’s Donuts

17202 Audrey St, Omaha

In celebration of National Donut Day on Friday, June 7, 2019, LaMar’s Donuts is offering each guest one FREE donut.  No purchase necessary. (*Offer does not include specialty donuts.)

 

The Green Spot Omaha

1110 S 71st St, Ste K, Omaha

Bring your pup into TGS to celebrate National Donut Day. They will have donuts for pet parents and doggy donuts for your four-legged companions, FREE while supplies last.

 

Other Donut Day Specials

Pettit’s Pastry

502 North 16th, Omaha

Pettits Pastry is celebrating 65 years of making donuts. 65 cents for glazed donuts on National Donut Day June 7th.

 

More Fun in Omaha

• FREE Summer Fun in Omaha
• 50+ Things to Do in Omaha this Summer

On Tuesdays this Summer, visit The Durham Museum after 5 p.m. for $5!

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

 

From Memorial Day to Labor Day, admission for all ages will be just $5 after 5 p.m. on Tuesdays.

On Tuesday nights, the Durham Museum stays open until 8p.m., giving guests the opportunity to visit later. Normally, regular admission is $11 for adults, $8 for seniors and $7 for children 3-12. During this promotion, all admission levels will be granted the $5 admission and children 2 and under remain free.

 

See the trains and model train exhibit, visit the current special exhibit Tyrannosaurs: Meet the Family June 8 – September 1, 2019, and enjoy the beauty of the Union Station!

 

2019 Omaha Summer Fun Guides