Family Fun in Omaha

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

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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!!!

 

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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!

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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!

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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

Free Admission to The Durham Museum: April 2, 2022!

March 22, 2022

An awning on the outside of the Durham Museum

The Durham Museum is proud to offer free admission on Saturday, April 2, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., to invite the community to experience Nelson Mandela: The Official Exhibition.

Since capacity is limited, advanced registration is highly encouraged. Register online at www.DurhamMuseum.org/Mandela.

 

Find many more Fun Things to Do this Spring here!

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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The Durham Museum is proud to offer free admission on Saturday, April 2, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., to invite the community to experience Nelson Mandela: The Official Exhibition.

Since capacity is limited, advanced registration is highly encouraged, and they ask that members and frequent visitors consider allowing those who may not otherwise be able to visit the museum the chance to enjoy this opportunity.

Register online at www.DurhamMuseum.org/Mandela.

Nelson Mandela: The Official Exhibition is the major new global touring exhibition that takes visitors on a personal journey through the life of the world’s most iconic freedom fighter and political leader. The Durham Museum is thrilled to welcome the exhibition to Omaha now-July 3, 2022.

Presented in association with Round Room Live, the exhibition is an immersive and interactive experience that features previously unseen film, photos and the display of over 150 historical artifacts and personal effects on loan from the Mandela family, museums and archives worldwide.

Nelson Mandela: The Official Exhibition is designed to educate, entertain and inspire using many personal belongings and objects never previously seen outside of South Africa. These items combine with immersive media presentations and scenic re-creations, to enable visitors to actively engage with and experience key moments in Nelson Mandela’s life. The exhibit takes visitors on Mandela’s life journey, from his little-known beginnings in rural Mvezo, Transkei, through decades of turbulent struggle against the apartheid regime, to his eventual vindication and final years as South Africa’s first black president, ‘Father of South Africa,’ and a globally loved and respected figure.

Find More Fun:

  • Fun Things to Do this Spring

Filed Under: Family Fun Tagged With: Omaha

FREE Zoo Tickets can be checked out by Members of Omaha Public Libraries!

January 30, 2022

Tickets on a table.

They are doing it again!

Members of the Omaha Public Libraries will be able to check out tickets to the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium! (while supplies last)

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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WHEN: Beginning February 1, 2022, zoo tickets will be available at OPL locations. (while supplies last)

WHO:

Omaha Public Libraries: Adults ages 18+ who are Douglas County residents or have a non-resident paid membership to OPL are eligible to check out the tickets. Accounts with outstanding balances greater than $50 may start a payment plan in order to obtain a ticket. Expired accounts must be renewed and outstanding fees must be paid in order to obtain a ticket. Due to the great demand and limited supply, tickets cannot be held or reserved. Tickets are good for one-time use. Only one ticket per library card and patron can be issued, admitting up to two adults and six children. An OPL library card must be presented to the zoo at the time of redemption. Find out more here.

[Please note: If you have an Omaha library card through a Lincoln library card, you are not eligible for these tickets. Thank you Katie for sharing this information.]

 

WHERE: All Omaha Public Library Branches will be participating in the program (while supplies last). 

For more information and to check on availability, visit online or call your local Omaha Library.

 

More Library Partnerships

  • Omaha Children’s Museum
  • Fontenelle Forest
  • Lauritzen Gardens
  • Durham Museum

 

Find More Fun:

  • Winter Fun Guide
  • Top 10 Things to Do in Omaha with Kids
  • Indoor Playgrounds and Activities

Filed Under: Family Fun Tagged With: Omaha

Free Admission to Children at Omaha’s Zoo with Paid Adult December 26-31, 2021!

December 23, 2021

The large glass dome at the Omaha Zoo

For the final day of the 12 Days of Giving, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is giving the community the gift of free admission to children under the age of 12 beginning Sunday, December 26, through Friday, December 31, 2021. Up to six children can be admitted free to the Zoo with each paid adult.

This is the fifth year Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium has offered this holiday gift to the community. The free admission for children under the age of 12 is an exciting culmination to the 12 Days of Giving that every visitor can enjoy.

Click here for details.

“The 12 Days of Giving brought out the holiday spirit in all of us at the Zoo,” said Dennis Pate, president and CEO of Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. “We are now even more excited to offer this final gift to all the children in our community. We hope people will use this opportunity to enjoy what our great Zoo has to offer and create memories with their loved ones.”

 

The inside of a tunnel aquarium at the Omaha Zoo and Aquarium

The Zoo has seven acres of indoor exhibits to enjoy during the winter months. In the Lied Jungle, visitors are transported to the hot and humid climate of a rainforest while viewing species such as Malayan tapirs, monkeys and macaws. The Desert Dome, the largest indoor desert in the world, offers 42,000 square feet of desert native plant and animal species. The Suzanne and Walter Scott Aquarium allows visitors to come nose-to-nose with sea turtles and sharks in its 70-foot shark tunnel.

Omaha’s Zoo and Aquarium is currently open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Lied Jungle closes at 3 p.m. and the other exhibit buildings close at 5 p.m. The Zoo is closed on Christmas Day.

 

Find more fun over Winter Break here!

 

Find More Fun:

  • 10 Things to Do Over Winter Break
  • 10+ Free Things to Do Over Winter Break

Filed Under: Family Fun Tagged With: Omaha

FREE KETV Family Drive-Thru Festival 2021

December 1, 2021

Holiday Lights Festival 2021 - Family Festival

One of our favorite Holiday events is the KETV FREE Family Festival.

Part of the Omaha Holiday Lights Festival, this year’s FREE KETV Drive-Thru Family Festival will be held at the Omaha Police Mounted Patrol Barn on Sunday, December 5, 2021, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m!

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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For more ideas on family fun, find 40+ Holiday Events in Omaha here and 10 FREE Holiday Events here!

A graphic of a lighted Christmas Tree with overlay text that reads Holiday Events in Omaha    Christmas ball ornaments with overlay text that reads 10 Free Holiday events in Omaha

 

FREE KETV Family Festival

To keep the community safe, the Family Festival, presented by KETV Channel 7, will once again be held as a festive drive-through experience (no foot traffic) at the Omaha Police Mounted Patrol Barn!

Guests should approach the Patrol Barn from Leavenworth Street. Though different from previous years, hands-on activities will still be part of the event. The drive-through experience will include picking up craft kits to do as a family, holiday characters and Santa, Police Officers on their horses, and holiday entertainment – all in the warmth and safety of your vehicle. Children under 10 years old will receive one free book, courtesy of Omaha Public Library. CLICK HERE for the Drive-Through Family Festival map!

Location: Omaha Police Mounted Patrol Barn, 615 Leavenworth St., Omaha, NE. Guests should approach the Patrol Barn from Leavenworth Street.
 

Shine On!

Volunteers will be on-hand to collect food donations for the Shine the Light on Hunger campaign, so bring nonperishable food with you if you wish to contribute. All contributions are greatly appreciated!

 

Don’t miss this year’s KETV FREE Family Drive-Thru Festival!

 

 

For more ideas on family fun, find 40+ Holiday Events in Omaha here and 10 FREE Holiday Events here!

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Filed Under: Family Fun Tagged With: Holidays, Omaha

Festive Drive-Thru Holiday Events near Omaha

December 1, 2021

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: Many events require pre-registration, have limited capacity, or offer timed slots. As things continue to change during this time, it is highly recommended to verify details, closures, cancelations, hours of operation, and any requirements or procedures for guests before visiting. Thank You!

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

 

2021 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 – Nov. 22 – Jan 3 (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.

 

Season of Lights at Midtown Crossing – Nov. 14 – 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.

 

Light Up Bellevue: Christmas in Old Towne Holiday Lights and Music Show – Nov. 25 – Jan. 8

  • Visitors are invited to drive down to Washington Park in Bellevue to enjoy the Light Show from your car or walk through the park if weather allows.
  • Location: Washington Park, 20th Ave. & Franklin St., Bellevue

 

Walking in La Vista Wonderland – 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.

 

Drive Thru Santa, Lights & Music Show – December 4 (5 – 7:30 p.m.) 

  • This Drive – Thru event will give everyone the opportunity to see Santa and Mrs. Claus and enjoy the Holiday Light & Music Show at Washington Park all without having to leave the comfort and safety of your car. There will be holiday goodies handed out by local businesses and organizations until they run out as well as other holiday decorations and festivities to look at and enjoy all through out the route.
  • The Bellevue Food Pantry will be accepting non-perishable food donations and monetary donations will be appreciated at the end of the route to support the great work Light Up Bellevue is doing around our community.
  • Location: Entrance to this event will be at the intersection of Mission Ave and Franklin St. in Bellevue. 

 

KETV Drive-Thru Family Festival – Dec. 5 (11 a.m. – 2 p.m.)

  • This drive-through experience will include picking up craft kits to do as a family, holiday characters and Santa, Police Officers on their horses, and holiday entertainment – all in the warmth and safety of your vehicle. The first 500 vehicles will receive a complimentary book, courtesy of Omaha Public Library.
  • Volunteers will be on hand to collect food donations for the Shine the Light on Hunger campaign, so bring nonperishable food with you if you wish to contribute.
  • Location: Omaha Police Mounted Patrol Barn, 615 Leavenworth St., Omaha.

 

Illuminate Inclusion – Dec. 10 – 11 (5 – 9 p.m.), FREE (Donations welcome)

  • Grab your hot chocolate, load the family into the car, and drive-thru the Illuminate Inclusion holiday light display at Zorinsky Lake!
  • Donations will be accepted to help make the accessible and inclusive playground at Zorinsky a reality.
  • Location: Zorinsky Lake Park, Water Park Entrance, 3808 S. 154th St., Omaha, NE.

 

Santa’s Rock ‘n Lights at Werner Park – Open select days November 19th – January 2nd., $24.99-$34.99/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

 

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!
  • Arrive early and park for FREE to view the up-close show in the recommended viewing areas listed here.
  • The fireworks will be launched from Parking Lot D of the CHI Health Center.

 

2021 Holiday Fun Guides

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Filed Under: Family Fun Tagged With: Omaha

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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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