Entertaining the kids without breaking the bank or enduring marathon road trips is totally doable, especially when you’re in Omaha! Every day brings a fresh wave of exciting possibilities here. Whether your family thrives on competition, creativity, or outdoor adventures, Omaha has the perfect spot to create unforgettable memories.
Forget the stress of planning – I’ve put together a go-to list of family activities in Omaha to help you design an amazing day of fun. Plus, many of these venues offer family memberships, making regular outings more budget-friendly. Let’s dive into some fantastic ideas for family fun in Omaha!
Explore Omaha’s Wild Side at the Zoo and Safari Park
Sign for Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, a top family attraction in Omaha
When you think of Family Activities Omaha, the world-renowned Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium likely springs to mind first – and for good reason! This isn’t just any zoo; it’s a sprawling 130-acre adventure that never gets old. From mesmerizing animal exhibits showcasing creatures from around the globe to interactive play areas like Adventure Trails, and refreshing splash pads for warmer days, there’s always something new to discover.
But the animal adventures don’t stop there! For a change of pace, or if you’re craving a different wildlife experience, the Wildlife Safari Park is a must-visit. Imagine driving or hiking through stunning landscapes, encountering North American wildlife in their natural habitats. Wolves, bison, majestic eagles, and more await, all viewable from the comfort and safety of your vehicle. It’s an immersive experience that brings your family face-to-face with nature’s wonders, making it a unique addition to your list of family activities Omaha.
Discover and Learn at Omaha’s Kid-Friendly Museums
Child enthusiastically playing in a water exhibit at the Omaha Children's Museum
Transform an afternoon into a journey through time and knowledge at Omaha’s diverse and engaging museums. For family activities Omaha that blend fun and education, the city offers a range of options. The Children’s Museum is designed purely for kids, filled with interactive exhibits that spark curiosity in science, art, and technology. It’s a hands-on paradise where learning feels like play.
For a dose of cutting-edge science, head to the Kiewit Luminarium, Omaha’s brand-new science museum gracing the riverfront in downtown Omaha. Its modern exhibits are designed to inspire and educate visitors of all ages.
Exterior of the modern Kiewit Luminarium building in Omaha along the riverfront
History buffs in the family? The Durham Museum and the Union Pacific Railroad Museum offer fascinating glimpses into the past, with exhibits and activities catering to various ages and interests. A short drive from Omaha, the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum showcases an impressive collection of aircraft and spacecraft, perfect for inspiring future astronauts and engineers.
Large aircraft on display at the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum near Omaha
Art enthusiasts should mark their calendars for the reopening of the Joslyn Art Museum in 2024 after renovations. This architectural gem houses a vast collection spanning global art history and diverse mediums. When it reopens, it will undoubtedly reclaim its place as a cornerstone of family activities Omaha for art lovers.
Cool Off and Splash Around at Omaha’s Water Attractions
Families enjoying a sunny day at Sunset Hills Pool, part of Fun-Plex Waterpark in Omaha
Kids and water are a classic combination for fun! Omaha provides numerous ways to beat the heat, from lively splash pads and thrilling waterparks to community hydrant parties. For a full-fledged waterpark experience rare in the Midwest, Fun-Plex is the go-to destination. With exhilarating waterslides, a wave pool, a relaxing lazy river, and a dedicated splash pad, it offers aquatic excitement for everyone. Parents can even enjoy a swim-up bar for a relaxing moment.
Mahoney State Park also boasts a fantastic waterpark with similar attractions, combined with the added bonus of a nature park setting and other outdoor activities.
If swimming pools are more your style, Omaha has plenty of options. Consider Omaha’s YMCAs, the Kroc Center, or other public pools. For a more private swim, explore private pool options in Omaha. For families with toddlers, splash pads at Benson Park, Fontenelle Park, and Levi Carter Park are perfect for safe and shallow water play, making them excellent choices for family activities Omaha.
Let Loose at Omaha’s Playgrounds and Indoor Play Areas
Children playing on the unique playground equipment at Benson Park in Omaha
Playgrounds are essential for kids’ development, offering spaces to learn, expend energy, socialize, and stay active. Omaha is brimming with fantastic playgrounds, ensuring year-round fun for your children. Outdoor gems include The Riverfront, Seymour Smith Park (designed to be accessible for children with disabilities), Benson Park, and the impressive Dream Playground just across the river in Council Bluffs.
The Arches Playground at Gene Leahy Mall, a popular downtown Omaha destination for families
When the weather turns less favorable, indoor playgrounds save the day. Backyard Playworld, the Kroc Center, and Mahoney’s indoor playground offer climate-controlled play spaces. For high-energy fun, trampoline parks like Sky Zone and bounce house venues such as BounceU are excellent options.
For younger children, consider specialized kids’ gyms focused on safe and stimulating play. GO! Kid’s Gym, KiDS Body Shop, and PE 101 Kids Gym are a few local favorites. We Rock The Spectrum provides a nurturing and sensory-friendly environment for children on the autism spectrum, making family activities Omaha inclusive for all.
Playful Pines, a newer indoor play area in West Omaha, offers monthly memberships and punch passes, along with music classes and educational programs, adding another layer of enrichment to your family outings.
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Bright and colorful indoor play area at Playful Pines in Omaha, Nebraska, designed for young children
Playful Pines Indoor Play Area](https://omahaguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/playful-pines-omaha-nebraska-4.jpg)
[Comfortable and private Mother's Room at Playful Pines Indoor Play Area in Omaha
Mother’s Room at Playful Pines](https://omahaguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/playful-pines-omaha-nebraska-3.jpg)
[Designated toddler and baby play zone at Playful Pines in Omaha, Nebraska
Baby and Toddler Area at Playful Pines](https://omahaguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/playful-pines-omaha-nebraska-2.jpg)
[Relaxing parent waiting area with seating at Playful Pines Indoor Play Area in Omaha, Nebraska
Waiting Area at Playful Pines](https://omahaguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/playful-pines-omaha-nebraska-1.jpg)
Connect with Nature in Omaha’s Great Outdoors
Couple walking on a wooden bridge surrounded by trees at Mahoney State Park, showcasing Omaha's natural beauty
Omaha uniquely blends city life with abundant nature. The city is rich with green spaces and wildlife, offering numerous outdoor recreation opportunities perfect for family activities Omaha. Local favorites include Fontenelle Forest, a haven of trails and natural beauty, Chalco Hills Recreational Area, Lake Manawa, Standing Bear Lake, Zorinsky Lake Park, and the expansive Mahoney State Park. These locations offer hiking, biking, fishing, and simply enjoying the fresh air.
Lush green trails winding through Fontenelle Forest, a natural escape near Omaha
For a blend of nature and art, Lauritzen Gardens is an enchanting destination. This sprawling botanical garden features themed gardens, a model train garden, a honeybee exhibit, and indoor displays. It also connects to Kenefick Park, home to impressive locomotives, offering a unique experience that combines natural beauty with historical artifacts.
Get Competitive with Family-Friendly Games and Activities
The Fat Putter miniature golf course in downtown Omaha, offering a fun competitive family activity
A little friendly competition can be a fantastic way to bond as a family. Omaha provides numerous avenues for playful rivalry. Arcades like The Amazing Pizza Machine offer classic and modern games, while Omaha Virtual Reality provides immersive simulation experiences. For board game enthusiasts, Spielbound, Omaha’s board game café, is the perfect spot to enjoy a wide selection of games.
Many bowling alleys in Omaha participate in the “Kids Bowl Free” summer program, offering free bowling games for kids daily. Share the timeless fun of bowling with your children at one of Omaha’s family-friendly alleys.
For more adrenaline-pumping action, try go-kart racing at Fun-Plex, or challenge your family’s problem-solving skills at escape rooms like Get Out: Omaha or Locked In. Miniature golf also remains a family favorite, and Prehistoric Putt, with its dinosaur theme, adds an extra layer of fun to your family activities Omaha.
Learn and Grow Together with Educational Family Activities
Parent and baby swim class at Aqua-Tots Swim Schools in Omaha, promoting early childhood learning
Learning together as a family creates special bonds and shared experiences. Omaha offers diverse educational activities for all ages. Introduce toddlers to music through lessons at Baby Maestro or Kindermusik. Early swimming lessons at Aqua-Tots Swim Schools can start as young as four months, fostering water safety and fun.
For parents seeking fitness opportunities, Fit4Mom provides stroller workouts, allowing moms to connect with other families while staying active. Mangelsen’s offers a variety of engaging and educational classes for older children and adults, from crocheting to cake decorating and jewelry making, providing excellent family activities Omaha that foster new skills.
For independent learning pursuits, Omaha also has a vibrant scene of dance studios for children and adults interested in movement and performing arts.
Unleash Creativity with Art-Focused Family Fun
Children happily glazing pottery pieces at That Pottery Place in Omaha, a creative family activity
Creating art together is a valuable and enriching family activity. It nurtures creativity, enhances motor skills, improves coordination, encourages self-expression, and provides a healthy outlet for stress. The tangible results of these creative endeavors become cherished mementos of your shared time.
Omaha has several venues where families can explore their artistic sides. That Pottery Place and Paintin Place Ceramics offer pottery glazing experiences. The Makery hosts weekly workshops, providing structured art projects and opportunities to explore different crafts. These locations are ideal for sparking imagination and creating lasting memories through art-based family activities Omaha.
Be Entertained by Live Performances and Theater
A scene from a Rose Theater production of Sound of Music, a family-friendly theater in Omaha
Omaha boasts a thriving performing arts scene, offering a wide range of live entertainment from the Omaha Symphony and major concerts to Broadway shows. While not all performances are family-appropriate, Omaha offers plenty of kid-friendly productions.
The Rose Theater is a community playhouse dedicated to family-friendly theater, offering plays that entertain and inspire young audiences. Omaha Performing Arts also hosts numerous family-oriented events, including Broadway shows, National Geographic Live presentations, dance performances, and other special productions. Experiencing the magic of live theater together is a wonderful way to create lasting family memories and introduce children to the arts through family activities Omaha.
Cheer On Local Teams at Omaha Sporting Events
Aerial view of Charles Schwab Field in Omaha, home of the College World Series and local baseball games
If live sports are more your family’s style, Omaha is a fantastic sports city. Home to the College World Series, Omaha offers sporting events throughout the year. Catch baseball games at Werner Park or Charles Schwab Field, Creighton basketball at the CHI Center, or UNO hockey at Baxter Arena.
Fans watching a UNO Mavericks hockey game, a popular family sports outing in Omaha
Other local teams include the Lancers (amateur hockey) and Omaha Beef (indoor pro football), who play at Liberty First Credit Union Arena. Attending a sporting event is an exciting way to spend time together and support local teams, making it a dynamic option for family activities Omaha. If your children are interested in playing sports, explore the guide to select sports in Omaha to find local leagues and programs.
Indulge in Sweet Treats at Omaha’s Dessert Spots
Exterior of Ted and Wally's Ice Cream Parlour, a classic Omaha ice cream shop for family treats
Everyone in the family can agree on the joy of a delicious treat! A simple outing for snacks can be a highlight for kids, and Omaha is packed with unique dessert destinations. Enjoy ice cream at eCreamery, Ted & Wally’s, or Coneflower Creamery, recently named the top ice cream shop in the United States by Yelp in 2023. Candy lovers will be thrilled by Hollywood Candy and Old Market Candy Shop.
For baked goods, try Goodly Cookies, Sweet Magnolias Bake Shop, Jones Bros Cupcakes, or the Brownie Bar. No matter your child’s favorite sweet, Omaha’s dessert scene has something to satisfy every craving, making treat runs a delightful addition to your family activities Omaha.
Omaha truly offers a wealth of engaging and unique family-friendly activities!
Spending time with your children in Omaha is as rewarding for you as it is for them. The city’s diverse range of family fun ensures experiences that are far from boring, generic, or forgettable. So, this weekend, get out there to play, learn, indulge, and create wonderful memories with your family. You’ll cherish these moments for years to come!
