Omaha boasts a historic Old Market neighbourhood, upbeat riverfront district and flourishing live music scene. It’s a firm favourite on America’s Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, with a host of museums, rich colonial history and talented local artists.

Things to do

Most travellers gravitate towards the Old Market neighbourhood, Omaha’s premier arts and entertainment district. Its cobblestone streets are lined with brick buildings that house trendy cafes, stylish restaurants and independent galleries.

Housed in a former mattress warehouse, the Hot Shops Art Centre showcases works by more than 80 different artists. From glassblowing and pottery to bronze casting and blacksmithing, it’s a great place to admire local talent or sign up for a workshop.

Interested in Omaha’s transport history? Visit the Union Pacific Railroad Museum, located in the characterful Council Bluffs neighbourhood. It features three levels of interactive exhibits covering 150 years of railroad history, including artefacts and antiques.

Best known for its sprawling African Grasslands complex, Henry Doorly Zoo features some of America’s best animal enclosures. Inside the grounds, you’ll find the world's largest indoor desert, the world's largest nocturnal exhibit and America's largest indoor rainforest.

Getting around

Omaha has a mass transit bus system that runs throughout the city. You can also jump aboard a sightseeing bus or trolley for easy access to the city’s top attractions. Eppley Airfield sits to the north-east of the city, with taxis making the trip in around 20 minutes.