Top 15 Exciting Day Trips Near Omaha

Omaha is Nebraska’s most populous city, located along the Missouri River at the border with Iowa. This vibrant city provides visitors with various opportunities to enjoy nature, history, and cultural experiences.

Omaha is renowned for its warm hospitality, with locals known for their courteous and welcoming demeanor.

Most of the appealing attractions within Omaha are conveniently situated just a short distance from the city center.

This accessibility ensures that anyone looking for a quick escape can return home in time for the evening.

In this article, we present a selection of the 15 most commendable day trips from Omaha.

1. Lincoln

The English county town of Lincolnshire is situated amidst two sections of the Lincoln Edge; this cathedral city is perched on the steep escarpments that characterize the predominantly flat terrain. A street from the base of the hill leads to a more contemporary section of the city, showcasing the beautiful University of Nebraska.

Lincoln is well-known for its castle and cathedral, which are situated within a Roman-medieval street layout. Visitors to Lincoln can immerse themselves in its historical narrative, alongside excellent opportunities to engage with nature.

A significant highlight of your visit to Lincoln is the Lincoln Children’s Museum, a remarkable attraction tailored for young children, sure to leave them captivated.

2. Lauritzen Gardens

For individuals interested in floral exhibitions or simply seeking a respite in idyllic surroundings, Lauritzen Gardens serves as a tranquil escape. Founded in 1982, with construction commencing in 1995, these gardens are also referred to as the Omaha Botanical Gardens.

Located a convenient distance from Omaha, these gardens are an ideal location to reconnect with nature. Spanning 100 acres, the gardens feature a 4.6-acre arboretum and a herb garden, with plans for the addition of a Japanese garden. Lauritzen Gardens also hosts an educational center, a spring flowering walk, a parking garden, and a sanctuary for birds, making it a fantastic destination to explore diverse themes.

The quaint, domed botanical garden is certainly worthy of a visit on a day trip from Omaha.

3. Des Moines

Des Moines offers a plethora of attractions for a day trip from Omaha and is certainly a destination to consider. This capital city of Iowa is located approximately a two-hour drive east of Omaha, situated in the western region of the American Midwest.

Commonly pronounced as “duh MOIN,” the origin of the name “Des Moines” is somewhat uncertain. Some speculate it is derived from the burial mounds prevalent in the area, while others believe it originates from “De Moyn,” meaning “middle,” which was indicated on an explorer’s map to help people locate the region.

During your visit to this charming downtown area, you can explore the grounds of the state capitol building. History enthusiasts will appreciate the statue of President Lincoln reading to his son, Tad.

4. Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

This unique bridge is remarkable for being the sole footbridge that connects two states. Spanning 910 meters, the bridge was inaugurated on September 28, 2008; its construction commenced on October 26, 2006. Named after a former Nebraska Senator, Bob Kerrey, who secured $18 million in federal funding for the bridge in 2000.

A plaque on the bridge denotes the exact location where the two states converge.

This impressive walkway extends across the Missouri River, providing pedestrians with a nearly airborne experience.

Take a leisurely walk across this extensive bridge while relishing the stunning views of Omaha’s skyline.

5. Eugene T. Mahoney State Park in Ashland

This recreational area is situated along the Platte River and features an aquatic center, a marina, conference facilities, multi-purpose trails, and a 70-foot observation tower offering spectacular views of the Platte River Valley.

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park presents numerous attractions, including outdoor miniature golf and a water park.

If time permits, consider visiting nearby Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari or the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum, both located within a five-minute drive.

6. Columbus, Nebraska

Columbus is historically significant as the birthplace of the westward expansion. The city was formerly the primary outfitting headquarters for pioneers during the 1860s and 1870s.

The Platte County Museum effectively preserves the city’s rich legacy, enabling visitors to explore various historical monuments.

There is an array of recreational opportunities available for all interests. For instance, you can find trails suitable for cycling, walking, and jogging throughout the region. The main trail accommodates bikers, runners, hikers, and individuals with mobility challenges.

7. Platte River State Park in Louisville

This state park, covering 210 hectares, is a recreational area located amidst the bluffs of the Platte River on the southern end. Situated approximately halfway between Omaha and Lincoln, it was established on August 13, 1982.

The park features an observatory, shooting range, swimming pool, amphitheater, and numerous hiking trails. Platte River State Park offers an excellent venue for bird-watching, thanks to its relatively steep landscape compared to the adjacent areas.

8. Freedom Park Navy Museum

This outdoor museum is located along the banks of the Missouri River at the Greater Omaha Marina.

Exhibits include a variety of historical military aircraft, artillery pieces, rocket launchers, and jets. Notably, the two major attractions are the WWII Minesweeper USS Hazard and the USS Submarine used for Cold War training.

Following a flood of the Missouri River in 2011, the park underwent restoration and successfully reopened in October 2015.

9. Honey Creek Resort in Moravia

Located in Appanoose County, Iowa, the Honey Creek Resort is situated just under four hours from Omaha. The park features a hunting unit, fish hatchery, resort, dirt trails, an 18-hole championship golf course, and a remarkable indoor water park. The fish hatchery program was initiated in 1979.

Some remaining mounds from the area’s Native American Woodland period can still be seen within the park. Visiting this location provides insightful knowledge about these early inhabitants.

10. Ponca State Park

This park is among the most frequented in Nebraska, located just two hours from Omaha. Situated along the banks of the Missouri River, approximately 6.4 km from Ponca, the park extends over 970 hectares.

There are compelling reasons to visit this scenic state park, positioned along the beautiful Missouri River bluffs and adjacent to the Missouri National Recreational River.

Spring is particularly favorable for bird-watching here due to migratory patterns, while winter provides opportunities to observe various songbirds attracted to the park’s feeders.

11. Indian Cave State Park in Shubert

Located approximately an hour and a half from Omaha, Indian Cave State Park is a secluded area dedicated to nature and outdoor activities.

The park features a diverse range of trees, shrubs, and flora, along with 22 miles of well-maintained trails ideal for hiking. These paths lead to the expansive sandstone cave that inspired the park’s name.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the restored schoolhouse and general store, with traditional crafts showcased every weekend from May to October.

The intriguing cave is accessible via stairs, offering stunning views overlooking the Missouri River.

12. Lake Okoboji in Dickson County

The scenic Lake Okoboji, situated in Iowa approximately three hours north of Omaha, encompasses 3,847 acres. The lake reaches a maximum depth of 136 feet, making it a sought-after regional location for water skiing, motor boating, swimming, and sailing.

Lake Okoboji is part of a series of seven interconnected lakes that constitute the Iowa Great Lakes, attracting visitors from around the world.

13. Joslyn Art Museum

This prominent art museum, established around 1920 and officially inaugurated in 1931, holds the title of the largest art museum in Nebraska. It was bequeathed to the residents by Sarah Joslyn in memory of her husband, businessman George Joslyn.

Adorned with marble decor that radiates a distinctive pink hue under light, the museum is celebrated for its remarkable collection of Greek pottery and Baroque art. Additionally, the collection features works by renowned artists such as El Greco, Karl Bodmer, Degas, Renoir, and Monet.

Visitors can also admire a stunning glass sculpture crafted by the acclaimed artist Dale Chihuly, suspended in the museum’s atrium.

14. Willow Lake Recreation Area

Willow Lake is situated approximately one hour from Omaha’s northeastern end. The lake encompasses a recreational area, spanning 700 acres, under the management of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

The site also facilitates a Nature Conservancy, providing abundant opportunities to observe wildlife.

Families visiting with children can partake in a variety of activities, such as enjoying a boat ride on the 27-acre fishing lake, hiking along the six miles of trails within the park, or relaxing at the beach for a swim.

15. Kansas City

This city, located 165 miles from Omaha, is the third-largest in Kansas. For individuals interested in American history, there are numerous sites to explore in this charming city. During your visit to Kansas City, do not miss the Huron Indian Cemetery, established in 1873, where many graves date back to the 19th Century.

Another highlight in Kansas City is Strawberry Hill, notable for its array of European bakeries.