Apart from being the home base of “the sage of Omaha,” renowned investor Warren Buffett, the state´s largest city (pop. 486,000) is known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and culinary menu (plus get a great view of its skyline and the Missouri River from the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge).
A standout attraction is the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, often ranked among the best in the United States, even the world (USA Today for example has voted it tops in this country for two years running). The reasons include incredible exhibits such as the Desert Dome and the Lied Jungle offer immersive experiences with diverse wildlife.
Dating back to the 1870s, the Old Market district is a must-visit area, featuring cobblestone streets lined with unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. It’s a great place to savor local flavors, with highlights like Omaha's famous steak and various ethnic cuisines.
For those interested in history, the Durham Museum in a historic train station offers insights into the city’s past, with engaging exhibits on the history of the region, while culture vultures should alight at the Joslyn Art Museum, home to a beautiful sculpture garden and a diverse collection of mostly U.S. artists, with prominent names such as Roy Liechtenstein, Brice Marden, Julian Schnabel, and Cy Twombly). For the performing arts, take in a show at the Omaha Community Playhouse, the largest community theater in the United States.
Finally for lovers of the great outdoor it´s well worth the 12-minute drive into the suburb of Bellevue to experience Fontenelle Forest, a stunning, 1,500-acre nature reserve with two “learning centers” as well as trails that wind through hardwood deciduous forest, extensive floodplains, loess hills, and wetlands.
Read more in my post 6 Musts in Nebraska.
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