Surprisingly intimate for such a big city, Omaha in the state of Nebraska is the kind of place where total strangers will happily strike up a conversation over a coffee or a beer. The absence of big city mentality is refreshingly apparent and a considerable depth of historic and cultural personality combine with the amiable nature of the locals to make this one of the state’s most worthy visitor destinations.
A wealth of cultural venues and annual events are responsible for drawing a steady volume of visitors to the city. The Durham Western Heritage Museum, Joslyn Art Museum, Omaha Community Playhouse and the Holland Performing Arts Center are responsible for presenting exhibitions and live performances capable of satisfying even the most hardcore of aesthetic seekers.
Take a break from the serious stuff to enjoy a trip to Fontenelle Forest, located on the Missouri River shore. Outdoor activities are top of the agenda at this pleasant greenbelt area, with the majority of visitors coming to enjoy a spot of hiking, fishing or camping. For similar opportunities, including canoeing, take a trip to the Missouri National Recreation River area.
Omaha attractions
Joslyn Art Museum: hosts a collection of works dating from antiquity to present day, with some emphasis on American and European art from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Henry Doorly Zoo: is an impressive facility that is home to a mock rainforest, nocturnal animal features, an underwater tunnel and the world’s largest indoor desert.
Strategic Air and Space Museum: visitors interested in air and space travel will enjoy the collection of craft from WWII and the Cold War as well as the flight simulator and the theater which shows air and space related movies.
Agate Fossil Beds National Monument: this important monument with historic connections to Captain James Cook is home to quarries featuring 20-million-year-old fossils.
Fontenelle Forest: is the ideal place to escape the urban jungle and enjoy hiking, fishing, camping and other outdoor activities.