Nighttime cityscape with buildings lit up, reflecting on a calm river in the foreground, surrounded by greenery. Omaha with kids

Omaha with Kids: A Night of Play, Views, and Great Eats

As part of our summer road trip, Omaha, Nebraska, was a planned stop on our journey back from Wisconsin to Colorado. With Omaha conveniently located about halfway between the two, we decided to spend the night in the city and explore its attractions. We also planned to visit the Omaha Zoo the next day. Starting our evening in the vibrant Old Market district set the stage for a memorable adventure in Omaha with kids.

Our highlights from our visit to downtown Omaha with kids!  Consider subscribing to our YouTube Channel Here!
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A Revitalized Riverfront: History and Transformation

The Gene Leahy Mall, Heartland of America Park, and the surrounding riverfront area have undergone a stunning transformation in recent years. Once underutilized spaces, these parks have been reimagined as vibrant, family-friendly destinations that blend nature, art, and recreation. The recent renovations focused on creating a clean, safe, and inviting atmosphere for visitors of all ages, making Omaha’s riverfront a standout feature of the city.

A Night to Explore: Omaha with Kids

We kicked off our evening at the historic Old Market district with a family dinner at Spaghetti Works. This family-friendly restaurant was a hit with its fun, rustic atmosphere and wide array of pasta dishes. The kids especially loved the quirky vibe and filling meals that fueled our evening of exploration. After dinner, we wandered through the charming cobblestone streets of Old Market, soaking in its unique shops and vibrant energy.

Spaghetti Works Website

Old Market Website

Staying at the Embassy Suites Downtown made everything incredibly convenient. Located within walking distance of all the key attractions, it was the ideal spot for our family of five. Despite having young kids (ages 4, 6, and 8), we found the area safe, clean, and easy to navigate. The security personnel patrolling the streets and the pristine surroundings made us feel right at home.

Embassy Suites Omaha Website

Gene Leahy Mall: A Playground Paradise

Our first stop after dinner was the Gene Leahy Mall at The RiverFront, a newly revitalized park that exceeded all our expectations. The Arches Playground was a huge hit with our kids. They loved climbing, running, and exploring the imaginative play areas designed to spark creativity and adventure. The Downtown Slides added an extra layer of fun, offering a unique play experience for all ages. The kids couldn’t get enough of these slides, and it was a joy to see them burn off energy after being cooped up in the car.

Children play on a brightly lit red playground structure at night, with an illuminated city skyline in the background.
Arches Playground

The park also features gorgeous landscaping, open green spaces, and striking art installations. Everywhere we turned, there was something interesting to see. It was clear that a lot of thought had gone into designing a space that’s equally appealing to kids and adults. The views of downtown Omaha were spectacular, especially as the evening lights began to glow.

Gene Leahy Mall: Visit Omaha Website

Farnam Pier: A Scenic Overlook

Next, we made our way to Farnam Pier, a stunning overlook that offers panoramic views of the Missouri River. The pier provided a peaceful spot to take in the beauty of the river and the surrounding area. It was a perfect place to pause, reflect, and capture some incredible family photos. The cool breeze from the river was refreshing as it was very humid on this summer night!

A woman and three children stand on a well-lit pedestrian bridge at night, with city buildings visible in the background.
Farnam Pier

Heartland of America Park and Conagra Lake

From Farnam Pier, we wandered over to the Heartland of America Park. This area was another pleasant surprise, with its picturesque Conagra Lake and beautifully lit fountains. The walking paths around the lake were easy to navigate and offered plenty of opportunities for the kids to explore nature. The park’s tranquil ambiance provided a nice contrast to the bustling playground, making it an excellent place to unwind and enjoy the outdoors.

Heartland of America Park: Visit Omaha Website

A Safe and Clean Downtown Experience

One of the things that stood out most during our visit was how clean and safe downtown Omaha felt. It didn’t have the typical bustling downtown vibe; instead, everything seemed thoughtfully organized and well-maintained. The presence of security personnel added to our sense of comfort, allowing us to fully enjoy our time without worry. For a family with young kids, this made all the difference.

A person and children walk near a brightly lit, colorful amphitheater at night.   Omaha with kids.

Why We Loved Omaha’s Riverfront

Omaha’s riverfront offers something for everyone, making it an ideal stop for families on a road trip. Here’s what made our visit so special:

  1. Family-Friendly Activities: From the Arches Playground to the Downtown Slides, there were endless opportunities for our kids to play and explore.
  2. Beautiful Scenery: The combination of urban views, the Missouri River, and lush green spaces created a picturesque setting.
  3. Convenient Location: Staying downtown meant we could easily walk to all the attractions, even with small kids.
  4. Clean and Safe Environment: The tidy, well-maintained surroundings made us feel welcome and comfortable.
  5. Memorable Dining: Spaghetti Works and the Old Market area added a fun and delicious element to our visit.

Tips for Visiting Omaha’s Riverfront

If you’re planning to explore Omaha’s riverfront, here are a few tips to make the most of your visit:

  • Stay Downtown: Hotels like the Embassy Suites Downtown offer easy access to all the main attractions.
  • Visit in the Evening: The parks and riverfront areas are beautifully lit at night, creating a magical atmosphere.
  • Wear Comfortable Shoes: With so much to see and do, you’ll want to be ready for plenty of walking.
  • Plan for Dinner in Old Market: The area’s restaurants and shops are a must-visit for a taste of Omaha’s charm.
Child in a blue shirt and black shorts performs a dab pose on a grassy field at night, with illuminated buildings in the background.  Omaha with kids.

A Night to Remember: Omaha with Kids

Our evening in Omaha turned out to be a delightful stop on our road trip, offering a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and family bonding. From the excitement of the Gene Leahy Mall and Farnam Pier to the peaceful beauty of the Heartland of America Park, every moment was filled with discovery and joy. Whether you’re passing through or planning a longer stay, Omaha’s riverfront is a destination that’s sure to impress. For us, it was the perfect way to stretch our legs, enjoy the outdoors, and create lasting memories on our summer road trip.

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