Omaha sits at the confluence of the Missouri and Platt rivers directly across from Council Bluffs, Iowa. The economic prosperity of Omaha has ebbed and flowed over the years. It became a meatpacking powerhouse in the 1930s and 1940s. Like other urban areas in the United States, Omaha suffered from the flight to the suburbs in the 1970s and 1980s and this led to the economic decline of the city. Since the late 1990s Omaha has heavily invested in the old downtown of the city which has led to a major economic upsurge for the city.
The Old Market District
Omaha’s investment in its old downtown has paid off. The Old Market District is the most beautiful parts of the city. Cobblestone streets and beautifully restored buildings make for a scenic and enjoyable experience as you stroll around the old downtown. The Old Market District is full of coffeehouses, restaurants, shopping, and nearby hotels.
Bemis Center for the Contemporary Arts
The Bemis Center for the Contemporary Arts is in the old downtown. The Bemis Center provides an excellent opportunity for families that share an interest in the arts. The Bemis Center features an artist in residency program for up and coming artists. The Center is open to the public and features several galleries for viewing contemporary artwork. The Center features a rotating series of exhibitions, lectures, and special events. Visit the website to to learn about upcoming events and exhibits at http://www.bemiscenter.org/.Admission and parking are free.
The Bemis Center for the Contemporary Art
729 S 12th Street
Omaha, NE 68102
(402) 341-7130
Henry Doorly Zoo
The Henry Doorly Zoo is just a few minutes by car from the Old Market District. The zoo features numerous attractions including the Mutual of Omaha Wild Kingdom Pavilion, Scott Aquarium, Simmons Aviary and IMAX Theaters. The hours are 9am to 5pm (March 1 to October 31) and 10am to 4pm (November 1 to February 28). The price of admission is $9 for children 3 to 11, $13.50 for adults, and $12 for seniors. Children under 3 are free. Visit the website at http://www.omahazoo.com/ for information about special events and exhibits.
Henry Doorly Zoo
3701 S 10th Street
Omaha, NE 68107
(407) 733 8400
Family Fun Center
The Family Fun Center is the most popular activity center in Omaha. It has been in existence since 1982. It include a wide range of activities including lazertag, paintball, minature golf, pool, and video game arcade with over 250 games. The Family Fun Center is open 11am to 11pm (Sunday to Thursday), 11am to 1am (Friday), 10am to 1am (Saturday). More information is available at http://www.familyfuncenter.net/.
The Family Fun Center
7052 Dodge Street
Omaha, NE 68102
(402) 554-1925
Zio’s Pizzeria
Omaha is full of fine dining establishments throughout the city and especially in the Old Market District. Zio’s Pizzeria is one of Omaha’s most popular restaurants. It is an ideal spot for a family since almost all kids enjoy pizza. Zio’s is an old school pizzeria. The dough is made fresh every morning and the sauce is made fresh everyday from a special recipe as well. The atmosphere is comfortable and entertaining. The restaurant is decorated with large black and white photographs of old Omaha. The hours are 11am to 10pm (Monday to Friday), 11am to 11pm (Friday and Saturday), and 12pm to 9pm (Sunday).
Zio’s Pizzeria
1109 Howard Street (Old Market District)
Omaha, NE 68102