Can you visit Nebraska and Iowa in one day? Have you heard of the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge? Until I googled things to do in Omaha, I was unaware. I booked my flight, searched for hotel accommodations, and checked the official Visit Omaha website. I was excited to go Bobbing.

Flight and Hotel Booked

When I was ready for my first visit to Nebraska, the airfare had increased to over $300. I booked a Saturday flight for $140 and used 19,564 Rapid Rewards points plus $5.60 for the return flight on Sunday. I booked through Southwest Hotels to earn 6,000 Rapid Rewards points to offset what I redeemed for the flight. Although rideshare is inexpensive, I checked the Omaha Hilton for a shuttle service. I did not know what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised as I enjoyed the short ride from the airport to the hotel. Of course, I asked the driver about things to do, and he highly recommended I dine at M’s Pub, visit the zoo, walk the bridge, and take a stroll in the Old Market.

The Return to Nebraska

Because I had a great time in Nebraska the first time I visited, I talked Lynn and Parris into booking flights to Omaha to qualify for the Southwest Airlines Companion Pass. We flew in on Friday and returned to Chicago on Saturday. The roundtrip flight cost $169, and I used 25,000 Hilton Honors Points plus $115 to book the room. We received an upgrade to a room with a view of the Charles Schwab Baseball Field. By the way, Parris reserved a room at a different hotel near the airport.

Visit Nebraska and Iowa in One Day

How can you visit Nebraska and Iowa at the same time? When I read about the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, I mentally prepared myself to walk the 3,000-foot-long walkway to place one foot in Nebraska and the other in Iowa. Not only did the website recommend a walk on the footbridge, but visitors should also watch the sunset and light show. If you have read a post or two, you know that I love to watch the sunset. Do you want to be strategic about visiting all 50 states? Visit Nebraska and Iowa at the same time.

Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

We crossed the Martin Luther King Jr. Pedestrian Bridge on the way to the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. You will need a good pair of walking or running shoes. We stood in Nebraska and Iowa at the same time. On the other side of the bridge is Council Bluffs, Iowa. Check out the 33-Foot-Tall-Humanoid in front of the River’s Edge Pavilion. We enjoyed the breeze and the slight movements of the bridge as we posed for pictures. The walk back to the hotel was peaceful and a great way to end the day.

Twisted Fork

Our next stop was the Visitors Center. It was Restaurant Week. Although the options are limitless, we selected Twisted Fork. Even though I dined here on my first trip, Lynn and Parris also liked the menu options: Mimosa Flight, fried pickles, bacon guacamole, artichoke and spinach dip, salads, and sandwiches. The appetizers were shareable. If you are looking for good food in a casual environment, you should dine here at least once during your visit to Omaha.

Quick Trip

The hospitality at Omaha Hilton was exceptional. On my first trip, the front desk clerk offered partial Diamond benefits even though I booked through a third party. In addition, because of the Big Ten Baseball games at Charles Schwab Field, the hotel sold out. Omaha is also the home of the College Baseball World Series. On my second stay at Omaha Hilton, the hotel scheduled two weddings, and the rodeo was in town. This Hilton is busy. If you need a quick getaway, think about Omaha, Nebraska. 

Budget for Nebraska and Iowa

Did you know if you find a lower fare on Southwest, you can rebook the same flight and receive a credit? 4,169 Rapid Rewards points were added to my account when I rebooked the less expensive flight. I also changed my flight. As an A-List Preferred member, I can fly standby on the same day at no additional cost. Before you fly, check your rewards benefits, and visit my website to learn more about using reward programs to travel. The first visit cost $656, but my second visit only cost $345. Yes, we all earned the companion pass.

More Things to Do When You Visit Omaha, Nebraska

The RiverFront Project is complete. We noticed the Fat Putter, a mini golf lounge. In addition, if you want to play beach volleyball, you will find three courts near the Bob Kerrey Bridge. Finally, some of the restaurants were not open until dinner.