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Anytime I mention I am going to Nebraska, people always ask what is in Omaha. On my third trip to Omaha, I attended Afrofest over Labor Day weekend in 2024. Even though I usually book at Omaha Hilton, I redeemed World of Hyatt Points for two nights at Hyatt Place.
In May of 2022, I booked an early Saturday flight and returned to Chicago on Sunday. Because I had a great time during my first visit, I talked Lynn (LSKTravelz) and Parris (former student) into booking a flight in September of 2023 to qualify for the Southwest Airlines Companion Pass. We flew in late Friday and returned to Chicago Saturday afternoon.
You will be surprised by the monthly events happening in Omaha. My hotel’s proximity to Old Market, the Visitors Center, and Riverfront made staying at Hyatt Place a great choice. Here are some must-see places and experiences in Omaha, including nationally recognized restaurants, top-notch hotels, iconic bridges, and a historic district. By the way, Omaha is the home of the NCAA Men’s College Baseball World Series.
I wanted a burger. When I asked for suggestions, the front desk clerk highly recommended M Pub. The burger was seasoned well, the cheese melted perfectly, and two strips of bacon rested on the top patty. Although I enjoyed the burger, I will not purchase the cucumber spritzer again because of the overly minty flavor.
The restaurant offers “American food with a cowboy twist.” We ordered the Mimosa Flight, Bucks Fried Pickles, Bacon Guacamole, and Artichoke & Spinach Dip. The appetizers were shareable. Lynn and I ordered salads while Parris ordered a sandwich. If you are looking for farm-to-table excellence using locally sourced food, you should dine here at least once during your visit.
If you want traditional bar food, try the BARroom at Omaha Hilton. We enjoyed deviled eggs, French fries, crispy broccoli, and two specialty cocktails. Even if you make a reservation at Hyatt Place, walk to the BARroom. You will not be disappointed.
Next time someone asks what is in Omaha, tell them Ted & Wally’s. I cannot believe it took three trips to Omaha to discover an ice cream shop that uses all-natural ingredients from local producers. If you are in your 60s, do you remember making ice cream using rock salt and ice? Stop by Ted & Wally’s to experience that childhood feeling again. Keep reading for additional places to visit in Omaha.
I cannot say this enough. Stop by the Visitors Center for inspiration on things to do. On the first trip, I received a sticker from the center to let the world know I crossed the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. I took Lynn and Parris to the center on my second trip, and they received a sticker for making the 0.9K walk across the bridge. Not only do I collect souvenir Christmas ornaments, I also collect stickers. On this visit, I was honored with an official Visit Omaha Glass.
You will need a good pair of walking or running shoes. Cross the Martin Luther King Jr. Pedestrian Bridge on the way to the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. You can stand in Nebraska and Iowa midway on the Bob Kerrey Bridge. I also enjoyed the breeze and slight movements of the bridge as I watched the sunset.
The $325 million RiverFront Project is complete. I enjoyed walking around the Gene Leahy Mall and viewing the beautiful sculpture garden. I crossed the street to watch the skaters at the skate park. Finally, I could see the vibrant fountain light show at Heartland of America Park from my window at Hyatt Place.
Before traveling to Omaha, I purchased my ticket for Afrofest on Eventbrite. The gates to the fest in Heartland of America Park opened at 2:00PM. I arrived at 2:30 because this was a solo trip, and I did not want to walk around Omaha alone after dark. Even though it was early, some tables were not ready for business. I waited 20 minutes for a fried turkey wing and sides. I am glad I had dessert first at the vegan slushie truck. Although I had an opportunity to visit vendors, I did not experience Afrofest as marketed because I left around 4:00. If I return, I will invite the crew, buy VIP tickets, and enjoy the fest from start to finish.
Did you know if you find a lower fare on Southwest, you can rebook the same flight and receive a credit? I save $35 on my flight. Before you fly, check your rewards benefits, and visit my website to learn more about using reward programs to travel. The first visit to Omaha cost $656, the second $345, and my third visit was only $361. If you are looking for a quick getaway, try Omaha, Nebraska.
