Attractions Nearby Omaha, Day Trips and Excursions

(Omaha, Nebraska - NE, USA)

The US State of Nebraska enjoys a very central setting in North America and is surrounded by no less than six states - Colorado (southwest), Iowa (east), Kansas (south), Missouri (southeast), South Dakota (north) and Wyoming (west). Omaha is therefore clearly well-placed for day trips, and a myriad of attractions await those prepared to travel a little.

Especially nearby Omaha are the attractions of Bellevue, Council Bluffs, La Vista, Lincoln, Papillion and Ralston, being ideal for day trips and very easy excursions. Many more attractions are further away from Omaha, and yet still within reach, such as those within Des Moines, Kansas City and Sioux City.

Bellevue

A small town located approximately 10 miles / 16 km to the south of Omaha, Bellevue is so close that it is almost a city suburb. Formerly a fur trading post, the Bellevue of today is known for its recreational attractions, with the hiking trails of Fontenelle Forest and the scenic views across the Missouri River proving to be serious draw cards for tourists. Haworth Park is the start of a noteworthy walking trail across Bellevue, while the Strategic Air and Space Museum also stands out.

Council Bluffs

Address: Iowa (IA)
Just across the state border and in Iowa, Council Bluffs stands off the Interstate I-80 and is only 8 miles / 13 km to the east of Omaha. Since gambling is not permitted within Nebraska, tourists often pay a visit to Council Bluffs, to check out its popular casinos, such as the Ameristar, the Bluffs Run and the Horseshoe. Council Bluffs is also a good spot to find some cheap budget-style motel accommodation.

Des Moines

Address: Iowa (IA)
Although Des Moines may well be the capital of Iowa, this large city is hardly overflowing with quality tourist attractions. However, that said, the State Capitol is an impressive building, the Des Moines Art Center has gained a good reputation, and the Iowa Historical Building on Locust Street is worth a look. Families will also enjoy a visit to the Science Center of Iowa, to the Blank Park Zoo, and to the Des Moines Botanical Center. On the westerly outskirts of Des Moines, the Living History Farms and their reconstructions of past village life may also be of interest. Des Moines is around 130 miles / 209 km away and to the east.

Lincoln

Capital of the state of Nebraska and under 60 miles / 97 km to the southwest of Omaha, Lincoln is an attractive and appealing city, and was established more than 150 years ago. The historical Haymarket District is a good place to start to familiarize yourself with the offerings and attractions in Lincoln, with a selection of museums being just a short stroll away from each other. Quite breathtaking is the Nebraska Capitol building, which towers some 122 metres / 400 feet in height and is more than a little phallic in its appearance. The Museum of Nebraska History is another worthwhile attraction here, as is the Lincoln Children's museum, the University of Nebraska State Museum and the Memorial Stadium.

Kansas City

Address: Missouri (MO)
Kansas City is situated within the state of Missouri and is to be found some 188 miles / 303 km to the south of Omaha, meaning that day trips are not really feasible. However, weekend getaways and excursions to Kansas City are popular, since this exciting metropolis has much to offer in the way of sights, sounds and attractions. Families usually head straight to the Kansas City Zoo and to the Worlds of Fun amusement park, while others prefer to check out the renowned Nelson Atkins Museum of Art or the Quindaro Ruins.

Papillion

At a mere 9 miles / 14 km south of Omaha, a trip to Papillion requires little effort and those making this short trip are always pleased they made the journey. Papillion is a small village with some surprisingly good attractions, and is one of only a handful of remaining frontier villages in the Midwest. Halleck Park is very much central to tourism within Papillion, being where you will find the Papio Fun Park and the Papio Bay Aquatic Park. Shoppers may like to consider an excursion to the Shadow Lake Towne Mall.

Sioux City

Sioux City is situated roughly 96 miles / 154 km to the north of Omaha and stands at the very point where the Big Sioux River meets the Missouri River. Also often referred to as Siouxland, Sioux City doesn't have a huge selection of attractions to choose between, although its Sergeant Floyd Monument (America's very first National Historic Landmark) and Orpheum Theater do serve as tourist magnets here.

Wichita

Address: Kansas (KS)
Wichita is an especially prosperous city and is only really worthy of consideration if you are planning to head southwards, since it is 320 miles / 515 km away. Notable attractions in Wichita include the 'Botanica' Gardens, the hands-on Exploration Place, the Mid-America All Indian Center (MAAIC), the Great Plains Nature Center, the Old Cowtown Museum and also the Kansas Aviation Museum.