Take a journey south to Omaha, Nebraska, for a fun family weekend away! Sioux Falls has so much to offer families, but if your family is looking to take a mini-vacation, Omaha is a great choice!
Omaha is only a few hours away and is perfect for a family weekend away. Below, we share the top spots to enjoy as a family and where to stop on the drive!
Weekend Guide to Omaha, Nebraska:
The Drive:
A longer drive calls for some fun stops along the way! If you are driving from the Sioux Falls Area, here are a few suggestions of where to stop on the way to and from Omaha:
Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve
This South Dakota State Park is near the border of Iowa and South Dakota. It has a great little nature center (indoors), a fun nature-themed playground outside, and a replica of an old homestead. It is a great stop, especially in nice weather, to stretch your legs to or from Omaha!
Sioux City
Our site has a full guide about a day trip to Sioux City! Check it out here for tons of different places to stop and enjoy your road trip on your way further south. Some notable favorites are The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center and the Palmer Candy Shoppe for some car treats!
Lewis and Clark State Park
Just off the interstate is a great spot to enjoy the outdoors. This Iowa State Park is free for all visitors! Check out the visitors center for more information about the Lewis and Clark Expedition and see their working keelboat. This state park offers plenty of hiking/walking opportunities while you enjoy the water.
Omaha:
The Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
Of all the things Omaha is known for, this one might top the list! This world-class Zoo is a must-see when in Omaha. The zoo isn’t a quick stop, either. With a wide range of different areas, attractions, and exhibits, you can easily spend two days here if you want!
Remember, if you hold a zoo membership elsewhere, check to see if you get any membership discounts at this zoo, too!
Omaha Children’s Museum
Omaha’s Children’s Museum is jam-packed with fun for the whole family. With a ton of different exhibits, programming, and events, the Museum will be a favorite stop for anyone with kids. Plus, it’s full of learning! As parents, we all love things that combine education and fun!
*Washington Pavillion Members can get in free with their membership program!
The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
This pedestrian bridge is over 3000 feet long and crosses over the Missouri River. Walk “The Bob” and cross over to the next state! Take a photo of your family standing both on the Nebraska and Iowa border. On the Omaha side of the Bob, enjoy the plaza, water jet fountain, the National Parks Visitors Center, and access to over 150 miles of trails! Check for events at the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge while visiting.
Durham Museum
The Durham Museum, housed at the historic Omaha Union Station, hosts many exhibits. If your family is interested in trains and transportation, it’s a great stop! The museum also shares a lot about local Omaha history.
Old Market
The Old Market in downtown Omaha truly has something for everyone! With dozens of places to eat, your family will have a hard time choosing! Take a stroll, enjoy some shopping, and take in all downtown has to offer. For families with a sweet tooth, make sure to visit Hollywood Candy! It is a giant candy shop that also has a soda shoppe!
The Amazing Pizza Machine
If you are looking for a place to eat that will quickly become your kid’s favorite, then The Amazing Pizza Machine is for you! Food and fun are the purposes of this giant family entertainment center. Eat at the buffet, then check out the arcade, bowling, go-karts, and more!
Lauritzen Gardens
Omaha’s Botanical Gardens are a beautiful urban oasis! Check out the incredible gardens, the traveling exhibits, and the events they host. There is a cafe on campus, and tours are available during certain parts of the year.
Prehistoric Putt Omaha
Calling all dinosaur lovers! This indoor miniature golf course is unlike any other you have gone to before! Over 40 life-like dinosaurs are around the course, with unique obstacles like a warped wall and half-pipe!
