Omaha, Nebraska is celebrated for everything from its excellent beef to its most famous resident, Warren Bufffet, but there’s more to this mid-sized Midwestern gem than meets the eye. For an insider’s look at Nebraska’s largest city, we tapped travel writer Katy Spratte Joyce (@katysjoyce), who calls Omaha her homaha.
To Stay:
The Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel (@thecottonwoodhotel):
A reimagined version of the historic Blackstone Hotel, this beautifully restored property opened in late 2020 to much fanfare. Enjoy the exquisite art collection, featuring works exclusively by Nebraska artists and curated by local legend Watie White (@watiewhite), and be sure to sample a reuben sandwich in its storied birthplace.
To Eat:
Block 16 (@block16.jessnpaul):
This downtown outpost is home to Food Network chef Alton Brown’s (@altonbrown) favorite burger in America, the incomparable Croque Garcon. Consider trying the generally outlandish daily special at this delightfully low-key farm to face eatery.
Modern Love (@modernloveomaha):
A funky vegan restaurant set in midtown, brought to you by prolific cookbook author and chef Isa Chandra (@isachandra) of Post Punk Kitchen (@postpunkkitchen) fame. Plant-based comfort food shines in this inventive establishment.
To Visit:
The Old Market (@oldmarketomaha):
This former warehouse district has been lovingly reimagined into a shopping and entertainment destination. Walk the cobblestone streets, listen to the street performers, and pop into cool local shops like Chocolat Abeille (@chocolatabeille) + Nouvelle Eve (@nouvelleeve) + Howard Street Wine (@howardstreetwine).
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium (@theomahazoo):
Long regarded as one of the world’s best, this massive property hugs the south side of the city. Highlights include the newer Asian Highlands and African Grasslands exhibits.
The Union for Contemporary Art (@theunionomaha):
This space exists to foster social change, remove barriers to art, and strengthen community in North Omaha. Rotating exhibits feature artists from all over the world. Visitors should be sure to check out the many murals in the area, some from the Union’s own North Omaha Mural Project.
