The state of Nebraska stands at the gateway to the American West. Omaha, the state’s largest city, is a stop on the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail, and is renowned for its pioneer history, museums and cultural centres.
Walk through history
Start your tour of Omaha in the Old Market neighborhood. Spanning several blocks in the city’s Downtown district, this charming, lively and friendly part of town is packed with quirky independent stores, art galleries, restaurants and bars. It’s a great place for shopping and lunch, or you can just sit with a coffee and soak up the atmosphere while listening to some very talented street musicians.
A few blocks south is the excellent Durham Museum, housed in the stunning art deco Union Station. Among the many permanent exhibits you’ll find restored train cars, old 1940s store fronts and the Byron Reed collection, featuring some of the world’s rarest coins and documents. Before you leave, make sure you stop by the authentic soda fountain to enjoy a classic malt or phosphate soda.
From railroads to Renoir
Across the river from downtown Omaha – sitting in the neighbouring state of Iowa - is the highly interactive Union Pacific Railroad Museum. Explore the 150-year history of America’s first transcontinental railroad, from its origins in 1862 to the advanced technology of today.
Omaha is also home to Nebraska’s leading fine arts museum - Joslyn Art Museum. It boasts a comprehensive permanent collection of works by talented creators such as Veronese, El Greco and Titian, among others, as well as outstanding collections of 19th and 20th centuries American and European artists.
Take a walk on the wild side
Omaha is very proud of its Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, which is world-renowned for its advanced conservation programme. As well as saving and protecting species around the world, the zoo offers a fantastic variety of wildlife experiences.
Walk through the world’s largest indoor desert, the continent’s largest indoor rainforest, and explore a vast network of underground caves as you meet thousands of animals from around the world.
After that, take things down a notch with a trip to the beautiful Lauritzen Gardens. Leave the city behind as you stroll through 100 acres of stunning horticultural displays, including a rose garden, Victorian garden and model railroad garden. If it all gets too tiring, there are regular tram tours.
Try the best steaks in the country
If all that sightseeing has made you work up an appetite then you’re in the right place. Omaha’s culinary reputation is second to none. The steaks here are legendary and the city is the birthplace of the famous Reuben sandwich – consisting of corned beef, cheer, sauerkraut and Russian dressing.
You’ll also find a whole world of flavours in the city - classic sidewalk cafes and burger joints sit alongside Mexican, Italian, French, Greek and Asian restaurants. One of the best places in Omaha to tantalise your taste buds is the Dundee neighbourhood, just west of Downtown.
Explore this bustling and historical city with your Hertz rental car.
