Weird & Unusual Attractions in Omaha, United States
1. Lewis and Clark Landing
A park that replicates the starting point of Lewis and Clark's expedition. Unique in its historic significance and scenic riverfront location.
- Historic Replica: Offers a unique glimpse into the past, recreating the departure point of Lewis and Clark's expedition.
- Scenic Location: Provides stunning views of the Missouri River and the downtown Omaha skyline.
- Educational Experience: Includes interactive exhibits that educate visitors about the Lewis and Clark expedition.
2. The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
A unique, moving pedestrian bridge connecting Nebraska and Iowa. Offers panoramic views of the riverfront.
- Iconic Architecture: Features a distinctive design that changes as it moves, creating a unique experience for pedestrians.
- Panoramic Views: Provides breathtaking views of the Missouri River and surrounding cities.
- Active Transportation Option: Offers a safe, scenic route for walking or biking between states.
3. Omaha's Old Market
A vibrant, historic district filled with unique shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Unusual for its eclectic mix of antiques, art, and international cuisine.
- Eclectic Mix: Offers a diverse range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options in one convenient location.
- Historic Architecture: Preserves the character of Omaha's historic district with beautifully restored Victorian-era buildings.
- Lively Atmosphere: Hosts various events, including farmers markets and concerts, that contribute to its lively, vibrant atmosphere.
4. The Durham Museum
A museum housed in a beautifully restored Art Deco train station. Unusual for its extensive collection of Omaha and Nebraska history.
- Art Deco Architecture: Showcases the stunning design elements of the Art Deco movement in a historic train station.
- Comprehensive Collection: Offers an extensive look at Omaha and Nebraska history, from the pioneer days to modern times.
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits that engage visitors and make history come alive.
5. The River's Edge Park and Eagle's Nest Golf Course
A park with a golf course located on an island in the Missouri River. Unusual for its unique setting amidst natural wildlife and river views.
- Island Location: Offers a serene, natural setting on a beautiful island in the Missouri River.
- Golf Course and Wildlife Viewing: Features an 18-hole golf course as well as opportunities to view eagles, herons, and other wildlife.
- Scenic Riverfront Location: Provides stunning views of the Missouri River and surrounding bluffs.
6. The Strategic Air & Space Museum
A museum dedicated to aviation and space history. Unusual for its large collection of military aircraft and space memorabilia.
- Military Aviation Collection: Features a vast collection of military aircraft, including bombers, fighters, and helicopters.
- Space Memorabilia: Includes space memorabilia such as astronaut gear and rockets.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience the thrill of flight.
7. The Joslyn Art Museum
A museum showcasing American art from the 18th century to the present. Unusual for its impressive collection of American art.
- American Art Collection: Features a vast collection of American art, including works by renowned artists.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs and workshops for visitors of all ages.
- Scenic Architecture: Housed in a beautiful Beaux-Arts building designed by renowned architect Daniel Burnham.
8. The Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
A zoo and aquarium with a focus on conservation. Unusual for its desert dome, rainforest pyramid, and ocean pavilion.
- Desert Dome: Features a large, climate-controlled area simulating the Sonoran Desert, home to animals like cheetahs and giraffes.
- Rainforest Pyramid: Houses a tropical rainforest environment filled with exotic plants and animals.
- Ocean Pavilion: Provides an immersive experience of the ocean, featuring a shark tunnel and various marine life.
9. The Lee Street Historic District
A historic district filled with Victorian-era homes. Unusual for its well-preserved collection of late 19th and early 20th-century architecture.
- Victorian Architecture: Showcases beautiful Victorian-era homes, many of which are well-preserved.
- Historic Landmarks: Includes several historic landmarks and buildings.
- Tree-Lined Streets: Features tree-lined streets that provide a serene, peaceful atmosphere.
10. The Benson Antique Mall
A massive antique mall with over 700 dealers. Unusual for its size and diverse collection of antiques.
- Size: Spans over 100,000 square feet, making it one of the largest antique malls in the country.
- Diverse Collection: Features a wide variety of antiques from different eras and cultures.
- One-of-a-Kind Finds: Offers the chance to find unique, one-of-a-kind items that tell stories of the past.
11. The Museum of the Mormon Pioneers
A museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Mormon pioneers. Unusual for its focus on this specific religious group's history.
- Religious History: Provides a unique look into the history and culture of the Mormon pioneers.
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits that engage visitors and bring the past to life.
- Historic Artifacts: Features a collection of historic artifacts related to the Mormon pioneers.
12. The Standing Bear Park and Statue
A park dedicated to Standing Bear, a Native American Chief who fought for his people's rights. Unusual for its focus on Native American history and culture.
- Native American History: Offers a unique look into the history and culture of the Ponca Tribe.
- Beautiful Scenery: Features beautiful scenery with trees, walking trails, and a peaceful lake.
- Standing Bear Statue: Includes a statue of Standing Bear, a Native American Chief who fought for his people's rights.
13. The Omaha Children's Museum
A museum dedicated to children's education and play. Unusual for its hands-on exhibits that encourage learning through fun.
- Hands-On Exhibits: Features interactive exhibits designed to educate and entertain children.
- Early Childhood Development Focus: Focuses on early childhood development, helping children learn through play.
- Fun for All Ages: Offers fun and educational experiences for children of all ages.
14. The Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum
A museum dedicated to the history of the United States Air Force's Strategic Air Command. Unusual for its extensive collection of military aircraft and space artifacts.
- Military Aviation Collection: Features a vast collection of military aircraft, including bombers, fighters, and helicopters.
- Space Artifacts: Includes space artifacts such as rockets and astronaut gear.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience the thrill of flight.
15. The Bob Kerrey National Research Center
A research center dedicated to understanding the impact of disabilities on individuals and society. Unusual for its focus on disability rights and advocacy.
- Disability Rights Advocacy: Advocates for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities.
- Research and Education: Conducts research on disability-related topics and provides educational programs.
- Accessibility Focus: Promotes accessibility in all areas of life, including education, employment, and the built environment.