We often think of travel as a grand adventure—jetting off to exotic destinations and immersing ourselves in new cultures. And while that’s certainly part of the magic, sometimes the most meaningful getaways are the simple ones. The kind that don’t require a passport, just a packed bag and a few days to unplug.
With limited vacation days (if only we had endless!), we’ve learned to appreciate the value of nearby escapes. Omaha turned out to be the perfect reset. Close to home but far enough to feel like a real break, it gave us the space to slow down and recharge.
At the time, we didn’t have kids, so we skipped the zoo—though we know the Omaha Zoo is a must-see and can’t wait to return with our daughter one day. Until then, here’s a peek at the city that gave us just what we needed: a weekend away, full of good food, great energy, and zero to-do lists.
Where We Stayed:
When you're planning a getaway, where you stay can truly make or break how relaxing your trip feels. We stayed at Magnolia Hotel, and it was everything we could've hoped for - picturesque, charming, and perfectly located. It gave us the cozy comfort we needed to unwind, while keeping us close to all the sights we wanted to explore.
On a night when we didn't feel like venturing out, the hotel's contemporary American restaurant, Olive & Ira's, had us covered. We could enjoy a delicious meal in the dining room or have it brought straight to our room - because honestly, is there anything better than having dinner in bed after a long day?
What We Did:
Explore By Foot
Strolled Through the Botanical Gardens
Having just moved back to the Midwest from NYC, we were eager to soak up as much greenery as we could - and
Lauritzen Gardens delivered. The
vibrant flowers,
peaceful water fixtures, and surprise
turkey sightings made for a calm and memorable afternoon escape.
Explored Riverfront Park
As city transplants, we couldn't get enough of the open space and grass - true luxury after apartment living. We wandered through
Heartland of America Park, which hugs the Missouri River and is dotted with
fountains,
statues, and
picnic spots. The weather was perfect, and the path was buzzing with people
walking,
biking, and
lounging. We kept walking...and walking...until suddenly, we found ourselves in
another state. No joke! The
Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge connects Nebraska and Iowa, and there's a spot where you could literally
stand in both at once. Very cool!
Top Golf
Sure, we have a
Top Golf near home, but sometimes its just the perfect way to mix
fun and relaxation - especially when the weather turns.
We snagged a bay to squeeze in some laughs and swings before the rain hit - but honestly, not even a downpour could rain on our parade!
Where to Eat & Drink
Local Breweries
We love the relaxed vibe of a
good brewery —
patio seating,
cold drinks, and sometimes even a little
live music. It’s one of our favorite ways to unwind, so we made it a point to visit a couple of local spots. Our first stop was
Brickway Brewery. While they didn’t serve food, a cold beer on their patio was the
perfect way to soak up some sunshine and recharge before more exploring. Just around the corner, we found
Upstream Brewery, where we
grabbed a bite,
sipped a few drinks, and got some
great local tips from the bartender. As a bonus, even though they don’t normally offer tours, we got a special behind-the-scenes peek at their brewing system!
The Old Market
Downtown Omaha’s
Old Market district is a charming blend of
boutiques,
galleries, and
dining spots. One of our favorite finds? The
Old Market Passageway. Tucked away from the bustle, this
cozy courtyard felt like a hidden world. Nestled inside is
V. Mertz, a romantic gem where their dining felt as if we were in an intimate wine cellar. It was the perfect way to wind down and connect after a full day.
A Hidden Speakeasy
We weren’t quite ready to end our date night, so we stopped by a liquor store to grab a bottle of wine. But something felt... different. The clerk was dressed in a suit jacket, which seemed oddly formal. As we checked out, another couple came in and casually said a
password. Suddenly, a whole wall opened—and behind it was a
speakeasy. Our plans instantly changed. We told the clerk we were “looking for the white rabbit,” and in we went. Inside was a
cozy, dimly-lit bar with fun craft cocktails—an
unexpected twist that made for a truly unforgettable end to our evening.
Final Thoughts
Omaha was the perfect blend of charm, relaxation, and surprise. From scenic walks and cozy meals to unexpected speakeasies and brewery discoveries, it gave us the reset we didn’t know we needed. We left feeling refreshed, reconnected, and already talking about when we’ll be back—next time, with our daughter in tow.
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