35 Fun Things To Do In Omaha In The Winter

Fun museums, entertainment centers, snowshoeing, and even skiing, there’s tons to do in Omaha during winter. And don’t worry, there’s plenty of indoor activities to combat the particularly cold days.

Wondering what to do in Omaha during the chillier months? I visit Omaha every year during winter, and I’m always surprised by how much there is to do. 

Read on for fun things to do in Omaha in the winter!

Best Things To Do In Omaha In The Winter

Go Ice Skating

Heartland Of America Park’s Skate Ribbon transforms into an outdoor ice skating track in the winter months.

This RiverFront favorite is free to anyone bringing their own ice skates, or skate rentals are available on-site for a small fee.

Be sure to reserve your spots in advance online at: RiverFront Skate Ribbon.

For those who want to skate indoors, consider the always popular Grover Ice Rink. 

Durham Museum

In 1931 Omaha’s Union Station was one of the busiest in the nation, seeing an average of 10,000 passengers a day. 

Today the beautiful, art deco building has been restored to its original glory and is now a museum showcasing the history of the region.

This Smithsonian Institution Affiliate has 1,000’s of artifacts.

These relics tell the story of the city’s deep history from the perspective of Native American’s, pioneers, African American’s, and many others. 

Joslyn Art Museum

The Joslyn Art Museum is the largest in Nebraska and the building itself is an astonishing work of art.

It’s made completely of Etowah and Fleuri marble, unique in that it is has a pink hue to it. 

In fact, upon its completion in the early 1900’s, Joslyn Art Museum was listed among the 100 finest buildings in America.

The museum has over 10,000 displays representing artists and cultures from antiquity to the present. 

The museum offers free admission to all visitors.

Beercade 

Beercade is a fun arcade bar for adults.

Enjoy craft beers while playing classic arcade games and pinball machines in a laid-back setting.

They have two Omaha locations, Benson and Little Bohemia. 

The establishment’s are 21+ at night. If you’re looking for more of a kid-friendly arcade, there are various options throughout the city. 

Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo is home to unique exhibits spread out over a huge 160 acre facility. 

Among the park’s best features are the Dome Desert and Lied Jungle. 

The Dome Desert is known for being the largest indoor desert in the world, and the Lied Jungle, North America’s largest indoor rainforest.

This is one of the best zoos in the United States and Nebraska’s most popular attraction. 

Since a large number of exhibits are indoor (like the famous desert dome!), this is a perfect activity even in winter. 

Kiewit Luminarium 

The Kiewit Luminarium is a popular science museum overlooking the Missouri River.

It’s full of bright colors and highly immersive displays. Experience hands-on learning of topics such as fundamental physics and phenomenons of this universe, all in a very fun setting.

This is a good one for the whole family, as kids and adults will both love the interactive nature of this science museum.

Fontenelle Forest

Inside Fontenelle Forest you’ll find exciting outdoor activities like a zip lining course, hiking trails, and climbing park. 

Of course summer is the most popular season here, but don’t rule out a winter visit. 

Go for a hike on their 17 miles of trails or participate in winter sports, enjoy bird watching, and explore the indoor Nature Center.

Topgolf 

Topgolf is a very popular entertainment complex which combines elements of a driving range with games and entertainment.

Whether or not you’re experienced in the sport, Topgolf is very beginner-friendly and fun way to enjoy the game.

In addition to the actual golf aspect, the complex also has a bar, restaurant, and other entertainment. 

You will be golfing outside, but from your own temperature-controlled pod. 

Bemis Center Of Contemporary Arts

If art is what you seek, Bemis Center Of Contemporary Arts is the place for you! 

A non-profit in Omaha for 40 years, they’ve been providing community art programs for any and all who wish to be a part. 

The center has special exhibits, public programs, and musical performances.

Best of all, it’s always free.

Omaha Children’s Museum 

The Omaha Children’s Museum is the perfect place for your little ones to learn while they play. 

The museum has permanent exhibits designed to educate and inspire the next generation on subjects like animals and nature, space, science and technology, architecture, engineering, even car care!

There’s always something fun and adventurous happening here.

Go To The Movies

What better way to spend a cold winter day than at the movies?

Catch the latest showing or featured film at one of Omaha’s many cinemas.

This is a great family-friendly outing or date night for those seeking easy indoor activities. 

Lauritzen Gardens

The Lauritzen Gardens provide an urban oasis with 3 miles of trails inside their 100 acre property. 

The gardens are a living museum of unique four-season plant displays. 

You’ll find plants from around the world within the outdoor gardens and indoor conservatory. 

Lauritzen Gardens definitely shines in summer, but they do an excellent job enticing winter visitors as well.

Cold weather guests will love the large indoor conservatory and cozy cafe.

Go Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is an easy winter activity in Omaha for those who want to get outdoors. 

Bundle up and strap on your snowshoes for a fun afternoon spent at one of Omaha’s many parks.

Need rentals? Both Hitchcock Nature Center and Fontenelle Forest offer rentals on-site. 

Tip: There’s great spots for cross-country skiing in the Omaha area as well.

Axe Throwing

Axe throwing is another enjoyable indoor entertainment option in Omaha.

The concept is simple, hit the target with an axe. Don’t worry, there’s guides on site to help with technique and ensure safety.

On top of the weirdly fun sensation of throwing an axe, it’s also a social atmosphere with drinks and entertainment to enjoy among friends.  

Flying Timber, Craft Axe, and Axe Games are popular venues in Omaha.

Old Market 

Old Market is the core of downtown Omaha.

It’s characterized by historic buildings and charming cobblestone streets of the past. 

Today you’ll find boutique shops, galleries, and restaurants lining the covered sidewalks. 

You could easily spend an afternoon browsing shops, then pop into a restaurant for dinner or drinks.

Strolling through Old Market is one of my favorite things to do each year when I visit Omaha!

If weather is on your side, consider a walk around the neighboring Gene Leahy Mall at the RiverFront while in the area.

Visit KANEKO 

KANEKO is a community centered art program ran by internationally renowned sculptor, Jun Kaneko, and his wife Ree. 

The two encourage exploring creativity across the entire spectrum of human activity, not just traditional ideas of art — including urban planning, education, science, philosophy, and entrepreneurship.

Explore the free art exhibits and galleries at KANEKO located in Old Market. A list of free programs and exhibits can be found on their website: KANEKO.

Union Pacific Railroad Museum

Located across the river in Council Bluffs, Iowa is the Union Pacific Railroad Museum. 

The museum celebrates the deep history of American travel by rail, and how the country rapidly expanded using this system in the 1800’s. 

You’ll also find an exhibit on Abraham Lincoln. This is the president who signed the Pacific Railway Act, forever connecting the country.

The museum is open Thursday – Saturday and is free to all visitors. 

The Makery 

Looking for a fun indoor attraction that allows you to flex your creativity? Check out The Makery.

Craft cute decor for the home like door hangers, porch signs, string art, and more. Additionally, The Makery offers open craft nights, kids crafts, and hosts parties.

As far as indoor activities in Omaha go, this is a great option.

Visit A Brewery 

Omaha has tons of local breweries worth trying out. They offer a variety of options from classic lagers to dark stouts, and everything in between.

Below are just a few (there are many!) popular breweries in Omaha:

• Brickway Brewery & Distillery
• The Benson Brewery
• Upstream Brewing Company
• Pint Nine Brewing Company
• Nebraska Brewing Company 
• Jaipur Brewhouse 
• Infusion Brewing Company 

Tip: Request a free Omaha Craft Brew Penny Pack filled with “Buy 1, Get 1 for a Penny” coupons and make your own little brewery crawl. These are good at a dozen featured breweries — just don’t forget to arrange a ride!

Mt. Crescent Ski Area

Those unfamiliar with Omaha may be quite surprised to hear there’s a small ski area just 15 minutes from town. Yep, Mt. Crescent Ski Area, located a short drive away in Iowa.

Iowa’s Loess Hills have been home to Midwest skiing for 60 years now. Take the chair lift up and enjoy 50 skiable acres, then end the day with some après ski or s’mores around a fire pit.

This is especially great for those wishing to learn, they offer lessons for various age groups. 

It’s small, yes, but if you’re looking for a ski-fix without venturing too far, this is a good option. 

Go Bowling 

Bowling is a much-loved day or nighttime activity in Omaha. 

League play, cosmic bowling, casual bowling, plus on-site arcade games and laser tag, can all be found throughout the city.

This is a great option for indoor family fun.

Joslyn Castle

Tour a castle in Omaha this winter season.

The home of George & Sarah Joslyn was built in 1903 and designed by John McDonald. The 35-room Scottish Baronial-style home is built entirely of limestone which had to be cut on site. 

The elaborate castle-like home includes a reception hall, music room, ballroom, a library, and gold drawing room. 

See the castle for yourself with one of their guided tours.

See A Show

Seeking live entertainment? From musicals, plays, comedy, and concerts, there’s tons of live shows on offer in Omaha.

Check out the Omaha Symphony at Holland Performing Arts Center or Joslyn Art Museum.

Enjoy a huge variety of musicals, plays, off-Broadway productions, and special entertainment presented by Omaha Performing Arts. They host shows at various venues including Orpheum Theater and Holland Performing Arts Center.

BLUEBARN Theatre, Omaha Community Playhouse, and The Rose Theater are also wonderful options for live shows.

Live music and concerts can be found all throughout the city. Just a few of the popular venues include: The Waiting Room Lounge, The Slowdown, Steelhouse Omaha, The Admiral, and Underground.

There’s a number of sporting events and concerts throughout the year at CHI Health Center.

For comedy, check out acts at Funny Bone, The Backline Comedy Theater, or Blackstone Theater.

Fuel Up On Coffee

If you find yourself wondering what to do on a cold winter day in Omaha, I’d say start with a coffee.

Relaxing in a cafe is a favorite way to combat bad weather.

There’s plenty of places to grab a cup of joe in Omaha, consider popular options such as: Hardy Coffee Co., Lola’s Cafe, The Table Coffee Co., Roast, just to name a few. 

Felius Cat Café & Rescue

A cafe deserving of its own spot on this list is Felius Cat Café.

This cat adoption center allows visitors to grab a coffee or tea and hang out with the free-roaming cats. And, yes, all furry friends are up for adoption.

Reservations are recommended. 

For cat lovers, this is the perfect place to spend a chilly day in Omaha.

Go Sledding 

Sledding is the ultimate outdoor activity when the ground is covered in snow.

Kids and adults alike will love the countless sledding hills found throughout Omaha.

In addition to local parks and schools, a few spots for sledding include: 

• Mahoney State Park
• Chalco Hills Recreation Area
• Hitchcock Nature Center
• Mt. Crescent Ski Area

No matter where you go, you’re sure to have the best time.

Catch A Sporting Event 

Sports are a way of life in Nebraska and while the state has no professional teams, it has plenty to offer in terms of minor league affiliates and college games.

Check out the University of Nebraska at Omaha or Creighton University for winter athletics such as hockey and basketball. 

Also support The Lancers, a junior ice hockey team, or Omaha Supernovas, a women’s REAL pro volleyball league.

Do Space

Do Space is a free public technology library located in Northern Omaha. 

The library offers access to more than 400 computers and other digital tools, as well as technical assistance, educational classes, and modern meeting rooms.

It’s supported by the City of Omaha and values the power of open-source platforms to unleash creativity and create new opportunities for individuals living in the community.

Do Space also provides dedicated areas for entrepreneurs and nonprofits that need additional help getting started on their own tech projects.

Additionally, they host free events, such as coding workshops and virtual reality meet ups, throughout the year to engage people of all ages with technology education opportunities.

The Corky Canvas

Wine and painting, the perfect combination for an entertaining night with friends during winter.

Corky Canvas art studio offers guided classes, wine, and an upbeat social environment. Best of all, the painting classes are easy follow, regardless of skill level.

This is an exciting activity for adults of any age, be sure to reserve your spot in advance. 

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail Visitor Center 

The Lewis & Clark Visitor Center is home to the National Park Service’s Midwest Regional Office.

The large center commemorates the expedition of Lewis & Clark and focuses on the Native American meetings that took place in the area, along the Missouri River. 

Browse exhibits or discuss details of the famous exploration project and the history of Natives in the region with park rangers on site.

For those following the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail, park rangers are available to answer questions and provide any needed guidance.  

If you’re a national park buff, this is definitely worth a stop.

Escape Room

Escape rooms are a fun activity no matter the time of year.

You and your friends will be ”locked” in a room and must solve a series of puzzles within a set time limit to “escape.”

These immersive puzzle games are surprisingly entertaining and a great bonding experience. 

There are numerous escape rooms throughout Omaha, no matter which you choose, be sure to book in advance.

Hot Shops Art Center

The Hot Shops Art Center in Omaha is an Arts Incubator and community gathering place.

It’s home to more than 40 artists, artisans, and small businesses that foster creativity and collaboration within the local arts community.

The art center is home to two galleries which host regular art exhibitions, plus monthly events such as workshops, lectures, and music performances.

The galleries are open seven days a week and are free to the public.

The Hot Shops Art Center is one of the best ways to experience Omaha’s art scene in a unique and inspiring setting.

For information on upcoming events, head on over to their website: Hot Shops Art Center.

Hit The Casinos In Council Bluffs, Iowa 

Located just across the river from Omaha is Council Bluffs, Iowa.

It may not be Vegas, but Council Bluffs offers three large casinos: Horseshoe, Ameristar, and Harrah’s.

The largest is Horseshoe Council Bluffs which is owned by Caesars and has over 1,300 slot machines, a full floor of table games, a sports book, and poker room. Not to mention, two restaurants, multiple bars, and a concert venue. 

This is a fun way to spend a winter night out. Best of all, the casinos are very close to downtown Omaha, and are easy to access via ride share.

Winter Events In Omaha

Looking for festivities and events? Check out these special events this winter in Omaha:

• First Friday Art Walk – First Friday of every month
• Saint Cecilia Cathedral Flower Festival – Late January
• Omaha Beer Week – Mid February
• Omaha Fashion Week – Late February

Things To Do In Omaha During Winter With Kids

Below are a few additional things to do with kids in Omaha during winter:

• Trampoline centers 
• Climbing walls 
• Indoor activity centers
• Arcade and game centers
• Indoor putt putt 
• Indoor ferris wheel at Scheel’s at Village Pointe
• Go karting

Things To Do In Omaha During Christmas

Looking for things to do during the holiday season?

Below are a few of the most popular Christmas activities in Omaha:

• See Durham Museum’s Union Station decorated for Christmas.
• Participate in Holidays At The RiverFront.
• Witness all the incredible Christmas light displays.
• Enjoy special holiday events and shows.
• See the festive decor and giant poinsettia tree at Lauritzen Gardens. 
• Shop local boutiques or Christmas markets.

For a full list of things to do during Christmas in Omaha, check out: Festive Things To Do During Christmas In Omaha.

As you can see, there’s tons of things to do in Omaha in the winter.

There’s plenty of ways to combat the cold winter months here. Whether or a local, or visiting from out of town, you’re sure to find something you enjoy. 

Any questions? Please leave a comment below.

Looking for more ideas? Below are additional Omaha & Nebraska guides or head on over to Visit Omaha.

More Information For Your Omaha Vacation:

• Christmas In Omaha: Festive Things To Do
• Free Things To Do In Omaha, Nebraska
• Weekend In Omaha: Everything You Need To Know
• Top Things To Do In Omaha

More Information For Your Trip To Nebraska:

• Ogallala & Lake McConaughy Guides