44 Of The Best Free Things To Do In Omaha, Nebraska

Omaha is a charming city with a deep railroad and pioneer history. Centrally located in America’s Heartland, the city sits on the Missouri River just over the Iowa border.

There’s so many great things to do in this small city, including quite a few free options! From museums and art galleries to parks and free concerts you’re sure to find something fun.

Read on for the best free things to do in Omaha, Nebraska! 

The Best Free Things To Do In Omaha

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. 

The museum has over 11,000 displays representing artists and cultures from antiquity to the present. 

Fun Fact: Upon its completion in the early 1900’s Joslyn Art Museum was listed among the 100 finest buildings in America.

The museum offers free admission to all visitors.

Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is a stunning 3,000 foot long pedestrian bridge connecting Council Bluffs, Iowa to downtown Omaha.

Named after former senator and governor of Nebraska Bob Kerrey, the bridge was completed in 2008 and spans the Missouri River.

Did You Know? Bob is the first walking bridge to connect two states. 

The bridge is visually very stunning with a unique curve and beams. The footpath is surrounded by green space, a splash park, and open area.

Tip: On summer Fridays there’s free live music in the Plaza area.

Go For A Bike Ride Along The Riverfront

Biking (or walking!) along the Missouri River is one of the best things to do in Omaha. Start your bike tour downtown at Heartland of America Park. The park has a large lake, walking paths, and great views of the Omaha skyline.

From here check out Lewis & Clark Landing, a 23-acre bluff overlooking the Missouri River. The park is home to interactive exhibits and a number of monuments. Last, follow the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge to stand at the Nebraska-Iowa state line. 

The above portion is easy for all skill levels, including kids. If you wish to go for a longer bike ride continue north, where you can follow the trail for another 15 miles. 

Heron Haven Nature Center

The Heron Haven is dedicated to the restoration and preservation of a natural wetland right here in Omaha! Over 100 species of birds have been spotted in the park as well as a variety of small mammals.

Nebraska is home to 8 different heron species, so you’re quite likely to spot at least one here.

Fun Fact: The biology and ecology students from local universities use these wetlands for studies.

Come appreciate the natural beauty of the wetland flora and fauna while hiking through the area or participating in one of their Education Center’s free courses.

Visit KANEKO 

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

Did You Know? Jun Kaneko’s pieces can be found in nearly 50 museums throughout the world.

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.

Relax In Memorial Park

Memorial Park, located near the UNO campus, has a huge monument honoring men and women of the armed forces who lost their lives during service in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam.

The park also has loads of green space perfect for a walk, picnic, or playing games. 

Whatever reason you visit the public park, just don’t miss the All-American Rose Society Garden and its countless variety of beautiful blooms. The rose garden alone is definitely one of the best free things to do in Omaha!

Gerald R. Ford Birth Site

If you’re a fan of gardens you may also enjoy the Gerald R. Ford Birth Site Gardens. The small park honors the 38th president who was born at this site in summer of 1931. The site was formerly a home which burned down in 1971.   

Attend The City of Omaha Celebrates America Concert At Memorial Park 

An Omaha favorite each summer is the Memorial Park Concert (City of Omaha Celebrates America Concert). The annual show hosts local bands and a well-known headliner — 2025’s headliner was Ringo Starr! — followed by fireworks. 

The event is always well-loved among both locals and visitors, making it one of the best free things to do in Omaha!

Bring your blanket and lawn chairs for a night of free music and fun courtesy of the City of Omaha.

The popular event offers free parking on the UNO campus, more information can be found at Visit Omaha Events.  

Visit A Farmers Market

Enjoy a Nebraska day outdoors while supporting local vendors and finding great deals on fresh produce at a farmers market.

Both Omaha and Council Bluffs have seasonal markets, Omaha’s are on Saturday and Sunday, Council Bluffs’ on Thursdays.

The markets are free to walk around and often offer low prices on produce and goods.

Explore Old Market 

Old Market is the core of downtown Omaha. The area was developed around the turn of the 20th century, largely thanks to the railroad which brought thousands of daily visitors through the city. 

Old Market is characterized by the historic buildings and charming cobblestone streets of the past. However today, instead of stockyards and packinghouses, you’ll find boutique shops, galleries, and restaurants. 

Most attractions will cost you, of course, but the area is free to walk around and has lots of historic architecture to enjoy. Strolling through Old Market is one of my favorite things to do each year when I visit Omaha!

First National’s Spirit Of Nebraska’s Wilderness & Pioneer Courage Park 

Be sure to check out the Pioneer Courage Park while exploring Old Market!

This is a huge sculpture garden honoring the individuals who settled the land and is the largest installation of bronze and stainless steel art in the United States.

Chalco Hills Recreation Area

Spend a day hiking, biking, or kayaking in the Chalco Hills Recreation Area on the western edge of Omaha.

The park has miles of trails, both dirt and paved, and is perfect for fishing and wildlife viewing (so many deer!). No matter your interests there’s lots of fun things for everyone in this popular park.

Tip: Vincent Bluff Nature Preserve is another popular free thing to do in Omaha.

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail Visitor Center 

This Visitor Center commemorates the expedition of Lewis & Clark and focuses on the Native American meetings that took place in the region along the Missouri River. 

Rangers are available to discuss details of the men’s exploration, the history of the Natives in the region, or simply provide advice on the next stages of the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail.  

Visit Council Bluffs

A fun and free thing to do near Omaha is to spend a day exploring Council Bluffs. Omaha’s neighboring city is located just a few miles across the Missouri River in Iowa.

Here you can explore their small downtown area with charming shops and buildings, admire the dramatic fountain at Bayliss Park, see the Black Angel Statue, or explore Fairmount Park. 

See The Union Pacific Railroad Museum

Centrally located in downtown Council Bluffs is the Union Pacific Railroad Museum. 

The Union Pacific Railroad 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, the President who signed the Pacific Railway Act, forever connecting the country and essentially making him a founding father of the rail system. 

The museum is open Thursday – Saturday (Sunday’s during the summer) and is free to all visitors. 

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 unique exhibits, public programs, and musical performances all of which are always free.

This is a really lovely program and one I’d definitely recommend utilizing!

Visit The Birthplace of Malcolm X

On May 19, 1925, Malcolm X was born in a now-demolished house on this site in the suburbs of Omaha. As a civil rights leader and Muslim minister he was a vocal advocate for Black empowerment and the promotion of Islam within the Black community.

Malcolm’s family only lived here a short while, as racial tensions were high, eventually leaving for Michigan with hopes for a better life.

Today, his home is one of many historical sites you can see along the National Park System’s “We Shall Overcome” itinerary. You can find more information on the itinerary here: NPS We Shall Overcome Itinerary.

This home, on the National Register of Historic Places, is located at 3448 Pinkney Street and is free to the public. 

Visit The Great Plains Black History Museum

Also located in North Omaha is the Great Plains Black History Museum.

For 40 years the museum has been dedicated to honoring and preserving the achievements of the region’s African American heritage through permanent collections, exhibits, and community programs.

The museum is free to everyone but you do need to reserve a time slot in advance.

Live Music At Turner Park In Midtown Crossing

Live music at Turner Park is a favorite summer activity in Omaha, and best of all, it’s free for everyone! 

Bring a blanket, lawn chairs, snacks and enjoy local musicians as the sun sets. Be sure to arrive early, the free concerts can get very crowded!

The community does a great job presenting a wide variety of fun and free events. Turner Park also hosts Jazz on the Green, Turner Park Night Market, outdoor movies, Yoga in the Park, Playing with Fire and much more!

Can’t attend an event? There’s a number of public art displays and lots of green space making this one of the best places to explore in Omaha.

Tip: You can also find free outdoor summer concerts in Stinson Park at Aksarben Village or in Old Market under the Bob Kerrey Bridge.

Go For A Walk Around Standing Bear Lake

Standing Bear Lake, named for the Ponca leader Chief Standing Bear, is an excellent place to spend a warm afternoon. Here you can picnic, kayak, stand-up paddle board, or take a 3 mile hike around the lake. 

Did You Know? Standing Bear was the first Native American recognized as human under U.S. law. This occurred in the 1879 case of Standing Bear vs. Crook. His ruling led to much needed reforms in federal Indian policy, finally allowing Native Americans basic human rights.  

The 135 acre lake sits on the western edge of Omaha and is free for all visitors.

You may also like Zorinsky Lake, Wehrspann Lake, or Cunningham Lake. Each are free and located in, or very, near Omaha.

See The Locomotives at Kenefick Park

Next to Lauritzen Gardens, you’ll find Kenefick Park, named after former Union Pacific CEO John Kenefick. The park has two prominent locomotives on display as a remembrance of early railroad expansion in the region. This is a great free attraction in Omaha, especially for kids!

Visit Freedom Park

If Kenefick Park interests you, you may also like Freedom Park near downtown Omaha. Located on the Missouri River, it serves as a United States Naval Museum and is home to the USS Marlin SST-2 Submarine, Douglas A-4D Skyhawk Jet Fighter, and much more. 

Admission is always free.

Attend First Friday Old Market

Occurring the first Friday of each month from 6 to 9 pm is First Friday, a free event celebrating local artists in Omaha’s historic Old Market neighborhood. 

Visit local art galleries, meet the artists, and enjoy the beautiful historic buildings of Old Town. This is definitely one of the most fun free things to do in Omaha!

The event offers free parking and rides on Ollie the Trolley.

Tip: You may also enjoy Benson First Friday, the event is held year-round but summer offers Artist Markets and live entertainment.

Mount Vernon Gardens

An ode to George Washington’s Mount Vernon home overlooking the Potomac River in Virginia is Omaha’s Mount Vernon Gardens. Sitting atop a bluff is a small replica of the estate complete with a beautiful walking garden and excellent view of the Missouri River.

Attend A Free Festival 

There are lots of free festivals in the Omaha area, especially during the summer months.

Keep an eye on the Visit Omaha website — Visit Omaha Events — which lists all community events, including free and paid options. Many paid festivals have very low admission fees, so don’t rule them out! 

A few of the most popular events in Omaha are:

• Florence Days 
• Taste of Omaha
• Omaha Freedom Festival
• Omaha’s Original Greek Festival
• Fort Omaha’s Intertribal Pow Wow
• Saint Lucia Festival
• Millard Days
• Holiday Lights Festival
• Chalk Art Festival

Lewis & Clark Monument Park

On the east banks of the Missouri River in Iowa you’ll find Lewis & Clark Monument Park. This small park holds a monument honoring the expedition of Lewis & Clark in 1804 and their meeting point with the Otoe and Missouria Indians.

This is an easy, and free, way to learn about Lewis and Clark and the Native Americans who once met them here.

Omaha Public Library

For residents and members of the Omaha Public Library, check out free pass opportunities for popular Omaha attractions such as the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo, Omaha Children’s Museum, Fontenelle Forest, Durham Museum, and Lauritzen Gardens.

Passes are available on their website, supply is limited: Omaha Public Library: Discovery Passes. 

Whether or not you’re able to snag a pass, the library is a great free resource for locals! In addition to countless books and media they also offer free programs and events for the community.

Do Space

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

See The Joslyn Castle 

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. 

Joslyn Castle is open for paid tours at $17 a person. However, their exterior grounds and gardens are always free to anyone who wishes to visit. 

Hot Shops Art Center

The Hot Shops Art Center located in Omaha is an Arts Incubator and community gathering place. It is 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 a great way to experience the art of Omaha in a unique and inspiring setting. For more information on upcoming events head on over to their website: Hot Shops Art Center.

Gene Leahy Mall at The RiverFront

The Gene Leahy Mall at The RiverFront is a public park in downtown Omaha. It’s part of a large network of interconnected parks along the Missouri River, collectively referred to as “The RiverFront”.

Gene Leahy Mall sits on the edge of Old Market and is the most urban of the three parks. It consists of a performance pavilion, various large playgrounds and slides, and a sculpture garden. This is in addition to ample green space, picnic benches, and hammocks for lounging.

The park is a perfect place to hang out and relax with the family.

Keep an eye out for free events held year-round at the performance pavilion.

Lewis & Clark Landing at The RiverFront

The Lewis & Clark Landing will be the most northeastern component of The RiverFront park system.

The area features a sandy area along the river, complete with fire pits and volleyball courts, green space and an expansive prairie garden.

Heartland of America Park at The RiverFront

Finally, Heartland of America Park at The RiverFront is the largest of the three parks. The park has been known for its large lake and fountain for over 100 years but now also offers improved walking trails and waterfront views of the Missouri River.

Additionally, it houses exciting features such as a lakeside amphitheater, massive Farnam Pier, and a large ice skating rink which doubles as a roller skating rink in the warmer months. Plus playground, picnic benches, and recreational areas, of course.

Mormon Trail Center

The Mormon Trail Center is an educational and historical center that depicts the journey of the Latter Day Saints from their former homes to their new home in Utah.

The exhibit is located at the historic location of Winter Quarters, a temporary Latter Day Saint settlement along the Mormon Trail.

The center houses an expansive gallery that chronicles this historic migration and explores its impact on American culture. The gallery is free to all visitors.

Attend A Parade

There are numerous parades in Omaha throughout the year, perfect for a fun outing!

The most notable is the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which is held near downtown and features marching bands, floats, and other performances.

Other exciting events include the Florence Days Parade, Heartland Pride Parade, Labor Day Parade (Septemberfest), and the Cinco De Mayo Parade, which take place on different dates throughout the year.

Boys Town Hall Of History

The Boys Town Hall Of History in Omaha is a museum dedicated to the preservation and sharing of the stories of Father Flanagan and his work at Boys Town.

Boys Town in Omaha is a historic non-profit organization. It was initially founded by Father Edward J. Flanagan in 1917 to serve the needs of orphaned boys who would otherwise be living in the streets. Today the organization helps nearly half a million boys and girls throughout the country. They provide youth care, health care and mental health services, family and parenting programs, and much more.

The Boys Town Hall of History showcases the legacy of the famous orphanage, as well as its cultural impact on the city, state, and nation. Visitors will find an array of free exhibits which explore life at Boys Town throughout the years.

Hydrant Party

The Hydrant Party is an annual, decades-long summer event in Omaha. It’s all about celebrating the city while cooling off and having a good time. People come together around various fire hydrants, bringing their own food, drinks, games and music.

The City of Omaha Parks & Recreation Department hosts the regular events, with The Omaha Fire Department partnering when they can. The fire department uses the opportunity to discuss fire safety and let kids take a look at the fire engine.

The hydrant parties occur at three different locations every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. You can find dates and more information at Omaha Parks & Recreation.

Splash Pads

No hydrant party today? Head to a free splash pad or water park instead, this is a great way to cool off with water fountains and a spacious play area.

There are numerous options in the Omaha area, a few popular splash pad locations include:

• Benson Park
• Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge
• Hillsborough Park
• Kountze Park
• Fontenelle Park
• Coyote Run Park
• Miller Park

Among many others!

Elmwood Park

Elmwood Park is another large and popular park located on the west side of Omaha, connected to Memorial Park by a series of trail systems.

It’s a great spot for taking a leisurely stroll, having a picnic, or playing games. The park also has several playgrounds, tennis courts, and basketball courts.

OPPD Arboretum

The OPPD Arboretum in Omaha is a pubic park featuring a variety of trees and shrubs, as well as open grassy areas and walking paths.

The arboretum has been designed to showcase the beauty of native Nebraska plants and habitats, while also providing an educational experience for visitors, all for free!

Artists’ Cooperative Gallery

The Artists’ Cooperative Gallery in Omaha is a non-profit art gallery that has been serving the community since the 1970’s.

The gallery showcases a wide range of artwork from local and regional artists, including paintings, sculpture, and photography. It also hosts special events, educational programs, and workshops for both professional and novice artists.

The gallery is free, but visitors can purchase artwork directly from the gallery or commission a custom piece tailored to their specific needs.

Holy Family Shrine

The Holy Family Shrine is a Catholic pilgrimage site located on a 140 acre property in Gretna, just outside of Omaha. It is owned and operated by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Omaha although anyone is welcome to visit.

The shrine features a beautiful glass and arched wood chapel, tranquil landscaping, and a Way of Cross exhibit.

Tip: Saint Cecilia Cathedral is another beautiful church worth visiting if you don’t want to make the drive to Gretna.

Free Outdoor Movies

Another fun thing to do in Omaha during the summer is watch a free outdoor movie! Bring your lawn chairs, blanket, and snacks while enjoying a movie under the stars! This is a great activity for anyone to enjoy.

Friday Night Flicks are held at Gene Leahy Mall at the RiverFront. You can check their schedule here: RiverFront Events.

Tip: Be sure to also check out $5 Movie Tuesdays at Marcus Movie Theaters and Movie Tavern!

State Parks Near Omaha

While state parks typically aren’t free, they’re very low cost especially considering how much they offer! If a day spent outdoors appeals to you check out these nearby state parks:

• Two Rivers State Recreation Area
• Eugene T. Mahoney State Park
• Lake Manawa State Park (Council Bluffs Iowa)
• Platte River State Park (check out Stone Creek Falls!)
• N.P. Dodge Park
• Memphis Lake State Recreation Area 
• Carter Lake Park

As you can see there’s a wide variety of free things to do in Omaha, Nebraska! I hope you’ve found this helpful and enjoy your time in Omaha. 

Any questions or additional ideas? Please leave a comment below!

Looking for more ideas? Check out my additional Omaha guides below or head on over to Visit Omaha!

More Information For Your Omaha Travels:

• The Best Things To Do In Omaha, Nebraska
• Weekend In Omaha: Everything You Need To Know
• Winter Things To Do In Omaha, Nebraska
• Christmas In Omaha: Top Things To Do

More Information For Your Trip To Nebraska:

• Ogallala & Lake McConaughy Guides