There’s something so perfect and relaxing about escaping the daily grind and making time for a night out on the town in Omaha. Whether you’re looking for a quiet evening, a lively concert or dinner and a movie, Omaha offers a mix of charm, culture, and adventure to make your night special. From delicious dinner spots with cozy ambiance to strolls through public art, live music, scenic views, and hidden gems—this guide is your one-stop resource for fun things to do in Omaha. And you’ll be happy to know that we’re weaving in one of the city’s most lively urban hotspots—Midtown Crossing—as a walkable date destination worth exploring.
Why a Great Date Night Matters
Life gets busy. Work, chores and all the to do’s—it’s easy for a night out with your better half to drift to the back burner. But never fear – this guide will help you get back on track and prioritize a great night out! With this “date ideas Omaha” guide, you’ve got options for laid-back, adventurous, artsy, or indulgent evenings—and even options to combine a few in one night! The possibilities are endless.
Use this guide for an ideal night in Omaha
Omaha offers a mix of romantic restaurants, arts & culture, nature, and entertainment venues that suit a variety of date styles.
Whether you prefer strolling across bridges, catching live music, or cozying up in galleries, there’s no shortage of date night ideas Omaha to explore.
And be sure and include Midtown Crossing in the mix! Midtown Crossing is a vibrant, walkable destination with dining, games, outdoor events, and ambiance that works beautifully for date nights.
Use this guide to mix and match your ideal date night—dinner in Dundee, museum time, nature hikes, board games at a café, and more.
Dinner and a Movie in Dundee
One of the classic date night ideas Omaha is to head to the Dundee neighborhood. Start with dinner at one of the intimate restaurants—Avoli Osteria or Pitch Pizzeria for a rustic vibe. After your meal, settle in at Film Streams at the Dundee Theater, a nonprofit arthouse cinema showing indie films, foreign movies, and thought-provoking documentaries. The cozy, low-light setting is perfect for leaning in close and sharing a cinematic experience.
Stroll along the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
A stroll along the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is one of those date ideas in Omaha that delivers both romance and photo ops. The bridge spans the Missouri River and connects Nebraska to Iowa—yes, you can literally walk between states on foot. At night, the bridge is softly lit and gently sways, making it a memorable walk. Bonus: it’s often included in downtown walking loops that combine dinner, dessert, and views.
Visit the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium
For an unconventional but enchanting date—especially in fall—visit theHenry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium. As the daylight dims, you can wander through beautifully lit exhibits, see nocturnal animals in action, and enjoy quieter moments as crowds thin. The zoo is one of Omaha’s crown jewels, and it provides a mix of wonder and conversation starters!
Take a Hike in Fontenelle Forest
If you and your partner love nature, Fontenelle Forest is one of the best fun things to do in Omaha for couples who want to slow down. With trails winding through oak savannas, wetlands, and prairie, expect beautiful fall foliage, crisp air, and chances to spot wildlife. It’s also a great daytime-turned-evening date: begin with a walk, then finish with dinner in a nearby neighborhood.
Visit the Joslyn Art Museum
Indulge in some culture into your night by visiting the Joslyn Art Museum. This free and open to the public museum houses over 11,000 works spanning classical, modern, and contemporary art. Couples can wander galleries, discuss favorites, and linger in sculpture gardens or special exhibit rooms. It’s a quiet but meaningful way to spend an evening—or afternoon-to-evening combo.
Try a New Restaurant in Midtown
In the center of Omaha, conveniently located just west of downtown and off the interstate, is Midtown Crossing. This mixed-use development centered around Turner Park offers delicious restaurants, cafés, bars, and shops—all within walking distance.
Try Smokin’ Oak Wood-Fired Pizza & Taproom—just the right mix of casual, tasty, and atmospheric.
For whiskey lovers, Proof is a cozy spot within Midtown Crossing that highlights rare pours.
If you want a low-key, conversational date, stop by Spielbound Board Game Cafe—you can sip coffee or beer and play board games side by side.
Midtown Crossing also hosts outdoor concerts, seasonal events, and “Jazz on the Green” in summer. Check out our full calendar of events here.
Board Games, Puzzles & Cozy Competitions
For couples who want to skip the “sit-down dinner + movie” formula, head to Spielbound Board Game Cafe in Midtown Crossing. Order a snack, brew, or wine, pick a game (cooperative or goofy competition), and enjoy a relaxed, fun night where you’re interacting rather than just staring at screens. This is one of the top date night ideas Omaha for couples who like to laugh, strategize, or maybe get a little competitive.
Catch Live Music at The Slowdown or The Waiting Room
Omaha has a vibrant music scene, and an evening at a concert is a powerful date night move. Venues like The Slowdown, The Waiting Room, Steelhouse Omaha, and Reverb Lounge bring both local and touring acts across genres. Choose a show that fits your vibe—whether it’s indie rock, folk, jazz, or something experimental—and let the music be your backdrop.
Sip and Savor at a Wine or Cocktail Bar
Sometimes, the simplest date is the most intimate. Omaha has excellent cocktail bars and wine lounges ideal for lingering conversation:
Anna’s Place is a speakeasy-style bar with a dark, intimate vibe and artful cocktails.
Barraco Wine Bar combines mood lighting, cozy seating, and interesting wine & cocktail selections.
Or wander into Midtown Crossing and hit Proof for fabulous whiskey. Be sure and check out Midtown Crossing’s newest gem, Chateau Vin Wine and Sprit Bar, set to open fall of 2025.
Embrace the slow pace: order a flight, a shared dessert, or just lean back and talk.
Durham Museum for Time Travel
Step back in time with a visit to the Durham Museum, housed in the Omaha’s historic Union Station. The architecture, vintage exhibits, and rotating galleries make it an intriguing spot for date night Omaha lovers who enjoy history and nostalgia. Evening events (like gala nights or after-hours lectures) sometimes add that extra romance. Put link, hours and address
Time to schedule your next date night
No matter your style—art lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, music fans, or casual game players—Omaha delivers date night ideas Omaha that feel fresh. Among all the neighborhoods, Midtown Crossing shines as a hub of convenience and vibrant activity. Here, you can hop between a creative board game cafe, wood-fired pizza, cocktail bars, and Turner Park events—all without long drives.
Omaha doesn’t just offer a handful of romantic options—it offers date night experiences you’ll want to repeat. Start here, explore broadly, and discover your go-to spots.
