Omaha is known for fun and exciting activities for families of all ages. Downtown, midtown, south, north or west, Omaha has it all! As summer winds down and cooler temperatures roll in, now’s the time to make plans for end-of-summer adventures with your family. From interactive museums and special exhibits to outdoor adventures and seasonal festivals, here’s your go-to guide to fun and lively outings with kids before school starts and into the fall.
Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium
Where: 3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE
Hours: Daily: 9 AM–5 PM
Explore one of the nation’s top zoos, featuring the Desert Dome and Lied Jungle. Special fall events like Boo at the Zoo offer seasonal fun for all ages. And don’t forget the new exhibits recently announced!
Lauritzen Gardens & Children’s Garden
Where: 100 Bancroft St, Omaha, NE
Hours: Daily: 9 AM–6 PM
Seasonal exhibits continue through October, and the StoryWalk® (Aug 5–Sept 16) invites kiddos to wander through nature while reading a story. And you and the kids will love Sofia’s Play Garden! Don’t forget about the special train and Model Railroad! A perfect spot for kids of all ages!
Omaha Children’s Museum
Where: 500 S 20th St, Omaha, NE
Hours: Tues–Fri: 9 AM–4 PM, Sat & Sun: 9 AM–5 PM
Engaging exhibits like “My Wild Backyard” offer hands-on play for all ages. Moms and Dads, get ready for fun and engaging adventures at the Omaha Children’s Museum.
Gene Leahy Mall at the RiverFront
Where: 11th & Capitol Ave, Downtown Omaha
Highlights: Slides at the mall, outdoor concerts, and movies on select summer evenings. Great for a casual afternoon or evening stroll.
Kiewit Luminarium
Where: 345 Riverfront Drive, Downtown Omaha
Highlights: A place for people of all ages, identities and backgrounds to explore astonishing phenomena at the intersection of art, science and human perception. A perfect spot for families to explore exhibits and so much more.
Best Omaha area Spraygrounds and Splashpads
It’s not too late to grab a swimsuit, plenty of sunscreen and head over to one of Omaha’s funfilled spraygrounds or splashpads. A perfect activity for kids of all ages. Bring snacks and enjoy the day.
Zorinsky Lake Trails & Splash Pads
Where: 3808 S 156th St, Omaha, NE
Enjoy scenic walking/biking trails and water play areas—a refreshing way to soak up end-of-summer sunshine. Find your next adventure at Zorinsky Lake!
Pit Stop at Midtown Crossing
Pause your family-friendly adventures with delicious meals from Midtown Crossing. Whether you and the kids are craving pizza from Smokin’ Oak Wood-Fired Pizza or a burger and wings from Rays, it’s all right here in midtown Omaha. And don’t forget to splurge on a cone at Cold Stone Creamery on Farnam Street. Centrally located. Easily accessible. Plenty of parking. Your go-to spot for a meal before or after the fun.
Omaha Chalk Art Festival (Mid-August)
Where: Farnam Street & Turner Park
Amazing chalk murals created live, plus Market in the Park—great for art-loving families to stroll and shop local.
Hero Fest 2025 at the SAC Museum in Ashland
When: August 9 from 11 am to 3 pm
Where: HERO Fest at Strategic Air Command Museum (Ashland)
Join the fun for a family-friendly, high-energy celebration honoring the courage and dedication of our nation’s heroes – past, present and future. Click here for more information.
Fun in Dundee, Community Parades and More
Check local schedules for fall festivals in neighborhoods like Dundee, Papillion, and Council Bluffs. Often paired with parades, live music, community booths, and carnival games.
Mark your calendars and make plans to enjoy Omaha this fall
Omaha bursts with family-friendly events from August through fall—art, animals, festivals, and outdoor fun await! Whether you’re sliding at Gene Leahy Mall, picking pumpkins, exploring trails, or enjoying a concert, there’s something for every age and interest. Don’t forget to build in a tasty stop at Smokin’ Oak, Pa Mas Kitchen, Cold Stone Creamery or any of the delicious restaurants in Midtown Crossing to fuel the fun!
