Guide to Benson Neighborhood
By: Ryan Renner, Realtor
I have helped many families moving to Omaha. Contact me if you have any questions about the Omaha area or need help buying a home.
Many Omahans would consider Benson a city within a city, and even the heart of Omaha. The houses, parks, and businesses offer such a variety that attracts people of all kinds.
History
Erasmus Benson– land speculator, philanthropist, investor, and once Omaha mayoral candidate– purchased approximately 900 acres of land from Edward Creighton in 1887 and platted it that same year calling the area “Benson.”
Map
Below is a map that shows a map of Benson. There are no official boundaries, so use this as a rough guide.
Benson is slightly northwest of the Midtown area. Benson is considered anywhere north of Western Ave. and south of Pratt Street, and anywhere east of 72nd Street and west of 52nd Street.
The major street through Benson is Maple Street, which runs right through the heart of Benson, with shops, bars, and restaurants flanking either side.
Hospitals
Several hospitals are located near the Benson area.
- Children’s Nebraska
- Nebraska Medicine / University of Nebraska Medical Center
- Methodist Hospital
- CHI Creighton Hospital
- CHI Immanuel Hospital
Schools
Benson is located in the Omaha Public School District. Schools that are located within the Benson area are:
- Harrison Elementary
- Rose Hill Elementary
- Benson West Elementary
- Monroe Middle School
- Benson High School
Private schools include both St. Bernard’s and St. Pius X/ St. Leo Schools.
Businesses
Benson is a well-established neighborhood and, therefore, has several historic buildings including the U.S. Post Office, Benson High School, and even a Masonic Temple.
Each of those buildings is still being used for its original purpose.
I’ll talk more about restaurants, bars, and shopping a little later.
Parks + Recreation
Gallagher Park and Benson Park are the two major public parks and recreation areas in Benson.
Gallagher Park is located right at the heart of the area across the street from Benson High School and Monroe Middle School. This park includes a public pool, softball fields, a fountain, and open grassy areas for picnicking.
Benson Park, located on the south side of Military Ave. offers a park to walk, jog, or bike around, plenty of fish for anglers, a large splash pad and playground, basketball courts, and BBQ areas for families.
Metcalf Park (technically in the Country Club District– a little south of the center of Benson) is a popular park for kids, dog owners, and anyone else who enjoys the sunshine and outdoors.
Community
The Benson Community Center and Omaha Public Library – Benson Branch are on the same block and offer many programs to engage children and adults in activities.
The Benson Theatre (pictured above with the large “Benson” sign) is a historic gem that has been revitalized to become a haven for local artists, nonprofits, and community groups. It offers a unique space that’s equal parts affordable and inclusive. Many of the events are free. Catch a comedy show, concert, or thought-provoking lecture.
Entertainment
Benson is no stranger to entertainment. In fact, it is a place where many choose to enjoy local live music, beverages, and games.
Reverb Lounge offers a mid-century inspired event space and specialty cocktails/craft beers. Plus, almost every night at 7:00 they host hidden gems from across the country. Small bands and their die-hard fans alike love this venue for its state-of-the-art sound and lighting system as well as its aesthetic listening area.
The Waiting Room has been rocking indie, punk, and alternative bands since the early 2000s. It’s become a legendary spot for not only local rock bands, but touring bands as well. The Waiting Room Lounge is a premier venue that’ll always offer a great drink, a stellar band, and an unforgettable experience.
If you are into golf, check out the Benson Golf Course. It is a city-owned golf course near 72nd and Ames.
Restaurants
Benson is home to at least dozens of popular restaurants, including:
Shopping
Downtown Benson has several locally owned retails shops.
If you love stationary and paper goods, make a stop at Five Nine. It’s packed with items curated by its owner (and my friend) Megan Hunt. And while you are there, stop by Ceremony, the sister store. It’s an online store and showroom that offers a thoughtfully curated selection of new, reworked, and vintage clothing.
Found Vintage Market offers a wide range of restored furniture and home décor pieces. And if you are looking for toys… adult toys, head into Lover Luxuries.
A few other stores to check out in Benson include Legend Comics and Coffee and Haney’s Shoes.
Events
The most popular and frequent event held in Benson is Benson First Friday. It’s held the first Friday of each month and brings celebrations of music, art, and community.
Benson Days is held at the end of July. It features a parade, pancake feed, local merchants, and more.
The Omaha Zombie Walk is a popular annual event that brings zombies to downtown Benson.