Things to Do in Omaha in the Winter
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.
When temperatures drop and snowflakes start to fall, the city of Omaha transforms into a winter wonderland filled with countless opportunities for fun and adventure!
From outdoor pursuits that make the most of the snowy landscapes to cozy indoor activities that will keep you warm, Omaha winter activities offer a plethora of wintry undertakings that can cater to every interest and age group.
So bundle up, step outside, and discover all the amazing escapades you can go on in Omaha this winter!
Embrace the Chill: Outdoor Winter Adventures
When the temperature drops and the snow begins to accumulate in Omaha, there is no shortage of outdoor winter activities to explore with your loved ones. These scenic gems provide countless opportunities for families to connect as they enjoy a serene winter landscape.
From ice skating beneath twinkling lights to frolicking in the freshly fallen snow, here is a list of some of the best family-friendly winter activities the city has to offer.
Hit the Slopes
Nebraska does not have mountains. If you are a serious skier, you will be disappointed with your options. But weekend trips to Colorado are very common (and many people from Omaha own timeshares there).
If you aren’t a serious skier or you want to learn to ski, you may enjoy Mt. Crescent. It is an area about 20 minutes outside Omaha. It’s not a mountain – it’s more like a big hill. It’s great for entry-level skiers and snowboarders.
And if you’re a fan of cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, head over to one of Omaha’s various public parks, where you can traverse the trails and breathe in the crisp winter air. While Omaha may not have an abundance of ski resorts, these two options ensure there’s something for everyone in this enchanting winter wonderland.
Winter Hiking
If you prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground, Omaha’s parks and nature reserves also offer fantastic hiking opportunities. Fontenelle Forest and Hitchcock Nature Center are excellent options, both offering snowshoe rentals for those who want to try something different.
These and other locations, such as Chalco Hills and Heron Haven Nature Center, offer the potential for unique wildlife encounters.
Ice Skating Rinks
Ice skating is a quintessential winter activity, and Omaha has you covered. Showcasing natural beauty and transforming into twinkling wonderlands at night, these ice skating venues provide a touch of magic.
Indoor ice rinks like Motto McLean Ice Arena, Moylan Iceplex, Baxter Arena, and the Liberty First Credit Union Arena (previously Ralston Arena) offer a fantastic opportunity to glide across the ice, regardless of the weather outside. So, lace up your skates and hit the ice at some of the most picturesque indoor and outdoor rinks in the heart of Nebraska!
Family Bonding Through Sledding
There is nothing quite like the exhilaration and joy of sledding in Omaha during the winter season. It’s not just a fun-filled, family-friendly winter activity; it’s also a fantastic opportunity for family bonding and creating cherished memories.
When it comes to picking the perfect hill for your sledding adventure, Omaha offers several exceptional locations that cater to various age groups and skill levels. From Memorial Park’s gently sloping hills to Halleck Park’s picturesque surroundings, Omaha has plenty of free-to-use public hills for family sledding.
Ice Fishing
If you’re a fan of fishing, why not try your hand at ice fishing in Omaha? Wehrspann Lake at Chalco Hills transforms into an ice-fishing haven during the winter. Between 6 am-10 pm, feel free to bundle up and see what you can catch down at the lake!
Winter Team Sports
Omaha also invites visitors to engage in various winter team sports, providing experiences for both locals and travelers alike. Not only are these sports a fun way to stay active during the cold season, but they also provide ample opportunities for people of all skill levels to participate in organized leagues and lessons.
Hockey: Embrace the Ice
Omaha is home to numerous ice rinks that offer hockey programs for all ages and skill levels. Many community centers and local ice rinks, such as the Grover Ice Arena and Motto McLean Ice Arena, have organized leagues and lessons available for those looking to take part in this fast-paced and exhilarating winter sport.
Additionally, hockey clubs in Omaha offer competitive programs for more experienced players looking to rumble.
Curling: A Unique Winter Sport
Curling has been gaining popularity in the United States, and Nebraska is no exception. The Aksarben Curling Club in Omaha offers learn-to-curl events, beginner leagues, and opportunities to join more competitive teams.
This friendly and welcoming community of curling enthusiasts is eager to share their passion for the sport, making it the perfect place for those looking to try something new.
Broomball: A Fun Winter Alternative
For those interested in an unconventional winter activity, broomball is a fantastic option. Similar to hockey, broomball is played on the ice, but instead of skates, participants wear shoes and use brooms to move a ball. The Omaha Broomball Club organizes regular pick-up games and leagues for players of all skill levels, fostering a fun and inclusive environment.
There is no shortage of opportunities for families to immerse themselves in the wintry splendor of Omaha and create unforgettable memories with their loved ones. So throw on a coat, step outside, and embrace the chill as you explore all that this city has to offer in terms of outdoor entertainment during the winter months!
Indoor Winter Fun
As winter takes hold of Omaha, the need for warm, inviting spaces becomes paramount. For those who have had their fill of outdoor winter fun, there are plenty of cozy spots to explore. These spaces offer a refuge from the cold and a place to relax with a hot beverage or get lost in a good book.
Indulge in Art and Culture
Omaha is home to a rich arts and culture scene. Visit the Joslyn Art Museum to admire historical masterpieces and contemporary art pieces. You can also step back in time at the Durham Museum, which showcases the history of the region. For kids, the Omaha Children’s Museum offers a range of interactive exhibits that are both educational and fun.
If literature is more your cup of tea, Omaha has several bookstores well-suited for the winter months while enjoying a cuppa. Jackson Street Booksellers offers a vast collection of used books, while The Bookworm stocks new releases alongside locally-made gifts. Both stores provide a warm environment, perfect for leisurely book browsing or curling up with your latest purchase.
Sample Omaha’s Culinary Scene
Omaha boasts a vibrant craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering tours and tasting sessions. Embark on your own craft brewery tour and explore the city’s beer landscape. If you want to catch a movie while hunting for the perfect pint of beer, The Alamo Drafthouse lets you do just that by offering classic movie screens and serving over two dozen varieties of craft beer.
For lovers of rich, heart-warming dishes, Omaha’s cuisine is full of traditional and modern fares that cater to a wide range of palates. Experience the taste of Nebraska with dishes such as whiskey filet at The Drover, warm Boeuf Bourguignon at Le Voltaire, or the famous Midwestern pairing of chili and cinnamon rolls at a local Runza.
Whether you prefer a cozy cafe, a bustling food hall, or a more upscale dining experience, Omaha has an abundance of venues to choose from.
Warm Up with Hot Chocolate
There’s nothing like a cup of rich, creamy hot chocolate to warm you up during the winter. Omaha is home to numerous cafes and coffeehouses that serve up scrumptious hot chocolate, perfect for a cozy winter date. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just love a good cup of cocoa, there’s an Omaha coffee shop waiting to welcome you in from the cold.
Hardy Coffee Co. is known for its friendly atmosphere, delicious baked goods, and a selection of drinks that will warm you from the inside out. Meanwhile, Stories Coffee Company offers a chill environment, specialty coffee, and yummy entrees and shareables.
Play Board Games at Spielbound
Spend a fun-filled afternoon or evening at Spielbound, an amazing game cafe where you can enjoy a steamy cup of coffee and a wide range of board games. Enjoy a hot beverage and even share a pizza or other fresh snack while having a cozy game night out with friends!
Whatever your preference may be for cozy entertainment, Omaha is full of warm and welcoming venues to escape the cold this winter. From coffee shops to bookstores and beyond, embrace Omaha’s cozy charm and make the most of its vibrant indoor winter activities that await you.
Celebrate the Holiday Season in Omaha
Omaha is host to a variety of vibrant winter festivals that celebrate both the season and the city’s rich cultural tapestry. From light festivals and Christmas markets to cultural parades, these holiday events in Omaha provide unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors alike. In the magical snowy season, create lasting memories by indulging in the city’s winter festivities.
Omaha Holiday Lights Festival
As the holiday season approaches, the city gets decked out in twinkling lights. Running from late November through early January, the Omaha Holiday Lights Festival offers a lineup of festive events and spectacular lighting displays throughout the city.
During this time, downtown Omaha transforms into a shimmering wonderland adorned with festive lights and decorations. The festival kicks off with a highly anticipated lighting ceremony that brings the city together to revel in the spirit of the holiday season.
Christmas at Union Station
The Durham Museum’s Christmas at Union Station is an enchanting annual event that features the region’s largest indoor Christmas tree, plus an array of jolly events. These include a breathtaking Christmas tree display, a cultural festival with participants from 40+ local cultural groups, and a miniature North Pole with Santa himself!
Whether you’re celebrating Christmas Day or ringing in the New Year, the festive atmosphere at Union Station makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking a dose of holiday cheer.
Holiday Poinsettia Show at Lauritzen Gardens
If you’re a nature enthusiast, the Holiday Poinsettia Show is a must-visit. Held at Omaha’s Lauritzen Gardens from early December through early January, this breathtaking display showcases thousands of vibrant poinsettias amidst beautifully decorated garden scenes. Be amazed by the vibrant colors of thousands of poinsettias and the magnificent 20-foot-tall poinsettia tree.
Whether you’re drawn to the mesmerizing lights of festive displays or the nostalgic charm of Christmas displays, Omaha’s winter festivals offer unforgettable experiences for all. Embrace the magic of the season by attending these captivating holiday events in Omaha!
Try Something New!
Omaha has plenty of unique attractions and things to do throughout the year. Why not use the winter season to dive into something you’ve never done before? Who knows, you might even find a new favorite hang-out!
Axe Throwing
Axe throwing has become a popular activity in recent years. If you want to take part in this craze during the winter, you’re in luck! You can test your aim and have a blast at Axe Games or Flying Timber Axe Throwing. It’s a great way to blow off some steam and have fun!
Escape Rooms
No matter what season it is, you can put your problem-solving skills to the test at one of Omaha’s many escape rooms. Work together with your friends or family to solve puzzles and escape in time at House of Conundrum, Get Out: Omaha, and more! It’s a fun and exciting way to spend a winter day.
Trampoline Parks
Do you want to bounce away the winter blues? Then try out one of Omaha’s indoor trampoline parks, like Urban Air and Sky Zone, for gravity-defying fun for all ages. Despite the name, these parks aren’t just a sea of trampolines. They also boast obstacle courses, foam pits, and even dodgeball arenas that make sure there’s never a dull moment.
When the cold keeps you indoors, these vibrant, energy-packed havens will offer a perfect escape. It’s an ideal way to stay active and entertained during Omaha’s frosty months.
Still Worried About Nebraska Winters?
My wife hates Nebraska winters, but she has come to tolerate them (and in some respect, appreciate them).
How is that possible?
I shared with an article titled The Secret to Enjoying a Long Winter. It has really changed her perspective and appreciation of winter.