The Ultimate Guide to Hosting Out-of-Town Family in Omaha This Holiday Season

When out-of-town family visits Omaha during the holidays, there’s no shortage of fun, festive, and memorable experiences to share. As a local real estate agent and proud Omaha resident, here’s my go-to guide for making the most of your family’s visit this season!

1. Best Places for Brunch

Kick off the day with a delicious brunch at one of Omaha's beloved spots:

• Early Bird: Known for their creative breakfast cocktails and hearty portions.

• Saddle Creek Breakfast Club: A small, cozy spot serving locally inspired comfort food.

• Good Evans: A welcoming spot offering fresh, flavorful breakfast options perfect for a family-friendly brunch experience.

2. Where to Get a Seasonal Cocktail

Warm up with festive drinks at these cozy bars:

• Herbe Sainte: Known for craft cocktails with a New Orleans twist.

• The Berry & Rye: Classic speakeasy vibes and expertly crafted seasonal drinks.

• Krug Park: A laid-back bar with an extensive beer list and holiday-themed drinks.

3. Family-Friendly Attractions

Omaha is packed with family-friendly activities that even adults will enjoy:

• Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium: A world-class zoo with indoor exhibits perfect for winter visits.

• Lauritzen Gardens - Holiday Poinsettia Show: Stroll through breathtaking holiday displays.

• The Durham Museum: Explore local history inside a beautifully restored train station decked out for the holidays.

• Joslyn Art Museum: Discover inspiring art collections in a stunning Art Deco building. While currently undergoing renovations, keep an eye out for special exhibits and community events.

4. Must-See Holiday Lights

Take in stunning holiday light displays:

• The Old Market: Stroll through Omaha's historic district decorated with twinkling lights.

• Holiday Lights Festival (Gene Leahy Mall): Enjoy festive lights, live music, and ice skating.

• Neighborhood Light Tours: Drive through popular holiday light neighborhoods like Aksarben and Benson.

5. Shopping for Unique Gifts

Find the perfect holiday gifts at these local shops:

• Gretna Outlet Mall: For major brand discounts.

• Made in Omaha: A boutique featuring products from local artisans.

• The Imaginarium: A quirky shop packed with vintage treasures and collectibles.

6. Outdoor Adventures & Walks

After a big holiday meal, stretch your legs at these scenic spots:

• The RiverFront: Newly redeveloped with walking trails and views of the Missouri River.

• Fontenelle Forest: Enjoy serene hiking trails surrounded by winter beauty.

• Zorinsky Lake Park: A family-friendly trail perfect for an afternoon stroll.

7. Dining for Large Groups

For those big family dinners, try these accommodating restaurants:

• Spaghetti Works: Affordable and great for groups.

• Biaggi's Ristorante Italiano: Known for its spacious dining areas and family-style Italian dishes, making it perfect for hosting large groups with something for everyone.

• Upstream Brewing Company: Spacious, laid-back, and great for craft beer lovers.

Bonus Tip: Plan Ahead!

During the holidays, Omaha’s popular spots can get busy, so make reservations early and check local event calendars for special seasonal events.

Thinking of Relocating to Omaha?
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Happy Holidays from Omaha!