10 Things We Love About Omaha

Omaha is a whole lot more than Nebraska’s largest city; it’s a thriving metropolitan community, home to national events, hidden gems and everything in between. This list shares 10 things we love about our city.

1. The Restaurants

There is a reason Omaha consistently lands on lists of the nation’s best ‘foodie’ cities. Livability has even said Omaha “Might Be the Best Place to Eat in America Right Now.” From farm-to-table restaurants to global flavors, there is something for everyone.

2. The Music Scene

Our local music scene covers a ton of genres, and you can catch big name artists at nationally ranked venues. MAHA Music Festival happens just outside Scott Campus each year, closing out summer with local, regional and national artists – yes, that includes Lizzo this year!

3. National Events

Omaha is a great sports town and you see that in the national events we host. UNO’s Baxter Arena welcomed the Olympic Curling Trials in 2017. The Olympic Swim Trials have also made a splash in Omaha, and those are back in 2020. Each year, Omaha is home to the College World Series, aka, the Greatest Show on Dirt.

4. The Opportunities

UNO students graduate into careers at some of the world’s largest companies. Omaha is home to four Fortune 500 companies: Berkshire Hathaway, Mutual of Omaha, Peter Kiewit and Union Pacific. We’re also a start-up friendly city, part of the reason the area is known as “The Silicon Prairie.”

5. It's Easy to Get Outdoors

For a city our size, we have impressive outdoor options. Take a trek in Fontenelle Forest, soak up the sun in Elmwood Park or paddleboard at Standing Bear Lake. Whether you like ‘roughing it’ or ‘glamping,’ quality campgrounds can be found just a short drive outside city limits.

6. The Zoo

USA Today readers voted it as the second-best zoo in the nation, but in our hearts, it tops the list. (How can you beat that aquarium tunnel?) The Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium’s 160 acres are packed with plants, animals and unique habitats. UNO is a proud educational partner. We’re both co-founders of the Omaha STEM Ecosystem.

7. Vibrant Neighborhoods

South Omaha, the Old Market, North Omaha, Blackstone, Florence, Benson, Dundee, Aksarben. That’s just scratching the surface. Many Omaha neighborhoods are close-knit communities with their own distinct character. Take time to explore them and you just might find a new favorite shop or restaurant.

8. The People

Like the new tongue-in-cheek, “honestly, it’s not for everyone” slogan, you’ll find people are down to earth and have an adventurous streak. People are also generous with their time, talent and resources. In 2019, the citywide Omaha Gives campaign raised $6.8 million for nearly 1,000 nonprofits.

9. The Art Scene

Omaha is home to the Joslyn Art Museum (free general admission!) and smaller but no less impressive collections, such as El Museo Latino. Our city also has an exciting performing arts scene, welcoming everything from Broadway musical to local productions. You'll catch some of those at UNO. All UNO students can get into UNO Theatre performances at no cost. UNO’s Art Gallery and Criss Library Osborne Family Gallery also house incredible exhibits year-round!

10. It's Home

You definitely get to know a city after more than 100 years together. Omaha is our campus and classroom, and we’re proud to be an anchor for our community. Learn more about the Omaha, UNO story.

We know that’s just scratching the surface! Tell us what you love about Omaha by emailing unonews@unomaha.edu and we might feature your suggestion on our website or social media.