Whether you’re a local looking to mix up your summer routine or visiting from out of town, this insider’s guide will help you find all the best places to stay, dine, sip and play in Omaha.

STAY

The Farnam (1299 Farnam Street). Smart and sophisticated, yet accessible and welcoming. The Farnam offers an experience unlike any other in downtown Omaha. A tribute to the ambitions of Omahans, past and present, this hotel is located within The Old Market and adjacent to the newly renovated Gene Leahy Mall. Instagram

EAT & DRINK

Archetype Coffee (multiple locations). Belly up to your next cup. Archetype is an award-winning combination of on-site roasting and passion for their coffee community. Each location is unique, satisfying and there is always a friendly and devoted barista ready to pour you a perfected cappuccino art heart. Instagram

Coneflower Creamery (3921 Farnam Street). It’s billed as farm to cone. It takes like pure heaven. Come with plans to queue up for what might just be the world’s best ice cream, crafted with creativity and love for real, local ingredients. The line could be long, but the people you’ll meet will be friendly, and the scrumptious payoff is oh, so worth the wait. Instagram

Yoshitomo (6011 Maple Street). A short drive from downtown Omaha you’ll find a culinary getaway to a “heart of Tokyo” space. Presented by a sushi-ya passionate about ingredients and focused on a mix of traditional sushi fare, modern reinterpretations, and small shareable plates. Instagram

Au Courant Regional Kitchen (6064 Maple Street). Located within the city in the town of Benson, this restaurant imagines “New European” dishes with a focus on regional ingredients in a friendly and approachable atmosphere. A six-course chef’s tasting menu is a highlight. Instagram

The Boiler Room (1110 Jones Street). Named so because the space was the boiler room providing heat for the 120-year-old building in which it is located. It’s a set piece for the dining experience, sumptuous service, and the freshness of the product you will savor. The menu features the talents of local growers and the finest of their harvest. What they thoughtfully curated for the plate starts with what goes into the field. Instagram

Le Petit Paris Bakery (567 North 155th Plaza). Ooh, la, la, Omaha. If you have had to travel to Paris to find authentic pastry, prepare yourself for a mind-blowing croissant baked with layers of French butter and served warm every morning at 7:00…or a few minutes before that, if you are waiting patiently at the door. Cinnamon and apricot croissants sell briskly. Set your alarm. Instagram

The Omaha Farmers Market (multiple locations). Summer in the city brings all the growers and their produce from the fields to the city. Two days, two locations. Put this seasonal staple on your list. Trying to describe the amazing corn, tomatoes, and watermelon that you will find only late July through September would be a disservice. You have to experience what Nebraska and Iowa farmers, and mother nature, have mastered. Instagram

PLAY

Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium (3701 South 10th Street). Consistently ranked one of the world’s best zoos, Omaha’s Zoo and Aquarium is the ultimate interactive experience. In addition to their globally renowned conservation program, they offer a variety of travel-worthy encounters like the largest indoor desert and the largest indoor rainforest in North America. Exotic locations, an enchanting aquarium and underground caves are home to thousands of animals in their natural habitat. Instagram 

Kiewit Luminarium (345 Riverfront Drive). Kids will see the world in a whole new light in this bright and colorful family-friendly space and learning environment. Part workshop, part museum, it’s a place for children (6 and up) to learn by exploring interactive exhibits. Kids (and grown-ups) will be astonished. Instagram

Lauritzen Garden (100 Bancroft Street). If strolling among blooms, butterflies and bees is more your style, plan an escape to this urban oasis of beauty and tranquility and experience the glory of Omaha’s botanical gardens. This hidden sanctuary in the heart of the city is in its full splendor during the summer months. Instagram

College World Series of Omaha (808 North 13th Street). They call it the “greatest show on dirt!” The official NCAA Men’s College World Series brings baseball teams and their most loyal fans from throughout the country for an epic 10-day tailgating extravaganza. The “home” team changes daily and life-time friendships are forged at the CWS every June in Omaha.