Benson and Maple Street

Benson is a neighborhood in north-central Omaha, and Maple Street is its main commercial corridor. The area has become one of the city's best-known places for independent venues, galleries and nightlife, and it has been designated a creative district. The signature event is Benson First Fridays, a monthly art walk held on the first Friday of every month. According to the organizers, artists, musicians and creative businesses share their work, and galleries, storefronts, bars and community spaces host their own programming. Benson First Friday is organized by BFF Omaha, which also runs spaces such as PETSHOP, Trudy's, MaMO and BFF Gallery.

The event has run for over a decade and continues year-round. On other days, the neighborhood offers a mix of bars, music venues and casual places to eat, and the street is easy to explore on foot. Business hours differ by venue, so look up the places you plan to visit. Benson suits couples, groups and art lovers who want a local, less polished evening than a downtown outing. It is a short drive from central and Midtown Omaha.

Highlights

• Benson First Fridays art walk
• Maple Street bars and live music
• Galleries and creative spaces
• Walkable neighborhood corridor

Tips for your visit

• First Fridays happen on the first Friday of each month; confirm times at bffomaha.org.
• Hours vary by business; most venues are busiest in the evening.
• Street parking can fill up on event nights.
• Check venue ages policies for bars and music venues.