A sprawling zoo and aquarium with a geodesic desert dome, a multi-story indoor rainforest and a nocturnal swamp, plus penguins and a shark tunnel. Easily a full-day outing in any season.
Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is the city's flagship family attraction, spread across a large campus in South Omaha just south of downtown. The grounds mix outdoor habitats with big indoor buildings, which means a visit works in sunshine, summer heat or a chilly fall day. Many guests plan a full day here, and the zoo offers a discounted two-day pass for those who want to take it slower.
The headline exhibits are buildings in their own right. The Desert Dome is a geodesic dome that brings together desert environments from Africa, Australia and North America. The Lied Jungle is billed by the zoo as North America's largest indoor rainforest, with habitats stacked across four stories. Mahoney Kingdoms of the Night is an after-dark world built around an indoor swamp, so it stays comfortable no matter the weather outside.
Water and wildlife fill out much of the rest. The Scott Aquarium, included with admission, features a shark tunnel and a penguin habitat. Outdoors you will find the Scott African Grasslands, Asian Highlands, Hubbard Gorilla Valley, Hubbard Orangutan Forest and Owen Sea Lion Shores, along with the Grewcock Butterfly and Insect Pavilion. Some rides and splash areas operate seasonally, so check what is running on your dates.
The zoo suits nearly every kind of traveler. Young children enjoy the animal encounters and ride areas, grandparents appreciate the indoor exhibits and rentable strollers and wagons, and animal lovers can easily fill several hours at the gorillas, big cats and aquarium alone. Guests may bring in outside food and non-alcoholic drinks, which helps keep a long day affordable. Because it is such a large site, a little planning goes a long way. Start at the indoor exhibits during the hottest or coldest part of the day, save outdoor habitats for milder hours, and budget extra time for the Lozier Giant Screen Theater if you want to add it, since it is ticketed separately. Parking on site is free.
Omaha's botanical garden, with themed gardens, walking paths, a children's play garden, tram tours and seasonal events including Bright Nights.
Adults $18 · Kids $11
Nearest CityLine stays: Modern Chic Retreat Luxe Comfort and Style (2.9 mi), Martha St Villa, Pool, Hot Tub, Grill (2.9 mi) · See all rentals by distance
A live music and events hall on South 13th Street in Little Bohemia, the former Sokol Auditorium, now hosting touring concerts, DJ nights, comedy and community events.
Ticket prices vary by event; most shows sell through Etix links on the venue site
Nearest CityLine stays: Martha St Villa, Pool, Hot Tub, Grill (2.0 mi), Modern Chic Retreat Luxe Comfort and Style (2.0 mi) · See all rentals by distance
Omaha's historic Czech district along South 13th Street, now a compact strip of cocktail bars, a tamaleria, a coffee roaster, a brewery and indie shops, anchored by century-old brick buildings.
Free entry
Nearest CityLine stays: Blue Oasis: Modern 1-Bed Retreat Apt 1 (1.8 mi), Midtown Home w/ Historic Charm (1.9 mi) · See all rentals by distance
Hours and prices come from Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium’s official information and can change, so confirm on their website before you go. Back to all things to do
