Omaha's cobblestone historic district of shops, galleries, restaurants and taverns, ideal for an unhurried walk and people-watching just steps from the RiverFront.
The Old Market is the historic heart of downtown Omaha, a compact district of brick buildings and cobblestone streets filled with shops, galleries, restaurants and taverns. The district's own website calls it Omaha's most historic and most entertaining neighborhood, and it is one of the easiest places in the city to wander without a plan. It is listed by the National Park Service as a historic district.
The area grew up around the city's warehouse and wholesale trade, and many of those sturdy old buildings now house independent businesses. Walking the blocks, you will notice the brick facades, loading-dock details and narrow lanes that give the neighborhood its distinct character, quite different from the glass towers elsewhere downtown. A visit usually revolves around eating, browsing and soaking up the atmosphere. Boutiques, art galleries and specialty shops sit beside restaurants and bars, and sidewalk seating makes people-watching part of the entertainment. The district posts a running list of events and business specials, so check it before you arrive to see if something special is happening during your stay.
Location is a big plus. The Old Market connects naturally with The RiverFront parks, the Durham Museum and the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, so you can combine it with other downtown outings on foot. Couples love it for dinner and an evening stroll, and groups find plenty of variety for mixed tastes. Parking is part of planning here. The district's site has a parking section with options and directions, and many visitors leave the car once and explore on foot. Expect busier streets on weekend evenings and during special events, and allow extra time to find a spot.
The redesigned downtown park at the western end of The RiverFront, reopened in July 2022, with open lawns, water features, play areas and year-round programming.
Free entry
Nearest CityLine stays: Blue Oasis: Modern 1-Bed Retreat Apt 1 (1.6 mi), Midtown Home w/ Historic Charm (1.7 mi) · See all rentals by distance
A free contemporary art center in the Old Market, home to an international artist residency, exhibitions and public programs including music performances.
Free entry
Nearest CityLine stays: Blue Oasis: Modern 1-Bed Retreat Apt 1 (1.6 mi), Midtown Home w/ Historic Charm (1.7 mi) · See all rentals by distance
Downtown Omaha's modern concert venue, with a 2,000-seat concert hall and a flexible 350-seat hall, run by Omaha Performing Arts.
Ticket prices vary by event
Nearest CityLine stays: Blue Oasis: Modern 1-Bed Retreat Apt 1 (1.5 mi), Midtown Home w/ Historic Charm (1.6 mi) · See all rentals by distance
Hours and prices come from The Old Market’s official information and can change, so confirm on their website before you go. Back to all things to do
