This July, soak up the sun, stop to smell the roses, jam to live music and cool off with icy treats in Omaha. Celebrate the heart of summer in the Heartland with these 10 can’t-miss things to do.
1. Go Bobbing at Bob Kerrey Bridge
Cross the iconic Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge and stand in two states at once. Known as “Bob,” this 3,000-foot bridge is one of Omaha’s most unique attractions. Snap a photo mid-bridge and tag it with #ItHappensOnBob.
2. Stop and Smell the Roses
Lauritzen Gardens bursts with more than 2,000 blooming rose plants in July. Nearby, the Gerald R. Ford Birthsite and Gardens features even more rose beds and historical touches. These peaceful spots are perfect for summer strolls.
3. Gape at Apes
The Hubbard Orangutan Forest at Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium offers an immersive experience inspired by the Indonesian rainforest. Explore interactive exhibits, watch live training sessions and see orangutans and Siamangs up close in a habitat designed for enrichment and discovery.
4. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Omaha
Cool off and explore the water with a stand-up paddleboard rental. Elkhorn Outfitters offers guided SUP tours, and Neighborhood Offshore rents boards by the hour. It’s a great way to enjoy outdoor summer activities in the Omaha area.
Driftwood Paddle Adventures on Instagram
5. Create Your Own Ice Cream Crawl
Beat the heat with an Omaha ice cream adventure. Try Coneflower Creamery’s farm-to-cone scoops, Ted & Wally’s rich small-batch flavors, eCreamery’s custom creations or Mixins’ rolled ice cream topped with your name in syrup. Omaha’s dessert scene is worth the trip. Check out more on Omaha’s sweets scene here.
6. Vibe to Live Music
Catch live music all month long. Hear jazz at Midtown Crossing and rock at Zorinsky Lake. Saturdays at Stinson, Music at Miller Park and Playing with Fire add to Omaha’s summer concert calendar.
7. Wander the Garden of the Zodiac
Hidden in the Old Market Passageway, Garden of the Zodiac is a quiet sculpture garden with art by Swiss artist Eva Aeppli. This tucked-away spot offers a break from the bustle and is a place you'll find your sign.
8. Stay Cool at Fun-Plex Waterpark
Spend the day splashing at Fun-Plex, Omaha’s largest waterpark. Ride slides, float the lazy river or hang at the swim-up bar. With attractions for all ages, it’s a top summer activity in Omaha for families or friend groups. Splash on with more Omaha water fun ideas.
9. Bar Hop The Blackstone District
The Blackstone District is a lively neighborhood packed with bars, restaurants and patios. Sip craft cocktails at Nite Owl, enjoy wine at Corkscrew Wine & Cheese or grab a local pint at Scriptown Brewery. KAMP Blackstone is another funky space with a central bar and delicious food options. Discover more Blackstone inspiration here.
10. Celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride
Omaha’s Heartland Pride Parade and Festival returns in July. Enjoy live music, local vendors and entertainment at CHI Health Center Omaha. The event supports the LGBTQ+ community and creates a welcoming summer celebration in the heart of the city.
Find plenty more to do in Omaha in July and beyond at VisitOmaha.com.
