July in Omaha brings outdoor concerts, rose gardens, waterparks and ice cream crawls.
1. Walk the Bob Kerrey Bridge Pedestrian Bridge
The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, nicknamed "Bob," spans 3,000 feet across the Missouri River and connects Omaha to Council Bluffs, Iowa. Stand on the state line marker mid-bridge with one foot in each state. It's called "bobbing." Share your photo on social media and tag it with #ItHappensOnBob.
2. Smell the Roses at Lauritzen Gardens
Lauritzen Gardens features more than 2,000 blooming rose plants in July. Nearby, the Gerald R. Ford Birthsite and Gardens has even more rose beds and historical touches. Both gardens offer quiet paths for a summer stroll.
3. See Orangutans at Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
The Hubbard Orangutan Forest at Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium recreates an Indonesian rainforest. Watch live training sessions, try the interactive exhibits and observe orangutans and Siamangs up close in a habitat designed for climbing and play.
4. Rent a Stand-Up Paddleboard
Cool off on the water with a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) 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.
Photos: Driftwood Paddle Adventures on Instagram
5. Create Your Own Omaha Ice Cream Crawl
Map your own route through Omaha's ice cream shops. Try Coneflower Creamery’s farm-to-cone scoops, Ted & Wally’s rich small-batch flavors, eCreamery’s custom creations, Tipico Helado's wide variety of flavors or Mixins’ rolled ice cream topped with your name in syrup. Find more stops on Omaha's bakeries, desserts and ice cream page.
6. Vibe to Live Music
Catch live music all month long. Hear jazz at Midtown Crossing and rock at Zorinsky Lake. Saturdays at Stinson, Nebraska Crossroads Music Festival, and Playing with Fire at The Slowdown add to Omaha’s summer concert calendar.
7. Wander the Garden of the Zodiac
The Garden of the Zodiac sits inside the Old Market Passageway in downtown Omaha. Swiss artist Eva Aeppli created the bronze zodiace sculptures. Step in, slow down and find your sign.
8. Cool Off at Fun-Plex Waterpark
Fun-Plex is 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 in 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.
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.
