14+ Things to Do in Omaha During the College World Series
Today, I’m dedicating my post to the top things to do while in town for the College World Series! This is some of the best of what Omaha has to offer. And, many of these attractions are just minutes from Charles Schwab Field. So, if you are staying near the ballpark, these excursions will only be a hop, skip, and a jump away from your hotel!
Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
At the top of the list is the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium! Omaha’s incredible zoo was rated the best in the world by TripAdvisor. It’s also widely considered the largest in terms of the number of species and acres. It’s home to 17,000 animals, and it features breathtaking attractions like an indoor swamp, rainforest, desert, aquarium, and butterfly exhibit.
No matter the age of those you’re traveling with, the Henry Doorly Zoo will not disappoint. Eat great food, see animals from around the world, watch giant screen movies, and let the kids play at the Adventure Trails. This unbelievable wildlife experience is a must when traveling to Omaha!
Upstream Brewing Co
Upstream Brewing Co is Omaha’s premier brewpub. They offer great food and great drinks in a great environment. Sit inside in their beautiful dining space or take a bite outside on their patio. If you like billiards, they’ve got rows of pool tables for you and the guys to use while you enjoy a beer or cocktail. And, it’s only five minutes from the ball field! It doesn’t get much better than that.
The Durham Museum
If you love history, the Durham Museum is the perfect excursion! The beautiful building holds thousands of historical objects, rare photos, and significant documents. Besides the regular collections, the Durham hosts new temporary exhibits every season.
At the time of the World Series, they’ll have special expositions on Nelson Mandela, dinosaurs, Nebraska during World War II, film in Omaha during the 20th century, and more! It’s a great way to spend the afternoon in Omaha!
Brickway Brewery and Distillery
Brickway Brewery and Distillery is a great spot in the Old Market for craft beers and gourmet cocktails. Sit inside or outside and enjoy Brickway’s extensive drink menu. If you’re hungry, you can grab a pizza, some pretzel bites, or other bar snacks. It’s a fun environment with helpful staff and fantastic alcoholic beverages. What better place to be after a great win?
Wicked Rabbit
Now, if you’re in the mood for a drink, but are looking for something a little more unique, Wicked Rabbit should be your stop. It’s styled after Prohibition-era speakeasies and serves classic cocktails from that time period but with a Wicked Rabbit twist! It’s a rare bar experience Omahans are always quick to recommend!
The Backline Comedy Theatre
Improv, open mics, stand-up comedy, and satirical music groups, the Backline Comedy Theatre has it all! Bring your date, bring your friends, anyone over 18, and laugh your butt off at one of their many weekly shows. It’s only five minutes from the field too! It’s a great place to have a drink and a few laughs.
Harney Street Tavern
Comedy not your thing? What about live music? The Harney Street Tavern offers a casual bar atmosphere that features local blues and rock groups. It’s cozy, but with plenty of room to sit and enjoy your drinks and chat with friends. Check out the Harney Street Tavern while you’re in Omaha to wind down and enjoy some great live music!
M’s Pub
M’s Pub has been an Omaha staple for over forty years, which is why residents and tourists alike were devastated when a fire destroyed the beloved restaurant in 2016. But, M’s Pub rebuilt and came back stronger than ever! They’ve got a great drink selection, classic American dishes, and a trendy industrial decor. Stop by M’s Pub to truly get a taste of Omaha culture!
Old Market Candy Shop
The Old Market Candy Shop is just plain fun. It’s the classic candy store experience with traditional treats and handmade chocolates. The shop is retro-inspired and less than five minutes from the ballpark. Stop in and fill a bag with your favorite treats or some classic candies.
The Boiler Room Restaurant
You won’t find a restaurant in Omaha with a better atmosphere. This fine dining experience takes place inside a restored industrial boiler room. Steel beams, brick walls, and beautiful architecture amplify the upscale restaurant environment.
The Boiler Room features an exquisite wine list and a rich dinner menu to enjoy in its luxury dining setting. If you’re looking for a fancy dinner to celebrate a great win or pick yourself up after a hard loss, The Boiler Room is the perfect restaurant choice.
Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
Omaha has a massive Riverfront project that has closed three parks downtown. It’s a bummer, but the Riverfront will be open later this summer and make for an incredible CWS experience next year!
But if you’re looking to stretch your legs after a long day at the field this year, check out the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. It’s a beautiful 3,000 foot bridge that snakes across the gorgeous Missouri river and leads into Iowa. It’s got massive water features, mesmerizing lights, corky statues, and a breathtaking view. And, it’s only a couple of blocks from the ballpark!
Laka Lono Rum Club
So, you went on vacation to Nebraska, not the tropics. I respect that decision. After all, the College World Series is a total blast and watching it live really makes you feel like a part of history. But, that doesn’t change the fact you’d love to be sipping a pina colada with your feet in the sand. Am I right? Well, if you want the best of Omaha and a beachy getaway, stop by Laka Lono Rum Club!
It’s a vibrant tiki bar destination with tropical cocktails and island treats. Unlike other tiki bars, this one isn’t at all tacky! (Well, maybe a little.) The atmosphere is bold and fun with a modern twist on the classic tiki experience.
Make sure you do a double-take when navigating to the bar, so you don’t miss it. You get to Laka Lono through a walk-out basement entrance beneath another business. It’s a true hidden gem of Omaha.
Prairie Flower Casino
Eat, drink, and gamble at the Ponca Tribe’s Prairie Flower Casino! If you don’t want the fun to stop after the baseball games, drive a few minutes north to Carter Lake, Iowa and spend the evening gambling and enjoying good company. Maybe you’ll even win enough cash to get your own suite for next year’s College World Series!
Omaha Annual Events
Every year Omaha hosts hundreds of memorable annual events! During the College World Series, you could stop by the Aksarben Farmers Market, PolishFest, the Omaha Freedom Festival, or Shakespeare on the Green!
These events only happen during this summer season. So, make the most of your Omaha vacation by visiting another one of our famous events (just like the College World Series). We can’t wait to show you the whole city and all Omaha has to offer.
There’s plenty to do while you’re in town for the College World Series, whether you want a relaxing evening or a once in a lifetime experience!
The College World Series is not the only thing to do in Omaha in June. Our city is full of exciting attractions, fun activities, unbeatable restaurants, and eclectic bars. Plan your stay using this list and take in all of what the Omaha Metro Area has to offer. We’re ready for you, baseball fans!
