Need a fun escape from the city without going far? These easy day trips from Omaha let you explore charming small towns, scenic parks, and hidden gems, perfect for a quick adventure close to home.
If you are in a hurry, I recommend:
Unique Day Trips:
1. For small-town charm: Ashland - 40 minutes from Omaha
Location: Ashland, Nebraska
Nestled between Omaha and Lincoln, Ashland offers small-town charm with big-time attractions nearby. From aviation history to wildlife adventures and scenic parks, this central Nebraska destination makes the perfect weekend getaway.
- Top-Tier Attractions – Visit Mahoney State Park, Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari, and the Strategic Air and Space Museum
- Aviation Adventure – Explore U.S. Air Force planes, missiles, and rockets at the Smithsonian-affiliated museum
- Charming Downtown – Enjoy art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants in a walkable, historic Midwestern setting
- Family Fun Events – Don’t miss summer’s Stirrup Days, packed with activities for all ages
- Warm-Weather Vibes – Shop sidewalk sales, catch live music, or cool off at local pools and water parks
- Convenient Location – Located between Nebraska’s two largest cities, making travel a breeze
Ashland, Nebraska is ideally located between Lincoln and Omaha and is surrounded by some of the state's best attractions.
Day Trips for Couples:
2. For an easy scenic escape: Council Bluffs - 10 minutes from Omaha
Location: Council Bluffs, Iowa
Located just across the Missouri River from Omaha, Council Bluffs blends urban convenience with rich history and riverfront beauty. With vibrant parks, fascinating museums, and scenic outdoor escapes, this Iowa gem offers something for every traveler.
- Scenic Riverfront – River’s Edge Park features a pedestrian bridge, splash pad, sandy play area, public art, and a 5-acre lawn for events and relaxation
- Railroad History – Explore the Union Pacific Railroad Museum and the RailsWest Railroad Museum to uncover the area's transportation legacy
- Historic Home Tour – Step into the 19th century at the General Dodge House, once home to a Civil War general and railroad magnate
- Great Outdoors – Discover nature at the Western Historic Trails Center, Lewis and Clark Monument, and Lake Manawa State Park
- Easy Access – Just minutes from downtown Omaha via I-480 or the pedestrian bridge
- Family-Friendly Fun – From interactive exhibits to lakeside trails, Council Bluffs offers a well-rounded experience for all ages
Council Bluffs, Iowa is just across the river from Omaha and filled with riverfront views, historic gems, and outdoor adventures.
3. For big-city energy: A Day Trip to Des Moines - 2 hours from Omaha
Location: Des Moines, Iowa
As the Midwest’s fastest-growing metro, Des Moines delivers big-city energy with small-town charm. From buzzing nightlife and top-tier dining to outdoor escapes and iconic festivals, Iowa’s capital city is packed with reasons to visit year-round.
- Vibrant Urban Scene – Enjoy nightlife, local eats, sports events, and live entertainment in a lively downtown setting
- Major Annual Events – Don't miss the legendary Iowa State Fair, Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival (March), or Drake Relays (April)
- Outdoor Adventure – Explore 800+ miles of biking, hiking, and kayaking trails along the Clive Greenbelt and Des Moines River
- Arts & Culture – Experience creativity at the Des Moines Art Festival, Des Moines Art Center, and performances by the Des Moines Symphony
- Family-Friendly Fun – From fairs to festivals, Des Moines offers activities for all ages and interests
- Accessible Destination – Centrally located with easy access via I-80 and I-35, perfect for weekend getaways
Des Moines, Iowa offers an exciting mix of culture, events, and outdoor activities in a dynamic, growing city.
Best Time for Day Trips from Omaha, Nebraska:
- April to June – Spring brings blooming prairies, mild temps, and perfect weather for parks, trails, and wildlife areas.
- July to August – Summer is great for lakes, local festivals, historic sites, and scenic small towns.
- September to October – Enjoy crisp air, colorful foliage, and harvest season fun like pumpkin patches and cider mills.
- November – Cool, quiet days ideal for museums, art walks, and exploring charming downtown districts.
- December to March – Winter invites cozy getaways, holiday events, and peaceful nature centers for snowy strolls.
Plan Your Trip