5 Outdoorsy Things for Active Families to Do in Omaha, Nebraska

Get outdoors in Grand Island NE

Looking for some exciting and active outdoor activities for your family in Omaha, Nebraska? Look no further! Regardless of the season, Omaha and Grand Island NE, offer a plethora of opportunities for families to explore the great outdoors and stay active. From hiking and biking to fishing and picnicking, there is something for everyone, including older kids and teens, in this vibrant Midwestern city. Check out this list of our favorite outdoorsy things for active families with older kids and teens to do in and around Omaha.

Why you should get outdoors in Grand Island, NE.

Nestled in the heart of Nebraska, Grand Island offers plenty of opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the great outdoors. From exploring the scenic parks and trails to fishing and boating on the Platte River, there are countless ways to get outside and experience the natural beauty of this charming city. But why should you make an effort to get outdoors in Grand Island, NE?

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the many benefits of spending time in nature, as well as some of the unique outdoor activities that Grand Island has to offer. So, whether you’re a lifelong resident or just passing through, read on to discover why getting outdoors in Grand Island is an experience you won’t want to miss.

The benefits of outdoor activity are countless, too. Participating in outdoor activities can have numerous health benefits. Spending time outside in nature can do the following:

  • Lower stress levels.
  • Improve your mood.
  • Provide physical activity that is critical to maintaining good overall health.
  • Boost your immune system.
  • Provide a healthy dose of Vitamin D.

So, if you’re looking for a fun and easy way to improve your physical and mental health, consider getting outside and enjoying some fresh air and sunshine.

5 fun things to do outside that the whole family can enjoy. 

Here are some of our favorite activities for you to try. We’re confident that everyone in the family will love them. They are also a great way to break up the screen time that older kids and teens tend to love.

1. Go fishing at Mormon Island State Recreation Area.

Located just south of Grand Island, Mormon Island State Recreation Area is a popular spot for fishing. The park features several lakes stocked with a variety of fish, including bass, catfish, and trout. For non-anglers, you can enjoy the hiking and biking trails that wind their way through the scenic Nebraska countryside, offering stunning views of the Platte River and surrounding landscape. Pack a picnic and a tent and make a weekend of it. Mormon Island offers excellent camping, and wildlife watching, making it a great spot for a family outing or a weekend getaway.

2. Rock climb at Fremont State Lakes.

Fremont State Lakes, located about an hour west of Grand Island, offer some of the best rock climbing in the state. The park features several limestone cliffs and boulders that are perfect for climbers of all skill levels. If rock-climbing isn’t your cup of tea, the park also offers excellent fishing opportunities for species such as catfish, largemouth bass, and bluegill. 

3. Cool off and splash yourself silly at Island Oasis Water Park.

What kid doesn’t love a water park? When the weather gets hot, head to Island Oasis Water Park in Grand Island. This is a fantastic place to bring children as the park features a wave pool, lazy river, and several water slides, making it a great place to cool off and have some fun in the sun. So pack the sunscreen, a towel, and a swimsuit, and make your way to Island Oasis. But before you do, be sure to check for hours and availability to avoid potential disappointment.

4. Explore the Platte River by kayak or canoe.

For the more adventurous outdoor experience, and for those thrill-seekers in the family, consider renting a kayak or canoe and exploring the Platte River located just two hours outside of Grand Island. Several outfitters in the Grand Island area offer rentals and guided trips, allowing you to experience the natural beauty of the river up close. Don’t forget your camera to capture the unique and stunning vistas along the waterfront.

5. Take in a museum and surrounding gardens. 

Another great outdoor activity to do in Grand Island is to visit Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer. Open year-round, the museum is situated on 200 acres of land and features beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience what life was like for pioneers on the Nebraska prairie. You can also take part in hands-on activities, such as cooking over an open fire or making crafts, making it a great option for families looking to enjoy the outdoors while learning about history.

Plan ahead for your outdoor fun.

One thing any parent knows is that if a kid doesn’t want to do something, they can make it a less-than-pleasant activity for everyone else participating. So be sure that for whatever outdoor activities you participate in near Grand Island, NE, the focus is on fun. And, if you are wondering how to be more active, know that being active can mean so many different things. For some it might mean a relaxing afternoon on a nearby dock, seeing if you can catch the fish that wants to get away. For others, it might mean rigorous hiking for miles on end. Whatever it is that you choose, make it a memorable experience.

And, to ensure everyone has a great time, be sure to eat a well-balanced meal and drink plenty of water before setting out on your adventure. Bring along snacks, especially for the kids, to help tide everyone over between meals as you burn off all that energy. But also important, don’t forget to pack the sunscreen. Though a little bit of Vitamin D is good for you, too much sun can damage your skin.

Make a visit to the dentist one of your child’s summer activities.

Okay, we know that we’re not an outdoor location and going to the dentist isn’t quite the same as all of those other fun outdoorsy activities we listed. But, our goal is to make sure a toothache doesn’t get in the way of your outside fun. So if your kids are overdue for their preventive dentistry visit, there is no time like the present to schedule their appointment. We’ll clean their teeth and make sure that everything in their mouth is in tip-top shape. We look forward to seeing you and talking about all the great things there are to do in and around Grand Island, NE.