Winter Wonderland Wonders: 8 Enchanting Activities to Experience in Omaha

Winter activities in Omaha.

‘Tis the Season for Crisp Mornings

It’s a cold, crisp, Nebraska morning. Equipped with a freshly brewed cup of coffee, you open your front door, and what do you see? Snow. It’s as though every inch of snow fell directly in your neighborhood. Though absolutely gorgeous, you’ve likely seen one too many snowfalls and can only think about how inconvenient a winter wonderland can become.

This snowy season, let’s do our best to renew the childhood joy that comes along with the first snowfall of the year. After all, you’re in a genuine, enchanting winter wonderland. Let’s see what sort of winter fun we can find!

Ice Skating Delights: Glide and Twirl at Omaha’s Ice Rinks

With the winter weather, it’s the perfect time to go live out your ice skating dreams on one of the many local ice rinks. Whether outside or in, these places are sure to provide plenty of memories for the whole family.

Once the weather is just right, it’s time for those outdoor rinks to open up! There is the rink at UNMC which typically opens in the early parts of December and is an affordable option for the whole family. It’s even free for students!

Another option is Eugine T. Mahoney State Park. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for the opening and closing dates for their outdoor ice rink! 

If the weather really isn’t cooperating, and you’d still like to twirl on the ice, why not try out the local indoor rink? Moylan Iceplex is an Olympic-sized rink, ready for you to glide along to your heart’s content. If you are unsure how to skate, they even offer beginner’s classes.

Holiday Lights Spectacular: Embrace the Festive Glow

With Christmas around the corner, there’s something extra special about the holiday lights twinkling in the fresh snow. Take advantage of the gorgeous displays this season! 

Join everyone at Union Station for their very own tree lighting, complete with a visit from Santa Claus himself! If you are unable to make it to the official lighting, you can keep an eye out for concerts and other events spanning into the early parts of January. 

Of course, you can’t forget the Omaha Holiday Lights Festival. The bright lights shine all throughout downtown, and even into the local residential areas. You can find spectacular displays all the way down 24th Street, and can view an impressive display of fireworks if you come downtown to celebrate the new year.

Snowy Trails Adventure: Explore Omaha’s Winter Hiking Trails

Taking a hike in the cold of winter might not sound like the best pastime, but if the weather cooperates, it can be a memorable (in a good way) experience!

Bundle up the family and explore any part of the 76 miles of trail at Lake McConaughy. Watch the beautiful birds, and explore the shoreline! To explore the gorgeous scenery, head up to Scott’s Bluff!  You can also explore the trails up to Smith Falls and view it in all of its icy glory. Just imagine the spectacular family photos you can take!

Hot Chocolate Quest: Discover the Best Hot Cocoa Spots

On those especially cold days, sometimes the best cure is a nice cup of hot chocolate. Bundle those kiddos out the door and come on to see what you can find! Enjoy the rich flavors of all of these European chocolates, all while warming up in this adorable shop—Stam. They have gourmet chocolates, gelato, hot chocolate, and delicious coffees! 

Indoor Cultural Escapes: Museums and Art Galleries

When it’s too cold to explore outside, pack the little ones up and head over to the Omaha Children’s Museum! They are constantly updating their events, so be sure to check and see what they have going on for the season! 

Sledding and Snow Play: Family Fun at Omaha’s Snowy Parks

If you grew up anywhere with snow, you likely have some very fond memories of sledding down whatever hills your family could find. Sledding is always a good winter activity! So get those sleds ready and get out the door! According to local reviewers, Rockbrook Park has an amazing hill for sledding. Eugine T. Mahoney State Park is equipped to keep your family sledding all season. If there isn’t enough snow at the time, they even have a snow machine to pack some more on!

Winter Festivals and Events: Celebrate the Season Together

When in a winter wonderland, such as Omaha, there are always seasonal activities around! Go view the holiday decor at the General Crook House Museum, see what events are going on at the Hot Shops Art Center, or see when St. Cecilia is hosting their annual flower festival! 

No matter the season, Omaha is filled with fun things to do with your family! Even while it’s cold, be sure to make the most of the snowy weather. Get out of the house, soak in that crisp air, and spend that invaluable time with your family.

Always remember, if anyone in your family is in need of dental care this season, we’ve got you covered at any of our five locations. You can make an appointment easily online, or give us a call. We’d love to hear from you!