The countdown continues as Omaha prepares to host the 2017 Longines FEI World Cup Jumping and FEI World Cup Dressage Finals next March 29–April 2. It’s a breathtaking event held in an energetic city ready to roll out the red carpet. Don’t take our word for it — while you’re in Omaha, Nebraska, be sure to get out and explore this Midwestern gem between the exciting World Cup competitions.
1. Explore One of the World’s Best Zoos
In between trips through the world’s largest indoor desert and America’s largest indoor rainforest, explore the African Grasslands at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Take in 28 acres of breathtaking panoramic views and long vistas teeming with African wildlife. It’s “The Lion King” come to life! On select days, visitors can also enjoy one-of-a-kind backstage tours of the Omaha Zoo. See what it takes to run the world’s largest nocturnal exhibit, and watch shark feedings at the world’s largest zoo aquarium. It’s a chance to explore one of the world’s best zoos from the inside out.
2. Something for the Carnivores
Eat like a Midwesterner and bite into a juicy Omaha steak. Omaha’s legendary steakhouses will keep your carnivorous cravings at bay as you start your steak pilgrimage here. Whether you want flame-broiled, whiskey-doused or wood-fire grilled, Omaha’s got you covered!
3. Shop, Eat, Drink, Repeat
A short walk from the FEI World Cup, the Old Market buzzes with history and entertainment. Stroll the cobblestone streets of Omaha’s historic Old Market Entertainment District. Shop unique boutiques for souvenirs, dine in chef-inspired restaurants, have a beer in a friendly neighborhood pub and enjoy the sounds of street musicians.
4. Taste the Original
Foodies know the value of travel-worthy food, and Omaha gives new meaning to the word “legendary.” Try the Reuben sandwich on its home turf. Yep, it was invented in Omaha — we don’t care what those New Yorkers say. The Reuben sandwich was created at Omaha’s Blackstone Hotel in the early 1900s during a high stakes poker game. Reuben hot spots are sprinkled throughout the city, so pull up a seat and dig in.
5. Visit All 15 Giant Blue Push Pins
We’ve made it easy for visitors to find the fun in Omaha by “marking” 15 top Omaha attractions with giant blue push pins. Each attraction offers unique, year-round experiences that appeal to a wide range of interests. Stand under the world’s largest geodesic dome, create your own work of art and come face-to-face with a Monet — these are just a few of the experiences you can have while pin hunting in Omaha. Maps are available to assist you.
6. Meet Bob
He’s Omaha’s most eligible bachelor and invites women to walk all over him! Actually … Bob is Omaha’s tweeting, Instagramming, one-of-a-kind pedestrian bridge connected to more than 150 miles of trails. He’s always looking to connect. Chat with Bob at @BobTBridge.
7. Explore Omaha One Bite at a Time
Perhaps the easiest way to take a bite out of the city is by hopping on an Omaha Culinary Tour. Omaha’s food scene is bursting with new flavors for you to sample, and these signature tasting tours introduce you to unique culinary experiences.
8. Omaha Craft Brew Tour
We invite you to meet our makers. Omaha’s craft brew scene is one of the most buzzed about in the beer world. Taste what everyone is talking about, and create your own tour of Omaha’s craft breweries. Go to www.OmahaCraftBrew.com on your mobile device to plan your route. Cheers!
9. Get Your Art On
Interact with Omaha’s public art throughout the city. Pose with larger-than-life jugglers in front of Omaha’s downtown convention center, see one of the country’s largest public murals nearby and check out the “mouthy” sculpture at Gene Leahy Mall.
10. Get the Meat Sweats and Go Home Victorious
We’ll end this list with the mother of all beef challenges. Throw out the calorie counting and bite into the Stellanator — a massive meat mountain weighing in at 4.5lbs and 4,900 calories. Few have finished the burger piled high with every possible burger topping (seriously … more people have been to the moon)!
But wait – there’s more. This is just a taste of what Omaha has to offer. Get the full scoop and learn more about everything listed above at www.VisitOmaha.com. Be sure you share your adventures with #OmahaWeekend, and create your own Omaha bucket list along the way.
Remember — the countdown has begun. So don’t wait — start planning your trip to the 2017 Longines FEI World Cup Jumping and FEI World Cup Dressage Finals now. Tickets are available online at www.OmahaWorldCup2017.com.