Durham Museum Omaha
Explore Omaha's history and marvel at stunning Art Deco architecture in this 1931 Union Station turned museum.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Discounted admission & late hours
Durham Museum Omaha
Best Time
Discounted admission & late hours

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Omaha's history and marvel at stunning Art Deco architecture in this 1931 Union Station turned museum.
"A beautiful old train station with plenty of history and exhibits to enjoy."
🎯 Tuesday Night Discount
Enjoy $5 admission after 5 PM on Tuesdays in summer! Open late until 8 PM.
🚗 Parking Patience
GPS can be tricky; allow extra time for parking and finding the entrance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Union Station
Main Hall
Marvel at the stunning Art Deco architecture of this 1931 train station, a true gem of Omaha.

Vintage Train Cars
Exhibition Hall
Step inside and explore actual historic train cars, offering a tangible glimpse into the golden age of rail travel.

Omaha History Exhibits
Various Galleries
Discover the rich heritage of Omaha through engaging displays that chronicle the city's evolution.

Rotating Special Exhibits
Special Exhibition Hall
Experience world-class temporary exhibits that change frequently, from superheroes to dinosaurs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tuesday Nights are a Steal!
Parking Pointers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Tuesday Night Discount
Enjoy $5 admission after 5 PM on Tuesdays in summer! Open late until 8 PM.
🚗 Parking Patience
GPS can be tricky; allow extra time for parking and finding the entrance.
🏛️ Architectural Gem
Don't just see the exhibits, admire the stunning Art Deco building itself!
🚂 Train Enthusiast Heaven
Explore real train cars and model railroads – a highlight for many visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Tuesday Night Discount
Enjoy $5 admission after 5 PM on Tuesdays in summer! Open late until 8 PM.
🚗 Parking Patience
GPS can be tricky; allow extra time for parking and finding the entrance.
🏛️ Architectural Gem
Don't just see the exhibits, admire the stunning Art Deco building itself!
🚂 Train Enthusiast Heaven
Explore real train cars and model railroads – a highlight for many visitors.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Interactive exhibits and hands-on zones make it great for families.
🎟️ Check for Free Days
Look for 'Free Museum Days' on their website for potential savings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Durham Museum for its stunning Art Deco architecture and its well-curated exhibits, particularly those focused on Omaha's history and train travel. Many highlight the immersive experience of exploring vintage train cars and appreciate the effort put into preserving and utilizing the historic Union Station. The temporary exhibits are also frequently lauded for their quality and engagement.
"A beautiful old train station with plenty of history and exhibits to enjoy. You can easily spend 1-2 hours in here. Staff is friendly and everything is clean. This is one of the best museums in the midwest!"
Isaac Archuleta
"Worth seeing if you have time to spare while visiting Omaha and want to take a brief step back in time to learn more about what train travel was like in the 1930s. Also includes many other historical exhibits going back to the 1700-1800s. Great museum overall."
Howard Steffey
"Definitely recommend this awesome historical and hands-on Museum! The history of Omaha is fascinating and the exhibits do a wonderful job. And you have to keep going back because their temporary exhibits are phenomenal."
Ryan M. Davis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Durham Museum is located in downtown Omaha at 801 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68108. It's housed in the historic Union Station. Parking is available, but some visitors note that GPS directions can be a bit confusing, so plan for extra time.
Yes, parking is available for visitors. However, be aware that some visitors have experienced issues with GPS leading them to the wrong entrance, so it's advisable to allow ample time for navigation.
Information on public transportation routes to the Durham Museum can typically be found on the Omaha Metro website. It's a central downtown location, so it's likely accessible via bus routes.
The Durham Museum is housed in a historic building, but efforts have been made to ensure accessibility. It's generally considered accessible for wheelchairs, with elevators and ramps available.
To avoid the largest crowds, aim for weekday mornings, especially outside of school holidays. Tuesday evenings during the summer offer a discounted rate but can be busier.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Durham Museum typically operates Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, and Sundays from 1 PM to 5 PM. They often have extended hours on Tuesdays during the summer, staying open until 8 PM. It's always best to check their official website for the most current hours.
General admission prices vary, but a significant highlight is the $5 admission after 5 PM on Tuesdays during the summer months. Check their website for current ticket prices and any special offers.
Yes, you can typically purchase tickets online through the Durham Museum's official website. This is often recommended to save time upon arrival.
The Durham Museum occasionally offers free admission days, sometimes tied to local resident passes or specific promotions. It's worth checking their website or social media for announcements about these opportunities.
Yes, the Durham Museum likely offers various membership levels that provide benefits such as free admission, discounts, and special event access. Check their website for details on how to become a member.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the stunning Art Deco architecture of the historic Union Station, walk through vintage train cars, and discover exhibits on Omaha's history. They also feature fascinating temporary exhibits, from superheroes to dinosaurs.
Absolutely! The museum is very family-friendly with interactive exhibits, hands-on building zones, and the allure of real train cars. It's a great place for children to learn and have fun.
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring the museum, depending on their interest level and how much time they dedicate to each exhibit. If there's a special exhibit, you might want to allocate more time.
The Durham Museum hosts various events, including historical tours like the 'River City History Tour,' escape rooms, and family-friendly activities. Check their events calendar for upcoming happenings.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed inside the Durham Museum, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits. It's always a good idea to check for posted signage or ask staff if you're unsure.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Durham Museum often has a soda fountain or a small cafe area where you can grab snacks and drinks. For more substantial meals, there are numerous restaurants located nearby in downtown Omaha.
Yes, the Durham Museum is located in downtown Omaha, which offers a wide variety of dining options. You can find everything from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants within walking distance.
Typically, museums have policies against bringing outside food and drinks into exhibit areas to protect the artifacts. It's best to consume any personal food or beverages outside the museum or in designated areas if available.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand Art Deco architecture of the Union Station lobby is a prime spot for photos. Capturing the vintage train cars, especially from the inside, also makes for great shots. Don't forget the details of the exhibits!
While personal photography is usually permitted, flash photography is often prohibited in museum settings to prevent damage to delicate exhibits. Always look for signs or ask museum staff for clarification.
A versatile camera with good low-light capabilities is ideal, especially for capturing the interior architecture. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the grand spaces, and a zoom lens can help capture details within exhibits.
Professional photography or videography may require special permits or advance arrangements. It's best to contact the museum directly if you plan on conducting a professional shoot.
Beyond the main hall and train cars, look for unique details in the exhibit displays, vintage signage, and the restored elements of the original train station. The 'Hall of Heroes' also offers fun photo ops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a Tuesday evening during the summer for discounted admission and extended hours, making it a budget-friendly family outing. While parking can be a bit tricky, the overall experience is well worth the effort for a memorable family day out.
🏛️ Architecture & History Buffs
🚂 Train Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel: Union Station
Walking through the main hall, you can almost hear the echoes of past travelers. The scale and grandeur of the station are truly impressive, making it a highlight for many visitors, even those who aren't typically museum-goers. The restoration efforts have preserved its charm while making it a functional space for exhibitions and events. The attention to detail in the renovation ensures that the building's historical integrity is maintained, offering a unique backdrop for the museum's collections.
For photography enthusiasts, the Union Station interior provides endless opportunities. The interplay of light and shadow, the geometric patterns, and the sheer volume of the space make for stunning visual compositions. Whether you're capturing the sweeping vistas of the main hall or the finer details of the decorative elements, the architecture itself is a star attraction.
A Journey Through Time: Exhibits and Collections
Beyond the rails, the museum showcases the history of Omaha itself, from its early days to its development as a significant Midwestern city. These exhibits often feature artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring local stories to life. Many visitors find these exhibits particularly engaging, offering a deep dive into the region's unique heritage. The museum also hosts a variety of traveling and temporary exhibits, which have ranged from popular culture themes like superheroes and toys to scientific explorations like dinosaurs. These rotating displays ensure there's always something new to discover, making repeat visits worthwhile.
Community feedback highlights the hands-on nature of many exhibits, making the museum enjoyable for all ages. The combination of historical artifacts, immersive environments, and engaging narratives creates a dynamic learning experience. Whether you're a history buff, a train enthusiast, or simply curious about Omaha's past, the museum's diverse collections offer something to captivate every visitor.
Family Fun and Educational Experiences
Beyond the permanent collections, the museum frequently features special exhibits that are particularly engaging for younger audiences. Past exhibits have included themes like 'Hall of Heroes' with superhero-themed activities and displays, and immersive experiences that capture children's imaginations. These rotating attractions provide fresh reasons for families to visit throughout the year, ensuring a dynamic and exciting experience for repeat visitors. The museum's commitment to making history accessible and fun for all ages is evident in its thoughtful exhibit design and programming.
Many parents and caregivers share positive feedback about the museum's ability to keep children entertained and educated simultaneously. The combination of historical context, interactive elements, and the sheer novelty of exploring a grand old train station makes for a memorable family outing. It's a place where kids can learn about Omaha's past, the evolution of transportation, and even discover new interests through the diverse exhibits.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit