Heartland of America Park Omaha
A vibrant urban oasis featuring a man-made lake with boat rides and stunning evening fountain light shows.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fountains light up, fire pits glow
Heartland of America Park Omaha
Best Time
Fountains light up, fire pits glow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant urban oasis featuring a man-made lake with boat rides and stunning evening fountain light shows.
"This park is one of the greatest ideas I have seen in any downtown area I've visited in my life."
Skate Rental Info
Skate rentals are available for the Skate Ribbon. Bring your own skates & waiver for free entry! :athletic_shoe:
Fire Pit Fun
Utilize the fire pits for evening gatherings. Perfect for enjoying the park after sunset. :fire: :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Skate Ribbon
Corner of 8th and Farnam Street
A winding path for ice skating in winter and roller skating in warmer months. Fun for all ages!
Man-Made Lake & Boat Rides
Central area of the park
Enjoy scenic boat rides on the lake, especially magical after 5 PM. A peaceful escape in the city.

Interactive Fountains & Light Show
Near the lake
Mesmerizing fountains that come alive with a light show in the evenings. A stunning visual spectacle.

Amphitheater & Event Space
Overlooking the river
A modern amphitheater perfect for concerts and events, offering great views of the Missouri River.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Riverfront Vibe
Skate Ribbon & Fire Pits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Skate Rental Info
Skate rentals are available for the Skate Ribbon. Bring your own skates & waiver for free entry! :athletic_shoe:
Fire Pit Fun
Utilize the fire pits for evening gatherings. Perfect for enjoying the park after sunset. :fire: :iphone:
Explore the Connected Parks
Heartland is part of a larger riverfront system. Walk to Gene Leahy Mall & Lewis and Clark Landing! :world_map:
Kid-Friendly Play Areas
Features slides, swings, climbing structures, and a zip-line for endless family fun. :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
Skate Rental Info
Skate rentals are available for the Skate Ribbon. Bring your own skates & waiver for free entry! :athletic_shoe:
Fire Pit Fun
Utilize the fire pits for evening gatherings. Perfect for enjoying the park after sunset. :fire: :iphone:
Explore the Connected Parks
Heartland is part of a larger riverfront system. Walk to Gene Leahy Mall & Lewis and Clark Landing! :world_map:
Kid-Friendly Play Areas
Features slides, swings, climbing structures, and a zip-line for endless family fun. :child:
Event Hotspot
Hosts concerts and festivals like Maha Festival and Afro Fest. Check schedules! :musical_note:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Heartland of America Park, calling it a 'greatest idea' for a downtown area. They praise its spaciousness, free admission, and well-maintained grounds, highlighting the interactive fountains, playgrounds, and the unique Skate Ribbon. Some mention it's a perfect spot for photos and relaxation, though occasional crowds during events can be a factor.
"This park is one of the greatest ideas I have seen in any downtown area I've visited in my life. It's free, open to all and very spacious. You can bring your pets and even see wildlife. You can jog or run. You can sit down and enjoy the environment. You can picnic. You basically can do everything."
Karel Justo Marquez
"Very nice park. There is an outdoor roller skating park, swings, and a walking path. The fountains are beautiful, and there are really nice areas where you can sit or have a picnic. Very well maintained. Also, the overlook bridge is very cool."
Sadie Kane
"I visited most recently when Taste of Omaha was going on. There were so many food vendors and love the ride options.
Beautiful spot to have this set up with the water fountain, swings and everything available nearby."
R B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is located downtown at 345 Riverfront Dr. It's easily accessible by car, with street parking available for $1/hour. Public transit is also an option, with bus routes connecting to other parts of the city.
Many visitors find it convenient to walk from the Old Market area.Yes, there is street parking available around the park, typically costing $1 per hour.
Some visitors mention it's easy to find parking, especially during off-peak hours.Public transit is available and can be a good option if you're staying nearby. Bus routes connect the riverfront to other attractions like the zoo.
The park is generally well-maintained with paved paths, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Heartland of America Park is connected to the Old Market area via the riverfront parks, making it a pleasant walk between the two.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Heartland of America Park is free to enter and open to everyone.
This makes it a fantastic, budget-friendly destination for all visitors.The park is generally open year-round, but specific attractions like the Skate Ribbon or boat rides may have seasonal hours. It's best to check the official Omaha Riverfront website for the most up-to-date information.
You can skate for free if you bring your own skates and a signed waiver. Otherwise, skate rentals are available for a small fee, typically around $5 per person.
Yes, the park frequently hosts events, including concerts, festivals like Maha Festival and Afro Fest, and other community gatherings. Check the Omaha Riverfront's event calendar for upcoming activities.
Yes, pets are welcome in Heartland of America Park, making it a great spot for dog walkers.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy roller skating or ice skating on the Skate Ribbon, take boat rides on the lake, relax by the fountains, have a picnic, jog, or simply enjoy the scenic views.
There are also playgrounds for kids.Absolutely! The park features playgrounds with slides, swings, climbing structures, and even a zip-line, making it a hit with families.
Yes, boat rides are available on the man-made lake, particularly after 5 PM. It's a popular way to experience the park.
The Skate Ribbon is a unique attraction that transforms from an ice-skating rink in winter to a roller-skating path in warmer months. It's a winding, scenic path for skaters.
The park offers numerous relaxing spots, including benches and picnic areas, perfect for enjoying the environment or having a meal.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the park itself doesn't have permanent restaurants, it often hosts food vendors during events like festivals.
The nearby Old Market area offers a wide variety of dining options.Yes, picnicking is a popular activity at Heartland of America Park. There are many nice areas where you can sit and enjoy your meal.
Events like the Tacos & Tequila Fest and Taste of Omaha bring a diverse range of food vendors, offering everything from tacos to international cuisine.
Typically, snack and drink vendors are present during special events. For regular visits, it's advisable to bring your own refreshments or plan to visit nearby establishments.
While not explicitly stated, many downtown parks are amenable to food delivery services. It's a good option if you want to enjoy a meal in a scenic setting.
📸 📸 Photography
The fountains, the Skate Ribbon, the amphitheater, and the lake offer great photo opportunities. The overlook bridge also provides a cool perspective.
Drone shots capturing the park and riverfront are also popular.Absolutely! The park's beautiful scenery, water features, and modern design make it an ideal location for photoshoots.
While general photography is encouraged, drone usage might have specific regulations. It's always best to check with park authorities or look for signage regarding drone policies.
Evenings offer stunning opportunities with the fountain light show and sunset views over the river.
Mornings can provide softer light and fewer crowds.Yes, capturing the energy of events like concerts and festivals is encouraged, but be mindful of any specific event photography guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day to take full advantage of the playground facilities. The connected parks also offer diverse play experiences. Remember to check for any scheduled family-friendly events that might add to the fun.
💰 Budget Travelers
Even activities like the Skate Ribbon are very affordable, especially if you bring your own skates. Exploring the connected riverfront parks also adds to the value, offering more free attractions and beautiful views.
couples
Consider utilizing the fire pits for a cozy evening together, or simply find a quiet spot to relax and enjoy the city lights. The park is also a picturesque setting for memorable photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Omaha Riverfront Transformation
The renovation, which began in 2019, has successfully integrated natural beauty with urban design. Visitors can now enjoy a seamless experience moving between the different park sections, each offering unique features. This interconnectedness is a key aspect of the riverfront's appeal, encouraging exploration and extended visits.
The success of the riverfront project is evident in the increased community engagement and the park's popularity for events and recreation. It stands as a testament to thoughtful urban planning and a commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Omaha.
Year-Round Fun at the Skate Ribbon
As the weather warms up, the ribbon transitions to a roller-skating path, allowing for year-round enjoyment. Visitors can rent skates on-site, or bring their own for free entry. The winding path offers a more engaging experience than a traditional rink, winding through the park's scenic landscape.
The Skate Ribbon has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a fun and active way to experience the park regardless of the season. It's a prime example of how the park is designed for continuous engagement and enjoyment.
Evening Ambiance and Events
The park also serves as a premier venue for a variety of events, from music festivals to cultural celebrations. Events like the Tacos & Tequila Fest, Maha Festival, and Afro Fest Omaha have drawn large crowds, showcasing the park's capacity to host significant gatherings.
These evening events and the ambient lighting contribute to the park's reputation as a dynamic and engaging destination, offering a different, yet equally appealing, experience after sunset.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit