Kiewit Luminarium
An interactive science museum on the Omaha Riverfront, sparking curiosity with over 100 hands-on exhibits for all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more hands-on time
Kiewit Luminarium
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more hands-on time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An interactive science museum on the Omaha Riverfront, sparking curiosity with over 100 hands-on exhibits for all ages.
"The Kiewit Luminarium is definitely my new favorite!"
🎯 Plan for 2-4 Hours
You'll need ample time to explore all the interactive exhibits; many visitors wish they had stayed longer!
📅 Check for Special Events
Look out for limited-time installations like 'GLOW' or adult-only 'Night Light' events.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Interactive STEM Exhibits
Throughout the museum
Hands-on learning with over 100 exhibits exploring light, sound, and science. Fun for all ages!
GLOW: Light Art & Science
Special installation
A limited-time exhibit celebrating the art and science of light, often featured during holiday seasons.
Night Light: Adults Only Thursdays
Museum-wide
Enjoy the museum with music and drinks in a child-free environment every Thursday evening.
Creatividad Silvestre | Wild Creativity
Bilingual Exhibit
Explore biomimicry and nature through this engaging, bilingual exhibit, perfect for solo exploration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Best Experience
Value for Money Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Plan for 2-4 Hours
You'll need ample time to explore all the interactive exhibits; many visitors wish they had stayed longer!
📅 Check for Special Events
Look out for limited-time installations like 'GLOW' or adult-only 'Night Light' events. +1
☕ Grab a Bite at Fig Cafe
The on-site cafe offers tasty snacks and meals, though it can be a bit pricey.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Arrive early or be prepared for a bit of a search for parking, especially on busy days.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Plan for 2-4 Hours
You'll need ample time to explore all the interactive exhibits; many visitors wish they had stayed longer!
📅 Check for Special Events
Look out for limited-time installations like 'GLOW' or adult-only 'Night Light' events. +1
☕ Grab a Bite at Fig Cafe
The on-site cafe offers tasty snacks and meals, though it can be a bit pricey.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Arrive early or be prepared for a bit of a search for parking, especially on busy days.
🎟️ Consider a Membership
If you're local, a yearly family pass offers great value for repeat visits.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be on your feet exploring, so wear comfortable footwear for a full day of discovery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Kiewit Luminarium for its highly engaging and interactive exhibits that make learning fun for all ages. The hands-on approach and variety of scientific concepts explored are major highlights. While some find the admission price a bit high for the duration, many agree it's a worthwhile experience, especially for families and those interested in STEM.
"I was able to get a Leisure Pass from the Bellevue Library for the Kiewit Luminarium. I took my three kids (16, 15, & 12) and we spent about four hours exploring every part of the Luminarium. Everything is very hands-on, allowing visitors to test things on their own. There's a plethora of science concepts everywhere, teaching you without really teaching you. The Luminarium is the epitome of scientific exploration. Just when you think you're done, you find even more cool things you missed. I've been a huge fan of science museums ever since my childhood days visiting the Museum of Science and History in Florida, but the Kiewit Luminarium is definitely my new favorite!"
Jessica Conkey
"2 floors of interactive exhibits. Each one had educational information and many of them had staff nearby to help, explain further and educate us even more. It was clean and nice inside. No wait to enter, exhibits weren't crowded. We waited only a few mins for some exhibits. We went on a Sat afternoon. There is a snack shop on site with decent options and a play area on the 2nd floor. Overall great experience but I don't think I would pay to do it again."
Crystal Ridder
"If you love science and new technology, you’re gonna love this place. My favorite part was the stage place, drawing and taking a pic of us and choosing our fake name. Kids will definitely have so much fun here."
ASH
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kiewit Luminarium is conveniently located on the Omaha Riverfront. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby, though it can be challenging during peak times. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the downtown Omaha area. +1
Parking is available near the Kiewit Luminarium, but it can be challenging, especially on weekends or during special events. Arriving early is recommended.
Yes, the Kiewit Luminarium is stroller friendly, making it easy for families with young children to navigate the exhibits.
The Luminarium is situated on the Omaha Riverfront, which is a great area for walking and biking. You can easily access it via the riverfront trails.
From the airport, you can take a taxi, rideshare service, or public transportation to reach the Kiewit Luminarium in downtown Omaha. The journey typically takes around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Adult tickets are generally around $25, with youth tickets (ages 5-17) priced at $20. Children under 5 may have free admission. Prices can vary for special events.
Some visitors have utilized library passes, like the Leisure Pass from Bellevue Library, for discounted or free entry. Check with your local library for similar programs.
Tickets can typically be purchased at the door, but it's advisable to check their website or call ahead, especially for popular times or special events, to ensure availability.
Opening hours can vary, but generally, the museum is open during the day. Special 'Night Light' events for adults are held on Thursday evenings from 7-10 PM. Always check the official website for the most current hours. +1
The Kiewit Luminarium is designed for all ages, with interactive exhibits that appeal to both children and adults. While some content is geared towards ages 6 and up, younger children also find it very engaging. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors rave about the hands-on nature of all exhibits, from water tables and pendulums to light and sound installations. The 'stage place' where you can draw and take a photo is also a hit. +1
Most visitors recommend allocating at least 2-4 hours to fully explore the museum. Some families have spent even longer, indicating there's plenty to discover.
Yes, many exhibits have staff nearby who can assist, explain concepts further, and enhance the learning experience for visitors.
Yes, there is a cafe called Fig on-site that offers snacks and meals. While tasty, some find it a bit expensive.
Night Light is an adults-only event held every Thursday evening from 7-10 PM. It offers a chance to enjoy the museum with music and drinks in a child-free environment. +3
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Kiewit Luminarium, allowing you to capture the fun and interactive exhibits. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding photography.
Many exhibits offer unique visual elements that make for great photos. The 'stage place' where you can draw and take a picture is a popular spot for memorable shots.
While the exhibits are designed to be engaging regardless of the time, visiting during less crowded periods like weekday mornings might offer more opportunities for unobstructed photos.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally good practice to avoid using flash photography in indoor museum settings to protect exhibits and not disturb other visitors. Check for any specific museum policies.
Yes, many visitors share videos of their experiences on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Be respectful of others and any filming policies the museum may have. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Don't miss the outdoor playground right next to the museum for even more fun. Consider packing snacks or planning a meal at the on-site cafe, Fig, to make your visit a full-day adventure. Weekday mornings are often less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience for younger children.
👫 Couples & Date Nights
+3It's a refreshing alternative to traditional date spots, encouraging conversation and shared discovery. You can revisit exhibits you loved during the day or experience them with a new perspective. The on-site cafe, Fig, is also a great option for a pre- or post-museum bite.
🧑🎓 STEM Enthusiasts & Lifelong Learners
+1Engage with the 'Wild Creativity' exhibit to explore biomimicry, or simply dive into the myriad of physics and engineering displays. The museum's design encourages a deep dive into scientific principles through hands-on experimentation, making it a truly rewarding experience for those who love to learn.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Science Behind the Fun
+1Many exhibits are designed to teach scientific principles without feeling like a traditional lesson. For instance, you can build dams to observe water flow and erosion, experiment with pendulums to understand motion, or create music through various interactive installations. The museum's design emphasizes learning through doing, allowing visitors of all ages to test theories and discover scientific phenomena firsthand.
Special installations like GLOW further highlight the intersection of art and science, using light as a medium for exploration. These temporary exhibits often add a unique dimension to the museum experience, making repeat visits worthwhile. The commitment to STEAM education extends beyond the museum walls through initiatives like 'Science Snacks,' bringing the wonder of the Luminarium into the community.
+1Adults-Only Nights: A Different Vibe
+3These Thursday nights provide a unique opportunity to explore the interactive displays in a different atmosphere. The absence of children allows for a more focused and perhaps even more playful engagement with the science and technology on display. It's a chance to reconnect with your inner child and appreciate the exhibits from a new perspective.
While the core exhibits remain the same, the 'Night Light' events add a social element, making it a well-rounded evening activity. It's a testament to the museum's versatility, catering to both family daytime visits and sophisticated adult evenings.
Beyond the Exhibits: Riverfront Fun
The RiverFront itself is a beautifully developed area, perfect for leisurely strolls, cycling, or simply enjoying the scenic views. It provides a refreshing contrast to the indoor exploration of the Luminarium and is easily accessible from the museum.
Additionally, the RiverFront hosts various events and has amenities like the Fig Cafe, which is also part of the Luminarium experience. This integration of indoor and outdoor attractions makes the Kiewit Luminarium and its surroundings a comprehensive destination for a full day of entertainment and learning.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit