Lauritzen Gardens Omaha - Flowers and greenery at the Garden Center
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Lauritzen Gardens Omaha

4.8
·5k reviews·Omaha, United States

Omaha's 100-acre botanical oasis, featuring diverse themed gardens, a conservatory, and a popular children's play area.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Summer mornings

Flowers in full bloom, pleasant weather

CrowdMedium
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Lauritzen Gardens Omaha - Flowers and greenery at the Garden Center

Lauritzen Gardens Omaha

Best Time

Spring & Summer mornings

Flowers in full bloom, pleasant weather

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Omaha's 100-acre botanical oasis, featuring diverse themed gardens, a conservatory, and a popular children's play area.

4.8
(5k reviews)

"A beautiful, charming, peaceful place with unbelievable pictures and a lot of walking!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance

Especially for special events like Bright Nights, booking online ahead of time is essential .

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across 100 acres, so comfy footwear is a must!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sophia's Play Garden

Sophia's Play Garden

Children's Play Area

An incredible, interactive space for kids with a puppet stage, craft station, splash pad, and more!

Model Railroad Garden

Model Railroad Garden

Model Railroad Garden

Charming miniature trains chugging through beautifully crafted landscapes, a delight for all ages.

Rose Garden

Rose Garden

Rose Garden

A fragrant and visually stunning collection of roses, especially vibrant during bloom season.

Conservatory

Conservatory

Donald F. & Marilyn K. Nelson Conservatory

A soaring glass structure filled with diverse plants and tranquil water features, offering a peaceful escape.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Heat and Crowds

Visit during cooler months or early mornings to fully enjoy the 100 acres of Lauritzen Gardens. Summer can be hot, so bring water and wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking. Check for seasonal events like Bright Nights or the Antiques & Design Show for unique experiences.

Explore Beyond the Main Path

While the main gardens are stunning, don't miss Sophia's Play Garden, a hit with kids of all ages.TikTokInstagram+7 Consider the tram for easier access to further areas like the Model Railroad Garden.Instagram

Best Times

When
Spring & Summer mornings
Why
Flowers in full bloom, pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Autumn foliage, cooler temperatures
Crowd
Medium
When
Select evenings (Bright Nights)
Why
Magical holiday light display
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Lauritzen Gardens #omahaplaces #omaha #thingstodoinomaha #lauritzengardens #botanicalgarden #nebraska
@omahaplaces
936 likes • 24.2K views

🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance

Especially for special events like Bright Nights, booking online ahead of time is essential.TikTok

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across 100 acres, so comfy footwear is a must! Reddit

📍 Bright Nights at @lauritzengardens #omahaplaces #omaha #thingstodoinomaha #lauritzengardens
@omahaplaces
1.4K likes • 26.3K views
Since 2004, the Lauritzen Gardens Antiques & Design Show has captivated patrons with a four-day celebration of design and culture. Over the years, this event has inspired more than 94,600 people, showcasing top-tier antique exhibitors, renowned designers, and valuable educational opportunities in Omaha. While this video was created in 2016, it still reflects our journey toward becoming Lauritzen G...
omahaantiqueshow
127 likes • 2.1K views

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring water bottles, especially during warmer months. Some areas have water features for cooling off.TikTok

☀️ Prepare for Sun

Hats and sunglasses are recommended, even on partly cloudy days, as many paths are exposed.Reddit

@lauritzengardens was a hit with the boys! Multiple Gardens to explore for both adults and kids. 📍 100 Bancroft St, Omaha, NE 68108 Sofia’s Garden is NOW OPEN! Our kids loved exploring this huge children’s play area. Make sure to also take the time to walk out to the Model Railroad Garden. The boys had fun spotting the model trains chugging along! There were many other gardens to explore at ...
thatdesmoinesdad
190 likes • 14K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance

Especially for special events like Bright Nights, booking online ahead of time is essential.TikTok

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across 100 acres, so comfy footwear is a must! Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring water bottles, especially during warmer months. Some areas have water features for cooling off.TikTok

☀️ Prepare for Sun

Hats and sunglasses are recommended, even on partly cloudy days, as many paths are exposed.Reddit

📸 Capture the Beauty

The gardens offer countless photo opportunities, from intricate blooms to sweeping landscapes.TikTok+2

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kids Love Sophia's Garden

This new play area is a huge hit with children and offers interactive fun for all ages.TikTok+3

What Travellers Say

4.8
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Lauritzen Gardens for its beauty, tranquility, and extensive grounds. The addition of Sophia's Play Garden has made it a top family destination. While the heat can be a factor in summer, the overall experience is highly regarded, with many visitors planning return trips.

"A beautiful, charming, peaceful place. The vast gardens were SO beautiful, the pictures I got here were unbelievable. I’m so glad we stopped by here. We walked to all the gardens our feet allowed us to (be prepared for a lot of walking!), and then took the tram to see the rose garden and model train garden. We will definitely be coming back! Thank you Omaha for such a beautiful vacation 💚💛"

Sarah P

"For those who love being one with nature, this is the place for you! I wish I could have seen more flowers in bloom, but the scenery is worth its weight in silver alone. Most gardens I’ve seen are confined by the layout of the city surrounding it; that’s not the case here. Lauritzen Gardens sits on 100 acres! It’s a wonderful location for a romantic stroll, for children to release energy during a nature scavenger hunt, or for finding peace and solitude. I appreciate what this place offers and visit more cities that use this model when building their gardens."

Alexander Vallar

"Today was free admission day, so I went with my family to check out some of the new things. They built a new outdoor area called Sofia’s Playground. So many fun and interactive plants, structures, and activities. Great for younger kids, and my 14 year old daughter loved it as well. So excited for the new renovations coming soon! Hoping to have so much more in the near future. Great place for families. Make sure to bring fans, hats walking shoes, and sunglasses. You will need them! Mostly shaded trails depending on the time of day but it doesn’t hurt to be prepared!"

Deeya Gandhi

What People Like

Beautiful and peaceful atmosphere
Extensive 100-acre grounds
Sophia's Play Garden for kids

What People Dislike

Summer heat can be intense
Extensive walking required

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lauritzen Gardens is located at 100 Bancroft Street in Omaha, NE. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the area.

Yes, Lauritzen Gardens provides parking for visitors. It's generally ample, but can fill up during peak times or special events.

Yes, some local libraries offer a Discover Pass that can provide free admission to Lauritzen Gardens, making it a budget-friendly option.TikTok

Information on public transport routes to Lauritzen Gardens can be found on the Omaha Metro website. It's advisable to check their schedule for the most up-to-date information.

The gardens span 100 acres, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. For those who prefer not to walk long distances, a tram service is available to reach various garden sections.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission prices vary. Adults are typically around $15, and children (ages 3-12) are about $9. Kids 2 and under are often free. Annual household memberships are also available for around $130.Instagram

Lauritzen Gardens is generally open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, though hours can vary seasonally and for special events. It's always best to check their official website for the most current operating hours.Instagram

While not always required for general admission, purchasing tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular events like Bright Nights, to ensure entry.TikTok

Yes, Lauritzen Gardens sometimes offers free admission days, which can be a great opportunity to visit with family. Keep an eye on their announcements for these special dates.Reddit

General admission typically grants access to all outdoor gardens, walking paths, and the conservatory. Special exhibits or events may require separate tickets.

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

Don't miss Sophia's Play Garden for kids,TikTok+3 the Model Railroad Garden,Instagram the Rose Garden, and the Conservatory. The gardens are always changing with the seasons, offering something new to discover.TikTokInstagram+5

Absolutely! Sophia's Play Garden is a major draw for families, offering interactive and engaging activities. The vast grounds also provide space for kids to explore and burn energy.TikTokInstagram+5

Lauritzen Gardens hosts a variety of events, including the annual Antiques & Design Show,TikTokInstagram+1 Bright Nights holiday display,TikTok bonsai shows,Instagram and seasonal celebrations. Check their calendar for upcoming events.

Yes, Lauritzen Gardens is a very photogenic location. Visitors are encouraged to take photos, and it's a popular spot for photographers, especially during golden hour on Mondays and Tuesdays when they have later hours.TikTokInstagram+2

In the past, parts of the gardens like the conservatory or coffee shop have undergone construction. It's always a good idea to check their website for any current or upcoming renovation notices before your visit.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Lauritzen Gardens has a cafe and a gift shop where visitors can purchase refreshments and snacks. For more extensive dining options, there are many restaurants in the surrounding Omaha area.

Picnicking is generally allowed in designated areas of the gardens. It's best to confirm their specific policies on outside food and beverages before your visit.

The area around Lauritzen Gardens offers a variety of dining choices, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. Exploring downtown Omaha or the Old Market district will provide numerous options.

Yes, Lauritzen Gardens typically has a coffee shop, which can be a nice spot to relax and refuel. However, it may be subject to seasonal hours or construction closures.Reddit

Occasionally, Lauritzen Gardens hosts special events that may include catering or dining experiences, particularly for private events or their Antiques & Design Show.Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Every corner of Lauritzen Gardens offers stunning photo opportunities. The Conservatory, Rose Garden, and the various themed gardens provide diverse backdrops. The Model Railroad Garden and Sophia's Play Garden are also great for capturing unique shots.TikTokInstagram+2

Generally, personal photography is allowed and encouraged throughout the gardens. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always check their guidelines.

The 'golden hour' shortly after sunrise and before sunset offers beautiful, soft lighting perfect for photography. Lauritzen Gardens' later hours on Mondays and Tuesdays are ideal for capturing this magical light.Instagram

While tripods are usually permitted for personal use, large professional setups or extensive lighting equipment might require prior approval. It's wise to contact the gardens directly if you plan on a professional photoshoot.

Yes, photography is typically allowed during events like Bright Nights, allowing you to capture the festive holiday displays. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the exhibits.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lauritzen Gardens is a fantastic destination for families. The star attraction is Sophia's Play Garden, an expansive and interactive play area that kids absolutely adore.TikTokInstagram+5 It features a splash pad, puppet stage, and craft stations, ensuring hours of entertainment. Remember to bring a change of clothes for the water play.TikTok

Beyond Sophia's Play Garden, the Model Railroad Garden is another hit with younger visitors.Instagram The sheer size of the gardens (100 acres) means there's plenty of space to run around and explore. Consider utilizing the tram service to navigate between different garden areas if little legs get tired. Free admission days or using a library's Discover Pass can make it an even more budget-friendly outing.TikTokReddit

❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways

Lauritzen Gardens offers a serene and beautiful setting for couples. Strolling hand-in-hand through the themed gardens, especially the Rose Garden when in bloom, provides a romantic backdrop. The Conservatory offers a tranquil escape with its lush plants and water features, perfect for quiet conversation.

For a truly magical experience, consider visiting during the golden hour on Mondays or Tuesdays when the gardens stay open later, offering stunning light for photos and a peaceful ambiance.Instagram The sheer beauty and peacefulness of the 100-acre landscape make it an ideal spot for a romantic afternoon or a picturesque picnic.

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

Lauritzen Gardens is a dream location for photographers. The diverse landscapes, from the vibrant Rose Garden and the exotic plants in the Conservatory to the charming Model Railroad Garden, offer endless visual opportunities.TikTokInstagram+2 The seasonal changes ensure that each visit can yield unique shots.

For the best light, aim for the golden hour shortly after sunrise or before sunset. The gardens' extended hours on Mondays and Tuesdays are particularly beneficial for photographers seeking this optimal lighting.Instagram While personal photography is welcome, professional shoots or extensive equipment may require prior arrangements with the garden administration.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Sophia's Play Garden: A Kid's Paradise

Sophia's Play Garden at Lauritzen Gardens has quickly become a highlight for families visiting Omaha. This innovative outdoor space is designed to spark creativity and encourage exploration in nature. It features a variety of engaging elements, including a puppet show stage, a craft station, a splash pad for cooling off on hot days, and even a plant petting zoo.TikTokInstagram+5 The design ensures there's something for a wide range of ages, from toddlers to older children, making it a truly inclusive experience.

Parents rave about the thoughtful design and the sheer amount of fun packed into this area. The inclusion of water features means bringing a change of clothes is a smart move.TikTok It's a place where children can be wild, carefree, and deeply connected with the natural world. The garden's staff are also praised for their welcoming attitude towards families, making it a stress-free outing for everyone involved.Reddit

Seasonal Spectacles and Special Events

Lauritzen Gardens truly shines throughout the year with its dynamic seasonal displays and special events. In the spring and summer, the gardens burst with vibrant blooms, offering a picturesque escape.TikTokInstagram+5 As autumn arrives, the foliage transforms the landscape into a tapestry of warm colors, providing a different kind of beauty.

During the holiday season, the gardens transform into a magical wonderland with 'Bright Nights,' an indoor floral display illuminated by festive lights that requires advanced ticket purchase.TikTok The annual Lauritzen Gardens Antiques & Design Show is another significant event, drawing exhibitors and design experts from across the country.TikTokInstagram+1 Other events, like the Nebraska Bonsai Society's Spring Show, highlight specific horticultural interests and offer unique viewing opportunities.Instagram Checking their event calendar is key to experiencing the full breadth of what Lauritzen Gardens offers.

Exploring the 100 Acres: Beyond the Main Paths

With 100 acres of meticulously maintained grounds, Lauritzen Gardens offers a vast landscape to explore. Beyond the immediate beauty of the themed gardens, visitors can discover a variety of unique attractions. The Model Railroad Garden is a particular favorite, featuring intricate miniature train setups that delight both children and adults.Instagram For those seeking a more tranquil experience, the Rose Garden provides a fragrant and visually stunning retreat, especially when in full bloom.

The Donald F. & Marilyn K. Nelson Conservatory is a year-round attraction, housing a diverse collection of plants within its soaring glass structure. It offers a peaceful environment with water features and lush greenery, providing a welcome respite regardless of the weather outside. For those who wish to cover more ground or have mobility concerns, a tram service is available to transport visitors to different sections of the gardens, ensuring everyone can experience its full splendor.Reddit

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