Omaha Children's Museum
A vibrant hub of interactive exhibits and imaginative play, sparking curiosity and learning for children of all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more play!
Omaha Children's Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more play!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant hub of interactive exhibits and imaginative play, sparking curiosity and learning for children of all ages.
"So much fun! We spent 6 hours and my little had the best time."
⏳ Beat the Rush
Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience. Weekends and holidays can get crowded quickly!
💰 Save with Memberships
Check if your local ASTC museum membership offers free entry!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Interactive Exhibits
Throughout the museum
Hands-on fun for all ages, from science exploration to imaginative play areas like a grocery store and doctor's office.
Dinosaur Safari
Traveling exhibit
Roar into prehistoric fun with this exciting dinosaur-themed adventure, perfect for young paleontologists.
Color & Create
Art & Maker Spaces
Unleash creativity by coloring and watching your artwork come alive on screen in a magical digital display.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Membership Perks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Beat the Rush
Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience. Weekends and holidays can get crowded quickly!
💰 Save with Memberships
Check if your local ASTC museum membership offers free entry!
🎨 Bring Your Art to Life
Don't miss the digital coloring exhibit where your creations magically appear on screen.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so wear comfy shoes for a full day of fun.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Beat the Rush
Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience. Weekends and holidays can get crowded quickly!
💰 Save with Memberships
Check if your local ASTC museum membership offers free entry!
🎨 Bring Your Art to Life
Don't miss the digital coloring exhibit where your creations magically appear on screen.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so wear comfy shoes for a full day of fun.
📱 Check for Special Events
Look out for visiting characters like princesses or special traveling exhibits.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Omaha Children's Museum, highlighting its cleanliness, extensive interactive exhibits, and the sheer amount of fun it offers for children, with many families spending hours here. While most experiences are overwhelmingly positive, some note that exhibit supplies can occasionally be lacking and staff engagement could be improved.
"So much fun! We spent 6 hours and my little had the best time. Everything was very clean and there were so many fun things to do. The princesses were a hit as well! Highly recommend and new must visit each summer!"
Ronda Hefner
"It has certainly changed since the last time I visited 36 years ago. My 5 year old loved it! We spent 3 hours there and could have spent the entire day if I had planned appropriately. It has a lot of history, science, and art activities for the kids as well as a ton of different play areas such as hyvee grocery, a Dr's office, mechanic, apartment building, agricultural, etc. Will definitely go back!"
Joy Cosby
"It was back to school weekend. They have activities set out to do but did not have all the supplies needed. Workers were sitting on their phone instead of interacting with the kids and explaining how to do the different projects.
The Lego people were the only ones willing to stop and talk and explain what they were doing."
tara knighton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Omaha Children's Museum is located in downtown Omaha. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options also serve the downtown area.
Yes, there are parking garages and street parking options near the museum. It's advisable to check for any event-related parking restrictions.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient way to reach the museum, especially if you're staying in a nearby hotel.
The museum is designed to be accessible for all visitors, including those with strollers and wheelchairs. Exhibits are generally easy to navigate.
From the airport, you can take a taxi, ride-share, or rent a car. The museum is a short drive from Eppley Airfield.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but generally, there's a fee per person. It's always best to check their official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak times, to save time and guarantee entry.
The museum offers various discounts, including for military personnel, seniors, and sometimes through partnerships with local organizations or libraries. An ASTC Passport membership can also provide free entry.
Operating hours can change seasonally and on holidays. It's crucial to check the museum's official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
While there isn't a strict time limit, many visitors spend several hours exploring. Some reviews mention spending 3-6 hours to see everything.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the interactive science exhibits, imaginative play areas like the Hy-Vee grocery store and doctor's office, and the popular digital coloring station where art comes alive.
Yes, the museum has dedicated areas and exhibits suitable for younger children and toddlers, offering safe and engaging play opportunities.
While geared towards younger children, older kids can still enjoy the science exhibits and creative spaces. However, some Redditors suggest the Kiewit Luminarium might be a better fit for this age group.
The museum often hosts special events and features visiting characters, such as princesses, which are a big hit with children.
Reviews generally praise the museum for being clean and well-maintained, with staff actively working to keep the exhibits tidy.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Typically, outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the museum, but it's always best to confirm their specific policy. There are usually designated areas for snacks or a cafe on-site.
Yes, the museum usually has a cafe or snack bar where you can purchase refreshments and light meals.
Being in downtown Omaha, there are numerous family-friendly restaurants and cafes within walking distance or a short drive from the museum.
Many downtown Omaha restaurants cater to families. You can find options ranging from casual pizza places to diners offering diverse menus.
Re-entry policies can vary. It's advisable to ask at the admission desk if you plan to leave and return, especially if you intend to eat elsewhere.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed for non-commercial use. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography that might disrupt exhibits or children.
The interactive exhibits, the digital coloring wall, and any special character appearances offer great photo opportunities. The imaginative play areas also make for fun, candid shots.
Video recording for personal use is typically permitted. Capture those moments of discovery and joy!
Avoid professional photography or videography without prior permission. Also, be respectful of privacy and do not photograph other visitors' children without consent.
The museum is well-lit, making it generally easy to take good photos. Some areas might have dimmer lighting for specific exhibits, but overall, it's conducive to photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
To make the most of your visit, consider arriving early on weekdays to avoid the biggest crowds. This allows your little ones to explore at their own pace and enjoy the exhibits without feeling overwhelmed. Don't forget to check for any special character appearances that might be scheduled, as these are often a huge hit with the younger demographic.
💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
🤔 Families with Older Children (10-11 years old)
However, for families with children in this age range, it's worth noting that some Redditors suggest the Kiewit Luminarium might be a more fitting choice, offering exhibits that are specifically designed to captivate older children. If you're deciding between the two, consider your children's specific interests. If they lean heavily towards imaginative play and younger-child-oriented scenarios, the Children's Museum is still a good option.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Exhibits
Beyond the permanent installations, the museum frequently hosts traveling exhibits, adding a dynamic element to repeat visits. One such popular exhibit mentioned is the Dinosaur Safari, which brings prehistoric creatures to life. Another engaging activity is the digital coloring station, where children can draw, scan their artwork, and watch it animate on a large screen – a truly magical experience that delights both kids and adults.
For families with very young children, there are dedicated spaces and exhibits tailored to their developmental needs, ensuring a safe and stimulating environment. The museum's commitment to providing a diverse range of experiences means there's something to capture the imagination of every child, regardless of age or interest.
Making the Most of Your Visit
Leveraging memberships can also significantly enhance affordability and convenience. Many visitors recommend checking if their existing ASTC Passport membership from another museum grants free or discounted admission to the Omaha Children's Museum. This is a fantastic way to get more value from your memberships and make frequent visits feasible.
Finally, staying informed about special events and character appearances can add an extra layer of excitement to your trip. Whether it's a visit from beloved princesses or a unique traveling exhibit, these special occasions are often highlights for young visitors. Checking the museum's schedule before your visit will help you plan around these engaging activities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit