The Most Scrumptious Museums in Omaha

Railswest Railroad Museum

★★★★★ 5 (2)

"This Rock Island depot is only one of two remaining in the state of Iowa and is on the Natl. Reg. of Hist. Places. There are a number of rolling stock enclosed within a fence; my favorite is a CB & Q lounge car "Omaha" which contains a solarium. In the depot are a number of old fashioned displays of artifacts which belonged to the railroads serving the town. What I like most about these depot museums is the fact that I'll come across an item I have never seen before. In one room is an HO layout of Omaha/Council Bluffs. Outside are active rail lines of BNSF and Iowa Interstate."

Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum

★★★★☆ 4.3 (92)

"Interesting museum if you're interested in airplanes and/or military history. Located in the middle of nowhere, this museum houses two large hangers filled to the brim with different types of aircraft. Although people are not allowed on these crafts, getting up-close and personal was still fun. There's a lot to see and do. For me, this was a great experience. I enjoy reading about the details and history. I was like a kid in a candy store."

Missouri River Basin Lewis & Clark Visitor Center

★★★★★ 4.6 (7)

"This place is a semi hidden gem. The to scale keelboat is a fantastic thing to explore. The kids exploration spaces are great as well.Many exhibits are in braille which is very commendable for people who need that."

Museum of American Speed

★★★★★ 4.8 (28)

"If you are into cars, especially rare cars and race cars, you must check out this museum.It contains a great collection of antique cars, race cars, car engines, toy cars, toy car engines, pedal cars, antique lunch boxes, several antique pinball tables, etc."

Museum of Danish America

★★★★☆ 4.1 (9)

"A very nice little pit stop along the road. The museum is beautiful and very well laid out. Really interesting items from immigrants in the basement of the building. I ended up coming on a day where admission was free and they had food as an opening day for the spring season. It was nice. Staff was friendly and helpful!! A great little stop along the way through Iowa!!"

Morrill Hall

★★★★★ 4.5 (33)

"I'm not usually a fan of natural history museums but I did enjoy my visit to Morrill Hall, which is on the campus of the University of Nebraska (Go Big Red?). Large parking lot but you will need to be careful that you're in a proper spot for visiting the museum as the university cops apparently do write tickets.On four levels with rocks and stones, bones and bodies and assorted bits of human (Nebraska) history. Interesting, engaging and definitely worth at least two hours even if you're moving quickly. There is a lot to see, a number of things to touch and a bunch of things to simply experience.The little ones will definitely appreciate it. And for sure, this adult appreciated it too.[Review 11387 overall, 1164 of 2019.]"

RVP1875

★★★★★ 5 (1)

"This is a must stop.This is a great place to learn about furniture, craftsmanship, and 19th century Iowa History.RVP has a couple dozen prototype pieces of furniture that are representative of what was made in Iowa in 1875. Robby makes the furniture with the same tools from 1875, with the same wood, with all wooden joints.Although the display furniture (prototype) is not for sale, one can order based upon it choosing the type of wood and finish that you want. Understanding that high quality furniture is not cheap, I was very surprised at the relatively reasonable prices (for high quality furniture). I have seen much lesser quality pieces elsewhere at much higher prices.We had a very interesting and informative 15-20 presentation/discussion about the furniture, the workshop, the process, and the history."

Aldrich House

★★★★☆ 4 (1)

"I would love to have actually visited the museum but we only saw it in passing. I'm a writer and a reader and although I've only read a tiny bit of Aldrich's work (yeah, right before visiting), it's always nice to see where writers get their muse. What I like about Aldrich is her pioneering woman's writing. As a midwest girl all too familiar with great wide open, her work helps me to reminisce even my modern day country life. I like to think if I was born during this time, into the same family, that I too would be writing the same things. Back when writing was encouraged, praised, needed and not replaced with broadcast and technology. Anyway..Bess Streeter Aldrich was one of Nebraska's finest writers and among the ranks of authors like Willa Cather. She recreated in her short stories and novels the ups and downs of small town living in hopes that her readers would understand the hardships and struggles of the times, but also see the virtues and hopes that became a part of these prairie times in the Midwest."

Kiewit Luminarium

★★★★★ 4.5 (37)

"With Mom and I visiting from Denver, a group of us headed to the Luminarium for an afternoon of exploring this Omaha staple! Let's just say it's the perfect spot for.....++ A date! With interactive exhibits throughout two floors, there is a ton to explore that involves thinking, talking, walking and all things to spark conversation!++ A pick me up/cocktail.The cafe attached to the museum features a variety of sweet treats, small eats and a variety of wine and beer. Our group opted for a bottle of wine before diving into the exhibits and it made for the perfect start!++ Views, on views!The adjacent park has a variety of activities, sites, slides and views of downtown Omaha - making for a fun experience.Tickets are available on the spot (or to reserve in advance) for a reasonable price, the exhibits are super interesting and an easy way to spend a few hours! Highly recommend :)"

Lee's Legendary Marbles & Collectibles

★★★★★ 4.5 (10)

"Outstanding collection of possibly a million marbles, plus some very valuable collector marbles!Over 1300 quart jars of 250 marbles apiece line the shop's walls. Incredible displays of all things marble including uranium ones. Many are for sale. Great knowledgeable staff."

Bank of Florence Museum

★★★★☆ 4 (1)

"A cool little piece of history in the heart of the Florence area of north Omaha. The Bank of Florence is Omaha's oldest building, and the first bank in Nebraska. My friends and I checked out the building, on the National Register of Historic Places, during the area's annual Florence Days celebration today. Inside is the old vault, tons of information, artifacts from a different time, and many, many historical photos from the area. Definitely worth a visit! The museum is open June through August with tours available for free on weekends; though I do suggest a donation!"

Stuhr Museum

★★★★☆ 3.8 (16)

"Pretty good at showing what early settler life in the area was like in a variety of ways. The museum exhibits -- in two separate buildings -- are slightly dated collections of objects and info about aspects of typical life.Then the Railroad Town gives depth to that experience, with relocated historic buildings staffed with living history. Considering the size of the town and daily operations, it makes sense that every building can't always be staffed -- and if they were, it'd sure take a long time to get through.The main exhibit building itself is a bit ridiculously grand: why is it surrounded by a moat and have fountains in the middle? That design would make more sense for an art museum maybe."

Czech and Slovak Educational Center and Museum

★★★★★ 4.8 (4)

"Whoever says there's nothing cool at Crossroads has never been to the Czech and Slovak Educational Center and Museum. First up, you can eat fresh kolaches and drink coffee there. Plus grab other Czech snacks in the little cafe area. From there, check out the gift shop full of all kinds of fun stuff, from art books to crafts to marionettes. So many marionettes. Some of them are some so special, they're on display in the museum portion. And the ones that are for sale ain't exactly cheap, but they are quality (this is coming from a guy who went to marionette camp when he was like 13 so I kinda know).There's plenty of other displays of traditional dress and pieces of Omaha's thriving Czech community -- old band equipment from a polka group, tables/settings from the Bohemian Cafe, a bunch of accordions, motorcycles and more. In the back area, there's even a small theater space where the walls are adorned with history trees of part of Nebraska's Czech population. And many descendants still call the Good Life home.Sure it's in an old Chili's, but the CSECM is def worth a visit."

Edgerton Explorit Center

★★★★★ 4.6 (9)

"Edgerton is a real hero of photography. His background and works span the globe. The Explorit Center has three facets. First there is a movie theatre. It is important that you see the two movies and get a feel for Edgerton and his background. The movies are both entertaining and informative.The next part of the museum has pictures of Edgerton, his co-workers, and his work. Incredible shots and historical pieces. The third part of the museum, and its largest area is for young people to have experiential moments in the museum. There are lots of schools that bring busloads of youngsters to enjoy a day at the museum.I like this museum and Dr. Edgerton's work. it is Amazing."

Arbor Lodge State Historical Park

★★★★☆ 4.3 (10)

"Arbor Day originated in Nebraska City. In the historic Arbor Park, you will find the Morton Mansion. It is American historic preservation at its best. And, a glimpse of Nebraska history. Joy Morton (Morton salt) was the Secretary of Agriculture during Cleveland's presidency. There is a room named after President Cleveland who frequently visited the Mortons. The original house had 4 rooms. The house was renovated several times and now has over 50 rooms. The Tiffany ceiling glass is stunning. There are Tiffany wall fixtures throughout the house. It is worth visiting while in Nebraska."

Washington County Historical Museum

★★★★★ 4.5 (2)

"A stop at the Washington County Museum in Fort Calhoun was on the 2021 Nebraska Passport destination list. Having been to Fort Calhoun many times to devour onion rings at the Rustic, we were surprised that we did not even know where the museum was located but our trusty Google Map parked us at the front door for what we thought would be a 10-15 minute stop. We ended up thoroughly enjoying a 90-minute jump back to the early days of Washington County. Each city had an individual exhibit from the earliest days to present day highlighting important individuals, businesses and historic events. What surprised us was the quality and professional presentation of the exhibits. A historic bank area is incorporated into the space that included a number of activities for children. Admission was $3 for adults and with it we received a wooden nickle that could be used at other businesses in town for special deals such as an appetizer at the Longhorn or a BOGO at Scooters. Parking was free and easy, the attendant who greeted us was friendly and helpful and the exhibits were informative and interesting. We were pleasantly surprised by our visit to the Washington County Museum and would not hesitate to recommend it to others."

National Museum of Roller Skating

★★★★☆ 3.9 (12)

"For those who read my reviews you know that I have a passion to locate and report on odd little museums. Well this sure qualifies it's not large but it is comprehensive about the history of skates and skating. Imagine being able two sea skates from 1814. Well I didn't even know they were skating in 1814 and today that's over 200 years old. wow! now the rest of the museum has various skates, over time, motorized skates, four wheel skates, inline skates, and skates that defy description as people just wanted to have a good time and go skating. I would think you needed skating because not everybody had ice year-round to do ice skating. But what do I know! Anyway, there skate competitions around the country, there were the days of the roller rinks, and all the wonderful things of the past, there were these designs that increase safety and speed there's just a whole lot to see here, if you stop and read, and a great calliope box that you need quarters for. So bring some quarters and come and enjoy the skating Museum. I thought it was wonderful."

The Durham Museum

★★★★☆ 4.4 (144)

"We were just here for a wedding, and I love how this works! The entry area is great for mingling with folks before the ceremony. Then at wedding time everyone moves into the wedding area, the nuptials happen and then you head to the lower level as the upstairs transforms into a beautiful seated dinner reception. After dinner you head back into the dancing area, it's very slick! and quickly transformed. We loved the wedding and all the seamless details."

Larsen Tractor Test & Power Museum

★★★★★ 4.8 (4)

"Well this is definitely another unique Museum to be added to the list of y'all ain't going to believe there's a museum to do this list. This Museum Chronicles what has happened over the last 100 years with tractors being tested so that one can determine if the claims of the manufacturer and the performance of the tractor are equal. It turns out that Nebraska took this so seriously that in order to sell a tractor in Nebraska it's got to be certified and it's performance of its duties. I was lucky enough to come during the time when there was no crowd of students only the staff at the Museum. The lady who was the executive director had a script that was memorized that told stories of the tractors and the history of the testing and why it became important and how it's recognized now worldwide, it's an incredible story. Now I've looked at a lot of tractors because the town just north of me where I live has tractor parade every year with lots of really old tractors some back to 1897. But that is a different area this is about testing tractors seeing how they pull seeing how much load they can take seeing how much power they put out on their power take offs and a whole bunch of other stories that would make this review go on for pages. I must say it was an impressive display of tractors and an incredible display of information. My door was broken into two pieces the second piece took me to their Laboratory where are the major tractor device that the tested tractor pull against and it was another impressively huge device. I think I'm not going to be able to describe this as well as the leader of the tour but what I will do is tell you just a little bit that I can remember and if you're interested in those odd little funny museums this is one to put on your list for sure. Now additionally there were some very interesting quarter scale tractors that were built by the students to compete in the tractor competitions around the country. Oh yes and Nebraska was first place last year. They're pretty proud of that. Anyway I am rambled on enough about this Museum I think I'm going to have to go collect my thoughts and post the pictures at some time later because my brain was full by the time they got done"

Historic General Dodge House

★★★★★ 4.8 (10)

"Dad and I visited the Historic General Dodge House as a bookend to our trip to the nearby Union Pacific Railroad Museum. The house was built in 1869 and stands near downtown Council Bluffs as a stunning (and refurbished) architectural marvel.This was the home of Grenville M. Dodge, a Union Army general, politician, and a major figure in the development of the railroads across the American West. He was also a trusted counsellor to Presidents (Grant and Lincoln) and even served a term in Congress. Whether you want to drive by, walk around, or lose a couple hours inside, this place is well worth the visit. Also, don't miss the August Beresheim House right next door."

International Quilt Study Center & Museum

★★★★☆ 3.9 (15)

"If I lived here, I'd probably visit here for each new show. They had many lovely displays from their permanent collection and I loved the Eiko Okano exhibit going on (visited early June 2018). Bummed I JUST missed Ken Burns' collection. I liked walking through from space to space. They had a lovely selection in the gift shop area too. Volunteers were quite nice. Enjoyable stop in Lincoln."

Harrison County Museum Welcome Center

★★★★★ 4.8 (8)

"Amazing place! So much to see! Wonderful, and friendly people. Tons of Brochures, cards, books, and gifts. Wish I could of spent a little more time here to look at everything. I give this place 5 stars because it's a great place. I recommend everyone stop by if you're in the area."

Western Historic Trails Center

★★★☆☆ 3 (1)

"The Durham Museum in Omaha is much better than this museum, but I think all railroad enthusiasts will really enjoy seeing the trains they have on display. The trains are outside and there is a very small indoor section with lot's to read. I have never spent much time in there since I'm always with my family. Nothing really interactive."

The Selfie Spot

★★★★☆ 3.7 (3)

"Going to a place just to take selfie's is not something I would normally do. However, when it's your anniversary and you have a free "ticket" you give it a try.While the worker was friendly and there were severe different setups, I wouldn't recommend The Selfie Spot just for fun. If you need pictures for a special event and a "professional" photographer, it might be worth it.Several of the setups were in need of repair. Balloons deflating, decor falling off the wall, several spots with tearing and not enough room for the selfie lamps were a let down.The worker was friendly, however, when she offered help she made it sound like she could give advice on poses, lighting etc. All she really did was take a couple pics of all three of us at my asking.I know this is something many people, especially those younger than me, would like doing even for the price. For me, it isn't worth it.Happy posing Yelpers!"

University of Nebraska State Museum

★★★★★ 5 (2)

"This is the museum you should spend the night at, if you ever win a really bizarre contest. I've always thought Africa has the modt interesting animals. Anazingly, the ancestors of almost every single one of them used to live in Nebraska! Part zoo (dead animals plus present day ones) part awesome, dinosaur stuffed natural history museum, this is the most overwhelming museum I've been to so far in my quest to hit as many dinosaur museums in the American west as I can.The history of the state is packed with lots of displays besides just the ones I seek out; This is absolutely a world class museum, for the measly entrance fee of $8. Make sure ypu buy your tickets ahead of time, online. I didnt realize this, but they let me in anyway. I think they are called 'timed tickets' or something, there is not a word about this on Google maps, so now you know. It is spacious enough, with 4 floors and dozens of large exhibits on each floor, that you can easily avoid absolutely every single screaming kid and massive family group also roaming the exhibits. A detailed Charles Darwin section is the most complete one I've seen, covering his entire life, as well as his discoveries.The gift shop is full of interesting little trinkets for not very much money as well.All in all, a museum definitely worth the trip!"

General Crook House Museum

★★★★★ 4.8 (6)

"Very nicely presented! This is a great place to visit and learn about the history of Fort Omaha and the life of Gen. Crook. There's a self-guided tour (choose brochure or audio) and you can take as much or as little time as you like. Don't forget to tour through the gardens as well."

Plainsman Museum

★★★★☆ 4.4 (9)

"The Plainsman museum is huge it covers two very large barns that have been converted into beautiful displays of the local area of Nebraska and of the journey across the plains. All displays are tasteful and done in a spacious form they are depicting life as it was in another era. The Staff is quite helpful, and noticeably proud of the museum The murals in the entry way are very colorful and under lighted for sure. I really like that the mini dioramas of the past are not overcrowded. Some times in the local museums, attempts are made to display everything, and it can be way to crowded. Here it is done right.There are areas under construction and it will be fun to check in again in a few years to watch the progress.In the back building / barn is all the farm equipment, Lots of tractors of all sizes and the devices you connect to the back of the tractor. is is almost overwhelming to take in.There is a school house on the property that is set up from an earlier time.There is also a farm house that is from an era a few generations ago, that for me was like a home of my grandmother when I was a small child. My oh My soon I may be in a museum too."

Kregel Wind Mill Museum

★★★★★ 5 (1)

"Get off the highway and STOP and see the ONLY authentic water pumping Wind Mill Company as it closed in 1981 and was left fully intact, sider webs and dust! The tools from the 1800's and later are truly historic. Opens 10AM -5 Tue - Sat, Sun 12-5. IF someone in museum office they normally will open site outside of hours. Director Mat is a wealth of information on this family and factory."

Johnson County Historical Society

★★★★★ 5 (3)

"A very cool museum. Didn't plan to stop in, but decided why not. We ended up there for quite a bit. So much to see and the memories it invoked was so great! The two ladies working there are a hoot! They added to the experience! Don't pass it up!"

Hastings Museum

★★★★☆ 4.4 (23)

"PROS - fantastic Kool Aid exhibit, interesting nature-related details in all areas of museum, some updated areas, clean restrooms, polite staff, great small collection of antique cars, very informative gun/military section, planetarium show(s) included with admission.CONS - way too much taxidermy, dated technology information, dead rodent smell in some areas, thrown-together colonial and Native American exhibit, a lot of wasted space.I would definitely come back again, and I enjoyed my visit...but it bears saying that this museum is a mix of the good and not so good. If you're a huge animal lover, do be prepared for long-dead stuffed creatures to be the very first thing you'll see when you enter. They have a lot of them and some of it's a little upsetting, especially out of context. Others describe mixed feelings about Hastings Museum and I agree completely."

Pony Express Barn

★★★★☆ 4 (4)

"Very nice place. The docent was very nice and very informative! We actually showed up on free museum day which was a bonus."

Mayhew Cabin and Historic Village

★★★★☆ 4 (1)

"Mayhew cabin was built in 1855, in Nebraska City and is the only Underground Railroad site in Nebraska officially recognized by the National Park Service.The staff is friendly and well informed and the museum (though small) offers some informative and interesting exhibits. All ages will learn about the Underground Railroad, slavery, Harper's Ferry, and Nebraska City history. The cabin has been moved from its original site because of road development but the cave was recreated on the new site and you can walk inside. Don't forget to visit the church after you view the cabin!"

Great Plains Black History Museum

★★★★★ 5 (2)

"Black History is American History; and this museum can teach us a lot. It's not a very big place, but there is so much to look at and the staff are very friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful.I understand that there are plans for a larger building in the future. Admission is free, donations are accepted. I highly recommend going to learn about local and national history."

American Historical Society of Germans From Russia

★★★★☆ 4 (1)

"This is a research museum--it is not a passive experience. Come armed with knowledge of your ancestors. If you are hoping for general information about this particular wave of German migration to the US, you will be limited to a short video and a few articles of clothing. All the other facilities seem to be closed. The staff aren't very cordial but are focused on the research they are doing. Don't bring the kids."

Yesterdays Lady

★★★★★ 5 (1) • $$

"Sue really knows her stuff. Upon first walking in, it feels like you've walked into a time-machine to the basement of an old theatre costume shop, but after you get a chance to really look around you begin to realize how many incredible gems she has. I have also been told that she specializes in hosting private parties where she will take you and your guests on tours through themed clothing shows. Worth checking out if you find yourself on some sort of HWY-77 tour."