Omaha’s Heartland of America Park and Riverfront: A Family Exploration Guide
This blog post contains affiliate links to trusted partners.
When we first visited the newly reopened Heartland of America Park on the riverfront at the edge of downtown Omaha, I was in absolute awe!
I think my husband may have had to pick my jaw off the ground. 😮
Our kids raced from the climbing areas at Gene Leahy Mall to the towering play structures at the Discovery Playground at Lewis and Clark Landing, their excitement growing with each new discovery!
Watching them marvel at the fountains, run through open green spaces, and scramble up playgrounds built for adventure, I couldn’t help but wish more cities had an incredible family-friendly park system like this.
It is truly incredible, and it’s why we return again and again.
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about exploring these amazing riverfront parks, plus a few of our family’s favorite spots you won’t want to miss!
Omaha’s Downtown Park System
Omaha’s downtown park system is truly impressive and offers the perfect setting for a family day out or even a full weekend adventure.
With so much to explore, it’s become one of our go-to spots to visit whenever we come to Omaha!
WEEKEND IN OMAHA: 3-Day Itinerary for Your Family
Gene Leahy Mall
Our journey usually starts at the Gene Leahy Mall, right in the heart of downtown Omaha.
Stretching between Farnum and Douglas Streets, from 13th to 8th Street, this park has long been a downtown favorite and has recently added even more reasons to visit.
As soon as we step foot in this park, our kids make a beeline for Arches Playground, a fantastic play area full of slides, climbing obstacles, and plenty of room to run off energy (something we definitely need with our crew! 🙃)
And of course, we can’t miss the iconic hill slides at 1208 Farnum Street! These are more than just a bit of fun; they’re a core memory for us as parents.
We’ve watched our kids laugh their way down them so many times, and even with all the new play structure, these slides STILL bring our boys so much joy!
The Gene Leahy Mall also offers so much beyond play structures, too. We love wandering through the green spaces and admiring the sculptures, sliding down the grassy hill, splashing in the water features, and enjoying a family picnic.
If you’re visiting Omaha during Christmastime, your family will love the sparkling lights throughout the Gene Leahy Mall!
Top Tip
If you are visiting the Gene Leahy Mall during the warmer weather months, the kids and perhaps adults too might be interested in wading in the Cascades water feature located near the slides. You may want to have a towel with you and possibly a change of clothes for the kids.
Must Know Information
The restrooms for the Gene Leahy Mall are located at the 11th Street Promenade. They are between the slides and Arches playground which is perfect for families.
Heartland of America Park
Heartland of America Park stretches along Omaha’s riverfront, and is the largest of the parks.
It’s easily accessible it by walking from the Gene Leahy Mall, Old Market, or our go-to hotel, the Embassy Suites.
If you’re driving, nearby metered parking is available along the streets. However, you can also park for free by the Kiewit Luminarium and Discovery Playground at Lewis and Clark Landing, which is just a short walk to Heartland of America Park.
The Heartland of America Park has a peaceful lake, impressive fountain, and scenic walking trails, it truly has something for everyone- kids AND adults!
The park also features an amphitheater overlooking the lake, bocce courts, and my favorite, the stunning Farnum Pier, which offers a gorgeous view along the Missouri River.
The Skate Ribbon has become another family favorite, offering seasonal fun for everyone.
During the winter, you can glide across the ice, surrounded by holiday lights, making it a festive must-do. ❄️ ⛸ Then in the warmer months, you can do some roller skating with the bright sun on your face! ☀️ 🛼
Skating is free if you have your own skates. There are skate rentals available for visitors who do not have their own.
➡️ Ice skating at the Skate Ribbon is a festive, memorable experience for families visiting Omaha during the Christmas season, with gorgeous holiday lights surrounding the rink. ⛸ 🎄
Lewis and Clark Landing
The Lewis and Clark Landing is the third park in downtown Omaha’s fantastic riverfront park system.
Without a doubt, the highlight here is the spectacular Discovery Playground.
Kids AND adults will go gaga for this adventure play area. We always do!
I had a blast on the ziplines and testing out the climbing structures, proving that it’s an adventure playground for all ages.
P.S. I definitely was not the only adult partaking in all the fun here!
Beyond the playground, The Lewis and Clark Landing connects via boardwalks and trails to the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge- I recommend a visit here too!
This park also boasts a gorgeous sand beach, volleyball courts, and plenty of open spaces for enjoying the river views and spending time with family and friends.
DISCOVER MORE OUTDOOR ADVENTURES: Top Things to do at Arbor Day Farm
Heartland of America Park Location
I like to think of this Riverfront Park system as a capital T.
If you were to start at the Gene Leahy Mall all the way up on 13th Street and work your way down towards the Missouri River, the Gene Leahy Mall is the vertical part of the capital T.
You will reach the point where you can go towards the right (south) to Heartland of America Park area or more to the left (north) where you will find Lewis and Clark Landing and the Kiewit Luminarium.
This makes Heartland of America Park and Lewis and Clark Landing the top horizontal part of the capital T.
It is not a perfect T but a way for me to somewhat visualize where everything is located and hopefully will help you too!
Parking at Heartland of America Park and Lewis and Clark Landing
Visitors to Heartland of America Park and Lewis and Clark Landing can park in a number of different lots surrounding the area.
There is also street parking.
Make sure to read the parking signs to make sure you properly pay for parking if required and follow all parking regulations.
During our visit we parked in a smaller lot right next to the Discovery Playground and parking was free.
The Kiewit Luminarium also has a parking lot across from it that is free.
Alternatively, it is super easy to walk or bike from other downtown locations to this Riverfront Park system.
Omaha Riverfront Amenities
Omaha’s downtown parks are absolutely amazing and the perfect place to spend time as a family!
With so many family-friendly amenities, this three-park setup has become a spot we look forward to visiting again and again.
Each park feels like a mini-adventure, and our crew loves adventures!
Restrooms
Each park has conveniently located restrooms.
Gene Leahy Mall: Public restrooms are on the 11th Street Promenade between the slides and Arches Playground.
Heartland of America Park: Restrooms are in the Skate Ribbon’s Skate Kiosk.
Lewis and Clark Landing: Numerous family restrooms and drinking fountains are located at the Discovery Playground.
Food
Currently, the only food option available at these parks is the Fig Cafe which is connected to the Kiewit Luminarium.
You can enter the Fig Cafe without purchasing admission to the Luminarium.
The food at the Fig Cafe is phenomenal. They have super delicious pastries plus sandwiches, salads, and more. Check out their menu here.
The Fig Cafe also has a great kids menu. My kids especially enjoyed the french fries.
You can dine in at the Fig Cafe or do a grab and go option.
Additionally, food trucks park at the Gene Leahy Mall on select days and evenings. You can check these times on the events calendar.
Discovery Playground
The Discovery Playground is nothing short of incredible.
It’s packed with unique features: massive slides, climbing nets, turf hills, ziplines, water and sand play areas, swings, and so much more!
It is hard to describe this amazing playground in words so check out my photos below.
Top Tip
Be ready to spend a significant amount of time here- the kids won’t want to leave! Also, you may want to bring a change of clothes or swimsuit for the kids, towels, and plenty of snacks and water.
Must Know Information
The playground is large, and it can be challenging to keep track of kids when it’s busy. Thankfully, it’s fully fenced in except for the entrance so there is only one way in and out. Make sure to communicate with your kids where to meet and tell them not to leave the playground area without you!
Kiewit Luminarium
The Kiewit Luminarium is a hands-on museum designed for people of all ages to explore science, community, and the world around us.
It’s especially engaging for children around age 7 and older, who can delve into its many interactive exhibits.
Age 7 is somewhat of an arbitrary number I am choosing, but kids definitely need to be a bit older to really take in all of what this museum has to offer.
That said, children under age 5 are free as this museum is not overly geared for younger kids.
This does not mean that younger kids cannot find something enjoyable in this museum.
We visited with our 3 year old and 1.5 year old, and they still had fun! Usually if their older brothers are excited about something, they are too!
Their favorite exhibits were the large bubble, shadow dancing, gears, and musical instruments.
Must Know Information
Visitors ages 5 and over can play at the geometric playground located on the second floor back in the corner. It is best to have on closed toe shoes when playing on this playground.
FIND OUT MORE: Top 12 Things to do with Kids in Omaha
DISCOVER MORE: Omaha’s Children Museum: Your Go-To Family Guide
Tips for Visiting the Omaha Riverfront Parks
- Pack for Water Fun: In warmer months, bring swimsuits, a change of clothes, and towels. Kids will likely want to play in the fountains and splash areas. 💦
- Urban Beach Essentials: If you think the kids may enjoy playing at the urban beach, pack some sand toys and towels. ☀️
- Stay Hydrated and Fueled: Bring plenty of snacks and water. Walking between parks and all the playtime can make everyone hungry, and the extra water is a must on hot days.
- Stroller or Wagon for Little Ones: With multiple parks and plenty of ground to cover, having a stroller or wagon for younger kids can save a lot of energy (for both them and you!). Plus, I like using these to also store other items such as towels, snacks, and water.
- Dress in Layers: Omaha weather can change quickly. Having an extra layer or jacket can help everyone stay comfortable as the day cools down or if you end up staying later than planned.
- Check for Events: Omaha’s riverfront parks host events like food trucks, live music, and holiday displays. Checking the events calendar before your visit can add even more excitement to your family’s visit and keep you prepared for any large events in the area.
MORE TIPS: Visiting the Omaha Zoo and Aquarium
Omaha’s riverfront parks are a perfect destination for family fun, offering unique adventures for every age. Whether it’s flying down the slides at the Gene Leahy Mall, ziplining at the Discovery Playground, or ice skating at the Skate Ribbon, these parks provide a day full of excitement and memories.
Plan your visit and get ready for a truly memorable family outing in Omaha!
May you LOVE your adventure! KW
