Old Market District

Omaha’s Old Market District was a district of blue-collar warehouses some 120 years ago. Today, locals and visitors alike have their choice of more than 45 restaurants and drinking establishments, several art galleries and museums, a plethora of shops, and things to do from breakfast until bars close. Scavenger hunts, pub crawls, and walking tours will likely take you through the Old Market District.

• The Old Market District is about 80% stroller– and wheelchair-accessible—it’s mostly building interiors that may be inaccessible.

• Those with displayed handicap placards do not need to pay for parking at the street meters.

• Public restrooms can be found in the Old Market Passage or in various establishments.

If you’re staying in a downtown Omaha hotel, you could either be within walking distance of the Old Market District, or your hotel may offer a complimentary shuttle service to and from the area. Otherwise, downtown is dotted with parking garages and street-metered parking, and rideshares and taxis are widely available, too.

Truly, there’s no bad time to explore Omaha’s Old Market District, with businesses ranging from morning coffee shops to late-night taverns—though you may want to avoid the rain. Since summers can be hot, spring and fall can be especially delightful. Winter brings its own charms, with glowing lights and hot drinks never far away.

For one of the most beautiful scenes in downtown’s Old Market District, check out the Old Market Passageway on 11th and Howard. This old-school, brick-clad alleyway became a series of shops and restaurants about 30 years ago, but it retains its historic, industrial, 19th-century appeal. Be sure to check out the basement level to get the full effect.