Omaha has an old town feel and is known for its old-fashioned hospitality. This Nebraska city sits along the Missouri River near the Iowa border and is a great destination for a weekend visit or a longer trip. You won’t be disappointed if you decide to spend more than a few days in this city as it offers great dining, world-class museums, vibrant nightlife, and rich and varied history.

The city is often overlooked by travelers, which is why you might have trouble figuring out exactly where to stay in Omaha. To help you out, we’ve created this guide on the best places to stay in Omaha for any travel style and budget!

Where to Stay in Omaha

Ready to book? Here are our top recommendations for Omaha accommodation.

Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.

Courtyard Omaha Downtown | Best Hotel in Omaha

Courtyard Omaha Downtown

This hotel in Omaha offers the ideal mix of a great location, top facilities, and good prices. It’s located in the city’s downtown close to all the best shops and restaurants, and it has spacious rooms with sitting areas and coffee makers as well as an on-site restaurant.

New, Luxurious and Modern | Best Airbnb in Omaha

New, Luxurious and Modern Omaha

This one-bedroom apartment is modern and welcoming. It offers a full kitchen, parking, and laundry facilities. It’s located in one of the best areas to stay in Omaha, close to all of the city’s best shops and restaurants.

Room with a View | Best Luxury Airbnb in Omaha

Room with a View

The clean and modern spaces in this apartment are exactly what you’ll need for your trip to the city. It offers lovely views of Omaha’s Midtown neighborhood and has space for two guests, making it one of the best places to stay in for couples.

Omaha Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Omaha

FIRST TIME IN OMAHA
Downtown Omaha
FIRST TIME IN OMAHA

Downtown

Omaha’s Downtown is the entertainment hub of the city which is why it’s the best choice for a convenient vacation. It has a bit of everything – from great hotels to awesome restaurants and lots of transport links to other popular tourist spots.

ON A BUDGET
Council Bluffs Omaha
ON A BUDGET

Council Bluffs

Council Bluffs is the best choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Omaha on a budget as it offers cheaper accommodation and food. It also has its own collection of attractions, so you can head out for some fun without going far from your base.

FOR FAMILIES
Heartland America Omaha
FOR FAMILIES

The Old Market

The Old Market neighborhood is a tiny area within Omaha’s Downtown that packs a lot into just a few streets. The easy access to shops, restaurants, and the entertainment options are what make this neighborhood the best choice when you’re trying to decide where to stay in Omaha for kids.

Omaha isn’t a large city, but it is lively and unique with lots of neighborhoods that are distinct and have their own attractions. To have your dream vacation in this area, this is where you should look.

If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Omaha for your first time, we recommend looking Downtown. This convenient area offers everything from great transport links to the city’s best restaurants, shops, and clubs.

If you’re traveling on a budget, try the Council Bluffs area. Council Bluffs is away from the center of the city, so the accommodation is cheaper, but it also has a good collection of attractions and tourist sites nearby to keep you busy during your stay.

And the final area on this list is Old Market, a lively part of Omaha’s center. With plenty of attractions and fun things to do within walking distance, this is a great destination for families.


Want to save money on accommodation?

supporting image for Booking.com deals promo

We got you. For reals.


Omaha’s 3 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in

Now, let’s look at each of these areas in more detail. We’ve included our top accommodation and activity picks in each, so you know exactly what to expect.

1. Downtown – Where to Stay in Omaha for your First Visit

Downtown Omaha
Discover Omaha in the vibrant downtown neighborhood
  • COOLEST Thing to Do in Downtown – See a Broadway show at the historic Orpheum Theater.
  • BEST Place to Visit in Downtown – The TD Ameritrade Park Omaha to catch a game.

Omaha’s Downtown is the entertainment hub of the city. It has a bit of everything – from great hotels to awesome restaurants and lots of transport links to other popular tourist hotspots.

The Downtown area also houses a lot of the city’s top places. tovisit. The combination of modern amenities and historical attractions is what gives this city its unique charm and appeal.

Cambria Hotel Omaha Downtown | Best Hotel in Downtown

Cambria Hotel Omaha Downtown

This hotel sits in the heart of the city and is a great choice if you’re looking for nightlife. It has its own fitness center, indoor pool, 24-hour front desk, and restaurant as well as a shared lounge where you can relax and socialize.

Luxurious Historic Condo | Best Airbnb in Downtown

Luxurious Historic Condo

Located conveniently close to everything, this apartment is minutes from location attractions and shops. It sleeps four guests and has an on-site gym and lounge with billiards tables and a movie theater. There’s also a rooftop terrace, ideal for enjoying great views and socializing.

Stylish Condo Close to Everything | Best Luxury Airbnb in Downtown

Stylish Condo Close to Everything

This bright and cheerful condo is close to Downtown’s best entertainment and restaurants. It sleeps up to four guests and has its own private balcony so you can enjoy the city views! It’s stylishly furnished throughout and has everything you’ll need for a convenient stay.

Things to See and Do in Downtown Omaha:

Ameritrade Park Omaha
Catch a game at Ameritrade Park!
Photo: Shelby L. Bell (Flickr)
  1. Play a round of golf at the Dodge Riverside Golf Club.
  2. Take the kids to enjoy the wetland, forest, playground, and sports facilities at Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park.
  3. Try the local food at The Porch, M’s Pub, or Blatt Beer and Table.
  4. Enjoy the city’s creative heart at the Hot Shops Art Center or the Joslyn Art Museum.
  5. Get swept away by the music at the Holland Center.
  6. Enjoy the mall, trail, and exhibits at the Lewis & Clark Landing site.
  7. Let the kids get up close to the wildlife at the Stingray Beach.
Is This the Best Backpack EVER???
audy on top of a mountain in japan with the osprey aether

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

View on Osprey View on REI

2. Council Bluffs – Where to Stay in Omaha on a Budget

Council Bluffs Omaha
  • COOLEST Thing to Do in Council Bluffs – Try your luck at the Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs.
  • BEST Place to Visit in Council Bluffs – Lake Manawa State Park for great camping, glamping in Nebraska, swimming, boating, and hiking.

Council Bluffs is the best choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Omaha on a budget as it offers cheaper accommodation and food. It also has its own collection of attractions, so you can head out for some fun without going far from your base.

Located east of the Missouri River, Council Bluffs has good transport links into the heart of Omaha and beyond. It’s also close to some local shops and restaurants, so you can eat and shop at local prices!

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites | Best Hotel in Council Bluffs

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites

This hotel offers spacious, well-equipped rooms with views over the river. The hotel also boasts a restaurant, fitness center, and a casino, so you’ll have plenty to keep you entertained when you’re not exploring the city.

Private Home | Best Airbnb in Council Bluffs

Private Home

This two-bedroom home is the perfect base for families. It’s only 1.5 miles from the Old Market area and has a kitchen, laundry facilities, and all the comforts of home including an outdoor space.

A Stone’s Throw Away from Downtown | Best Luxury Airbnb in Council Bluffs

A Stone's Throw Away from Downtown

This apartment is close to a great hiking trail and a popular park. It offers two bedrooms and sleeps up to six guests, making it ideal for families or groups. It’s beautifully furnished and modern throughout, creating the perfect home-away-from-home.

Things to See and Do in Council Bluffs:

Missouri River Bridge Omaha
Photo: Shelby L. Bell (Flickr)
  1. Explore the interactive history museum at the Union Pacific Railroad Museum.
  2. Fill your belly at Pizza King or The Porch.
  3. Indulge your inner child with some train knowledge at Rails West Railroad Museum.
  4. Drink with the locals at T’z Sports Pub or The Tavern.
  5. Learn about the grim side of modern life at the Squirrel Cage Jail.
  6. Take the kids for a dip at the Joseph Katelman Water Park or the Pirate Cove Water Park.
  7. Learn about the history of air warfare at the Commemorative Air Force Museum.

3. The Old Market – Best Neighborhood in Omaha for Families

Heartland America Omaha
  • COOLEST Thing to Do in The Old Market – Give yourself the creeps by learning about haunted objects at the Museum of Shadows.
  • BEST Place to Visit in The Old Market – The Heartland of America Park for boat rides in the daytime and a fountain show at night.

The Old Market neighborhood is a tiny area within Omaha’s Downtown that packs a lot into just a few streets. The easy access to shops, restaurants, and entertainment options are what make this neighborhood the best choice for anyone visiting with kids.

The Old Market stretches between Jackson Street in the south, Farnam Street in the north, 13th Street in the west, and South 10th Street in the east. This small size makes it easily walkable. You’ll also enjoy great access to public transport to other parts of the city.

Hyatt Place Omaha | Best Hotel in The Old Market

Hyatt Place Omaha

With an indoor pool, restaurant, and shuttle services from the airport, this hotel offers a great combination of facilities and convenience. The rooms are large and include a fridge, seating area, and dining area. There’s also a terrace and fitness center on-site to make your stay even easier!

Cloud Nine Condos | Best Airbnb in The Old Market

Cloud Nine Condos

This Nebraskan cabin-style loft apartment is one of the coolest places to stay in Omaha for the decor and artwork on the walls alone. It’s also within walking distance of The Old Market and has a full kitchen with lots of gadgets, laundry facilities, and lots of extras to make you feel at home.

Unique Downtown Condo | Best Luxury Airbnb in The Old Market

Unique Downtown Condo

Sleeping up to four guests, this apartment is easily the best choice for those staying in Omaha with kids or a large group. It’s within walking distance of the best shops and restaurants in Old Market and has unique decor, a full kitchen, and a bathtub.

Things to See and Do in Old Market area:

Durham Museum Omaha
Photo: Phil Martinez (Flickr)
  1. Have a meal at local spots like Plank Seafood Provisions, the Dubliner Pub, or Spaghetti Works.
  2. Grab a drink and relax at The Tavern or Billy Frogg’s Grill & Bar.
  3. Head out for a night on the town at clubs like the Throwback Arcade Lounge or Mercury.
  4. Try some sweet treats at the Old Market Candy Store or Hollywood Candy.
  5. Catch a show at the Holland Center.
  6. Learn about Omaha’s history at The Durham Museum.
  7. Take the kids to the Omaha Children’s Museum.
Travel with peace of mind. Travel WITH a security belt.
Active Roots Security Belt

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Hide Yo’ Money!

FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Omaha

Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Omaha and where to stay.

What To Pack For Omaha

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

Product
Description
Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!
Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!

Ear Plugs

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Keep your laundry organized and stink free
Keep your laundry organized and stink free

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Stay Dry With a Micro Towel
Stay Dry With a Micro Towel

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Make Some New Buddies…
Make Some New Buddies…

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!
Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Omaha

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Stay in Omaha

The best places in Omaha to stay will give you easy access to all the attractions, charm, and friendly atmosphere of this cool city. So the next time you’re looking for a weekend destination or a unique spot for a longer stay, make sure you put Omaha on your list!

Looking for more info on travelling to Omaha and USA?

Buy Us a Coffee!

A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

the broke backpacker team at the water temple in bali
Thank you <3