Where to Stay in Omaha – A Guide to the Gateway to the West
Omaha (known by many as “the Gateway to the West”) is the largest and most populated city in the state of Nebraska. This city, with its modern atmosphere and interesting historical heritage, is an unmissable destination in Nebraska. In this post, we will discuss the best areas to stay in Omaha, Nebraska.
This Nebraska hosts one of the world’s best zoos. Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is considered much more than just a zoo, and more like a biological park dedicated to natural conservation. It is home to the world’s largest glazed geodesic dome, the world’s largest indoor desert, and North America’s largest indoor rainforest.
Eppley Airfield is located three miles northeast of downtown Omaha. It operates regular flights between this Nebraska city and most major airports across the US.
Buses are the main mean of transportation in Omaha. Although the city center is fairly compact, transportation to other districts is challenging without a car. You can rent a cheap car in Omaha here.
The best time to visit Omaha is from June to mid-September, to enjoy the city’s warm temperatures of around 86ºF (30°C), as well as its clear, open skies. Winters in Omaha are particularly cold and dry, with temperatures that can drop to -2.2ºF (-19°C).
When it comes to the best area to stay in Omaha the Downtown area is recommended for both business and leisure travelers, as it is the financial district of the city and home to most attractions and nightlife. See accommodation in Downtown Omaha.
Here’s a guide with the best areas to stay in Omaha, Nebraska.
Attractively located in the center of Omaha, Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District features air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, and a bar. This 4-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and room service. The accommodation provides a concierge service and free shuttle service for guests.
The best areas to stay in Omaha, Nebraska
1. Our favorite area: Downtown Omaha
Downtown Omaha is located on the banks of the Missouri River.
This area is the cultural, financial and entertainment hub of the city. It also houses most of the tourist attractions and the widest variety of accommodation in town.
Downtown’s main attraction is the Old Market, a cobblestone commercial area with galleries, restaurants, and boutiques located in historical Victorian buildings.
Other attractions to see in Downtown Omaha include the Joslyn Art Museum, the Durham Museum, the Orpheum Theater, the Magic Theater, and the Holland Performing Arts Center, as well as the Heartland of America Park, with gondola rides and a fountain show.
Downtown Omaha is home to most of the big-name hotels in town, most of which are within walking distance of the tourist sites and offer shuttle services for convenience.
Downtown is one of the best areas to stay in Omaha thanks to its cultural contrast and the perfect combination of this Nebraska city’s history, present, and future.
Where to stay in Omaha, Nebraska – Downtown Omaha
Accommodation on Downtown Omaha – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area
Why is this a recommended area to stay in Omaha:
- Best area for business travelers
- Best area to stay without a car
- Omaha’s business district
Accommodation in this area
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Top Choice
Hyatt Place Omaha/Downtown-Old Market
This modern design hotel is located in downtown Omaha and features a large heated indoor pool. The CenturyLink Center, located less than a mile away, offers sporting and musical events. The property has free WiFi access.
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Budget
Magnolia Hotel Omaha
This Omaha hotel is 3 blocks from the Old Market and 1 mile from the Qwest Center Stadium and Convention Center. It offers free shuttle service to the airport.
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Luxury
Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District
The Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District is centrally located in Omaha, less than a mile from TD Ameritrade Park Omaha. It is at 3 miles from the Henry Doorly Zoo. The property has a restaurant and a bar.
2. Near the University of Nebraska
West of the Downtown area lies the University of Nebraska.
Founded in 1908, this public research university is one of the largest in the state.
It is located west of the city center and, around it, you can find shops, museums, theaters, and galleries.
As most university districts, the area around UNO is home to a lively student community and vibrant nightlife.
To move from here to other areas of Omaha, you can take the bus at the stops available along Dodge Street.
The hotels around the University of Nebraska adapt to all kinds of budgets and vary from luxury hotels for the most demanding travelers to those of two and three-star categories.
The districts surrounding the University of Nebraska are recommended for young travelers who want to enjoy an exciting nightlife in many of the bars and clubs in the area.
Best areas to stay in Omaha, Nebraska – Close to the University of Nebraska
Accommodation near the University of Nebraska – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area
Why is this a recommended area to stay in Omaha:
- Great area for sightseeing
- Young atmosphere
- University of Nebraska
Accommodation in this area
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Top Choice
Sonesta ES Suites Omaha
This all-suite hotel is 4 blocks from the University of Nebraska-Omaha and 2 miles from Elmwood Park Golf Course. It offers free Wi-Fi and suites with a fully equipped kitchen.
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Budget
Holiday Inn Express Omaha West – 90th Street
This hotel is located in downtown Omaha, 64 miles from the Joslyn Art Museum. It is very comfortable, serves a daily continental breakfast and offers rooms with free Wi-Fi.
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Luxury
Omaha Marriott
The Omaha Marriott has an indoor and outdoor pool and a well-equipped fitness center. It houses a restaurant with a Starbucks section. The Happy Hollow Golf Course is 2.4 milesaway.
3. Council Bluffs
East of the Missouri River lies the city of Council Bluffs.
Technically, it is located in the state of Iowa, but it is also part of the metropolitan area of Omaha.
Council Bluffs is located one hour from Eppley Airport, Omaha’s main air terminal, and, like other cities in Nebraska, bus services, taxis, and car rentals are available in this area.
Council Bluffs offers some interesting attractions worthy of a visit during your stay, such as the Union Pacific Railroad Museum and Dodge House.
The area also has some big shopping centers and gourmet restaurants, bars, chain fashion stores, and boutiques.
This is one of the best areas to stay in the Omaha Metro area thanks to its relative proximity to popular attractions and cheap hotels and motels.
Where to stay in Omaha – Council Bluffs
Accommodation in Council Bluffs – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area
Why is this a recommended area to stay in Omaha:
- Union Pacific Railroad Museum
- Close to Omaha
- Cheap hotels
Accommodation in this area
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Top Choice
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Omaha East, Council Bluffs
The non-smoking SpringHill Suites is less than 10 miles from Council Bluffs and downtown Omaha. It offers modern accommodation, an indoor pool with a hot tub and a well-equipped gym..
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Budget
Days Inn by Wyndham Council Bluffs/9th Ave
This Nebraska hotel is 3 miles from the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha. The Days Inn Council Bluffs/9th Avenue serves breakfast and offers accommodations with free Wi-Fi and cable TV with HBO.
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Luxury
Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs
The Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs is located in Council Bluffs and offers an indoor pool and a restaurant. Free Wi-Fi access is available. Each room has a flat-screen TV, a coffee machine, a refrigerator, a seating area, a hairdryer and a safe.
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