Discovering the Beauty of Omaha's Old Market District
The Old Market District, situated in the heart of downtown Omaha, Nebraska, is a charming and historic destination that showcases the city's rich culture and heritage. This enchanting neighborhood, nestled between Jackson and Jefferson Streets, 10th and 13th Streets, is a must-visit for travelers and locals alike, offering an eclectic blend of art, architecture, food, and entertainment.
The Old Market District was once a bustling marketplace, dating back to the 19th century, where local farmers and vendors would gather to sell their fresh produce and wares. Today, this historic district has been beautifully restored, preserving its original charm while transforming into a vibrant hub of activity. The cobblestone streets are lined with over 40 unique shops, galleries, and restaurants, each showcasing the city's diverse style and culinary delights.
Visitors can explore the iconic Old Market Passageway, a beautifully restored 19th-century turn-of-the-century brick building transformed into a thriving shopping and dining complex. The Old Market Passageway, located at 15th and Farnam Streets, is a premier example of the district's architectural heritage, featuring stunning brickwork, arched doorways, and charming walkways. Inside, shoppers can discover a treasure trove of boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores, such as Retro Rose, a nostalgic boutique offering an array of vintage clothing and accessories, and Homer's Music and Gifts, a popular music store that has been a fixture in the area for over 40 years.
The district is also renowned for its impressive collection of public art, including the famous 'Riverfront Fountain' at Lewis and Clark Landing, located at 345 North Riverfront Drive. This magnificent fountain, designed by renowned Nebraska artist Jim Suttle, is a beloved landmark and a testament to the city's rich artistic heritage. In addition to the 'Riverfront Fountain', visitors can explore numerous other public art installations, such as the stunning glass sculptures at the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, located at 724 South 12th Street.
Beyond shopping and art, the Old Market District is a culinary haven, offering a diverse array of restaurants, bars, and cafes. From fine dining establishments like The Boiler Room, situated at 1101 Jones Street, to casual eateries like Mr. Toad, located at 1002 Howard Street, the district caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Foodies will delight in the opportunity to indulge in the area's signature culinary delights, including authentic Neapolitan pizza at Zio's Pizzeria, located at 1109 Howard Street, and gourmet ice cream at Ted and Wally's Ice Cream, situated at 610 North 12th Street.
Travelers to the Old Market District will also have the opportunity to experience the district's lively nightlife scene, featuring live music venues, bars, and lounges. The district's vibrant atmosphere is especially evident during special events and festivals, such as the annual Omaha Jazz and Blues Weekend, held in July, and the festive holiday celebrations, including the annual Holiday Lights festival, featuring animated light displays and festive decorations throughout the district.
The Old Market District is an enchanting and historic destination, offering an unforgettable experience for visitors and locals alike. Its captivating blend of art, architecture, food, and entertainment has solidified its position as one of the premier destinations in Omaha, and it should not be missed on any visit to the city.
The unique charm and allure of the Old Market District have captivated the hearts of many, making it a quintessential example of Omaha's cultural heritage.
The Old Market District was once a bustling marketplace, dating back to the 19th century, where local farmers and vendors would gather to sell their fresh produce and wares. Today, this historic district has been beautifully restored, preserving its original charm while transforming into a vibrant hub of activity. The cobblestone streets are lined with over 40 unique shops, galleries, and restaurants, each showcasing the city's diverse style and culinary delights.
Visitors can explore the iconic Old Market Passageway, a beautifully restored 19th-century turn-of-the-century brick building transformed into a thriving shopping and dining complex. The Old Market Passageway, located at 15th and Farnam Streets, is a premier example of the district's architectural heritage, featuring stunning brickwork, arched doorways, and charming walkways. Inside, shoppers can discover a treasure trove of boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores, such as Retro Rose, a nostalgic boutique offering an array of vintage clothing and accessories, and Homer's Music and Gifts, a popular music store that has been a fixture in the area for over 40 years.
The district is also renowned for its impressive collection of public art, including the famous 'Riverfront Fountain' at Lewis and Clark Landing, located at 345 North Riverfront Drive. This magnificent fountain, designed by renowned Nebraska artist Jim Suttle, is a beloved landmark and a testament to the city's rich artistic heritage. In addition to the 'Riverfront Fountain', visitors can explore numerous other public art installations, such as the stunning glass sculptures at the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, located at 724 South 12th Street.
Beyond shopping and art, the Old Market District is a culinary haven, offering a diverse array of restaurants, bars, and cafes. From fine dining establishments like The Boiler Room, situated at 1101 Jones Street, to casual eateries like Mr. Toad, located at 1002 Howard Street, the district caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Foodies will delight in the opportunity to indulge in the area's signature culinary delights, including authentic Neapolitan pizza at Zio's Pizzeria, located at 1109 Howard Street, and gourmet ice cream at Ted and Wally's Ice Cream, situated at 610 North 12th Street.
Travelers to the Old Market District will also have the opportunity to experience the district's lively nightlife scene, featuring live music venues, bars, and lounges. The district's vibrant atmosphere is especially evident during special events and festivals, such as the annual Omaha Jazz and Blues Weekend, held in July, and the festive holiday celebrations, including the annual Holiday Lights festival, featuring animated light displays and festive decorations throughout the district.
The Old Market District is an enchanting and historic destination, offering an unforgettable experience for visitors and locals alike. Its captivating blend of art, architecture, food, and entertainment has solidified its position as one of the premier destinations in Omaha, and it should not be missed on any visit to the city.
The unique charm and allure of the Old Market District have captivated the hearts of many, making it a quintessential example of Omaha's cultural heritage.
