Spotlight on the Middle

Both posts this week are going to shine a light on the lesser-known excitement you can find when you travel to the midwest. This area has all kinds of positives when you’re considering student or family travel. The crowds tend to be less than in the big east and west coast cities. Travel is often more affordable. And for that matter, everything is often more affordable.

Today’s feature is the big, the beautiful, the family-activities-rich, Omaha, Nebraska. Though perfect for groups of any age or interest, Omaha is especially spectacular for families and youth. It’s got a zoo with the largest indoor animal exhibits in the world, plus a children’s museum, a giant pizza-and-games extravaganza and other activities perfect for the young and the young at heart. Here’s some of Omaha’s greatness broken down by theme.

Kids and Family

A list of attractions for kids and family in Omaha has to begin with the brilliant Henry-Doorly Zoo. Famous for several of its amazing exhibits, including its IMAX 3D theater, this is one of the most popular stops in the area and rated a favorite zoo by many who’ve crossed its threshold. Besides the IMAX, its most famous features include the largest indoor desert in the world, located in the familiar landmark known as the Desert Dome. Henry-Doorly Zoo also has the world’s largest indoor rainforest, Lied Jungle. These and other amazing habitats make Henry-Doorly a truly amazing zoo experience.

Other attractions perfect for families include the Children’s Museum with tons of fun hands-on activities and the Fun Plex. Besides its rides, games, and activities, the Fun Plex has the largest water park in Nebraska. Another favorite attraction for kids and family is the Amazing Pizza Machine. With themed rooms, a huge, kid-friendly buffet, and games, games, games – the Pizza Machine has hours of fun AND a meal built right into it.

Military

On 9/11, 2001, Air Force One took the President of the United States to Offutt Air Force Base not far from Omaha, Nebraska. This prestigious military location makes Omaha a nice choice for military reunions. But it’s only the beginning. There are other attractions in and near Omaha perfect for members of the military and their families – or for that matter, for anyone interested in our nation’s armed forces past and present. Offutt Air Force Base is one. Freedom Park Navy Museum is another. Here you can step aboard an actual Navy submarine – and fortunately it’s modified so you can do so without crawling down a hatch. Also not far from Omaha, you’ll find the Strategic Air & Space Museum, which is simply a fascinating attraction with B-52′s and other aircraft as just a few of its amazing attractions.

For Everyone

We’re not done yet. Omaha still has so much to offer. Its downtown is a great place to explore and find your own favorite kinds of shops, restaurants, parks and attractions, including the Gene Leahy Pedestrian Mall with popular activities. Another great way to experience the area is on the River City Star Riverboat with a leisurely cruise on the Missouri River. Joselyn Art Museum has been rated one of the ten best for children and will of course interest all of its visitors.

All of these, plus a wide variety of accommodations and still more to discover and explore, make Omaha, Nebraska, an excellent choice for group travel.

Photo by chimothy27 on Flickr.