The Old Market: A Family Guide to Omaha's Historic District

If you've got out-of-town family coming or you just want to feel like a tourist in your own city, the Old Market is the move. Cobblestone streets, twinkling lights strung overhead, street musicians, the whole downtown Omaha charm. And it's more kid-friendly than a lot of folks realize. Here's your family guide.

First, the horses. Down around 11th and Howard, you'll usually find the horse-drawn carriages parked for much of the year. Rides aren't free, but even just walking up to see the horses is a hit with little ones. The most famous one is the Cinderella Carriage, with a dome that glows at night. Total magic for a kid.

For a rainy day or a hot one, duck into Hollywood Candy. It's part candy shop, part wonderland, with vintage pinball machines, arcade games, and even a little pinball museum inside. The kids could spend an hour in there easy, and you'll probably spot a candy from your own childhood.

Board game family? Then Spielbound is your spot, Omaha's board game cafe, with shelves and shelves of games to play. It's a great way to slow down and actually sit together for a while.

No trip to the Old Market is complete without ice cream from Ted and Wally's. It's homemade, small-batch, and there's always a wild lineup of flavors. Grab a cone and join the crowd wandering the cobblestones.

Beyond that, just let the district do its thing. There's a farmers market on weekends, street performers, more than 30 restaurants, and those twinkling lights that make an ordinary evening feel special. The Omaha Children's Museum is right nearby at 500 South 20th Street too, if you want to build a bigger day around it.

Here's the tip. The Old Market is all cobblestones and crowds, so skip the stroller if you can and bring the comfortable shoes. Go in the early evening when the lights come on and the street musicians are out. That's when it's at its best.

Hours change from spot to spot, so check ahead for anything specific. Then go show the kids the heart of Omaha.