I love exploring revitalized historic districts like Omaha’s Old Market District. 1880s brick buildings line the district’s cobblestone streets. Unique shops, art galleries and interesting pubs and restaurants fill those buildings. Omaha resident and fellow travel blogger Lisa Trudell, half of The Walking Tourists, introduced my husband and me to the area.
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We started with lunch at the Upstream Brewing Company (514 S 11th Street). I wrote briefly about Upstream Brewing, located in a former fire substation in my Sample Craft Beer at Omaha Breweries article.
After lunch Lisa led us through the Old Market District, pointing out various shops and restaurants.
The Tannenbaum Christmas Shop (1007 Howard Street) caught my eye. The shop is filled with festive ornaments and decorations.
Another highlight is the Old Market Passageway, where a combination of old brick, green plants, black wrought iron and a narrow walkway sets a European mood. The Passageway leads to art galleries, restaurants and boutiques.
Before leaving the area for the afternoon, I couldn’t resist popping into Hollywood Candy. Besides selling bins and bins of nostalgic candy, the bright décor is outrageously fun.
That evening, Skip and I returned to the Old Market Passageway for dinner at Omaha Prime. The restaurant is pricey but worth the splurge. According to the Omaha Prime web site, it’s “ … one of the few restaurants in the nation to serve only the finest USDA Prime steaks and chops.” As expected, my perfectly done, medium-rare filet was melt-in-your-mouth tender and flavorful. The romantic ambiance and top-notch service by tuxedo-clad wait staff enhanced our dining experience.
I could have spent a lot more time in the Old Market, browsing through shops and galleries and enjoying the night life. If you’re planning a visit to Omaha, the Old Market District is a definite must-do.
If you visit the Old Market District
The Old Market District is located in downtown Omaha, Nebraska, between 10th and 13th Streets and from Harney to Jackson Streets. Check the web site for specific business details.
Accommodations
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