People who aren’t from around here might think Nebraska in the winter is some kind of frozen wasteland, where we all just hunker down and wait for spring. But that’s just not true! We actually love winter here—we just don’t brag about it too much so it stays uncrowded. From outdoor adventures to cozy indoor entertainment, there’s so much to do if you know where to look. If you’re looking for winter activities in Nebraska, you’re in for a treat. These places are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to wintertime fun—they also happen to be some of my favorite local hangouts!
And for families with kids, winter doesn’t mean being stuck at home. Omaha has no shortage of indoor play areas for kids in Omaha, from high-energy climbing spaces to calmer, sensory-friendly options that make winter days a lot more manageable.
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Explore Downtown Omaha: The Gene Leahy Mall, Skate Ribbon & Luminarium
Downtown Omaha’s Gene Leahy Mall and Heartland of America Park have been transformed into a hub of activity, making them a perfect winter destination. The Skate Ribbon, located at 8th and Farnam Street, offers free ice skating for those who bring their own skates, with rentals available for just $4 for kids and $5 for adults. Just be sure to fill out the waiver and check in at the Skate Kiosk before hitting the ice! Learn more here.
For a dose of interactive learning, head over to the Kiewit Luminarium on the reimagined RiverFront. This one-of-a-kind science center offers 100+ hands-on exhibits that will spark curiosity in visitors of all ages. Even better? You can check out passes for free from local libraries! Visit their website for details.
Indoor Entertainment: Smash Park & The Fowling Warehouse
When it’s too cold to be outside, indoor entertainment is the way to go! If you’re looking for fun indoor winter activities in Nebraska, these spots are a must-visit.
Smash Park (La Vista, NE) is packed with activities, including pickleball, mini bowling, axe throwing, karaoke, and arcade games. Their leagues and social events make it easy to stay active while having fun with friends and family. You can check out our entire blog about Smash Park right here.
Fowling Warehouse (Omaha, NE) offers a unique experience by combining football and bowling for a competitive (and sneaky workout) kind of fun. The massive space also has giant Jenga, cornhole, and plenty of TVs playing sports—making it a great place to hang out and watch the game.
Putt-Putt Golf at Let’s Go Putt
Mini golf isn’t just a summer activity, and Let’s Go Putt makes sure you can enjoy it all year long with several exciting indoor locations around Omaha. If you’re looking for winter fun in Nebraska, mini golf is an unexpected but entertaining option!
Prehistoric Putt – Step back in time and play among life-sized dinosaurs. Whether you’re dodging a T-Rex or putting past a triceratops, this place makes mini golf feel like an adventure straight out of Jurassic Park.
Medieval Putt – Ever wanted to feel like a knight while playing mini golf? At Medieval Putt, you can take on 18 holes surrounded by castles, dragons, and all things medieval. If you love a good theme, this is the spot for you.
The Fat Putter – This location brings a high-tech twist to traditional putt-putt, offering glow-in-the-dark holes, challenging obstacles, and a unique spin on classic mini golf. Perfect for a fun night out with friends or family!
Whichever theme you choose, Let’s Go Putt brings a whole new level of fun to mini golf in the winter.
Glamping in Ashland
If you love the outdoors but prefer a little extra comfort, Ashland Glamping offers a luxurious way to experience nature. Winter activities in Nebraska don’t have to mean roughing it—stay in cozy domes, safari tents, or canvas tents with amenities like A/C, heating, fully equipped kitchens, and private fire pits. Whether you’re making s’mores under the stars or spotting local wildlife, this is a unique winter getaway.
Shopping at Westroads Mall, Nebraska Crossing & Village Pointe
Shopping is a great way to get out of the house while staying warm, and Nebraska has some fantastic options!
Westroads Mall – This is a classic, old-school indoor mall with everything you need under one roof. It has a great kid’s area, all of the best stores, and an upscale food court. Want to show your kids what malls used to be like before online shopping took over? This is the place! Fun fact: Justin Bieber even wrote a song called “Omaha Mall” after visiting Westroads.
Nebraska Crossing – Even though this outlet mall has outdoor corridors, it’s designed to be wind-shielded and has cozy fireplaces throughout, making it a fantastic shopping destination even in cold weather. On a nice day, grab a coffee from Scooter’s and enjoy shopping while sitting in front of a roaring fire. With over 80 retail brands and restaurants, there’s plenty to explore! Plus, their NEX All Access app gives you exclusive deals and 15% FastCash™ cashback on purchases.
Village Pointe – This open-air shopping district has some of the best stores in the metro, including Nordstrom Rack, Lush, and several local gems. But the real highlight? Scheels’ indoor Ferris wheel, which makes for a fun and unexpected shopping experience. Whether you’re browsing unique boutiques or taking a ride, Village Pointe is a must-visit for shoppers looking for something special.
Hit the Slopes at Mt. Crescent
Yes, you can ski in Nebraska! Well, it’s technically Iowa, but close enough! Crescent Hill at Hitchcock is just 15 miles northeast of Omaha and offers nine ski runs, two chairlifts, snowboard rentals, sledding days, and even night skiing. After hitting the slopes, warm up at the Swiss-inspired lodge or enjoy local restaurants nearby in Crescent and Honey Creek. This is one of the best outdoor winter activities in Nebraska for those who love adventure.
And if you’re hoping to keep it simple (cheap, outdoors, and guaranteed to wear the kids out), sledding is still undefeated. Here’s our roundup of the best sledding hills in Omaha so you can pick your level of “family friendly” vs. “double black diamond”: The Best Sledding Hills in Omaha
Tee Off Year-Round at Swing 365
If you’re missing golf season, Swing 365 provides the perfect winter alternative. With private golf simulator suites in multiple Nebraska locations (including Omaha, Lincoln, Gretna, Bennington, and coming soon….Bellevue), you can practice your swing in a private, 24/7-access club atmosphere, while ignoring the cold and blustery conditions outside. You even get to bring your own food and drink! If you’re looking for indoor winter activities in Nebraska, there’s not a better way to stay on top of your golf game.
Outdoor Adventures at Fontenelle Forest
For a peaceful winter experience, Fontenelle Forest in Bellevue offers guided Full Moon Hikes, snowshoe rentals, and even yoga in the forest. Families will love Forest Fun Day, where kids can hike, make s’mores, and learn about wildlife. Plus, local coffee vendors serve hot drinks on select Sundays—perfect for warming up after an invigorating winter hike!
Mahoney State Park: A Winter Wonderland
People often think of Mahoney State Park as a summer destination, but it’s just as amazing in the winter. Enjoy indoor rock climbing, ice skating, sledding, and an indoor playground—plus cozy lodging options at Peter Kiewit Lodge with stunning Platte River views. If you’re looking for winter fun in Nebraska, Mahoney State Park should be on your list!
Make This Winter One to Remember!
There’s no shortage of winter activities in Nebraska—whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a new favorite indoor spot. So bundle up, grab your friends and family, and start exploring! Which of these activities are you most excited to try? Let me know in the comments!
Need help buying, selling, or leasing a home? Give me a call at 402-600-3006—I’d love to help you find the perfect place to call home this winter!
