About twenty years ago, Omaha’s live music scene looked very different.
The Civic Auditorium was still hosting concerts. Ranch Bowl was a favorite stop for music fans. The Mid-America Center was the new kid on the block, bringing larger tours to the region.
Today, the Omaha metro offers everything from sold-out arena concerts and intimate theaters to outdoor amphitheaters and free summer music series. Whether you’re new to the area or you’ve lived here for years, there are more opportunities than ever to catch a great show.
Here’s our guide to the best live music venues in Omaha and the surrounding area.
🎵 Local’s Tip: One of the best parts about Omaha’s music scene is that every venue offers a different experience. Some are all about getting as close to the stage as possible, while others are perfect for date nights, family outings, or relaxing under the stars. In this guide, we’ve included our favorite local tips for each one
Big Arena Concerts
CHI Health Center Omaha
If you’re looking for the biggest names in music, this is where you’ll probably end up.
Formerly known as Qwest Center and CenturyLink Center, CHI Health Center hosts many of the biggest tours that stop in Nebraska.
Best For
- Major arena tours
- Country concerts
- Rock concerts
- Pop artists
Local Tip: Plan ahead for downtown parking and consider grabbing dinner before the show.
Mid-America Center (Council Bluffs)
One of the biggest advantages of the Mid-America Center is something every concertgoer appreciates…
Free parking.
It’s also one of the easiest venues to reach from Interstate 80.
Many Omaha families also associate the Mid-America Center with Trans-Siberian Orchestra, which traditionally kicks off its Christmas tour here each November.
➡ You can read more about Christmas Lights in the area here: The Ultimate Guide to Omaha Christmas Lights
Pinnacle Bank Arena (Lincoln)
Don’t overlook Lincoln.
If your favorite artist skips Omaha, there’s a good chance they’ll stop here instead.
Located in Lincoln’s Haymarket District, Pinnacle Bank Arena is surrounded by restaurants, breweries and shops, making it easy to turn your concert into a full evening out.
Mid-Size Concert Venues
Steelhouse Omaha
One of Omaha’s newest concert venues, Steelhouse has quickly become a favorite because of its outstanding acoustics and intimate feel.
Artists who might not fill a major arena often choose Steelhouse instead, giving fans a much closer concert experience.
Liberty First Credit Union Arena (Ralston)
Formerly known as Ralston Arena, this venue regularly hosts concerts, comedians, sporting events and family entertainment.
Parking is plentiful (and free), and it’s much easier to navigate than downtown venues.
The Astro (La Vista)
The Astro has become one of the hottest additions to the Omaha concert scene.
With both an indoor theater and outdoor amphitheater, it attracts an impressive lineup of national artists while offering excellent sightlines and an easy concert experience.
Local Tip: Come hungry. The burger at The Astro is one of our favorites.
Outdoor Live Music Venues
Stir Concert Cove
If someone asked us which live music venue in Omaha offers the best atmosphere, Stir Concert Cove would be near the top of the list.
Located behind Harrah’s Casino in Council Bluffs, this outdoor venue combines national touring acts with beautiful views of the Omaha skyline.
Whether you’re seeing classic rock legends or today’s hottest artists, the setting is hard to beat.
Local Tip: Get there early if you want to be close to the stage.
SumTur Amphitheater
If you’re looking for a relaxed summer evening, SumTur Amphitheater in Papillion is hard to beat. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, settle in under the stars, and enjoy everything from tribute bands to community concerts.
Local Tip: Some of the best nights aren’t seeing a Grammy winner—they’re spending a warm Nebraska evening listening to a great tribute band with friends.
Westfair Amphitheater (Council Bluffs)
Just across the river in Council Bluffs, Westfair Amphitheater has become another great option for outdoor concerts featuring national touring artists. With easy access from Omaha, plenty of parking, and an open-air atmosphere, it’s well worth adding to your concert rotation. If your favorite band announces an Omaha-area stop, don’t be surprised if it’s at Westfair.
Local Tip: Bring sunscreen if you’re attending an early evening show, and check the venue’s bag policy before you go.
Memorial Park
Every summer, Memorial Park hosts one of Omaha’s biggest outdoor concerts.
It’s one of those traditions that brings thousands of people together for a memorable night of music.
Historic Performance Venues
Orpheum Theater
If you love beautiful architecture as much as live performances, don’t miss the Orpheum.
Broadway productions, comedians, family shows and occasional concerts all take the stage beneath one of Omaha’s most iconic marquees.
Holland Performing Arts Center
Home to the Omaha Symphony, the Holland Center is known for its incredible acoustics.
Don’t assume it’s only for classical music. Throughout the year you’ll also find jazz, singer-songwriters, holiday performances and nationally touring artists.
Free Summer Concerts Around Omaha
Not every great concert requires a ticket.
Watch for seasonal concert series at:
- Jazz on the Green
- Rockbrook Village
- Shadow Lake Towne Center
- Stinson Park
- Village Pointe
- Gene Leahy Mall
- Heartwood Preserve
These free performances are perfect for date nights or family evenings without spending a fortune.
Which Venue Is Right For You?
| If You Want… | Go Here |
| Biggest touring acts | CHI Health Center |
| Free parking | Mid-America Center |
| Best outdoor atmosphere | Stir Concert Cove |
| Dinner & a concert | The Astro |
| Incredible acoustics | Holland Center |
| Historic charm | Orpheum |
| Mid-size concerts | Steelhouse Omaha |
| Easy parking & intimate shows | Liberty First CU Arena |
| More touring options | Pinnacle Bank Arena |
Final Thoughts
One of the things that surprises many people moving to Omaha is just how active the entertainment scene has become.
Today, you can watch a legendary guitarist from the front row at Stir Concert Cove, catch a Broadway show at the Orpheum, enjoy the Omaha Symphony at the Holland Center, or spread out a blanket for a free summer concert in the park.
No matter what kind of music you enjoy, there’s a good chance you’ll find it at one of the many outstanding live music venues in Omaha.
