As snow falls on our patience; with smooth hot chocolate brazing our lips, we slowly cruise around Omaha looking for the picture-perfect attraction that captivates everyone, leaving them in awe.
With the holiday season approaching, everyone wants to find out where the perfect festive lights are. So you no longer have to face the danger of the wretched cold only to find subpar lights, here are the top attractions I found in our peaceful town during this holiday season.
Starting with the best attraction that has lights that dance with the music: Werner Park is home to not only baseball, but also holiday fun. Santa’s Rock n Lights is a mile of fun-filled lights you get to drive through. With a purchase of a ticket (starting at $29.99, prices may vary) you can have a fun-filled night, complete with programmed Christmas songs on the display’s own radio station. With this, your family will form new memories at Werner Park, and stay warm during the frigid cold.
If you are looking for attractions you can walk around in and even interact with, look no further. As we head downtown we stop at the zoo, where Zoolightful lights brighten up the area. Whether you purchase you and your family an igloo (starting at $250), build a gingerbread house in Gingerbread Village, or slide down their 120 foot long ice slide, you will find fun-filled memories, along with the enjoyment of the zoolightful animals.
If the zoo isn’t your cup of cocoa, venture further to downtown Omaha where trees are engulfed with lights. Bundling up in blankets as we enjoy the lights has to be one of my favorite holiday traditions. The fact that it’s free will have your wallet smiling as much as you are. Most of the decor is located in the Old Market Entertainment District, the best place to drive or walk and look at the thoughtful displays, as it lights up not only the trees but our spirits. You also have the opportunity to ride in a horse drawn carriage, cruising about downtown and making the experience even more magical.
Nearby, Midtown is another spot to gander at lights. With Christmas decorations displayed in the windows, it’s a pretty place to pass by. Whether you need to stop by a local shop, or just enjoy the scenery, you won’t be disappointed as the lights illuminate your spirits.
Another great place to stop by is South Omaha, where lights are strung up and people sing carols. It is a wonderful place to see more magnificent lights, which will make you feel warm and cozy as you enjoy the shops and charm of the neighborhood.
If even that doesn’t suffice, Ralston is another beautiful area to explore. With the Ralston Granary and main street itself decked out in lights, you won’t want to miss out on the festivities.
Coming back closer to home, there are always neighbors ready to light up the night. Linden Estates with its colossal housing and astounding lights will ensure you never get bored steering through the snowy lanes.
Another neighborhood to peek at is the Hawthorne neighborhood. These delectable lights will quench your hunger for holiday spirit. With houses covered from foundation to roof in lights, you’re sure to be impressed.
A favorite choice of mine is the Regency neighborhood. With all the big houses and bold lighting, you surely won’t be bored. There are also many trails to travel, and you will find lights on every path you take. Additionally, the Regency Mall is not only a beautiful place to drive by but also a great place to stop and shop, or even look at the wonderful decorations waiting to catch your eye inside.
If your spirits have not been lifted you may need to grab a hot chocolate to soothe your soul. This holiday season is always exciting, not because of the physical gifts we receive but the time we take to appreciate the beauty all around us. With that said, I hope this helps you find your own personal favorite holiday lights display to glue your eyes upon, realizing how lucky we are to have such a beautiful winter wonderland as a home.