Omaha’s varied recreational activities promise to suit every preference for a local adventure—rain, shine, or otherwise. From physical challenges to more leisurely pursuits, the Big O has it, whether you prefer the thrill of outdoor paddle boarding or the calm of indoor rock climbing. When it comes to getting out, having fun, and even pushing your limits, the metro’s recreational scene truly has it all. Discover these six experiences and add some excitement to your day.
TreeRush Adventures
1111 Bellevue Blvd N Ste A, Bellevue, NE | treerush.com
Embark on an exhilarating outdoor adventure at Bellevue’s Fontenelle Forest with the TreeRush experience. Participants explore the forest canopy, navigating zip lines, suspended bridges, and rope ladders amidst the ancient trees. Catering to thrill-seekers aged four and above, TreeRush Adventures offers two attractions: TreeRush Adventure Park and KidRush Adventure Park. The former spans over six acres, featuring eight trails with varying difficulty levels, while the latter provides scaled-down excitement for younger climbers aged four to six. With supervision and safety ensured, adventurers can delight in a three-hour journey through the treetops, discovering the joy of natural beauty.
Blue Sky Patio & Pickleball
10730 Pacific St Suite 180, Omaha, NE
blueskyomaha.com
Experience the thrill of pickleball—America’s fastest-growing sport—at Blue Sky Patio & Pickleball in Omaha, where players of all skill levels can gather for exhilarating matches. Combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, pickleball offers straightforward rules for beginners and intense competition for seasoned players. Located within the Regency Landing development, the venue boasts insulated courts housed in a heated tent for year-round play. Whether reserving a court or walking in, players can enjoy the convenience of paddle and ball rentals at the Pro Shop. With a spacious patio and dining options like Noli’s Pizzeria and Cheeseburgers–A Take-Out Joint, Blue Sky Patio & Pickleball ensures a memorable and energizing experience.
Tubing & Adventures
25205 Harrison St, Waterloo, NE
tubingandadventures.com
Immerse yourself in an outdoor adventure with Tubing & Adventures (T&A), Omaha’s first tubing outfitter located along the Elkhorn River. T&A offers a one-stop shop for tubing, kayaking, tent camping, and RV camping, prioritizing safety in collaboration with Waterloo Fire & Rescue and the Papio-NRD. With The Neighborhood Offshore, they now provide stand-up paddleboards and yoga classes to enhance the river experience. Explore the scenic 7-mile float down the Elkhorn River, where towering cliffs, serene rock walls, and abundant wildlife await. With expert equipment and transportation services, T&A ensures a memorable and safe journey.
Flying Timber
1507 Farnam St, Omaha, NE | flyingtimber.com
Discover the thrill of landing a blade in a target at Flying Timber Axe Throwing, Omaha’s award-winning venue with cutting-edge targets and unparalleled service. Voted Best of Omaha for multiple years and the winner of the 2020 Omaha Choice Award for Date Night, Flying Timber ensures a top-notch experience for all. With a focus on safety and comfort, each lane features tables and chairs where guests can enjoy craft brews or try their hand at throwing ninja stars. Conveniently located near the historic Old Market, it’s the perfect spot to unwind with friends, family, or colleagues.
Skate Ribbon At Heartland Of America Park
S 8th & Farnam St, Omaha, NE | theriverfrontomaha.com
Omaha’s Skate Ribbon, nestled in Omaha’s revitalized Heartland of America Park downtown, invites year-round enjoyment for the whole family. Located at 8th and Farnam streets, it’s a lively destination for both ice skating during winter and roller skating when temperatures rise. Admission is free for those with their own equipment, and skates are available for rent. Before hitting the rink, guests are required to fill out an online waiver and check in at the Skate Kiosk. Enjoy the riverfront’s additional attractions while you’re there, including the picturesque lakeside amphitheater and the Farnam Pier.
Approach Climbing Gym
4923 S 72nd St, Omaha, NE | omaharockgym.com
Enjoy the thrill of indoor rock climbing at Approach Climbing Gym, boasting a sprawling 6,000-square-foot climbing wall area and a dedicated 1,600-square-foot training zone. Newcomers are guided through a comprehensive safety orientation, which includes a day pass. Climbing enthusiasts aged 14 and above can partake in educational courses and training sessions. Members enjoy 24/7 access to climbing walls, a fully-equipped weight room, and specialized training gear, ensuring a fulfilling climbing experience for all skill levels.
This article originally appeared in the May 2024 issue of Omaha Magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.
