With thousands of hotel rooms, Airbnbs, and bed and breakfast options available, it can sometimes be difficult to choose the right place to stay when traveling to a new city. When we travel and choose a hotel, my wife and I prefer to visit local hotels, the more intimate the better. Boutique hotels are one of our favorite spots because they tend to offer unique experiences with personalized service and great accommodations.
So if you are planning your next visit to Omaha, I suggest considering staying at one of these boutique hotels as they are sure to offer unique experiences that will enrich your Big O memories. Central to attractions and major businesses in downtown and midtown Omaha, hotels are often located in old buildings that have been repurposed to create special hotel stays.
The beauty of Omaha is that the freeway and major highways provide quick access to attractions, restaurants, and shopping so it can only take 15-20 minutes to get to places like Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium (considered one of the best zoos in the world), Durham Museum, Lauritz Gardens, or Fontenelle Forest in Bellevue for hiking in Omaha’s forest or try your luck in the high ropes course and zip lines. Go in neighborhoods like Dundee and Benson for excellent food in restaurants, such as Consciously, Yoshitomo, Parking space pizzeria, and Dundee Dell. If you prefer a driver service, you can get around with Uber or Lyft at great prices.
Photo credit: Tim Trudell
1. The Farnam
Omaha’s newest boutique hotel is perhaps the chicest. Located in the Old Market on 13th and Farnam Streets, the glass-enclosed former Landmark Center has been renovated and turned into a chic for more than $ 50 million Hotel Farnam. Located across from Gene Leahy Park, the hotel, part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, is perfect for outdoor concerts, a leisurely stroll, or people-watching – once the renovations are completed in mid-2022.
Almost everything about the upscale establishment sings style, from remote-controlled blinds to multi-head “car wash” showers, in rooms and suites called visionaries and billionaires. Even the carpet on each floor of the hallway is designed to resemble an aerial view of the Missouri River, which is just blocks from the hotel.
Unique works of art can be found throughout The Farnam, including burned wood panels in Dynamite vom Feuer in M’s Pub 2016. Enjoy fine dining with a wood-burning stove, Dynamite wood fire grill is a great place to have a tomahawk or sirloin steak, as well as octopus and even a wood-fired cauliflower steak. Before dinner, consider sharing an appetizer like Reuben croquettes. With upscale accommodations and fine dining, The Farnam is perfect for a special occasion or getaway.
Pro tip: On the northern edge of the old market, The Farnam is close to great restaurants such as M’s pub, broth, and Trinis, as well as shops and galleries.
Photo credit: Tim Trudell
2. Kimpton Cottonwood
The Blackstone Hotel once entertained presidents and celebrities during its heyday. However, it is perhaps best known as the place where the Reuben sandwich was invented. You can also throw in Butter Brickle Ice to start your flavorful adventures there. The Blackstone eventually closed and housed business offices.
Today you can enjoy a comfortable stay with a beautiful view of downtown Omaha as the hotel was reborn as the 2020 Kimpton Poplar. It may be upscale, but the boutique hotel makes for an affordable stay, along with an impressive outdoor pool and bar.
Enjoy a drink in Cottonwood room Relax before you have a bite to eat – perhaps a modern twist on the Reuben – at The Chophouse Committee Restaurant. The Cottonwood is centrally located in the exciting Blackstone entertainment district, home to restaurants, coffeehouses, bars and clubs.
Pro tip: Within walking distance of Midtown Crossing, the mixed-use area is home to shops, restaurants and bars. Game bound is a fun place to have a beer, wine or coffee while playing a variety of board games.
Photo credit: Tim Trudell
3. Hotel decoration
The name perfectly describes the Art Deco-style building in downtown Omaha, just steps from the restaurants, shops, galleries and bars of the iconic Old Market. With modern rooms for a comfortable stay, you may want to stay inside and enjoy a drink and dinner in the restaurant monarch, with cocktail specialties and dry-aged steak among the outstanding menu items.
Built in 1930 as Redick Tower, Hotel decoration was extensively renovated several years ago to become a luxury boutique hotel about two blocks from the famous Orpheum Theater, Home to traveling Broadway plays and musicals. The Hotel Deco was listed on the National Register of Historic Places and Historic Hotels in America.
Pro tip: Located near excellent restaurants, be sure to stop for lunch or dinner in Wilson and Washburn, is located in an iconic classical building and is famous for its beet chips. The place has the feel of a neighborhood bar with great food.
Photo credit: Tim Trudell
4. Element Omaha Midtown Crossing
Whether for a weekend trip or a longer stay, that Element Omaha Midtown Crossing offers the convenience of a home away from home. As a pet friendly hotel, the Element is an excellent place to be. The Turner Park offers your dog space to play and stretch their legs.
With a variety of restaurants within walking distance, you can enjoy excellent Asian, Mexican and American cuisine, including delicious Buffalo Wings at Rays. Wohlner’s grocery store is within walking distance so you can take some groceries with you for your stay.
The Element offers modern rooms with comfortable beds and plenty of space to relax after a day of work or play. With a fully equipped kitchen you can prepare your own superb evening meals. If you are in town on business, the rooms have a spacious work area. On the ground floor there is a free breakfast room as well as a lounge and a visitor area. The item is within walking distance of. removed Joslyn Art Museum, as well as Blackstone District, Home to restaurants, coffeehouses, and bars.
Pro tip: A short drive from the hotel, Zen Coffee Company offers excellent java, tea and ice drinks. Consider stopping next door around The next chapter Bookstore where you can find an excellent selection of works including local and regional authors.
Photo credit: Tim Trudell
5. Downtown Peregrine Omaha
Named for the falcons, popular with the locals and living on the window sills and other nooks and crannies of the neighboring WoodmenLife Tower, The Peregrine Omaha Downtown, Part of the Hilton Hotels Curio Collection, opened near downtown Omaha in 2021. With 89 rooms, the boutique hotel is within walking distance of the old market and Joslyn Museum while you are also close to unique restaurants and Bike Union and coffee.
The Peregrine is housed in a building that is more than 100 years old and combines modern comfort – and pet-friendly rooms – with a touch of history that surrounds it with classic architecture. The rooms offer views of downtown Omaha and comfortable king and queen beds. This also includes digital key access, Nespresso coffee machines and spacious work areas.
Enjoy drinks and dinner with seasonal menus at the chic Habitat restaurant and bar. Enjoy drinks and appetizers in the warm weather The takeoff, a rooftop bar.
With modern art throughout the hotel, guests will find peregrine falcon-inspired art in the rooms and hallways.
Pro tip: For a unique Omaha dining experience, take a short 5-minute walk to Block 16, Home to unique specialties from the daily farm-to-table menu, such as a smash burger with Wagyu patties, bacon jam, and caramelized onions on a soft potato bun. Food Network’s Alton Brown called Block 16’s Croque Garcon Burger the best in the country.
Photo credit: Tim Trudell
6. Magnolia Omaha
the Magnolia Omaha is a luxury boutique hotel that offers an intimate, comfortable experience. The hotel has been part of the Magnolia inclusive chain since 2006 and is ideal for business and private trips. A free shuttle takes visitors to meetings or attractions such as the old market. A short walk takes you to the historic shopping and dining area.
The Magnolia offers guest rooms and suites known for attracting celebrities and dignitaries. About a block from the old Orpheum Theater, the hotel is often home to artists from Broadway shows.
With classically designed rooms and suites, the Magnolia offers a comfortable experience. The guest rooms have one king-size or two queen-size beds, spacious work and relaxation areas. With some rooms over 100 square meters, you will definitely feel at home during your stay here.
The former court of Aquila was built in 1923 based on an Italian palace and offers classic architectural design and works of art on four floors. The courtyard has a water fountain and flower arrangements that provide a cozy setting to enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass of wine. Weddings and other events are often held in the courtyard.
Pro tip: The Joslyn Art Museum is a short drive or 15-minute walk from the hotel. With free admission, the museum houses classical art from the 17th century as well as contemporary and rare pieces. The western gallery includes Remington statues and artwork, as well as beadwork and Native American drawings.
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