Things To Do With Kids in Council Bluffs, IA

The Omaha Children's Museum is a hands-on wonderland where kids from infants to tweens can explore, create, and learn through interactive play. With thoughtfully designed exhibits spanning art, science, and imaginative play, this isn't a 'look but don't touch' museum,it's a place where active engagement is encouraged and little hands are meant to explore every corner.

The Joslyn Art Museum offers a surprisingly kid-friendly art experience with free admission that makes it perfect for budget-conscious families. Interactive galleries and specially designed family programs help children connect with world-class art, while the beautiful architecture and sculpture garden provide plenty of space for young visitors to explore and discover.

Carter Lake Park offers a well-maintained neighborhood playground that's perfect for families with young children looking for a free outdoor activity. The modern equipment includes age-appropriate climbing structures, swings, and play areas designed specifically with toddlers and younger elementary kids in mind, making it an ideal spot for safe, active play.

Farnam Street in Omaha's Blackstone neighborhood offers families a welcoming neighborhood park perfect for outdoor play and easy strolls. With playground equipment for active play, open green spaces for running around, and pleasant walking paths, it's an ideal spot for parents looking to let kids burn energy while enjoying fresh air in a friendly community setting.

Revival House brings a welcoming, casual vibe to Omaha's trendy Blackstone District, making it a great spot for families seeking a relaxed dining experience. With a diverse menu that includes kid-friendly favorites alongside creative adult options, parents can enjoy craft cocktails and elevated comfort food while the little ones are well taken care of in this neighborhood gathering spot.

Huber Haus is a beloved Omaha ice cream parlor where families gather for homemade frozen treats in a nostalgic setting. With generous portions, unique flavors made in-house, and plenty of outdoor seating, it's the perfect spot to end a busy day of activities or celebrate summer evenings together.

The green spaces near Blackstone Apartments offer convenient pocket parks perfect for a quick play break while exploring the charming Dundee neighborhood. These small but accessible green areas provide a nice spot for little ones to stretch their legs between browsing the area's boutique shops and family-friendly restaurants.

Fifth House offers families an opportunity to explore creative plant-based dining in a welcoming, non-intimidating environment. Their menu features innovative vegan dishes designed to appeal to young palates, making it easier for parents to introduce healthier eating options while enjoying a pleasant dining experience together.

Big Brain Comics is a welcoming independent comic book shop that goes beyond superheroes to offer an impressive collection of age-appropriate graphic novels perfect for young readers. This isn't your typical dusty comic store,it's designed with families in mind, featuring regularly scheduled reading activities and events that spark kids' imaginations and foster a love of storytelling through visual media.

Gifford Point Wildlife Management Area offers families a peaceful escape into nature with trails, wildlife viewing, and stunning overlooks of the Missouri River valley. This hidden gem in Bellevue provides an excellent introduction to outdoor exploration for kids, with easy-to-navigate paths and opportunities to spot deer, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Fontenelle Forest offers 1,400 acres of pristine woodlands where families can explore over 26 miles of well-maintained trails, discover wildlife in their natural habitat, and enjoy hands-on learning at the nature center. With trails suitable for strollers and beginning hikers, plus engaging educational programs, it's a perfect outdoor classroom where kids can connect with nature right in the Omaha metro area.

The Dundee-Happy Hollow Historic District offers families a beautiful neighborhood park setting with something for every age. With its extensive playground equipment, open green spaces for running, and well-maintained walking trails, it's the perfect spot for a morning adventure or afternoon picnic. The combination of recreational facilities and the charming historic neighborhood atmosphere makes this a favorite among local Omaha families.

Amsterdam Falafel & Kabob brings Mediterranean flavors to Dundee with a casual, welcoming atmosphere perfect for families looking for a healthy alternative to typical fast food. Kids who might be hesitant about trying new foods often love the crispy falafel, warm pita bread, and customizable plates, while parents appreciate the fresh ingredients, vegetarian options, and wallet-friendly prices.

Dundee Dell brings a taste of Scotland to Omaha's charming Dundee neighborhood with a welcoming pub atmosphere that's surprisingly family-friendly. This neighborhood gem offers an extensive menu featuring authentic fish & chips alongside American favorites and a dedicated kids' menu, making it easy to please the whole family whether you're looking for a casual lunch or early dinner spot.

eCreamery Ice Cream & Cookies is a delightful dessert destination in Omaha's Blackstone district where families can indulge in creative ice cream flavors and custom cookie creations. Kids will be mesmerized watching their custom ice cream combinations come to life, while parents appreciate the quality ingredients and fun atmosphere that makes this more than just another ice cream stop.

Pitch Coal-fire Pizzeria in Omaha's Blackstone district offers an interactive dining experience where kids are mesmerized watching chefs toss dough and slide pizzas into the massive coal-fired oven. The open kitchen concept turns dinner into entertainment, while the casual, family-friendly atmosphere means parents can relax as kids enjoy creative pizzas and fun craft sodas.

Tucked away in Omaha's charming Dundee neighborhood, this church-operated playground offers families a peaceful retreat with well-maintained play equipment suitable for various age groups. The community-focused setting provides a safe, welcoming environment where kids can burn energy while parents enjoy the quiet residential atmosphere.

Virtuoso Pizzeria in Aksarben Village serves up authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas in a relaxed, family-welcoming atmosphere that makes dining with kids stress-free. The pizzeria's location in the heart of Aksarben Village means you can pair your meal with a stroll around the pedestrian-friendly center, and the kid-approved menu ensures even picky eaters will find something they love.

College Heights Park is a spacious neighborhood gem in Bellevue that offers something for the whole family. With its combination of modern playground equipment, multiple sports courts, and plenty of open green space, it's perfect for everything from active play to relaxed family picnics under the Nebraska sky.

Baxter Arena is Omaha's premier family entertainment destination, home to exciting UNO Mavericks hockey and basketball games plus year-round concerts and special events. Located in the vibrant Aksarben Village, this modern 7,500-seat arena offers an electric atmosphere perfect for introducing kids to live sports and entertainment in a comfortable, accessible setting.

Bellevue Public Library is a welcoming community hub where kids can explore a vast children's section filled with books, interactive learning stations, and engaging programs. With regular storytimes for little ones and comprehensive summer reading challenges, this modern facility makes literacy fun and accessible for the whole family.

Krug Park is a welcoming neighborhood pub in Dundee that strikes the perfect balance between casual dining and family-friendly atmosphere. With its relaxed vibe, spacious outdoor patio, and diverse menu that caters to both adventurous eaters and picky kids, it's become a local favorite for families looking for a low-key meal out without sacrificing quality food.

Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews brings a fun, automotive-themed dining experience to the Papillion-Bellevue area with gourmet burgers that appeal to adults and a dedicated kids menu that keeps little ones happy. The casual, relaxed atmosphere means parents don't have to stress about noise levels, and the craft soda selection gives kids something special to try beyond typical fountain drinks.

Gateway Park Apartments appears to be primarily a residential complex rather than a dedicated public park, which may explain the lower rating and limited weekend access. While the description mentions park-like amenities including a playground, splash pad, and green space, families should note this is located at an apartment community with office hours that don't align with typical park visits.

Washington Park in Bellevue is a wonderful neighborhood destination that delivers all the essentials for a perfect park day with kids. The excellent playground equipment keeps children entertained for hours, while the open green space provides plenty of room for picnics, ball games, and running around. Parents appreciate the walking paths that make it easy to push strollers or enjoy a leisurely walk while keeping an eye on playing children.

The Omaha Community Playhouse is a premier destination for introducing children to live theater, offering professionally produced shows specifically designed for young audiences alongside family-friendly main stage productions. With exceptional educational programming and a commitment to quality performances, this beloved theater has been enchanting Omaha families for generations with magical storytelling that sparks imagination and creativity.

Stinson Park is a spacious neighborhood gem in the heart of Aksarben Village, offering families a perfect blend of active play and relaxation. With its modern playground equipment, multiple sports fields, and generous open spaces for running and picnicking, this park has become a go-to destination for Omaha families seeking quality outdoor time in a safe, well-maintained environment.

Nebraska Furniture Mart is primarily a massive furniture and electronics megastore rather than a dining destination, offering families a unique browsing experience through expansive showrooms. While there is reportedly a cafe or dining area on-site for refueling during shopping trips, this isn't a traditional restaurant venue,it's one of the largest home furnishing retailers in the country where kids can see creative room displays and parents can browse appliances and electronics.

Haworth Park is Bellevue's lakeside gem that offers families a full day of outdoor fun without breaking the bank. With a sandy beach area for splashing, fishing opportunities, well-maintained playgrounds, and scenic trails perfect for stroller walks or family bike rides, this park delivers something for every member of the family to enjoy.

The Drover Steakhouse offers a winning combination for family dining with its retro diner atmosphere, kid-friendly menu, and built-in entertainment via arcade games. This Omaha institution lets parents enjoy quality steaks and burgers while kids stay engaged with nostalgic gaming fun, making it a stress-free dining experience where everyone leaves happy.

While Ralston Keno is primarily an adult-oriented gaming establishment, it does offer casual American dining with TV screens for watching sports. However, with a low 2.6/5 rating and casino designation, this venue may not provide the ideal family-friendly atmosphere parents typically seek for dining with children, despite having some kid-friendly menu options available.

Twin Creek Trailhead offers families a smooth, paved trail perfect for young cyclists learning to ride, stroller-pushing parents, and active kids who love exploring outdoors. This well-maintained trail winds through Bellevue's parks and neighborhoods, making it easy to plan short loops or longer adventures depending on your family's energy level and abilities.

Ralston's Baright Public Library is a welcoming community hub that goes beyond books, offering interactive storytime sessions, educational programs, and reading clubs designed specifically for young learners. With an impressive 4.8-star rating from families, this library creates a nurturing environment where children can discover the joy of reading while parents access valuable resources and connect with other local families.

Seymour Smith Park is a sprawling recreational gem in Ralston that offers something for every family member. With its well-maintained playground equipment, extensive walking trails perfect for stroller walks or family bike rides, and multiple sports fields where kids can run free, this park is a go-to destination for active families. The covered picnic shelters make it ideal for birthday parties or casual family gatherings, while the open green spaces provide plenty of room for kids to play frisbee, fly kites, or just explore.

Liberty First Credit Union Arena is Ralston's go-to entertainment destination for family-friendly shows, sporting events, and community gatherings. This versatile venue hosts everything from youth hockey tournaments and basketball games to family concerts and theatrical performances, making it a hub for memorable family outings throughout the year.

Scorz Sports Center is a classic bowling alley in Ralston that combines family-friendly bowling with arcade games, making it a one-stop entertainment destination for kids of all ages. With bumper bowling options for little ones and league play for older kids, plus a full restaurant on-site, families can enjoy hours of active fun without leaving the building.

Bellevue Berry Farm offers families a hands-on agricultural experience where kids can pick their own fresh strawberries and raspberries straight from the fields. Beyond berry picking, the farm transforms seasonally with a beloved pumpkin patch in fall, giving children the chance to learn where their food comes from while enjoying the outdoors and creating lasting farm memories.

Marcus Twin Creek Cinema is a family-friendly neighborhood theater that makes movie outings with kids easy and affordable. With comfortable seating, the latest family films, and reasonable ticket prices, it's a go-to spot for Bellevue parents looking for indoor entertainment without breaking the bank.

Ralston Park is a well-loved neighborhood gem offering everything families need for a classic park day. With its quality playground equipment, plenty of open green space for running and games, and shaded picnic areas, it's the perfect spot for both planned outings and spontaneous afternoon play sessions.

Johnson Community Center is a welcoming recreation hub in Ralston that serves as a one-stop destination for active families. With swimming pools, youth programming, and diverse fitness classes, it offers year-round indoor activities perfect for burning energy regardless of the weather outside.

Grandstand Burgers Sports Grille in La Vista combines classic sports bar energy with a genuinely family-friendly atmosphere that keeps both parents and kids happy. With an impressive menu of burgers, a dedicated kids' selection, and arcade games to entertain little ones, it's become a local favorite for families looking for a casual meal where everyone can relax and have fun.

La Vista Keno Classic is a welcoming neighborhood sports grill that goes the extra mile for families with a dedicated family dining section away from the bar area. With an extensive kids menu featuring crowd-pleasing favorites and a casual, relaxed atmosphere, it's the perfect spot for families looking for a no-fuss meal where kids can be kids and parents can actually enjoy their food.

Hitchcock Nature Center offers families 1,000+ acres of stunning Loess Hills landscape to explore together, with over 10 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy nature walks to more challenging treks. The visitor center provides interactive exhibits and outdoor education programs that make learning about local ecosystems fun, while wildlife viewing opportunities include spotting deer, turkey, and dozens of bird species along the trails.

La Vista Community Center is a one-stop destination for active families, featuring an indoor pool that's perfect for year-round swimming fun, plus a rotating lineup of youth activities and family-friendly classes. With its impressive 4.6-star rating from over 160 reviews, this well-loved recreation facility offers something for every member of the family, from toddler play programs to fitness classes parents can enjoy while kids are in supervised activities.

Offutt Field House is a comprehensive community recreation center that keeps families active year-round with its indoor swimming pool, youth sports programs, and fitness activities. With its exceptional 4.6-star rating from hundreds of visitors, this facility on Offutt Air Force Base offers a welcoming environment where kids can swim, play, and burn energy regardless of Nebraska's weather.

Xenon A Stephanie Moss Academy in Ralston offers a dynamic indoor space where kids can burn energy through structured gymnastics classes and open play activities. This well-established facility provides a safe, supervised environment perfect for active children to develop coordination, strength, and confidence while having fun year-round.

Dairy Queen Grill & Chill offers the classic ice cream treats kids love, including their famous Blizzards, soft serve cones, and frozen novelties. Beyond desserts, this location serves hot food options like burgers and fries, making it a convenient stop for a quick family meal followed by a sweet treat.

Central Park is La Vista's go-to destination for families seeking outdoor fun and quality time together. With well-maintained playground equipment that keeps kids entertained for hours, scenic walking trails perfect for stroller walks or family bikes rides, and spacious picnic shelters ideal for birthday parties or weekend lunches, this park has everything you need for a memorable family outing. The open green spaces provide plenty of room for kids to run, play catch, or fly kites while parents relax nearby.

La Vista Central Park East offers families a winning combination of active play and pet-friendly fun. Kids can burn energy on the tennis courts and athletic fields while the family dog enjoys designated off-leash areas, making it perfect for families who want everyone (including four-legged members) to get exercise together.

Halleck Park is a spacious neighborhood gem in Papillion that delivers everything active families need for a full day of outdoor fun. With modern playground equipment, multiple sports courts and fields, shaded picnic shelters, and expansive lawns perfect for running and playing, this highly-rated park offers something for every member of the family without feeling crowded.

Bob & Willie's Wonderbowl offers the perfect combination of bowling fun and arcade entertainment for families in Omaha. With kid-friendly bumper bowling to keep those gutter balls at bay, a lively arcade area, and on-site food options, it's an ideal spot for everything from casual family outings to memorable birthday parties.

Tara Hills Park is a welcoming neighborhood gem in Papillion that offers families a perfect blend of active play and outdoor relaxation. With well-maintained playground structures, plenty of open green space for impromptu games, and scenic walking paths for stroller-friendly adventures, this park provides everything local families need for an enjoyable afternoon outdoors.

La Vista Public Library is a welcoming community hub that goes beyond books, offering an impressive lineup of children's programming year-round. From engaging story times for toddlers to exciting summer reading challenges for school-age kids, this library makes learning fun and accessible for families throughout the La Vista area.

Papio Bay Aquatic Center is a popular community water park in Papillion that offers something for every member of the family. With exciting water slides for thrill-seekers, a relaxing lazy river for floating, diving boards for adventurous kids, and a zero-depth entry pool perfect for little ones just learning to splash, it's an ideal summer destination that keeps kids entertained for hours without breaking the bank.

The Papillion Area Historical Society offers a charming small-town museum experience perfect for introducing young learners to local history. Kids can explore hands-on exhibits featuring pioneer life, vintage toys, and artifacts from Papillion's past, while educational programs bring Nebraska heritage to life in an accessible, age-appropriate way.

Fricke Field is a versatile community park that offers something for every family member, from little ones racing around the playground to older kids practicing their game on the sports fields. With direct access to Papillion's scenic trail system, families can easily extend their visit with a bike ride or nature walk, making it an ideal spot for both structured play and outdoor adventures.

The Papillion Public Library is a family favorite with its modern, welcoming atmosphere and robust children's programming. With an extensive kids' section packed with books, interactive displays, and cozy reading nooks, plus regular storytimes and creative summer reading programs, it's a wonderful free destination for families seeking both educational enrichment and entertainment.