Photo: Maria Rani Ruzicka
Photo: Rhonda Hoornstra
Photo: Ben&Ruth Haberkorn
Heartland of America Park at The RiverFront
★4.6(2,759 reviews)FreePark
🕑 2-4 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers love the splash pad and playground equipment, while elementary-aged kids enjoy biking the trails, feeding ducks by the lake, and staying up for summer fireworks shows.🧡 Saved by 80+ families
About
Heartland of America Park offers families a perfect downtown Omaha escape with its combination of active play areas and scenic relaxation spots. Kids can splash in the water feature during warm months, explore the playground, and watch the stunning fountain shows on the lake, while parents enjoy the beautifully landscaped trails and convenient riverfront location.
Highlights
- ✓Interactive splash pad for cooling off on hot days
- ✓Playground equipment for multiple age groups
- ✓Scenic lake with fountain shows and walking paths
- ✓Summer fireworks displays
- ✓Beautiful landscaping and open green spaces for picnics and play
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early morning or late afternoon to snag shaded picnic spots near the playground during busy summer weekends
- 2.Bring a change of clothes for the splash pad,kids inevitably get soaked even if you didn't plan water play
- 3.Park in the free lots along Douglas Street or use the nearby parking garage at 9th and Douglas for easiest access
- 4.Check the fountain show schedule before visiting,the water and light displays happen at specific times and are a highlight for kids
- 5.Pack bug spray for evening visits near the lake, especially during summer months
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience, or come on summer evenings for fountain shows and occasional fireworks. Spring and fall offer perfect temperatures without the summer crowds, though the splash pad is only operational in warm weather.
What to Know
The park is completely free to visit with ample free and paid parking nearby. There are restrooms on-site, paved paths suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, and open green spaces perfect for bringing your own picnic.
Seasonal Notes
The splash pad operates Memorial Day through Labor Day. Summer brings nightly fountain shows and periodic fireworks events. The park is open year-round with winter offering peaceful walks and holiday light displays, though playground equipment may be snow-covered.
Nearby Eats
The Old Market district is just blocks away with family favorites like Spaghetti Works (casual Italian with a fun atmosphere) and Upstream Brewing Company (which has a solid kids menu). For a quick bite, grab pizza at Pitch Pizzeria or treats at eCreamery ice cream shop.
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