Omaha’s Old Market!

I first visited Omaha’s Old Market district in May of 2021. What at first seemed like just a quaint part of town soon turned out to be an enjoyable journey into Omaha’s past!

Listed on the Register of Historic Places in 1979, this neighborhood dates back to the early 1900s and still retains its charming cobbled streets and covered sidewalks. While parking was available, I would certainly suggest strolling the idyllic sidewalks to truly experience this historic part of Omaha.

Among the many art galleries and boutique shops tucked away in the Old Market I found this amazing little chocolatier.

Inside were confectionery creations that even I was surprised to see, like chocolate purses and high heels! The next time you’re in Omaha, I highly recommend stopping by for some of the best chocolate to be found anywhere in the city.

Now, for a real sit-down meal that will stick with you long after you leave Omaha’s Old Market, stop by the Spaghetti Works restaurant. I have sampled some of the best pasta from around the world in restaurants in a number of countries, but the spaghetti at this location was in a class all its own. Spaghetti Works offers bottomless pasta dishes, meaning you can order bowl after bowl of different noodles and different sauces. I stuck to the traditional spaghetti and meatballs, but the list of options would make almost any gourmand blush.

As if that wasn’t enough, the restaurant also features a salad buffet right in the center of the hard wood, yet inviting dining room. Looking for a romantic setting? No problem! Omaha’s Spaghetti Works in the Old Market also offers private recessed stalls perfect for liaisons and conspiratorial meetings of all kinds.

Now, here’s an insider tip for anyone wishing to visit Omaha’s Old Market: aside from all the street performances and cultural events on display throughout the year, the best part of the district, in my opinion, is the hidden “passageway”.

This subterranean avenue features lush potted plants and cafe style seats connected to a number of businesses, including a restaurant and even an Indian-style gift shop where I found the perfect mini Ganesha tapestry for my youngest sister back in Virginia.

As if this hidden redoubt wasn’t magical enough, make sure to note the peculiar fountains concealed within the brick alcoves!

If you plan to visit Omaha’s Old Market, look for the neighborhood between 10th and 13th streets on the east and west, with Farnam and Jackson streets bordering it on the north and south, respectively. The historic district is the setting for a number of artistic and cultural events throughout the year, from horse-drawn carriage rides to seasonal farmers markets.