Ak-Sar-Ben | Omaha

Information

Landmark: Ak-Sar-Ben
City: Omaha
Country: USA Nebraska
Continent: North America

Ak-Sar-Ben, Omaha, USA Nebraska, North America

Ak-Sar-Ben is a former multi-purpose indoor arena and agricultural exposition center located in Omaha, Nebraska, USA.

It served as a significant venue for entertainment, sporting events, and agricultural showcases in the region.

Visual Characteristics

The structure was a large, rectangular building with a predominantly brick facade. Its design featured a functional, utilitarian aesthetic typical of mid-20th-century civic buildings. The main arena space was enclosed, with seating tiers surrounding a central floor.

Location & Access Logistics

Ak-Sar-Ben was situated at 63rd Street and Center Street in Omaha, Nebraska. It was approximately 5 kilometers west of the downtown Omaha core. Access was primarily via Center Street and surrounding arterial roads. Ample parking was available on-site during its operational years. Public transportation routes, including specific Metro bus lines, served the area.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Ak-Sar-Ben was constructed in 1928. It was conceived and built by the Ak-Sar-Ben Livestock Show and Rodeo Association. Its original purpose was to host agricultural exhibitions, particularly livestock shows, and to serve as a venue for entertainment and sporting events.

Key Highlights & Activities

During its active period, Ak-Sar-Ben hosted a variety of events including professional rodeos, college basketball games (particularly for the University of Nebraska Omaha Mavericks), concerts, ice hockey matches, and large-scale trade shows and expositions. The facility also featured an adjacent racetrack.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The facility included seating for thousands of spectators, concession stands, and restroom facilities. It was equipped with lighting and sound systems suitable for large events. Cell phone signal was generally available within the structure.

Best Time to Visit

As a former venue, Ak-Sar-Ben is no longer open for visits. Its operational period spanned from 1928 until its closure and subsequent demolition.

Facts & Legends

The name "Ak-Sar-Ben" is "Nebraska" spelled backward. This was a deliberate choice by the founders to emphasize the local identity and heritage of the state.