Ak-Sar-Ben | Omaha

Ak-Sar-Ben (Nebraska spelled backward) is a name that has become deeply embedded in Omaha’s cultural and entertainment history, originally referring to the Ak-Sar-Ben Arena, Race Track, and Civic Center Complex, and now associated with the Ak-Sar-Ben neighborhood and arena redevelopment in midtown Omaha. It reflects both historical significance and contemporary urban reinvention.

History and Origins
The original Ak-Sar-Ben was established in 1920 as a horse racing track, formally known as the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben, a civic organization dedicated to philanthropy and economic development in Omaha. The name, a playful reversal of “Nebraska,” symbolized local pride and community identity. Over time, the site expanded to include the Ak-Sar-Ben Arena and Civic Auditorium, which hosted concerts, sporting events, conventions, and public gatherings for decades. The track and arena became central to Omaha’s social and entertainment life, attracting visitors from across the region.

Arena and Civic Functions
The Ak-Sar-Ben Arena (built in the 1940s) could accommodate thousands of spectators and became a premier venue for basketball, ice hockey, concerts, and other large-scale events. It hosted University of Nebraska-Omaha Mavericks basketball games, professional wrestling events, rodeos, and major touring concerts. The arena and accompanying facilities made Ak-Sar-Ben a hub for entertainment, drawing both locals and tourists.

Race Track and Horse Racing Legacy
The horse racing track, one of the earliest in the Midwest, hosted thoroughbred racing for decades and included training stables, grandstands, and betting facilities. Racing was a major cultural and social activity in Omaha, combining sporting excitement with philanthropic initiatives. Portions of proceeds from racing events historically supported local charities, reflecting the civic-minded mission of the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben organization.

Redevelopment and Modern Ak-Sar-Ben
In the early 2000s, horse racing and arena functions ceased, and much of the original complex was demolished to make way for redevelopment. The site, now often referred to as the Ak-Sar-Ben Village, has been transformed into a mixed-use urban neighborhood featuring residential apartments, retail spaces, restaurants, offices, and recreational areas. The redevelopment retains the Ak-Sar-Ben name and commemorates the area’s history while creating a modern urban environment.

Current Attractions and Community Role

Ak-Sar-Ben Village – A pedestrian-friendly neighborhood with shops, dining, and entertainment venues, often hosting farmers markets, community events, and festivals.

Midtown Omaha Connectivity – The area is adjacent to Elmwood Park and other midtown green spaces, making it accessible for outdoor recreation and casual strolls.

Legacy Recognition – Plaques, murals, and public art throughout the village commemorate the historical significance of horse racing, arena events, and the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben organization.

Visitor Experience
Visitors to the Ak-Sar-Ben area experience a mix of history and contemporary urban life. Walking through the village, one can glimpse the past through historical markers and architectural details while enjoying modern restaurants, breweries, and boutique shops. Seasonal events and markets create a lively atmosphere, making it a social and cultural hub within Omaha’s midtown district.

Overall Impression
Ak-Sar-Ben symbolizes Omaha’s evolution-from a center of horse racing and civic entertainment to a vibrant, mixed-use neighborhood that honors its history while embracing modern urban life. It is both a nostalgic reference for longtime residents and a destination for newcomers, blending community pride, historical legacy, and contemporary culture in a single, dynamic area.