Heartland of America Park | Omaha

Heartland of America Park is one of downtown Omaha’s most picturesque and relaxing green spaces-a broad, shimmering urban park built around a 31-acre lake, just steps from the Old Market District and the Missouri River. Blending tranquil nature, public art, and skyline views, it serves as both a scenic escape and a lively gathering place in the city’s revitalized riverfront area.

Origins and Setting
The park was first developed in the 1990s on the site of Omaha’s early railroad yards, transforming industrial land into a central oasis. Following major renovations completed in 2023, Heartland of America Park now forms part of the city’s RiverFront Project, a vast urban renewal initiative that connects it seamlessly with Lewis & Clark Landing to the north and Gene Leahy Mall to the west. Together, these linked parks form a continuous stretch of green space along the river, drawing both locals and visitors for recreation and events.

Landscape and Design
The centerpiece of the park is its serene lake, spanned by walking bridges and lined with modern promenades, native plantings, and shaded seating areas. The lake’s surface reflects both the downtown skyline and the sweeping arcs of the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge nearby. A broad water fountain-one of Omaha’s most recognizable landmarks-rises dramatically from the lake’s center, illuminated at night with shifting colors that dance across the rippling water.

The new redesign introduced terraced lawns, bike and walking trails, and scenic overlooks where you can pause to watch geese glide across the lake or kayakers paddling under the bridge. Stone pathways and natural landscaping blend seamlessly with art installations, giving the park a contemporary but welcoming character.

Features and Attractions

Lakeside Amphitheater – An open-air performance space that hosts concerts, movie nights, and festivals under the stars.

Skate Ribbon and Plaza – A year-round feature: a winding ice-skating trail in winter that converts to a roller and walking path in summer.

Kayak Launch and Boat Rentals – Visitors can rent kayaks and paddleboats to explore the lake’s calm waters, offering a rare aquatic experience right in the city center.

Art Installations – Sculptures and light-based art pieces dot the park, reflecting Omaha’s growing public art movement.

Fountain Shows – The lake’s fountain lights up each evening in a colorful display synchronized with music, creating one of the most photogenic nighttime scenes in Omaha.

Surroundings and Connectivity
Heartland of America Park connects effortlessly to surrounding attractions. A short stroll west leads to The Old Market District, while walking paths eastward join the Missouri Riverfront Trail and the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, which links to Council Bluffs, Iowa. To the north, the Lewis & Clark Landing offers playgrounds, event spaces, and riverfront lookouts.

Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
By day, joggers, cyclists, and families fill the paths, while office workers enjoy lunch breaks by the water. In the evening, the mood turns calm and reflective-soft light glows off the lake, and the city’s lights shimmer in the distance. Summer weekends bring food trucks and live music, and the air carries the mingled scents of grilled food, flowers, and the faint mineral tang of the river breeze.

Recent Revitalization
The park’s transformation through the RiverFront project has made it a model of modern urban design. New pedestrian bridges connect neighborhoods that were once divided by busy roads, while native landscaping reduces maintenance and supports local ecology. The park now feels more open, accessible, and inclusive, drawing a mix of families, couples, and travelers exploring the heart of Omaha.

Overall Impression
Heartland of America Park captures the new rhythm of Omaha-green, active, and community-focused. It’s a place where modern architecture and Midwestern calm coexist, where you can hear the splash of fountains alongside the distant hum of city life. Whether you’re skating under winter lights, gliding across the lake in summer, or simply watching the sunset reflect off the water, the park offers a rare balance of movement and stillness right at the city’s core.