Omaha may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of iconic sports cities — but if you’re visiting for the Men’s College World Series, you’ll quickly see why it should be. With a welcoming community, walkable neighborhoods, standout local restaurants, and a few surprising celebrity ties, Omaha has a way of leaving a lasting impression on fans year after year.
We tapped Kristyna Engdahl and Pat Safford from the Pat & JT Podcast to break down everything a first-time visitor or curious fan needs to know about Omaha, from local gems around Charles Schwab Field to fun facts about Omaha’s history, culture, and people.
Why the College World Series Is So Special in Omaha
Omaha has hosted the College World Series since 1950, and locals don’t just embrace it. They live for it.
“We love showing off our city to new people,” Safford said. “You’ll hear people say, ‘This is better than I expected.’ Some even come back when their team isn’t in it.”
From LSU fans spilling out of bars in purple to the southern drawls echoing down North 13th Street, the CWS transforms Omaha into a buzzing hub of tailgates, regional pride, and family-friendly fun.
What to Do Around Charles Schwab Field
The stadium’s north downtown neighborhood is the heartbeat of CWS activity. Once you’re here, you barely need to leave the area to have an amazing time.
Must-visit nearby spots:
- Fan Fest – Live music, games, vendors, and family-friendly activations.
- The Matt (Old Mattress Factory) – Outdoor party zone with food, drinks, and DJs.
- Slowdown – Live music venue with events all CWS week.
- Blatt Beer & Table – A rooftop patio so close to the field, you’ll hear the crack of the bat.
“Just plop yourself downtown and explore. Everything you need is in walking distance,” Engdahl said.
Traffic & Construction
Yes, Omaha is under construction. Between streetcar projects, airport renovations, and road closures, give yourself extra time.
Know before you go:
- 72nd Street Bridge & Harney Street Bridge are under major reconstruction.
- Streetcar installation has affected parts of 36th–37th Street corridors.
- Lots A and garages near CHI Health Center offer closer and often underused parking options for fans.
- For more tips on parking, tailgating rules, and what to bring, check out our Know Before You Go Guide for CWS fans.
“Tailgating is permitted in Lot A, and you’re only a short walk from the stadium,” Engdahl said. “It’s $15 for all-day parking—can’t beat it.”
Got a Day Off? Visit the Zoo
If you have a free day away from the ballpark, locals agree: go to the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Recognized as one of the best zoos in the country, it features:
- A desert under a dome
- A rainforest you can walk through
- Penguin feeding sessions
- After-hours events and even yoga in the aquarium
“If you’ve only got one day in Omaha, make it the zoo,” Safford said.
Looking for more ways to fill your itinerary? Here’s a list of family-friendly things to do in Omaha during the CWS!
Neighborhoods to Explore in Omaha
Whether you walk, scoot, or Uber, don’t miss these neighborhood hotspots:
Walkable from the Stadium:
- Old Market – Cobblestone streets, local boutiques, restaurants, dive bars.
- Millwork Commons – Up-and-coming creative district just north of Cuming Street.
- Capitol District – Food, drink, and nightlife in a high-energy plaza.
Just a Short Ride Away:
- Blackstone – Trendy for younger crowds, with great brunch and bars.
- Benson – Live music, dive bars, and local art.
- Dundee – A historic district with bookshops, patios, and ice cream.
- Little Bohemia – Great vintage shops, leather goods, and craft wine.
“Each neighborhood has its own vibe. Do even a little bit of researtch, and you’ll find something cool going on,” Engdahl said.
Ballpark Food: Come Hungry
Yes, you’ll find peanuts and Cracker Jacks, but CWS food vendors get creative.
Each year, the chefs at Charles Schwab Field come up with creative and awe-inspiring dishes. For example, one year fans were treated to a colossal tater tot (think Chipotle burrito-sized) smothered in toppings. The chefs commonly come up with regional dishes tailored to CWS anniversaries or themes.
“Each year, the ballpark chefs create a custom-made event menu. It’s a passion project—and it shows,” Engdahl said.
Want to grab a bite outside the ballpark? Check out our picks for the best Omaha restaurants.
What Makes Omaha… Omaha?
Still wondering what to know about Omaha? Here’s a rapid-fire list of local facts and favorites:
- Berkshire Hathaway CEO Warren Buffett lives in Midtown.
- Malcolm X, Fred Astaire, Gabrielle Union, and Marlon Brando were born here.
- World champion boxer Terence “Bud” Crawford hails from Omaha and loudly reps his city in and out of the ring.
- The city just passed a population milestone: over 1 million metro residents.
“It’s the kind of place you become an ambassador for,” Safford said. “People here are proud—and they should be.”
Final Advice for First-Timers Visiting Omaha
Whether you’re here for a weekend or the whole series, the key to loving Omaha is leaning in.
- DO: Explore beyond the stadium. Check out some free things to do in Omaha during the College World Series, you’ll find hidden gems that might surprise you.
- DON’T: Assume Old Market or Blackstone are “too crowded” — you might miss out.
- DO: Plan ahead for parking and road construction.
- DON’T: Skip the zoo, the neighborhoods, or the weird little shops.
And if your team doesn’t make it to the finals?
“Omaha’s always rooting for a good time,” Engdahl said. “You just might end up coming back next year — whether your team’s playing or not.”
Learn More About Omaha
Want to dive deeper into the best restaurants, nightlife, dive bars, brunch spots, and shopping in Omaha? Explore by following Beyond the Ballpark: Hurrdat One’s Guide to Omaha for local tips, guest podcasts, and updates throughout the College World Series.
