Situated on the banks of the Missouri River, Omaha is a heartland city well-known for its pioneer history, museums, and warm and welcoming spirit. Even better, it is home to a growing and diverse LGBTQ community. If you make your home here in the heartland, chances are, you’ll be glad you did.
A Look at Omaha’s History
Like much of the American West, Omaha sits on a piece of land originally secured by Thomas Jefferson as part of the Louisiana Purchase. Following a treaty with the Omaha tribe, The Nebraska Territory was created as part of the Kansas-Nebraska Act and the City of Omaha itself was founded in July of 1854. In the 1860s and 1870s, it emerged as an industrial hub of the Midwest because it was chosen as a hub for the transcontinental railroad, and it has continued to grow steadily since that time. Today, several major corporations including Kiewit Corporation, Berkshire Hathaway, Union Pacific Corporation, and Mutual of Omaha are headquartered in Omaha, among others. Nearly 500,000 people call Omaha home, making it the 42nd biggest city in the United States.
Omaha – A Few Fun Facts
Find more fun facts about Omaha here.
Omaha’s LGBTQ Community
Omaha may not have the largest LGBTQ community compared to some other cities in the country, but it is one that is nevertheless thriving, steadily growing, and well-supported. Some of the LGBTQ community resources in Omaha include:
Heartland Pride is a community resource and support group that seeks to promote equality, civil rights, and inclusiveness for the LGBTQ community in Omaha and beyond. The group does this by celebrating and promoting the history, diversity, and prosperity of the LGBTQ community through events, education, festivities, and support and advocacy groups which it offers to the community year-round.
PFLAG Omaha is the city’s local chapter of the national PFLAG organization, which is the largest grassroots organization of its kind in the country. With 500 chapters and more than 200,000 members in the United States, PFLAG plays a vital role in providing advocacy, support, and resources to the LGBTQ community. The Omaha PFLAG group offers monthly support meetings, as well as advocacy, resources, and social networking opportunities for the LGBTQ community, friends, and allies.
What’s the Weather Like in Omaha?
Omaha residents will experience all four seasons, with hot, humid summers averaging a high of 86 degrees, and cold winters, with an average low around 13 degrees. Spring and fall are generally mild and pleasant, and residents can enjoy fragrant spring flowers and beautiful fall leaves. Omaha gets 31 inches of rain, on average, per year, as well as an average of 31 inches of snow.
Must-Try Omaha Events
The Heartland Pride Festival is Omaha’s annual pride celebration. The weeklong festivities celebrate and promote the history, diversity, and future prosperity of the LGBTQ community and all that it adds to the city. The festival includes parades, educational events, parties, networking opportunities, and more. You won’t want to miss it!
A Look at the Best Omaha Neighborhoods
While much of Omaha is warm and welcoming, the Old Market neighborhood is the most popular neighborhood for the LGBTQ community. In addition to its lively nightlife and eclectic collection of restaurants, bars, and shops, Old Market is very walkable and offers a variety of housing options. Old Market is considered an extension of Omaha’s downtown area, and as a result, there aren’t many single-family homes available, although some can be found, along with multiple condos, apartments, and townhome options. The current median sale price in the Old Market is approximately $416,000.
Arts and Entertainment
Old Market is a neighborhood located in downtown Omaha which is well-known for its restaurants, art galleries, and upscale shopping. The area has more than 80 restaurants and shops for visitors to enjoy and has a lively, fun atmosphere, often featuring street performers and entertainers. There’s something here for everyone to enjoy and it’s a great place to spend an afternoon or evening out.
The Josyln is the largest fine arts museum in the state of Nebraska. Since the 1930s, it has been inspiring visitors with masterpieces from around the world and is particularly known for its nineteenth and twentieth-century American and European art.
Parks and Recreation
Omaha’s GLBT Sports League offers year-round sporting events, games, and activities for Omaha’s LGBTQ community, as well as for friends and allies. With the goal of uniting the gay and straight communities through sports, all are welcome, regardless of ability or experience. The main goal is to get exercise, have fun, and make friends!
Although many cities have zoos, Omaha’s zoo is truly special. It is frequently named one of the best zoos in the world, and it is a worldwide leader in animal conservation and research. Even better, its guaranteed to be a fun and educational experience for the whole family, regardless of age. The zoo has the largest cat complex in North America, as well as one of the largest indoor rainforests, one of the largest indoor deserts, and the world’s largest glazed geodesic dome.
Omaha Nightlife
Flixx is a very popular LGBTQ bar known for its lively cabaret shows, chill lounge area, strong but reasonably priced drinks, and frequent themed nights including karaoke nights, underwear nights, live music, and more.
Located in the Old Market district of Omaha, The Max is an energetic LGBTQ nightclub featuring multiple dance floors, a wide variety of music, strong drinks, and regular drag shows and theme nights.
The Omaha Mining Company is Omaha’s oldest LGBTQ bar, and it prides itself on being the “neighborhood bar”. It’s a great place to meet up with old friends (or make new ones!) enjoy strong but reasonably priced drinks, and relax in a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere.
Contact an Omaha Realtor Today
If you are ready to find your next perfect home in a neighborhood you’ll love, today is a great day to start your search. Contact an Omaha gay realtor for a free, no-obligation consultation any time!
