Day Trips from Omaha
← All Omaha day tripsDay Trips from Omaha: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Omaha, NE. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Omaha
Glacial Trail Scenic Byway
Peterson, IA 51047
Just 2 hrs 32 min from Omaha, rated 5.0 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Des Moines River Valley Scenic Overlook
IA 50156, USA
Just 2 hrs 30 min from Omaha, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic View Point
NE 68355, USA
Just 1 hr 30 min from Omaha, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Waubonsie State Park Scenic Overlook
IA 51640, USA
Just 50 min from Omaha, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Missouri River Overlook
Missouri Valley, IA 51555
Just 35 min from Omaha, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
Weston, MO 64098
Just 2 hrs 30 min from Omaha, rated 4.9 stars by 126 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Loess Hills Scenic Overlook
Oak Ave, Moorhead
Just 1 hr 1 min from Omaha, rated 4.8 stars by 127 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Murray Hill Scenic Overlook
Little Sioux, IA 51545
Just 48 min from Omaha, rated 4.8 stars by 122 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Scenic Overlook
Decatur, NE 68020
Just 1 hr 6 min from Omaha, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Covered Bridges Scenic Byway
Winterset, IA 50273
Just 1 hr 56 min from Omaha, rated 4.7 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Blackbird Scenic Overlook
NE 68020, USA
Just 1 hr 6 min from Omaha, rated 4.6 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook Tower (Loveland Overlook)
Honey Creek, IA 51542
Just 34 min from Omaha, rated 4.5 stars by 296 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Omaha
What are the best scenic drives near Omaha, NE?
The best scenic drives near Omaha include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Omaha?
Most scenic drives near Omaha range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Omaha?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Omaha, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Omaha?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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