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Want to explore the Midwest? Omaha vacations offer some great getaway options

| June 29, 2010 2:00 PM

For those interested in exploring the Midwest on their next family vacation, a spot that may not be top of mind, but should be is Omaha, Neb. Located near the border of Nebraska and Iowa, the city is actually within a comfortable driving distance of six states, making it the perfect centralized location for a Midwest adventure. Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, Kansas and Missouri are all just a short drive away.

But once in the city, you probably won't want to leave. Omaha vacations offer great activities for everyone in the family.

There are plenty of options to keep the kids busy. Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo features the world's largest indoor tropical rainforest, encompassing three separate geographic zones. Visitors experience the sights, sounds and smells of the jungle as they meander through re-creations of Asian, African and South American rain forests. The zoo also has one of the country's largest aquariums. Visitors can walk through a glass tunnel in an 850,000 gallon coral reef tank at the Scott Aquarium and view marine life, including sharks and rays. General admission is very affordable. Adult tickets are $11.50. Kids ages 3 to 11 are $7.75. Children 2 and under get in free.

Another attraction worth checking out is the Omaha Children's Museum. Omaha's only participatory museum, it is a place where children and adults can learn and play together. The museum provides an ever-changing series of interactive exhibits, workshops, and special events. Tickets are $8 for children and adults, $7 for seniors. Children 2 and under get in free.

Omaha vacations also have a lot to offer for history buffs. The Strategic Air %26 Space (SAC) Museum, which is located in the city of Ashland, just a short drive from Omaha, features a large collection of military aircraft. In addition to the U.S. planes they have several spacecraft. During the summer, the museum is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults, $9 for senior citizens, $9 for active/retired military personnel and $5 for children ages 4 to 12. The highlight of this attraction for many is the flight simulator rides.

If you are excited by the idea of checking out Omaha, there has never been a better time to visit. Cheap airline tickets are available now, so don't delay.

Courtesy of ARAcontent