Passageway - view of the passageway
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Passageway Gallery Old Market Omaha

4.8
·107 reviews·Omaha, United States

An enchanting underground world in Omaha's Old Market, featuring local art, unique shops, and historic eateries.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Magical ambiance with lights

CrowdMedium
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Passageway - view of the passageway

Passageway Gallery Old Market Omaha

Best Time

Evenings

Magical ambiance with lights

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An enchanting underground world in Omaha's Old Market, featuring local art, unique shops, and historic eateries.

4.8
(107 reviews)

"This place was AMAZING! My favorite find during our Omaha trip."

Vertical photo
TIP

✨ Discover Hidden Gems

Stumble upon this beautiful, well-thought-out space unexpectedly. It's a delightful surprise!

🎨 Support Local Artists

Browse unique art pieces like cut paper, wood, pottery, and jewelry from local creators.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Local Art Galleries

Local Art Galleries

Throughout the Passageway

Explore a vibrant collection of local art, from intricate paper cuts to pottery and paintings. Find a unique piece to take home.

Charming Boutiques

Charming Boutiques

Throughout the Passageway

Discover one-of-a-kind shops offering crafts, jewelry, and unique finds. Perfect for souvenir hunting or browsing.

Trini's Restaurant

Trini's Restaurant

11th & Howard

Experience Tex-Mex delights in this iconic restaurant, one of the original eateries in the passageway.

Garden of the Zodiac

Garden of the Zodiac

Back of the Passageway

A magical hidden garden offering a serene escape and a touch of enchantment.

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Planning Your Visit

Discover the Old Market Passageway

Step into a unique underground world in Omaha's Old Market. This historic passageway, originally designed for shops and restaurants, now offers a charming escape with local art, boutiques, and eateries. It's a hidden gem perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Best Times to Experience the Magic

While charming during the day, the Old Market Passageway truly comes alive at night with ambient lighting. Consider visiting in the evening for a more magical atmosphere, especially if you plan to dine at one of its unique restaurants.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Magical ambiance with lights
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

tex mex restaurant in the iconic @Old Market Omaha passageway 🌿🌮 📍trini’s (11th & howard—old market) ♥️✨⚡️ #food #Foodie #fyp #foodtiktok #FoodTok
@sammys_eatz
5.5K likes • 65.9K views

✨ Discover Hidden Gems

Stumble upon this beautiful, well-thought-out space unexpectedly. It's a delightful surprise!

🎨 Support Local Artists

Browse unique art pieces like cut paper, wood, pottery, and jewelry from local creators.

Omaha is the largest city in Nebraska, situated on the banks of the Missouri River. Omaha is a vibrant and diverse city that offers a wide range of cultural, historical, and recreational opportunities. One of the most popular attractions in Omaha is the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. This world-renowned zoo is home to over 17,000 animals from around the world and features several unique exhibits,...
@seattlefoodandoutdoors
5.3K likes • 315.9K views
Originally the Old Market Passageway in Omaha was set to have restaurants, shops, a bar and clothing stores. It first opened in 1977, where two restaurants were set to be there, V. Mertz and Trini’s that are still there today. Now there’s numerous restaurants and shops to explore. The Old Market Passageway is still one of the most popular tourist destinations in Omaha. Stop by and see it for yours...
visit_nebraska
317 likes • 7.2K views

♿ Wheelchair Accessible Surprise

Enjoy the cool vibe and shops; it's surprisingly wheelchair accessible!

🍽️ Evening Dining Delight

Plan to dine here in the evening when the lights create a magical atmosphere.

Visited The Old Market Passageway #omaha #nebraska #travel
@mahmoudio
1.9K likes • 45K views

Tips

from all over the internet

✨ Discover Hidden Gems

Stumble upon this beautiful, well-thought-out space unexpectedly. It's a delightful surprise!

🎨 Support Local Artists

Browse unique art pieces like cut paper, wood, pottery, and jewelry from local creators.

♿ Wheelchair Accessible Surprise

Enjoy the cool vibe and shops; it's surprisingly wheelchair accessible!

🍽️ Evening Dining Delight

Plan to dine here in the evening when the lights create a magical atmosphere.

📍 Find the Garden

Don't miss the magical Garden of the Zodiac in the back – it's truly enchanting!

What Travellers Say

4.8
(107 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Old Market Passageway as an amazing, unexpected find with a cool vibe and beautiful, well-thought-out spaces. The local art galleries and unique shops are a major draw, and many appreciate its surprising wheelchair accessibility. While some find the shops a bit pricey, the overall experience is highly recommended.

"This place was AMAZING! My favorite find during our Omaha trip. It was just something we happened upon and was not on our radar at all. It was beautiful and so well thought out. We spent a lot of time walking through the various shops in this space. I would have loved to dine here in the evening when the lights came on."

Christina

"This little gallery is filled with local art pieces-- my favorite this visit were the cut paper pieces-- but there are all different types of art- wood, pottery, painting, jewelery-- definitely worth a walk through, if not to get a unique piece for home from locals!"

Sarah Wright

"This place was really cool. Very good vibes and all the artists work together to keep the place up."

Kadeve El

What People Like

Unique and beautiful atmosphere
Local art and shops
Surprising hidden gem

What People Dislike

Shops can be pricey

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Old Market Passageway is located in downtown Omaha, within the historic Old Market district. You can typically find it between 11th and 13th Streets, near Howard Street. Parking is available in nearby garages and on the street, though it can be busy on weekends. Many visitors explore it as part of a larger walk through the Old Market area.

Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options available in the Old Market district. Some Redditors suggest looking for parking garages for convenience, especially during peak hours. Be prepared for paid parking.

If you're exploring other parts of downtown Omaha, like the Gene Leahy Mall or the Old Market shops, the Passageway is easily walkable. It's a central part of the Old Market experience.

The Old Market is very walkable, and the Passageway is a key feature within it. Many visitors enjoy simply wandering through the streets and discovering its various entrances and hidden spots. Using a map app on your phone can help you pinpoint its location.

While it's a 'passageway,' it's integrated into the Old Market's streetscape. Look for entrances that lead underground or into unique architectural spaces. TikTok creators often show the entrances, giving a good visual cue.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Old Market Passageway itself is free. It's a public space housing shops and restaurants, so you only pay for any purchases you make inside.

The passageway is generally accessible during the day, but individual shop and restaurant hours may vary. It's best to check the specific hours for any shops or restaurants you plan to visit. Many find the evening ambiance particularly appealing.TikTok

The art galleries within the Passageway are free to browse. You'll only incur costs if you decide to purchase artwork.

While the shops and restaurants have their own hours, the passageway itself can often be accessed in the evening, and the lighting creates a magical atmosphere, as noted by visitors.Instagram

There are multiple entrances. Some visitors discover it by chance while exploring the Old Market streets. TikTok videos often showcase different entry points, giving a good visual guide.TikTok

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

You'll find a variety of unique boutiques and shops selling local art, crafts, jewelry, and other unique items. It's a great place to find souvenirs or gifts.Reddit

Yes, the Passageway is home to several restaurants, including Trini's (Tex-Mex) and V. Mertz, which were among the original establishments.TikTokInstagram Many visitors enjoy dining here, especially in the evening.

Some reviewers mention that the shops might be a bit pricey, but they are generally considered worth exploring for their unique offerings and local craftsmanship.

You can find a range of options, with Tex-Mex at Trini's being a popular choice. V. Mertz offers a different dining experience. It's a good spot for a unique meal.

Absolutely! The Passageway is known for showcasing local artists and their work, making it a prime spot to find authentic Omaha crafts and art pieces.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Vibe

Yes, the Passageway offers a unique, atmospheric setting that's great for photography, especially in the evening when the lights create a magical ambiance.TikTok

The vibe is described as cool, unique, interesting, and beautiful. It feels like stepping into a different world, with a strong sense of community among the artists.TikTokReddit

The entire passageway has a distinct aesthetic. The Garden of the Zodiac is often highlighted as a particularly picturesque and magical spot.Reddit

Its underground nature, unique architecture, ambient lighting (especially at night), and the blend of art and shops contribute to its visual appeal.

Yes, visitors frequently share videos of their experiences on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, showcasing the unique atmosphere.TikTok+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Old Market Passageway offers a unique adventure for families. Its underground nature can feel like exploring a secret world, which kids often find exciting.TikTok The variety of shops, from art galleries to boutiques, can provide interesting sights for curious young minds. While some shops might have pricier items, the experience of discovery is free.

Consider visiting during the day for a more relaxed exploration. The passageway is also noted as being surprisingly wheelchair accessible, which can be a great convenience for families with strollers or mobility needs.Reddit Dining at Trini's offers a kid-friendly Tex-Mex option that's usually a hit with younger palates.TikTok

🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts

For those who appreciate local art and culture, the Old Market Passageway is a must-visit. It's a curated space featuring numerous galleries filled with diverse works from Omaha artists, including unique cut paper pieces, pottery, and paintings.Reddit You can spend hours browsing and perhaps even find a special piece to take home.

The passageway itself is a piece of Omaha's history, originally opening in 1977 with shops and restaurants.Instagram Exploring its unique architecture and the vibrant community of artists adds another layer to the cultural experience. Don't miss the Garden of the Zodiac for a touch of whimsical charm.Reddit

🍽️ Foodies & Date Night Seekers

The Old Market Passageway offers a unique dining experience, especially in the evening. Restaurants like Trini's (Tex-Mex) and V. Mertz provide excellent culinary options within a distinctive setting.TikTokInstagram Many visitors recommend experiencing the Passageway at night when the ambient lighting creates a magical and romantic atmosphere, perfect for a date night.Reddit

Beyond the main restaurants, the surrounding Old Market district also boasts a wide array of dining choices, making the Passageway a great starting point or a delightful detour during an evening out. The unique ambiance makes any meal feel special.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History and Design

The Old Market Passageway in Omaha is more than just a shopping area; it's a piece of the city's history. Originally opened in 1977, it was envisioned as a vibrant hub featuring restaurants, shops, a bar, and clothing stores.Instagram Two of its original tenants, V. Mertz and Trini's, still operate within its unique underground setting today.Instagram This subterranean design creates a distinct atmosphere, making visitors feel like they've entered a different world.TikTok

The passageway's architecture and layout contribute to its charm. It's a place where visitors can wander through various shops and galleries, discovering local art and unique finds. The ambiance is often described as cool and interesting, with a strong sense of community among the artists who maintain the space.Reddit It's a testament to adaptive reuse, transforming a historical space into a modern attraction.

While it was designed with commercial intent, the Passageway has evolved into a beloved spot for both locals and tourists. Its unique character, combined with the surrounding Old Market district, makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking a distinctive Omaha experience. The blend of history, art, and dining creates a memorable visit for everyone.

The Artistic Heart of the Passageway

The Old Market Passageway is a haven for local artists, showcasing a diverse range of creative works. Visitors consistently praise the quality and variety of art available, from intricate cut paper pieces to traditional paintings, pottery, and jewelry.Reddit This focus on local talent gives the Passageway a distinct and authentic feel, offering a chance to connect with Omaha's creative spirit.

Many reviewers highlight the collaborative nature of the artists, noting how they work together to maintain the space and create a welcoming environment.Reddit This sense of community adds to the overall positive experience. Whether you're an art aficionado or simply looking for a unique souvenir, the galleries within the Passageway offer something special. It's a place where you can find pieces that tell a story and support local craftsmanship.

Beyond the visual arts, the Passageway also houses charming boutiques that complement the artistic offerings. These shops provide an array of unique items, making it a perfect destination for browsing and discovering hidden treasures. The combination of art galleries and specialty shops ensures a rich and engaging experience for all who explore this underground gem.

Experiencing the Passageway at Night

While the Old Market Passageway is charming during the day, many visitors and creators suggest that its true magic unfolds after dark. The ambient lighting transforms the underground space, creating a more intimate and enchanting atmosphere.TikTok This makes it an ideal spot for an evening stroll or a romantic dinner.

Dining at one of the Passageway's restaurants, such as Trini's or V. Mertz, is a popular evening activity. The combination of good food and the unique setting enhances the dining experience. Reviewers often express a desire to have dined there in the evening, highlighting the appeal of the illuminated passageway.Reddit

For photographers, the evening hours offer excellent opportunities to capture the Passageway's distinctive mood. The interplay of light and shadow, combined with the architectural elements, creates visually striking scenes. Visiting in the evening allows you to fully appreciate the ambiance that makes this Omaha attraction so special.