10 Fun Facts About Omaha, NE: How Well Do You Know Your City?

Omaha, NE, is more than just a city in the heart of the Midwest. With its rich history and thriving arts scene, living in Omaha offers a unique blend of urban excitement and small-town charm. From its diverse neighborhoods to its bustling downtown, there’s always something new to discover in this dynamic city. Whether you’re settling into a new apartment in Omaha or have lived in the city for years, this Redfin article will dive into some fun facts about Omaha you’ll want to know.

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Quick facts about Omaha

1. Omaha is the birthplace of the Reuben sandwich

Omaha is known as the birthplace of the Reuben sandwich, which was first created at the Blackstone Hotel in the 1920s. The sandwich consists of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, all grilled between slices of rye bread.

2. The world’s largest indoor desert is in Omaha

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is home to the world’s largest indoor desert, the Desert Dome. This massive structure houses a variety of plant and animal species from desert environments around the world. The zoo hosts a number of indoor ecosystems, including the largest indoor rainforest and swamp.

3. Omaha is named after a Native American tribe

Omaha is named after the Omaha tribe, a Native American tribe that once inhabited the area. The city’s name is derived from the Omaha tribe’s name for themselves, “Umoⁿhoⁿ,” which means “dwellers on the bluff.”

4. Omaha is the birthplace of Fred Astaire

Legendary dancer and actor Fred Astaire was born in Omaha in 1899. He went on to achieve fame as one of the most influential dancers in the history of film and television.

5. Marlon Brando was also born in Omaha

Speaking of famous entertainers from Omaha, legendary actor Marlon Brando was also born in the city  in 1924. He went on to become one of the most influential actors in the history of film, known for his iconic performances in movies such as The Godfather and A Streetcar Named Desire.

6. Omaha is the birthplace of the TV dinner

The TV dinner, a pre-packaged frozen meal that can be heated and eaten directly from the tray, was invented in Omaha by the Swanson company in 1953. The idea for the TV dinner came about as a solution for the company’s excess Thanksgiving turkey. Now, these easy-to-prepare meals are a lifeline for anyone who doesn’t have the time or energy (or ability) to cook.

7. Omaha hosts the College World Series every year

Omaha has been the host city for the College World Series, an annual baseball tournament, since 1950. The event brings together the top college baseball teams in the country to compete for the national championship.

8. Omaha is home to the largest community theater in the U.S.

Omaha is home to the Omaha Community Playhouse, which is the largest community theater in the United States. The theater produces a wide range of plays and musicals and has been a cultural hub for the city since its founding in 1924.

9. Civil rights icon Malcolm X was born in Omaha

Civil rights activist Malcolm X was born in Omaha in 1925. His childhood home, located in the Near North Side neighborhood, is now a historic site and museum dedicated to his life and legacy.

10. The largest ball of stamps can be found in Omaha

Omaha is home to the largest ball of stamps, which weighs over 600 pounds and is on display at Boys Town, a national historic landmark. The ball was created by the Boys Town Stamp Collecting Club.

Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center. The Walk Score, Transit Score and Bike Score data is from Walk Score.