Timeline
07:32
Find a quiet spot on the bluff near the Union Pacific train displays. The park faces west-southwest, giving you a clear view of the sunrise over the river and the Iowa border. The cold morning air is crisp, so bring a jacket.
07:47
Watch the sun crest the horizon. In January, the golden light begins around 16:36, but the initial sunrise at 07:47 provides a sharp, bright start to the day. The view stretches across the Missouri River toward Iowa.
08:32
After the light settles, head to Lauritzen Gardens. It is a short nine-minute walk to the northeast. The gardens open shortly after sunrise, allowing you to explore the manicured exhibits and water features while the morning light is soft and the crowds are minimal.
Local tip
The park is located just north of Interstate 80. Parking is available on-site. Check the specific opening hours for Lauritzen Gardens for the day of your visit, as they can vary by season.
Check before you go
- Lauritzen Gardens opening times vary by season. Check their official schedule for the day you plan to visit.
- Temperatures in Omaha can drop significantly before sunrise. Dress warmly.
- The walk from Kenefick Park to Lauritzen Gardens is about nine minutes.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Omaha (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).