Omaha "Staycation" Day 1 Part 1

("Staycation:  A vacation in your own town/State)  My first suggestion, if you are trying a staycation, is to form a vacation co-op with a couple of your friends and neighbors.  These are similar to cooking Co-ops.  When someone in your co-op is on vacation, you provide their meals, and do some light housekeeping.  When it's your turn, these things will be done for you.  It is really nice spending the weekend exploring your town and still eat and sleep at home without the work!

My first itinerary would look something like this;

(Pack a picnic lunch if you like, you'll be in the perfect setting for it!, and wear comfortable clothing and shoes!)

Take the family out to breakfast.  C'mon, spluge!  You're saving money not having to rent a motel room, plus many things on this agenda are free, so start out by spoiling yourself.

Take a stroll through the Gene Leahy Pedestrian Mall.  Located at 13th and Farnam, the beautiful scenery is a wonderful way to start your day!  These is also are popular slides in the Mall which is enjoyed by adults and children alike.

Next, head on over to the Heartland of America Park.  It sports a 300 foot jet fountain (with light show at night).  It is located on 8th and Douglas (accessable from the Leahy Mall) and has a pedestrian bridge which leads to the Lewis and Clark Landing.  Very interesting and educational exibits and information here.

I'll bet by now you're getting hungry.  You've done quite a bit of walking!  My suggestion is to find a picnic table and enjoy your packed lunch, or head on over to the Old Market.  (Harney to Jackson-10th to 13st Streets.)  There you will find over 30 restaurants, several bakeries, and plenty more to see after lunch!  (I'd suggest Little Kings, or something similar.  Spaghetti works is GREAT, but will more than likely make you tired for the rest of your day.

The atmosphere at the Old Market is great.  I could never say enough about it except to expect the unexpected!  There are horse drawn carriage rides, street performers, and unique shops.  Take the opportunity to sit out in the Market and just watch people go by!  After visiting the Old Market, if you have younger ones, they are probably ready for a nap.  If they are, drive home and take a rest.  (remember, if you co-oped, you won't have to make the beds!)

The rest of the afternoon is free time.  Stay at home and play some family games with the kids, or if you MUST, watch T.V, or better yet, a movie.  Relax and wait for your dinner to arrive!  If you didn't co-op, toss in a frozen pizza, or order out.

After Dinner, it's time to head on over to the family Family Fun Center, at 70th and Dodge.  They are open until 1 a.m. on Saturdays.  You can print out a coupon before hand for 20 free tokens, or "football frenzy."  Just click on http://www.familyfuncenter.net/coupons.asp  The Fun Center Boasts Laser Tag, a Pool, Arcade, and Football Frenzy.  This is not a free activity, but well worth the money spent.  (Plus, I clued you in on a coupon!  sheesh!)

By now, everyone is ready for the comforts of home.  Relax, and get ready for day 2 of your Staycation!