Today I’m featuring a guest post. There really is some interesting stuff in here – I had no idea that the zoo was so old.

“In 2009, Forbes magazine recognized Omaha as the nation’s ‘Best Bang for the Buck!’ and those who live here agree that it is the ‘Gateway to the West’. Families can find apartments and homes that are great places to raise children in a good neighborhood at a reasonable price.

Pioneers founded Omaha along the old Missouri River in the 1850s. Because of its central location in the United States, it has become one of America’s crossroads, connecting the nation in every direction. Several Fortune 500 and Fortune 1000 are located in Omaha and an abundance of activity draws locals and visitors throughout the year.

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo is associated with the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is widely known for its research and development department. The zoo opened in 1894 with the newest exhibits at the time, such as the largest nocturnal exhibit and indoor swamp and one of the largest indoor rain forests. With attractions like these, it’s not surprising why an average of half a million people flock to the zoo each year.

Aside from the Henry Doorly Zoo, thousands of baseball fans come to Omaha for the College World Series. Not only that, but Omaha and the NCAA are synonymous with one another for baseball fans from the east coast to the west coast. The new Ameritrade Park will host the College World Series and many other sports such as Omaha Nighthawks Football, Creighton University Soccer and many others. So if you’re a sports enthusiast, Omaha might just be the right place for you.

Art lovers everywhere can enjoy a visit to the Joslyn Art Museum. It offers exhibits that reflect the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Children find a fun place to learn at Omaha Children’s Museum that has received recognition from the Association of Science and Technology Museums. And don’t forget “The Old Market” where people can find more art, restaurants, and shopping for those with an expensive taste. Now, for the shopping lovers: Westroads Mall is sure to keep a family entertained for hours. You’ll never grow tired of the shopping opportunities offered in Omaha, including Borsheim’s, the largest jewelry store in the United States, and Nebraska Furniture Mart, the largest furniture store in the country.

You’ll be able to celebrate throughout the year in Omaha, with their vast collection of events. Whether cycling at the weekly Bancroft Street Market, visiting the Farmers Market for fresh produce, or heading to concert at one of the venues, Omaha guarantees to keep you busy. Fairs and festivals attract residents from all over the state, or if you’re not interested in a festival, you can enjoy the 150 miles of trails for those who love biking and recreational activities. For campers, there are numerous campsites throughout the area to break away from the hustle and bustle or you can take a trip downriver on the River City Star Riverboat.

In addition, Holland Performing Arts Center offers programs for those who love dramas, concerts, movies, and many other performances. The Orpheum Theater, established in 1927, brought Broadway and Opera attractions to the city and is a beautiful, historic landmark. Other places to enjoy the performing arts include: the Omaha Community Playhouse, which is the largest community theater in the nation, and the Century Links Center, which draws visitors and locals to enjoy the sounds of nationally-known performers.

Omaha, Nebraska offers a well-balanced array of attractions with scenic beauty thrown into the mix. Affordable apartments in Omaha are available for families of every size and you’ll be able to enjoy a stroll along the Missouri River every morning, if you like. Go hiking or biking for miles at a time. Enjoy fairs, festivals, plays, symphony orchestras, attractions, historic sites and more. Watch major ball games as players compete for the championship. Visit museums, art galleries, and concert halls. No matter what you’re looking for, there is something for the whole family. Omaha is a perfect place to visit, but you might not want to leave after your first experience. So look at some apartments and get there soon!”

This guest post was provided by Martha Keagan who is a freelance writer, full time mother and part time local real estate, apartments and rentals broker.