There’s nothing better in December than piling into the car, blasting holiday music, grabbing something warm to sip, and cruising through the city to see Christmas lights. It’s simple, it’s magical, and it’s one of the most affordable family traditions out there. That’s exactly why this Omaha Christmas lights guide exists, so you can make the most of the season without spending half the night trying to figure out where to go.

And here’s the best part: while you make memories with your kids, you’re also surrounded by local small businesses that help make these nights special. From warm drinks to unique shops, these spots are part of what makes our community feel like home. Choosing them, just like choosing to send your child to AAMA, means choosing to support the people who pour their hearts into the Omaha area.

So let’s hit the road.

Route #1: Bellevue – Family-Friendly, Walkable, and Full of Hidden Gem Displays

Bellevue absolutely shines this time of year.

Washington Park

Start here. Not only can you tune your car radio to the synchronized music, but you can also get out and walk through the park if it’s warm enough. Kids can even play while you enjoy the lights. It’s one of the most charming stops in this entire Omaha Christmas lights guide.

107 Banyan Ct, Bellevue 68005

A big, bright display families LOVE.

Whispering Timbers – 102,000 RGB Lights

Yes, you read that right. Over 102,000 synchronized RGB lights. Mesmerizing.

Baldwin Field

Cute displays that make for a quick and easy stop.

☕ Cocoa Stop: The Original Scooter’s (25th & Cornhusker)

This is the original Scooter’s!
Grab cocoa, then walk (or roll) 30 seconds across the parking lot and…

Herrera Bouquets

Bellevue’s newest floral shop with beautiful holiday bouquets and tons of unique gift ideas.

Blackhawk & Surrounding Neighborhoods

These neighborhoods go all out. Use the Family Fun in Omaha map to create the perfect route and follow traffic. Trust me.

Route #2: Downtown Papillion – Lights, Local Shopping, and Pure Holiday Charm

If Bellevue is cozy, Papillion is straight-up Hallmark movie this time of year.

Downtown Papillion

Bundle up and take your family for a stroll. The lights are gorgeous, the shops are welcoming, and there’s enough holiday magic to last the whole season.

Cheese Haus

If you haven’t walked into this Wisconsin-style slice of heaven yet, go. Fantastic meats and cheeses perfect for Christmas hosting or gifting.

The Book Nook Bookstores

Grab cocoa or coffee and let the family settle in. They have:

• A full board game café
• Thousands of games
• A wooden train table upstairs for little ones
• A policy that lets you bring your own food

Perfect dinner options to carry in: Sauced, Goose’s, or Taco Guy.

912 Crest Rd & 401 Pioneer Rd

912 Crest is a neighborhood favorite, and 401 Pioneer hands out candy canes!

Shadow Lake Displays

Shadow Lake always has cheerful Christmas setups, great for a slow drive-through.

Again – pull up the Christmas Lights map, set the GPS and drive.

Route #3: Downtown Omaha – Big Lights, Big City, Big Holiday Moments

If your family needs the kind of Christmas experience that feels like you’ve stepped into a snow globe, this route is your jackpot.

Gene Leahy Mall

If the weather is nice, just let the kids PLAY.
The lights are stunning.
There’s ice skating.
Fire pits.
Green space.

It’s basically a Hallmark movie, minus the random bakery love interest.

Sozo Coffeehouse

A hidden gem for families.
Huge space, warm drinks, board games, pool tables, and a relaxing atmosphere to unwind after walking around the lights.

Urban Abbey

A bookstore + coffee shop + church all in one.
This place has heart, soul, and unique gift ideas—perfect for finishing up your holiday shopping.

Bonus: Want Even More Christmas Light Stops?

Bellevue based realtor, Justin Ogburn created an incredibly detailed Christmas Lights Guide with mapped routes.

👉 Justin’s Full Christmas Lights Guide:
https://justinogburn.com/omaha-christmas-lights-2025/

Bookmark it. Share it. It’s the real deal.

And when you’re over Christmas lights, check out our blog on other winter activities to keep you and the kiddos busy all season long.

A Quiet Thank You

As you enjoy these lights, cocoa stops, and family outings, remember this: every time you support a locally owned place, whether it’s a bookstore, a floral shop, a coffeehouse, or a martial arts school, you’re helping a family keep their dream alive.

Thank you for supporting small businesses.
Thank you for being part of the AAMA community.
And thank you for letting us be a small part of your family’s holiday season.