Durham Museum

its construction began in July 1929, only months before the stock market crash. The station emulates the strength and power of the railroad. The last train rolled out in 1971.

Visiting train fans stroll through an elegant passenger car, see a steam locomotive up-close and taste an old-fashioned phosphate at the working soda fountain.

Irreplaceable Omaha items enshrined here include Titanic victim Emil Brandeis’ pocket watch, an 1866 Omaha plat map, chandeliers from the Blackstone Hotel where the Reuben sandwich was invented, and a cash register from the Buffett & Son Grocery Store that operated in the Dundee neighborhood from 1915 to 1969. 801 S. 10th St. (402) 444-5071.

The General Crook House Museum is the home of the Douglas County Historical Society. The building went up in 1879 as the residence of U.S. Army Gen. George Crook, commander of Fort Omaha. More than 110 varieties of plants thrive in the heirloom garden.

The museum’s collection of 7,500 artifacts includes political buttons, art, antiques and a collection of vintage costumes and clothing from the 19th and 20th centuries. Afternoon tea events include museum tours. Lunchtime tours include a light meal. 570 N. 30th St. (402) 455-9990.

The Mormon Trail Center at Historic Winter Quarters marks the location of the main settlement on the Missouri River of the members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This North Omaha memorial showcases the hardships these pioneers faced, particularly during the winter of 1846-1847, before the founding of Omaha. Handcarts, covered wagons, sculptures of grizzled travelers and a free museum filled with historical displays tell the story of their daunting exodus. 3215 State St. (402) 453-9372.

Nearby, Florence Mill is the state’s oldest business. Brigham Young oversaw the building of this grist mill for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Winter Quarters settlement in 1846. The main floor of the historic mill is now a museum and the top floor is an art gallery. Live musicians play during bustling weekend farmers markets. 9102 N. 30th St. (402) 551-1233.

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and

Aquarium is home to the world’s largest indoor desert and largest indoor rainforest in North America. Sharks and sea turtles swim in the Suzanne and Walter Scott Aquarium. 3701 S. 10th St. (402) 733-8401.

The Joslyn Castle stands one block from Dodge Street. The former residence of early Omaha businessman George Joslyn and his wife, Sarah, is an architectural wonder inside and out near 39th and Dodge Street. Built in 1903, the lavish 5.5 acres of manicured gardens are open to the public daily. Call for information about public tours. 3902 Davenport St. (402) 595-2199.

The Joslyn Art Museum is known for its diverse collections of European, American and Native American art. Described as “pink marble glory,” 38 types of marble from seven countries were hand-hammered to produce the unique exterior. The museum’s Discovery Garden includes sculptures that are bight and bold with interactive art that is meant to be touched. 2200 Dodge St. (402) 342-3300.

The Old Market is the heart of the city’s vibrant downtown arts and entertainment scene. Bordered by Heartland of America Park, the historic cobbled streets come alive at night with street performers, jazz clubs and horse-drawn carriages. Harney and 11th streets.

The Holland Performing Arts Center is the home of the Omaha Symphony, but it also sets its stage for a diverse lineup of national and internationally acclaimed artists.