I’ve been doing balloon entertainment in Omaha’s Old Market for years — which means I’ve spent a LOT of time watching how families navigate downtown with kids. Here’s the honest, local guide to the best family-friendly spots.

🍝 Spaghetti Works — Old Market

My personal favorite. Okay, I’m biased — I do regular balloon entertainment here. But Spaghetti Works has been an Old Market staple forever for a reason. The all-you-can-eat salad bar is a hit with picky eaters, the pasta is reliable, the atmosphere is genuinely kid-friendly.

If you catch me on a night I’m there, your table gets balloon art with their dinner. Worth calling ahead to check my schedule.

True story: once made a balloon spaghetti noodle for a 4-year-old. Took maybe 2 minutes. Was the highlight of her week. Sometimes the simplest stuff is the best.

🍕 Zio’s Pizzeria — Old Market

1109 Howard St. Classic NY-style pizza, family-friendly seating, casual vibe. Like Spaghetti Works, I’m often here doing live entertainment during dinner. Best NY pizza in the Old Market, hands down.

🥞 Wheatfields Eatery & Bakery

Breakfast/brunch staple. Big portions, friendly staff, menu kids will actually eat. Expect a wait on weekends.

🍔 Stokes Grill & Bar

Slightly upscale but the kids’ menu is solid. Better for 8+ kids or “we’re being fancy today” lunches.

🍦 Ted & Wally’s Premium Homemade Ice Cream

Not a meal, but you cannot do the Old Market with kids without stopping here. Genuinely some of the best ice cream in the country.

Pro tip: bring the kids here BEFORE you tell them it exists. Otherwise it’s all they’ll be able to think about.

🥩 Upstream Brewing Company

A bit nicer but surprisingly family-friendly, especially upstairs. Good for “we’re celebrating something” family dinners.

🌮 Modern Love

Plant-based, fun atmosphere, kid-friendly menu. Great if your family is into vegetarian/vegan food or just wants to try something different.

🥗 Block 16

Counter service, hyper-local sandwiches. Their burger is legendary. Grab and eat in the park nearby.

Tips for bringing kids to the Old Market

After watching a few hundred families navigate this neighborhood:

Park at the Hilton garage — easiest in/out with strollers + kids.
Time it. Old Market gets packed after 6 PM on weekends. Lunch or early dinner = less stress.
Bring the stroller for under-4s. The cobblestone is charming but tough on little legs.
Plan bathroom stops — most restaurants have them, the sidewalk does not.
Farmers Market on Saturdays (May–October) pairs great with lunch in the Old Market.

Make dinner extra special

If your family is at Spaghetti Works or Zio’s Pizzeria, you might catch me there. Schedules vary — call ahead.

Or if you want me at a private event — birthday at home, family reunion, corporate dinner — let’s chat:

📞 Call or text 402-740-1858 📧 renee@funandgamesbyrenee.com

See you in the Old Market!