Jewish Travel Guide to Nebraska

Overview:
Nebraska sits at the center of America’s Great Plains and is known for its wide‑open prairies, fertile farms and friendly small towns. Omaha, the state’s largest city, is a cultural hub with a thriving arts scene and a significant Jewish community. Lincoln, the capital, combines college‑town charm and state history.

Jewish Heritage & Community:
- The first Jewish settlers arrived in Omaha in 1856. In January 1871 eleven men founded Temple Israel, Nebraska’s first Jewish congregation. They soon created a burial society and opened Pleasant Hill Cemetery.
- Omaha’s first synagogue was built in 1884 at 23rd and Harney Streets. By 1890 the government counted 1,035 Jewish residents in Omaha.
- In the early 1900s additional congregations, such as Hungarian Anshe Sholom and Conservative B’nai Jacob, served the growing community.
- Today, Nebraska’s Jewish life centers on Omaha’s Temple Israel (Reform), Beth El Synagogue (Conservative), Beth Israel (Modern Orthodox) and Chabad House. Lincoln’s South Street Temple (Temple B’nai Jeshurun) and Chabad of Nebraska serve the capital region. Smaller communities exist in Scottsbluff and other towns.

Kosher Dining:
- Omaha offers a few kosher dining options: Star Kosher Deli at the Jewish Community Center, Eighth Street Deli and occasional pop‑ups. Hy‑Vee and Whole Foods markets carry kosher products.
- Lincoln has limited kosher offerings; visitors often self‑cater or arrange meals through South Street Temple or Chabad. Major supermarkets stock kosher basics.
- If you need catering, contact local synagogues; they can connect you with community resources.

Shabbat & Synagogues:
- Omaha: Temple Israel, Beth El Synagogue, Beth Israel and Chabad House hold services regularly and welcome visitors. Beth Israel and Chabad are within walking distance of the JCC campus; home hospitality may be available.
- Lincoln: South Street Temple offers weekly Shabbat services and holiday programming. Chabad of Nebraska provides Orthodox services and educational programs.
- Call ahead to confirm service times and inquire about Shabbat meals or hospitality.

Must‑See Attractions:
- Omaha: Visit the Durham Museum in the beautifully restored Union Station, Joslyn Art Museum, and Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium (renowned for its indoor rainforest and desert). Explore the Old Market district with cobblestone streets, shops and cafés.
- Lincoln: Tour the art deco Nebraska State Capitol and the University of Nebraska State Museum. Stroll through the Historic Haymarket for shops, restaurants and farmers markets.
- Great Plains sights: Drive Nebraska’s scenic Sandhills along Highway 2, stop at Carhenge near Alliance for quirky art, and explore Oregon Trail landmarks like Chimney Rock and Scotts Bluff National Monument.

Travel Tips:
- Climate: Nebraska experiences hot summers and cold winters. Spring and fall are pleasant but can be windy; thunderstorms and tornadoes are most common from late spring through early summer.
- Transportation: Eppley Airfield in Omaha and Lincoln Airport are the main gateways. Renting a car is advisable for travel outside major cities; public transit is limited.
- Culture: Nebraskans are known for their hospitality. Businesses in smaller towns may close early on Sundays.
- Safety: Omaha and Lincoln are generally safe; practise normal precautions and monitor weather alerts during storm season.