Memorial Park

A Piece of Omaha's Heart

Established in 1948 as a solemn tribute to Douglas County's armed services members who lost their lives during World War II, Memorial Park spans 67 acres of rolling green space near Omaha's Dundee neighborhood with a purpose that sets it apart from most city parks.

The park was officially dedicated on June 5, 1948, with President Harry S. Truman personally placing a wreath at the World War II Memorial. Truman's visit wasn't coincidental - he was already in Omaha for the annual reunion of the 35th Infantry Division, in which he had served as Captain of Battery D of the 129th Field Artillery Regiment, making the dedication a personal as well as ceremonial occasion.

The park's identity is rooted in remembrance. Its centerpiece is the World War II Memorial Colonnade, a semi-circular arrangement of seven arches, each crowned with a bas-relief sculpture representing one of the seven military branches that served in the war: the U.S. Navy, U.S. Army Airborne Corps, U.S. Army Infantry, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Army Medical Corps, U.S. Army Field Artillery, and U.S. Navy Aviators. Bronze plaques on the columns record the names of over 900 Douglas County men and women who died during the war, in both combat and non-combat roles. Additional monuments honor the fallen and missing from Korea and Vietnam, and in 1990, Woodmen of the World added flagpoles and flags along the entrance driveway as a further mark of the park's commemorative mission.

More recently, Eagle Plaza was dedicated on June 4, 2023, as part of the park's 75th anniversary celebrations. The 4,000-square-foot fully accessible enclosure sits on the south ridge along Robert H. Storz Drive and is designed for flexible use - community events, public art installations, and outdoor gatherings. It takes its name from the Eagle Battalion JROTC program at Omaha Central High School, which holds the distinction of being the second oldest JROTC program in the country.

Natural Beauty on Display

If you're a flower enthusiast, you'll appreciate the All-American Rose Society Garden, added in 1959. It's home to over 1,000 rose bushes lovingly tended by dedicated volunteers during growing season. This fragrant garden has become a peaceful spot for quiet reflection, a popular backdrop for photographers, and even a romantic setting for summer and fall weddings.

The landscape itself is quintessential Midwestern charm - gently rolling lawns dotted with mature trees that cast cool shadows on hot Nebraska days. A pedestrian bridge completed in 1968 connects Memorial Park to Elmwood Park over Dodge Street, effectively doubling your green space options in one visit.

An overhead view of the rose garden showing its formal geometric layout among mature trees

Photo: Shelby L. Bell (CC BY 2.0)

Recreation for Everyone

Whether you're looking to break a sweat or simply unwind, Memorial Park has plenty of options. Kids can enjoy themselves at the playground in the northwest corner near the baseball field, while the expansive grassy areas invite everything from impromptu soccer games to peaceful picnics. You'll often spot people flying kites, tossing frisbees, or simply swinging in hammocks strung between the sturdy old trees.

The walking trails wind through the park, excellent for your morning jog, evening stroll, or walking your four-legged friend. When winter blankets Omaha in snow, the park transforms as its hills become the go-to sledding destination for thrill-seeking locals of all ages.

Memorial Park's semi-circular colonnade faces a central fountain and curving driveway

Photo: Shelby L. Bell (CC BY 2.0)

Where Omaha Comes Together

Memorial Park functions as a community gathering space. Its annual concert and fireworks display on the last Friday in June (celebrating Independence Day) draws over 50,000 people - practically a small city converging on these grounds.

Currently known as "The City of Omaha Celebrates America," this tradition has featured various musical performances since 1987. Beyond this signature event, the park maintains its dual purpose: a place for both solemn remembrance and community connection.

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Planning Your Visit

The park's meticulous landscaping makes it a favorite for photographers capturing everything from wedding photos to graduation portraits. The hilltop location rewards you with sweeping views of the surrounding area, especially as the sun sets.

Note that while there are no public restrooms available in the park, trash cans are plentiful to help maintain the park's cleanliness. Dogs are welcome to join you, but must be kept on leash in accordance with city rules. Pack a blanket, bring a book, and take some time to appreciate this green space that honors the past while offering recreation in the present.