Turner Park

Historic Origins

Set in the heart of Midtown Crossing, Omaha, Nebraska, Turner Park spans a refreshing 7.5 acres of green space. The park has roots going back to 1900, when Charles Turner - a Nebraska pioneer with a knack for real estate - gifted the original six acres to the city. The park later grew to its current size during Midtown Crossing's development phase.

Community Hub

If you're looking for where Omaha comes together, this is it. Turner Park hosts everything from concerts and festivals to wellness activities. You'll find locals rolling out yoga mats or joining group workouts on the grass when the weather's nice.

Jazz on the Green stands out as a summer highlight, where the lawn transforms into a sea of blankets and lawn chairs as people soak in live music under open skies. Many locals mark this series on their calendars as a must-do summer tradition.

The Playing with Fire Concert Series brings soulful blues to the park, while the various Night Markets offer a chance to stroll, shop, and snack during warm evenings - excellent for anyone looking to experience Omaha's community vibe.

Performance Venue

Since 2013, the Pavilion at Turner Park has elevated the east end of the grounds with a permanent stage that's transformed how performances happen here. The acoustics are surprisingly good for an outdoor space, and the setup allows everyone to spread out comfortably on the sloping lawn with their picnic baskets and blankets.

The pavilion hosts many cultural events, making Turner Park both a green space and an outdoor arts venue.

Features and Attractions

The park is particularly welcoming to dogs. You'll spot plenty of pups getting their daily exercise while their owners socialize. The park management has thoughtfully placed dog waste bags and disposal cans throughout to keep things clean and enjoyable for everyone.

History buffs might appreciate the park's World War I memorial, dedicated in 1937 after American War Mothers led a grassroots fundraising effort. The Kobus monument offers another point of historical interest worth checking out during your visit.

For those with a competitive streak, the park offers permanent ping pong and foosball tables open to the public - a unique touch that gives options beyond the typical park experience.

Seasonal Highlights

When winter rolls around, Turner Park doesn't hibernate - it transforms. The trees get dressed up in twinkling Christmas lights, creating an almost magical atmosphere for evening walks. The annual lighting ceremony brings out families bundled in scarves and mittens, and the towering Christmas tree becomes the neighborhood's seasonal landmark and selfie spot.

Urban Oasis

Turner Park is nicely integrated into Midtown Crossing. Step outside the park and you're immediately surrounded by shops, restaurants, and apartment buildings - making it a genuine urban retreat. The view of Omaha's skyline from here is particularly striking after sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle.

The well-maintained lawns and pathways provide a nice contrast to the surrounding urban environment. If you're looking to get in some morning steps, enjoy a lunch break sandwich, or take an evening stroll, the park welcomes you daily from 5AM to 11PM. It's clean, well-lit, and feels like a safe little pocket of nature in the middle of city life.