I took my grandfather to the Durham Museum in Nebraska once while he was visiting me, and his eyes lit up at the sight of the soda fountain, the streetcar, and just about every other nostalgic thing that’s from another time. Listening to him recount riding a streetcar to law school every day was one of my favorite moments with him.

Located near the Old Market in Omaha, The Durham used to be a train station and has been beautifully restored and maintained.

The art deco look of the exterior and ample parking welcome visitors to come inside and relive the past.

If wandering and exploring isn’t your style, step into one of the guided tours at The Durham, led by knowledgeable volunteers. And, don’t worry – there is plenty to explore with or without a guide!

Check out the permanent installations or visit the traveling exhibits. The Durham gets some impressive exhibits coming through, many of which are suitable for kids, but all of which have a historical aspect to them.

Kids learn about history by recreating it at The Durham. The educational arm of the museum offers school field trips and day camps.

My kids’ favorite thing about the museum was the soda fountain, where we’d indulge in shakes and hot dogs while chatting about what it must have been like to live long ago.

The Durham offers special private tours in which participants don gloves and get to (carefully) touch historical artifacts under careful supervision.

The Durham isn’t only a beloved spot for stepping back in time. It’s also an important educational resource for the people of Nebraska and beyond.

The interior is gorgeous and makes visitors feel as though they’ve stepped back in time.

The upstairs used to serve as a train terminal and waiting area, but now it’s the entryway into this glimpse into the past.

Stand next to this statue to listen to this fellow’s running monologue about train ticket prices. This cute touch used to make my kids giggle.

Beyond this display is a cute gift shop featuring trinkets from another time and train paraphernalia that kids love.

The Durham Museum is one of my favorite places to visit in Omaha when I’m feeling nostalgic. I have some great memories there, especially of my kids asking me about what it was like to live in a pre-Internet world.

The Durham prompts questions like that, and it’s amazing. It’s worth the drive to check it out! Need somewhere to stay while you’re visiting? Check out the short-term rentals available on VRBO.