If you’ve got time to spare before heading to Omaha’s Eppley Airfield, treat yourself and check out one of the coolest and closest fun-to-visit spots in Omaha near the airport: the Hot Shops Art Center. It’s only five minutes away and one of the easiest, most unique – and FREE – ways to kill time before a flight out of OMA.
Why Hot Shops Is the Perfect Stop Before Eppley Airfield
Travel days can be hectic, and finding something fun to do in Omaha near the airport that's perfect for all ages and interests should enhance your travel experience. The Hot Shops Art Center checks all of those boxes:
- 5 minutes from Omaha's Eppley Airfield
- Free parking
- No admission fee
- Stay as long or as briefly as you want
- Completely indoors—perfect for any weather
If you're looking for something interesting and perfect for anyone before your flight out of Omaha, this is the ideal stop.
What You’ll Find Inside the Hot Shops Art Center
Located in a former Serta mattress factory, the Hot Shops has three full floors of working artist studios. It’s one of the most unique creative spaces in Omaha near the airport.
Here’s just a sample of what you’ll see:
- A glassblowing studio with furnaces blazing day and night
- Pottery kilns so big you can walk into them
- Molten bronze and forged steel in the metal studios
- Painting, watercolor, sculpture, printmaking, jewelry, collage, and more
- Artwork displayed almost everywhere you look
If it can be made by hand, you’ll probably find someone making it here.
Looking for Quick Things To Do in Omaha Near the Airport?
One of the best parts about the Hot Shops is how easy it is to visit, especially for travelers.
- Wander freely through the building's three floors at your own pace
- Browse the gallery on the first floor
- Enjoy monthly rotating exhibitions and hallway displays
- Pop into studios, and if an artist is around, they’ll be happy to chat about what they’re working on
Take the elevator to the third floor and explore your way down, or just follow your curiosity. There’s no wrong way to experience the Hot Shops, and discovery is one of the best parts of visiting!
A Quick, Fun, and Flexible Activity Before Your Flight
Whether you have 20 minutes or two hours, Hot Shops fits seamlessly into a travel schedule in Omaha near the airport. It’s relaxing, interesting, and completely flexible, with everything you want when you’re looking for things to do near Eppley Airfield.
Stop by Studio 108 While You’re There
If decide to stop by, swing by Studio 108 and see if we’re around. I’ve always got artwork available that never makes it onto the website, so come say hi and take a look around!