If you haven’t been around the 40th & Farnam area of Omaha in the past few years, you need to head over there ASAP because you won’t even recognize the area. It seems as if overnight this entire strip has been revitalized and rebuilt into another hip neighborhood nestled within Omaha. As for the history of the Blackstone District, it’s been a longtime coming.
Blackstone District | CBSHOME
HISTORY
When the Blackstone District was originally built in the early 1900s, it was a business district close to the wealthiest neighborhoods in the city. Massive homes were popping up all around the area and the Blackstone was perfectly positioned for Omaha’s elite. There was even a street car that ran down the middle of Farnam Street!
Eventually, like the rest of the city, the neighbors moved out west for more space to spread out. For years, the area struggled with businesses that couldn’t stay afloat. But now, with the revitalization going on in the neighborhood, new businesses are popping up and doing well. They’re drawing in new clientele and have made the Blackstone District a thriving area of Omaha, not only to hang out, but to live in as well. There is still so much construction happening in the District, so you’ll have to stay tuned to see what’s coming next!
FOOD
You won’t go hungry around the Blackstone District! They have so many great restaurants in the area that are local to Omaha. Stop by Feta’s for some delicious gyros and Mula for Mexican food and amazing brunch. Noli’s Pizzeria has NYC-inspired pizza that brings big-city flavor to Omaha. Searching for the perfect meatball? The Blackstone Meatball has amazing offerings for a delicious meatball sub. Want dinner and drinks? Corkscrew has great beverage lists along with delicious food. Be sure to head over to Archetype Coffee to top it all off! Focusing on fresh, pure ingredients, Coneflower Creamery is the spot to stop at for a delicious cone of ice cream with two, well … maybe three, scoops!
DRINK
The Blackstone District is the newest place for nightlife in the Omaha area. For a night of bar hopping, this area won’t disappoint! Scriptown has delicious locally brewed beer that won’t let you down. Sullivan’s is the perfect bar for a low-key night out. For late night snacks and a fun bar, Nite Owl is the place to go! If you’re looking for a great bar that brings the outdoors in, check out Blackstone Social, one of the newer bars to open on the street. They focus on craft cocktails and a great bourbon selection and have a sweet garage-style door to bring in fresh air.
GOODS
If you’re looking for a florist for a wedding or baby shower, then check out Blackstone’s own Bouquet! Ponderosa Cyclery isn’t just a bike shop in the Blackstone District, they have events and even a repair shop, too! If you’re looking for a designer bike, head over to Dundee Cycles – just be sure to make an appointment! Pulp Boutique has so many fun products in their shop, you’ll just have to check it out for yourself! If you’ve got a record collector in your life, you need to check out Almost Music; they sell new and used records of every genre. A cute boutique with clothing for men and women, Kleveland Clothing is a must-see in the Blackstone District. Looking to unwind and relax? Pranam Yoga is a great studio to get your workout in.