City: Omaha, NE

Category: Tours & Attractions

Telephone: (402) 444-5071

Address: 801 S. 10th St.

Description: The Durham Museum is located in Omaha’s Old Union Station, which has been lovingly restored to the height of its art deco–era glory. Entering the museum’s vast vestibule instantly transports the visitor back in time, to when rail travel was both sensible and glamorous. Vintage train benches and train memorabilia decorate the lobby, and life-size (and lifelike) bronze sculptures are placed throughout the lobby. Some wait for trains, others stand at the ticket counter. A fully operational soda fountain is a museum favorite and phosphates, banana splits, and milkshakes are just a few of the items on the menu.The museum has a relationship with the Smithsonian Institution, the Library of Congress, and the National Archives, so high-­caliber traveling exhibitions make regular stops at Durham. The museum also has a regular docket of permanent collection exhibitions on display, including a series of restored train cars and 1940s era store fronts that museum visitors can stroll through. During the holidays, the museum transforms into a holiday wonderland, and Christmas at Union Station includes a giant decorated tree in the train station lobby.