Westside

When you consider that the average size of an American family today is just three people, then you can easily understand the attraction that homeseekers have for the near west Omaha suburban neighborhood of Westside. Known locally as part of “District 66”, Westside homes are ideal for families that don’t need or want a huge house, but that do require quality and a smart investment. Buyers can find stunning, brick, mid-century modern homes from the 1940s to the 1970s that have stood the test of time, are thoughtfully designed and well-updated. Pockets of top-quality new construction for executives, empty nesters or early retirees were built in 2023. Westside is located in one of the most desirable near west Omaha areas. Families with young children move here for award-winning schools that are right in the neighborhood and for its accessibility to parks, golf courses and trendy shopping.

Realtor Susan Colson Wilson with Woods Brothers Realty explains the appeal of Westside, “This area is unique because it offers homes that are not too big, not too small, but just the right size. While families with kids do love Westside, it also attracts buyers who don’t want a massive house, such as empty nest executives, young retirees, and traveling nurses. Creighton University Medical Center is nearby, so we get a lot of interest from medical professionals as well.” Well-situated between 84th and 90th Streets and Pacific and Center Streets, homes sit on roomy lots, many with more than one half an acre. Yards are well landscaped, attractive and notable for their mature oak, maple and fir trees. Well-maintained ranch-style homes from the 1950s with 2,500 square feet and an in-ground pool can be found for around $570,000. Loveland Estates offers new construction of custom ranch-style homes starting around $895,000.

Loveland Elementary is a highly-rated Omaha public school offering pre-K through sixth grade with a student-teacher ratio of 15 to 1. Niche gives Loveland an A rating, and it is rated the 9th best public elementary school in Omaha. Niche gives Westside Middle School an A rating and they have the distinction of being a National Junior Honor Society chapter. Westside High School is not only ranked the seventh Best Public High School in Nebraska by Niche, but it also has athletic programs that consistently win awards, including 131 Metro Conference Titles, 91 NSAA State Championships and 548 individual state championships.

Residents enjoy several nearby parks and if you’re a golfer, you’ll enjoy proximity to two popular courses. One Pacific Place Park has 33 acres of walking paths, trails, and open green space. It also offers direct access to Big Papillion Creek and the Papio Trail. Towl Park features 28 acres with a playground, picnic areas, a lagoon with stocked fishing, a lighted baseball field, and basketball and tennis courts. Another significant draw for homebuyers is Westside’s location next door to Happy Hollow Country Club. Founded in 1907, it is still a sought-after destination for golfers and competitive tennis players. Elmwood Golf Course is less than two miles east and is noted for its consistently well-maintained greens.

Omaha is a restaurant lovers city as proven by the frequent claims and internet debates about whether or not it has “the most restaurants per capita” in the U.S. It does not. But, the fact is, top-quality new and cherished dining destinations abound throughout Omaha, and particularly near Westside. When The Food Network put family-owned La Casa Pizzeria West on their 25 “What To Eat in Nebraska” list, locals went wild. Their classic Neopolitan and the eye-catching Meat Special pizza are truly on another level. Spezia, winner of Omaha Magazine’s “Best of Omaha Dining - Italian” award has been thrilling diners for more than 10 years with their handmade pastas, meats and seafood specialties.

Trendy boutiques, bookstores, coffee shops and bakeries are all within a short drive from Westside. The Preppy Bunny offers gifts galore and will help you plan your next big party. The Simple Man is a destination for gentlemen’s apparel, accessories and grooming products. Kids and adults frequent The Bookworm. It’s a one-of-a-kind independent bookseller with a clear-headed mission to make the world a better place through books. They host several local reading groups. They post popular reading recommendations online. They have a well-attended program for kids, called Wiggleworms. And if that’s not enough, they offer the Berkshire Hathaway Annual Selections, for adults and kids, online and in-store.

You’ll find grocery stores, fresh food markets and pharmacies minutes from Westside. Walgreens and Hy-Vee are just around the corner from Towl Park at 90th and West Center Drive. When you’re charged with bringing dessert to the next special occasion, The Cake Gallery will exceed your expectations.

It may take time to find the rare combination of quality homes, great schools and popular restaurants, but if you’re looking in Westside you have an excellent chance of exceeding your expectations, as well.

Written By

Sarah Albiston

Photography Contributed By

Seth Johanson

Video By

Mallory Nolte