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7 Shocking Secrets And Must-See Exhibits At The Durham Museum (Union Station) In 2025

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Step into a time machine at one of America's most stunning architectural treasures: The Durham Museum in Omaha, Nebraska. Housed within the magnificent, preserved Art Deco structure of the former Union Station, this institution is far more than a local history center; it is a National Historic Landmark that serves as a vibrant gateway to the history of the American West and a host for cutting-edge traveling exhibits. As of December 2025, the museum is buzzing with new life, showcasing an incredible lineup of events and exhibitions that make it a must-visit destination for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and families alike.

The Durham Museum successfully blends the grandeur of a bygone era—the golden age of rail travel—with dynamic, modern educational content. From its soaring ceilings and marble floors to its collection of restored train cars and its authentic 1940s soda fountain, the museum offers a deeply immersive experience. Its commitment to bringing fresh, unique content means the experience is continually evolving, with the 2025 and 2026 schedules featuring some of the most exciting traveling shows in the country.

The Durham Museum: A National Historic Landmark Profile

The Durham Museum is inextricably linked to the history of Omaha and the expansion of the American West via the railroad. Its home, the former Union Station, is a spectacular piece of American architecture and a testament to the power of preservation.

  • Official Name: The Durham Museum
  • Location: 801 South 10th Street, Omaha, Nebraska
  • Original Building Name: Union Station
  • Architectural Style: Art Deco
  • Architect: Gilbert Stanley Underwood and Company
  • Construction Began: May 1929
  • Opened as Union Station: 1931
  • Built By: Union Pacific Railroad
  • National Historic Landmark Status: Yes, designated in 1971.
  • Museum Established: Originally opened as the Western Heritage Museum in 1975.
  • Renamed: The Durham Museum in 1996, following a major renovation funded by Charles and Margre Durham.
  • Key Permanent Features: Suzanne and Walter Scott Great Hall, authentic 1940s Soda Fountain, restored train cars, permanent regional history exhibits.
  • Mission: To preserve and display the history of the region and the American West.

The 2025-2026 Exhibit Lineup: From Dinosaurs to Decades of History

One of the main reasons The Durham Museum maintains its topical authority and appeal is its aggressive schedule of high-quality, rotating exhibits. The 2025 and 2026 calendar is packed with shows designed to capture the imagination of every visitor, making it a premier destination among Omaha attractions.

Antarctic Dinosaurs and Animation Academy (Early-Mid 2025)

The year 2025 kicks off with a massive exploration of ancient life and modern art. The "Antarctic Dinosaurs" exhibit, running from February 15 to May 4, 2025, offers a fascinating look at the prehistoric creatures that once roamed the now-icy continent. This show delves into the surprising history of Antarctica, challenging the modern perception of its climate and ecosystem.

Following this, the museum shifts gears to the magic of motion with "Animation Academy: From Pencils to Pixels®." This interactive exhibit, scheduled from May 31 through August 2025, gives visitors a hands-on look at the entire animation process, from traditional hand-drawn sketches to modern computer-generated imagery (CGI).

HOCKEY: Faster Than Ever and Regional Sports History (Late 2025)

Sports fans have plenty to look forward to in the fall and winter of 2025. Opening on October 4, 2025, and running until January 11, 2026, the "HOCKEY: Faster Than Ever" exhibition is an interactive experience that explores the science, history, and thrill of the sport.

Complementing this major traveling show is the museum's local focus, "Omaha's Hat Trick: Knights, Lancers and Mavericks," which is a current exhibit. This display celebrates the rich history of hockey in Omaha by highlighting the city's three most prominent teams: the Omaha Knights, the Omaha Lancers, and the UNO Mavericks, tying the national sport to the regional community.

Looking ahead to 2026, The Durham Museum has already announced two significant shows: "THE NEGRO MOTORIST GREEN BOOK" and "GET BUILDING! BRICKS AT THE DURHAM," both slated for February 7 – May 3, 2026. This forward-looking schedule demonstrates the museum's dedication to diverse topics, from vital social history to engaging, hands-on family fun.

7 Secrets and Unique Features You Must Explore

The Durham Museum offers a truly unique experience because its history is embedded in the building itself. Beyond the rotating exhibits, these seven features are the core of its topical authority and provide a deeper connection to Omaha's past.

  1. The Art Deco Masterpiece: Union Station is considered one of the finest examples of Art Deco architecture in the Midwest. The building's original design elements—including the massive windows, geometric patterns, and soaring, 60-foot ceiling of the Suzanne and Walter Scott Great Hall—have been meticulously preserved, making the building itself the most significant artifact.
  2. The Life-Like Great Hall Figures: The Suzanne and Walter Scott Great Hall is populated with highly realistic, life-size sculptures of travelers, porters, and station workers from the 1940s. These figures bring the bustling atmosphere of the former train depot back to life, allowing visitors to step directly into a moment in time.
  3. The Authentic 1940s Soda Fountain: Tucked away inside the museum is an operational, authentic 1940s-style soda fountain. Originally the site of the famous Hayden House restaurant, this spot serves up classic treats, malts, and phosphates, providing a delicious and nostalgic break from touring the exhibits.
  4. The Restored Train Cars: The museum's lower level features an impressive collection of restored Union Pacific train cars. Visitors can walk through a Pullman sleeper car, a mail car, and a dining car, gaining a visceral understanding of long-distance rail travel during its peak.
  5. The Whispering Arch: Due to the unique acoustics of the Great Hall's architecture, there is a "whispering arch" near the entrance. If one person stands at one end of the arch and whispers, a person standing at the opposite end can hear them clearly, a fun and surprising secret of the building's design.
  6. The Union Pacific Railroad Connection: The entire building was constructed by the Union Pacific Railroad, which had its headquarters in Omaha. The museum serves as the steward of the region's heritage, with much of its permanent collection focusing on the history of the railroad and its impact on the American West, including American Indian culture and early settlement.
  7. The Underground Platform: While not always accessible, the museum preserves the original underground train platforms and tracks. This area offers a chillingly quiet contrast to the hustle of the Great Hall, providing a dramatic sense of the scale of the station's operations.

In conclusion, The Durham Museum is a cornerstone of American history and culture, offering a compelling blend of architectural splendor, regional heritage, and world-class traveling exhibits. Whether you are captivated by the Art Deco elegance of the Union Station building, eager to explore the history of the Union Pacific Railroad, or excited to see the latest shows like "Antarctic Dinosaurs" or "HOCKEY: Faster Than Ever," a visit to this National Historic Landmark is an essential experience in Omaha.

7 Shocking Secrets and Must-See Exhibits at The Durham Museum (Union Station) in 2025
the durham museum
the durham museum

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