Author Sahara Foley

I haven’t decorated for Christmas in many years.  And, living in an apartment complex, surrounded by other complexes, I don’t see too many decorations in my neighborhood.  Especially, since I don’t leave my apartment very often. 

When my sister suggested we go check out the Christmas lights at the Lauritzen Botanical Gardens in Omaha, I jumped at the chance. I went with my sister, sister-in-law, cousin, and her sister-in-law. To say we were totally enchanted is an understatement. 

I’m the fat one in the middle.  From left to right, my cousin, sister, sister-in-law, and cousin’s sister-in-law.

The first thing you notice, after you walk in, is this huge mini train track.  It goes all over through several different rooms.  They also have different tracks at other locations through the tour. This one goes by several mine buildings depicting important locations known in Omaha.  We probably spent almost 30 to 45 minutes just looking at the displays.  My sister-in-law loves miniatures and has her own collection.

However, the biggest attraction in the main building was this huge Christmas tree made out of over 400 Poinsettias. We all marveled at how long it must have taken to, not just make this tree, but to assemble that enormous train track and put out all the other decorations.

They had volunteers to take pictures for you standing in front of this gorgeous tree.  You can see how tall the tree is when you look at the picture above with us posing in front of it. 

However, the most magical part of our trip was yet to come.

Lauritzen Gardens is spread out over several acres, and I’ve wandered their pathways before enjoying the beauty of their flowers and plants.  They also have a huge green/hot house and that’s where w headed next. 

This is where we were struck in awe by the shear magical atmosphere of the place.  If you wear glasses, they will fog up immediately as soon as you walk inside.  LOL.  Below, are some of the most stunning pictures I took.  Of course, a camera can’t quite capture the ambiance of the surrounds.  

And, there was a train here, too.

We went on a Monday evening, and I’m glad we did.  By the time we left, it was full of families with children.  

If you’re ever in Omaha, and you’re looking for a different type of place to visit, I highly recommend them.  

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.