The Future of Cocktails Is Already Happening in Omaha
Anna’s Place isn’t a speakeasy. It’s not a theme bar.
We’re just a cocktail bar in Omaha — and we care a lot about what’s in your glass.
When we opened Anna’s Place, the goal was simple: make unforgettable drinks using house-made ingredients, local flavor, and a little grit. Now we’re taking everything we’ve learned and flipping the script on how cocktails get served in this city.
Why the Cocktail Scene Shifted
If you were drinking (or bartending) ten years ago, you remember the era. Omaha bars were buzzing with classics, revivals, obscure spirits, and long-winded stories about ingredients. People were learning what made a Negroni tick. The culture around cocktails was booming.
Then COVID hit.
Bars closed. Industry veterans left. And a whole generation of new drinkers missed out on that transfer of knowledge — the mentorship, the vibe, the unspoken rules of what made a cocktail matter. For a while, drinks got simpler. Seltzers ruled. Vodka + fruit was back.
Now? We’re moving forward — and we’re doing it our way.
What We’re Launching at Anna’s Place
Starting in August, Anna’s Place will debut two full pages of house-made, ready-to-drink cocktails. These are carbonated, bottled drinks served just like a beer or a seltzer. Pop the cap, pour, and enjoy.
But here’s the catch — everything inside the bottle is made right here, by us.
We carbonate in-house
We make all the syrups ourselves
We infuse our own spirits
No co-packing. No gimmicks. Just solid technique, bottled
You’ll still find balance, creativity, and layered flavor — just served in a way that fits how people drink now.
Why This Matters for Omaha
We want to be the bar that shows Omaha a new lane for great drinks.
Not everything needs to be stirred for 10 minutes. Not every cocktail needs to feel like a ceremony. You can get something excellent — made by hand — in under a minute. No shortcuts, just better systems.
We’re not abandoning the old ways. We’re just translating them into something faster, smarter, and more fun.
Try Them Before Everyone Else
Our bottled cocktail menu launches in August. Come see what we’re building at Anna’s Place in downtown Omaha, inside Hotel Indigo at 1804 Dodge Street.
Want to write about it? We’re happy to share behind-the-scenes access, ingredient sourcing, or the weird nerdy stuff we’ve been doing to dial this in.
Contact: info@annasplaceomaha.com
Reading Between the Lines: A Closer Look at Tarot Tuesdays in Omaha
Documenting a weekly ritual inside Anna’s Place
On Tuesday nights, something a little quieter happens in downtown Omaha.
There’s no DJ. No stage. No QR codes promising bucket deals.
Just a small, dark room. A reader. A deck of cards. And you.
This is Tarot Tuesdays at Anna’s Place—a bar tucked inside a hotel, known more for its cocktails and calm than its crowd. From 9 p.m. to midnight, the room shifts. It doesn’t get louder—it gets deeper.
And people keep coming back.
A Different Kind of Bar
Anna’s Place isn’t a theme night. It’s not a pop-up. It’s not trying to go viral.
It’s a bar built on intentionality. That applies to the drinks—crafted with house-made ingredients and months of testing—but it also applies to the energy in the room. There’s a ritual at the door: new guests are asked to keep voices down, phones dimmed, and to wait for a staff member to let them in.
It’s not pretentious.
It’s about creating a space where people can relax without needing to perform.
And that makes it the perfect setting for something like tarot.
What Tarot Really Is
Most people still think of tarot as fortune-telling.
But anyone who’s sat with a good reader knows that’s not quite right.
Tarot isn’t about predicting your future—it’s about checking in with your present.
It’s a conversation. A moment of reflection.
For some, it’s the first time all week they’ve stopped to think about what’s actually going on in their own head.
For others, it’s a tool they’ve used for years—one that helps them name what they’re feeling when the words won’t come.
At Anna’s Place, you’ll meet readers like Knox and Madame Davina, who alternate Tuesdays. Each brings a different style, but they share the same approach: quiet connection, gentle guidance, no theatrics.
The bar doesn’t promise transformation.
But if you’re open to it, you might leave with more clarity than you came in with.
Why It Works
Something about the room makes it easier to talk.
Maybe it’s the candlelight.
Maybe it’s the fact that there’s no TV shouting over your shoulder.
Maybe it’s the drink in your hand that was mixed with more attention than you expected.
Whatever it is, people show up for it.
And unlike most spaces where spiritual practices are either hidden or hyped, here it’s just part of the rhythm.
Like everything else, it’s approached with care.
No Gimmicks. No Flash. Just Time to Think.
If you’re someone who prefers meaning to noise…
If you’ve been feeling a little too full and a little too disconnected…
If you’re just looking for something in Omaha that feels real—
You’ll find something worth sitting with at Tarot Tuesday.
Tarot Tuesdays | 9 p.m. to Midnight
Anna’s Place — annasplaceomaha.com
Follow @annasplaceomaha for weekly updates.
Things to do in Omaha Ne: Heron and Haven
Heron and Haven: The Legacy of Ione Werthman
Nestled in the heart of Omaha, Nebraska, Heron and Haven Wildlife Sanctuary stands as a testament to the vision and dedication of one remarkable woman, Ione Werthman. This sanctuary, known for its serene landscapes and rich biodiversity, owes its existence to her tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to conservation. Here’s an in-depth look at Ione Werthman’s journey and how her passion for the natural world led to the creation of Heron and Haven.
Early Life and Inspiration
Ione Werthman was born in 1928 in Omaha, where she developed an early love for nature. Growing up, she spent much of her time exploring the outdoors, fascinated by the local wildlife and natural beauty of the area. Her parents, avid nature enthusiasts themselves, nurtured her curiosity and encouraged her to learn about the environment.
This deep-seated appreciation for nature only grew stronger as she pursued her education. Ione studied biology at the University of Nebraska, where she became increasingly aware of the environmental challenges facing her beloved natural areas. Urban expansion, pollution, and habitat destruction posed significant threats to the ecosystems she held dear. Determined to make a difference, Ione decided to dedicate her life to conservation.
The Genesis of Heron and Haven
In the early 1970s, Ione Werthman began to notice the rapid decline of wetlands and natural habitats in Omaha due to urban development. These areas were crucial for many species of birds and other wildlife. Disturbed by the loss, Ione took it upon herself to protect these vital ecosystems. Her vision was clear: to create a sanctuary where wildlife could thrive and people could connect with nature.
Ione’s journey to establish Heron and Haven was not easy. She faced numerous challenges, including securing funding, acquiring land, and garnering public support. Despite these obstacles, her passion and determination never wavered. She reached out to local environmental organizations, community leaders, and nature enthusiasts, slowly building a network of supporters who shared her vision.
Her breakthrough came in 1977 when she successfully secured a grant from a local foundation dedicated to environmental conservation. With this initial funding, Ione was able to purchase a significant parcel of land that would become the core of Heron and Haven. She personally oversaw the restoration of the wetlands, ensuring that the area would provide a safe habitat for the herons and other wildlife she was determined to protect.
Building a Community of Conservation
Ione understood that creating a successful sanctuary required more than just land; it needed a community of dedicated supporters. She tirelessly engaged with local schools, community groups, and environmental organizations to raise awareness and garner support for Heron and Haven. Her charismatic personality and genuine passion for conservation inspired many to join her cause.
Through educational programs, guided tours, and public events, Ione fostered a sense of community around Heron and Haven. She believed that involving people in conservation efforts was crucial for the sanctuary’s long-term success. Her efforts paid off, as more and more volunteers and donors came forward to support the sanctuary’s mission.
Achievements and Milestones
Under Ione’s leadership, Heron and Haven achieved numerous milestones that solidified its status as a premier wildlife sanctuary. One of the most significant achievements was the official designation of Heron and Haven as a protected area in the 1980s. This designation ensured that the sanctuary’s habitats and wildlife would receive legal protection, safeguarding them for future generations.
Ione also spearheaded various habitat restoration projects, including the reforestation of wooded areas and the removal of invasive species. These efforts greatly enhanced the biodiversity of the sanctuary, creating a thriving ecosystem for countless species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
Educational Impact
One of Ione’s core beliefs was that education was the key to fostering a lasting commitment to conservation. She developed a range of educational programs aimed at engaging people of all ages with the natural world. These programs included school field trips, summer camps, and workshops on topics such as bird watching, habitat preservation, and sustainable practices.
Ione often led these programs herself, sharing her extensive knowledge and infectious enthusiasm with participants. Her ability to connect with people and convey the importance of conservation made a lasting impact on all who attended. Many of today’s conservationists and environmental advocates in Omaha credit their passion for nature to Ione’s influence.
A Legacy of Conservation
Ione Werthman continued to lead Heron and Haven until her retirement in the early 2000s. Even after stepping down from her official role, she remained an active supporter and advisor, always ready to lend her expertise and guidance. Her legacy lives on in the sanctuary she founded and the countless lives she touched through her work.
Today, Heron and Haven continues to thrive, thanks to the strong foundation Ione built and the ongoing support of the community. The sanctuary remains a vital habitat for wildlife and a cherished place of respite for people seeking to reconnect with nature. Ione’s vision and dedication have ensured that Heron and Haven will continue to be a sanctuary for generations to come.
Personal Reflections and Community Tributes
Ione’s impact on Heron and Haven and the broader Omaha community cannot be overstated. Those who worked alongside her and benefited from her programs often speak of her with great admiration and gratitude. Her tireless efforts and genuine love for nature left an indelible mark on all who knew her.
In honor of Ione’s contributions, a commemorative garden was established within the sanctuary. This garden features native plants and a serene pond, providing a tranquil space for reflection and remembrance. A plaque at the garden’s entrance bears the inscription: “In memory of Ione Werthman, whose vision and dedication created a haven for wildlife and a place of peace for all.”
Continuing the Mission
The current leadership of Heron and Haven remains committed to Ione’s vision of conservation and education. The sanctuary continues to expand its land holdings, restore habitats, and develop innovative programs that engage the community. Partnerships with local schools, universities, and environmental organizations ensure that the sanctuary’s mission is carried forward.
Heron and Haven also embraces new technologies and practices to enhance its conservation efforts. The use of GIS mapping, drone surveys, and other advanced tools allows for more effective monitoring and management of the sanctuary’s ecosystems. These advancements, combined with the dedication of staff and volunteers, ensure that Heron and Haven remains at the forefront of wildlife conservation.
Conclusion
The story of Heron and Haven Wildlife Sanctuary is a testament to the power of one woman’s vision and dedication. Ione Werthman’s unwavering commitment to conservation and community engagement transformed a patch of Omaha land into a thriving sanctuary for wildlife and a place of beauty and tranquility for all who visit. Her legacy continues to inspire and guide the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve this cherished sanctuary.
Heron and Haven stands as a reminder of what can be achieved when passion, perseverance, and community come together. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Omaha, a visit to Heron and Haven offers not only a chance to experience the beauty of nature but also an opportunity to honor the remarkable woman who made it all possible.