We all have our favorite places for buying gifts. For many of us, that might be at the computer keyboard. But going on a shopping adventure can pay off with a great day of browsing and getting into the holiday spirit. If you’re looking for a wide variety of stores, a journey to the big city will offer the best results. The Omaha and Lincoln areas don’t disappoint.

Village Pointe, Omaha
Village Pointe in western Omaha is an open-air shopping center filled with options, and it’s ambitiously decorated for the holidays. It’s equal parts shopping destination and entertainment hub, with more than 40 stores, the multiscreen Marcus Village Pointe Cinema, the Funny Bone Comedy Club, the Ferris wheel inside Scheels sporting goods and more. Plus, there are restaurants for nearly every taste, whether it’s a snack to refuel your gift-seeking engine or a meal to close out the day.

SouthPointe Pavilions, Lincoln
In southern Lincoln, SouthPointe Pavilions, like its sibling retail haven in Omaha, embraces the season with lighting displays and a holiday motif, including weekend visits with Santa. There are more than 35 stores, and when you need a break, catch a movie at Marcus South Pointe Cinema. Plenty of eateries call the mall home, ensuring that you won’t go hungry.

Nebraska Crossing, Gretna
Between Omaha and Lincoln is Nebraska Crossing, a nearly 10-acre complex of more than 80 stores and dining options off Interstate 80 at Exit 432. Sales and events around top name brands—including Columbia, Fossil, Polo and Kate Spade—will make you want to come back soon.