Our Visit to the Omaha Zoo: Slow Wonder, Big Conversations

We didn’t go to the zoo for content.
We didn’t go to check it off a list.
We went because we needed a pause — and a walk — and a few wide-eyed moments with the kids.

What we found at the Omaha Zoo was more than we expected.
Not because it’s massive (though it is), or because it’s famous (which it is).
But because it gave us the rare gift of attention.

First Impressions

The Henry Doorly Zoo is no joke.
It’s huge. It’s beautifully designed. It’s internationally known.

But what struck us most was how easy it was to move slowly.
We weren’t in a rush.
The kids set the pace.
And at each exhibit, they stopped just long enough to see what we might have missed.

The Indoor Jungle and Desert Dome

The indoor jungle was a favorite — dense, loud, and full of green.
Our kids were fascinated by the echo of birds and the sudden stillness of slow-moving primates.
They whispered more than they talked.

The Desert Dome felt like stepping into another planet.
Hot, dry air. Underground tunnels.
And animals we never imagined we’d stand inches away from.

Each new zone felt like a soft reset — different sounds, different air, different questions.

Unexpected Conversations

At the gorilla exhibit, our five-year-old asked,
“Do they know they’re not free?”

It wasn’t judgmental — it was honest.
We talked about animal conservation, rescue vs captivity, and the balance zoos try to strike.

At the aquarium, we talked about bioluminescence.
At the penguins, we talked about climate change.
At lunch, we mostly talked about french fries.

It was messy, real, and exactly the kind of day that leaves a mark without trying.

What We Brought (and What We’ll Remember)

We packed light:

• Water bottles
• Sandwiches
• One backup shirt (used)
• And zero expectations

We didn’t try to see everything.
We let the kids lead.
We found shade when they were tired and didn’t push when they weren’t interested.

By the end of the day, we had:

• Dirt on our shoes
• Three thousand questions to answer
• And one baby napping on a shoulder

It was enough.

Final Thought: Wonder Is Worth Planning For

In family life, it’s easy to default to the efficient.
To fill weekends with errands and tasks and plans.
But this day reminded us that some of the best memories happen when you don’t overplan.

The Omaha Zoo gave us the space to wonder, talk, walk, rest, and reconnect — without screens, without schedules, and without needing it to be more than it was.

Just time. Just wonder. Just being together.

That’s what we’ll remember.

If you’re planning a visit: Go early. Pack water. Don’t try to see everything. Just start walking — the rest will happen on its own.

When you’ve got four kids under six, the family car isn’t just a car anymore—it’s your second office, your daycare shuttle, and your family hauler all in one. We needed more than just seats on wheels. We needed something that could keep up with both our busy household and our business. After a lot of back and forth, we landed on the Kia Carnival—and here’s why it wasn’t just the right family choice, but also a smart business move.

The Family Side: Surviving the Chaos

Let’s be honest: four car seats don’t fit neatly into most vehicles. We tried to convince ourselves an SUV would work, but every time we loaded the kids in, it felt like solving a Rubik’s Cube.

• Room for everyone without squeezing or fighting over seats
• Sliding doors that save us from parking lot battles
• Cargo space that can handle strollers, groceries, sports gear, and Costco trips in one go

The Business Side: Turning a Car Into a Deduction

Here’s where things got interesting. Because of its size and weight class (over 6,000 lbs GVWR), the Kia Carnival qualifies under IRS Section 179, which allows businesses to deduct a large portion of the purchase price in the first year.

That meant we weren’t just buying a minivan—we were also making a tax-smart investment. By running the vehicle through our business, it serves multiple purposes:

• Client meetings & site visits — Easy transportation for team or partner travel
• Content production & logistics — Hauling props, equipment, and gear in one trip
• Family-as-business integration — Since our kids are part of our media brand, the van literally transports “talent” to shoots and events

How We Actually Use It Day to Day

• Weekdays: Our mobile office—school drop-offs, business calls, and client visits
• Weekends: Packed with cameras, costumes, and props for content shoots
• Trips: Business-related travel, strategy meetings, and family-business events
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If you’re looking for a relaxing RV getaway in southern Colorado, Trinidad Lake State Park checks all the boxes. Tucked in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, it’s a scenic stop right off I-25 that feels surprisingly peaceful once you’re parked.

Getting There in the RV

For road trippers driving north or south along I-25, Trinidad Lake is one of the easiest parks to access. We rolled in with the RV and appreciated the wide roads leading into the campground. The pull-through sites made setup simple, even with a larger rig.

Campsites and Setup

• RV-friendly sites with electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings
• Some loops offer full hookups; others are electric-only, so bring water onboard
• Campsites have enough space for slides and awnings, and most are level
• Cell service is decent, but don’t count on blazing speed if you’re working remotely

The real highlight is the view — waking up to lake water shimmering against the backdrop of rolling hills and mountains.

Things to Do at Trinidad Lake

• Fishing: The lake is stocked with trout, catfish, and bass. Bring rods — it’s easy to cast from shore or launch a small boat.
• Hiking: Several short trails wind around the lake with scenic overlooks. The Reilly Canyon Trail is great for stretching your legs without committing to a long hike.
• Wildlife: Mule deer wander through camp in the evenings, and birdwatchers will spot plenty of waterfowl.
• Water fun: In summer, kayaks and paddleboards are popular. The boat ramp is convenient for RV travelers towing watercraft.

Why Trinidad Lake Works Well for RV Travelers

• Close to Trinidad, a historic town with restaurants, fuel, and grocery stores
• Quiet, laid-back vibe — not as crowded as some Front Range parks
• A perfect stopover if you’re on a long haul between New Mexico and Denver

Tips Before You Go

• Bring extra water if you’re not in a full-hookup loop
• Colorado weather changes quickly — expect warm afternoons but cool nights
• Reserve ahead during summer; spots with the best views fill up early

Final Thoughts

Our RV trip to Trinidad Lake State Park was the kind of stop that makes you slow down: easy setup, beautiful scenery, and enough activities to keep both kids and adults happy. Whether you’re traveling through southern Colorado or looking for a weekend escape, this park is well worth adding to your itinerary.