Kenefick Park, Omaha

Kenefick Park is a railroad heritage park dedicated in 2005 as part of Lauritzen Gardens. It was named for John C. Kenefick, a former president, chairman, and chief executive officer of Union Pacific Railroad.

Positioned on high ground above the Missouri River Valley, the park displays two preserved Union Pacific locomotives and uses interpretive signs, sculpture, and landscaping to explain the railroad’s role in the development of Omaha and the American West. Admission to Kenefick Park is free. The park’s main exhibits are Big Boy No. 4023 and Centennial No. 6900. Big Boy No. 4023 belongs to a class of 25 steam locomotives built between 1941 and 1944 for Union Pacific to haul heavy freight across demanding western routes. They remain among the largest steam locomotives ever constructed. Centennial No. 6900 is a DD40X diesel-electric locomotive introduced in 1969 to mark Union Pacific’s centennial. Producing 6,600 horsepower, the class was the most powerful diesel-electric locomotive design of its era. The locomotives are surrounded by native grasses, plazas, seating areas, walkways, stone walls, and interpretive displays. The elevated setting provides broad views across the Missouri River Valley and the surrounding Nebraska and Iowa landscape.

Visitors can approach the locomotives closely to appreciate their size, but they remain static outdoor exhibits and are not open for rides. The park follows Lauritzen Gardens’ operating hours and can be reached by a ramp or staircase from the main parking area.