Wahoo offers small-town living and easy access to Omaha and Lincoln
Wahoo is surrounded by Nebraska’s tallgrass prairie, about midway between Omaha and Lincoln. The city’s 5,000 residents enjoy small-town living while keeping a connection to the larger cities, both less than an hour away. “We’re centrally located, so it’s a short drive to Omaha and Lincoln,” says Tammy Bennett, a sales associate with BHHS Ambassador Real Estate who has lived in Saunders County for most of her life. “I’ve never had a hard time selling the town.”
A blend of early 1900s homes and newer builds across Wahoo
Narrow sidewalks and mature trees line the streets in Wahoo’s central residential areas. Cottages, bungalows and National builds date to the early 1900s, and ranch-style homes from the ’50s to the ’70s are also in the mix. Lot sizes typically measure under a quarter acre, with paved driveways and garages. Most homes on the outskirts of town feature newer construction and sizable acreage. Newer subdivisions like North Highlands and Wilmer Ridge have augmented the market with a blend of townhomes, villas and single-family homes. “My children’s friends who have moved away are now moving back because they want to raise their kids in this community,” Bennett says. “With that younger generation moving in, we have a housing shortage, but the new construction is freeing up a lot of midrange homes.” Bungalows, National and ranch-style homes sell for $125,000 to $300,000, while larger two-story and New Traditional houses cost $300,000 to $525,000.
Earning college credit at Wahoo High School
Wahoo Elementary School receives a B-plus from Niche, and Wahoo Middle School is rated A-minus. Sophomores, juniors and seniors at B-rated Wahoo High School can enroll in dual-credit courses through Southeast Community College-Lincoln. The private St. Wenceslaus Elementary School, currently unrated, serves kindergarten through sixth grade. Bishop Neumann Junior/Senior High School serves grades 7 through 12 and receives a B-minus.
Route 77 is a starting point for commutes to Omaha and Lincoln
U.S. Route 77 curves around the city, offering the best starting point for the 30-mile drive to Lincoln and the 45-mile ride to Omaha and Eppley Airfield. Health care services are available at Saunders Medical Center, about 2 miles outside the downtown area. “Saunders Medical brings in a lot of specialists, so you don’t have to commute to Omaha or Lincoln,” Bennett says. “Wahoo has a lot of people who don’t leave the community, so it’s nice to have those resources.” On weekdays, the Saunders County Public Transportation System provides residents with on-demand shuttle service.
Regional specialties at Wahoo restaurants and shops
Specialty shops, thrift stores, bakeries and coffeehouses occupy the brick buildings in Wahoo’s downtown area. Diners can choose between fast-food joints, regional chains like Casey’s and Runza or locally owned hangouts. Riffs Pub & Patio amplifies its musical theme with live tunes and karaoke on select nights. Premium cuts of prime rib, porterhouse and filet are the specialties at JC Steakhouse, but the menu also features pasta, burgers and seafood. Groceries are available at Family Fare supermarket, and hot dog fans can stock up on “Wahoo Wieners” at Wahoo Meat Locker. Bomgaars department store offers retail therapy north of the city on Route 109.
Water recreation and hiking at Lake Wanahoo
Fishing, no-wake boating and lakeside camping are popular activities at Lake Wanahoo Recreation Area. Hiking and biking trails lead away from the lake and into residential areas, making the park accessible to pedestrians. The park also includes a disc golf course and a playground for the younger crowd. Smith Park claims a convenient location near the downtown area, with plenty of sun and shade, picnic areas, grills, a playground and an aquatic center. Hilltop Country Club’s nine-hole golf course is open to the public.
A carnival atmosphere at the Saunders County Fair
The Saunders County Fair revs up for a week beginning in late July. Locals gather for livestock shows, motorsports events, wine and beer tastings, carnival rides and evening concerts. Christmas on the Prairie is an old-timey holiday event with a silent auction, bake sale, model trains and crafting demonstrations.
Several churches recall Wahoo’s Czech roots
Many early settlers shared Czech heritage and founded churches that continue to serve the community. St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church and Czech Presbyterian Church are two impressive brick structures with gabled roofs and arched windows.
