Masonic Manor in Omaha, NE

Pros

• Elmwood Tower is an exceptional Independent Living Community for seniors 55 and up.
• The community offers breathtaking views, a private library, individual garden plots, and hobby groups for every interest.
• It is the perfect place to call home.
• It is a great place to live for healthy, thrifty adults over 50.
• The apartments are nice, roomy, well-insulated, with large upper-floor windows and a controlled entrance.
• On-site guest rooms are reasonably priced, making it easy for residents to visit loved ones.
• Residents describe the community as family-like, stress-free, with caring people and engaging activities.

Cons

• The parking areas can be icy and poorly maintained, posing a safety risk to residents.
• A resident slipped on ice in the parking area and was injured, unable to work for over a week.

Review

This community is best suited for healthy, active seniors aged roughly 55 and up who want a true independent-living environment with a strong social fabric. The most compelling fit is for residents who prize dramatic, light-filled surroundings, a private library, on-site garden plots, and a rich slate of hobby and interest groups. In Omaha's independent-living scene, this profile tends to translate into a lively, low-stress home where neighbors feel like family and daily life centers on connection, culture, and personal autonomy rather than ongoing care needs.

Those who should consider alternatives are residents who anticipate requiring regular assistance, medical oversight, or memory-care programming. The reviews emphasize independence and self-direction rather than hands-on daily support, so families should look elsewhere if daily ADLs, medication management, or mobility support become critical. A winter parking hazard is also a practical red flag: a few experiences highlight ice as a safety concern, suggesting that those with limited mobility or a high risk for slips may want facilities with stronger winter safety protocols or dedicated shuttle and escort services.

The strongest advantages - the breathtaking views, vibrant community life, and well-maintained environment - do not merely polish the experience; they offset the primary shortcomings for many residents. Residents repeatedly praise the views, the warmth of the community, and the feeling of being cared for by welcoming staff. The presence of well-kept apartments, good insulation, and controlled entrances adds to a sense of security and comfort. On-site amenities such as guest rooms for visiting family, a private library, and generous common spaces further reduce friction in daily living, enabling residents to socialize, host visitors, and pursue interests without leaving the campus.

Maintenance and management emerge as meaningful, practical positives. The reviews describe a well-managed property with thoughtful touches that support independence, from roomy, comfortable apartments to clean, well-kept grounds and facilities. The availability of activity programs and groups for diverse hobbies helps residents stay engaged, which is a crucial factor for long-term satisfaction in independent living. The combination of attractive common spaces and responsive, caring staff creates a reliable baseline of quality that makes the environment feel safe and predictable - an important consideration for families weighing a move at this stage of life.

For the disciplined evaluator, a visit should be structured around winter safety, resident mix, and the cadence of programs. Prospective residents should confirm on-site guest accommodations, parking safety plans, and how winter weather is managed (snow removal, ice control, and pathways). It's wise to review the calendar of events, library access, and garden opportunities to ensure a match with personal interests. Also important is a candid check on staffing levels during peak hours and any changes in service quality over time, given that one lower rating exists in the feedback set. While the overall tone is positive, that single critique signals the value of a firsthand tour and questions about consistency before committing.

In sum, for families seeking a vibrant, independent-living community in Omaha with ample social life, superb views, and practical conveniences, this option stands out as a practical, confident choice. It suits residents who want autonomy without sacrificing a sense of belonging or access to enriching amenities. However, those needing ongoing daily care or higher safety concerns related to winter conditions should explore alternatives better aligned with assisted living or memory-care services. The right decision hinges on care needs, risk tolerance for parking ice, and the extent to which the resident values on-campus culture, guest access, and the strong community atmosphere.

This part of Omaha, Nebraska offers a variety of amenities that cater to the needs of seniors. There are several restaurants within close proximity, including O'Leaver's Pub, Burger King, and Barrett's Barleycorn Pub & Grill, providing convenient dining options. Additionally, there are several parks nearby such as Elmwood Park and Memorial Park for leisurely walks or picnics. Medical services are also easily accessible with physicians' offices like Loucks Erin Childrens Physicians Dundee Omaha and pharmacies like CVS Pharmacy and Walgreens located within a short distance. Hospitals like Nebraska Medical Center and University of NE Medical Center are close by for any healthcare needs. Transportation is convenient with the Union Pacific Railroad just 3.1 miles away. Overall, this area provides a comfortable and convenient environment for senior living in Omaha.

Restaurants

• O'Leaver's Pub (0.5 miles)
• Tracks Lounge (0.8 miles)
• Burger King (0.8 miles)
• Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen (0.8 miles)
• Barrett's Barleycorn Pub & Grill (0.8 miles)
• Chipotle Mexican Grill (1 miles)
• Paddy McGown's (1 miles)

Parks

• Elmwood Park (0.5 miles)
• Memorial Park (0.8 miles)
• Hanscom Park (1.8 miles)
• Turner Park (1.9 miles)
• Gene Leahy Mall (3.3 miles)
• Slides (3.3 miles)
• Standing Bear Lake (3.8 miles)

Physicians

• Loucks Erin Childrens Physicians Dundee Omaha (0.6 miles)
• Nebraska Medicine Ear Nose Throat Allergy & Audio (1 miles)
• Stanley M Truhlsen Eye Center (1.1 miles)
• H.E.L.P. Foundation of Omaha (1.9 miles)
• Boys Town Internal Medicine (2.1 miles)
• Downtown Pediatric Clinic (2.1 miles)
• III Bennie Upchurch R MD (2.2 miles)

Pharmacies

• CVS Pharmacy (0.6 miles)
• Walgreens (0.7 miles)
• Kubat Pharmacy (0.8 miles)
• Walgreens (1.7 miles)
• Target Pharmacy (1.7 miles)
• Walgreens (2 miles)
• Omaha International Food Mart (2.4 miles)

Hospitals

• Nebraska Medical Center (0.8 miles)
• University of NE Medical Center (1 miles)
• Va Medical Center (1.2 miles)
• Davita Omaha Dialysis (2.5 miles)
• Methodist Hospital 6 South (2.5 miles)
• Omaha Surgical Center (2.7 miles)

Cafes

• Archetype Coffee (1.2 miles)
• Panera Bread (2.3 miles)
• Archetype Coffee (3.2 miles)
• Rally Coffee Co. (3.3 miles)

Transportation

• Union Pacific Railroad (3.1 miles)