Travel and Places

10 most bizarre auto parts stores in Omaha

In Omaha, it’s not just about fixing your car; it’s about embarking on an adventure. Whether you’re deciphering Swahili, earning your purchase, nibbling on a cheese axle, dodging tackles, or bluffing in a historical poker game, these auto parts stores turn every car repair into a story worth telling.

Swahili Specialties Auto Parts: Welcome to the linguistic labyrinth of auto parts shopping! Here, you don’t just pick a part; you embark on a linguistic adventure. Fancy a new carburetor? Better say it in Swahili! Customers are often seen with a Swahili dictionary in one hand and a car manual in the other. It’s not just shopping; it’s an educational expedition. And remember, ‘Taa za mbele’ means headlights!

Work-for-Parts Emporium: Roll up your sleeves at this unique establishment, where you’re not just a customer, you’re part of the workforce! Need a new alternator? Sure, but first, put in a four-hour shift at the counter. The store’s motto? “You need it, you earn it.” It’s the only place where you can walk in for windshield wipers and walk out with newfound retail skills and a profound appreciation for break times.

Gouda Gears & Cheese Chassis: The aroma hits you before the absurdity does. Welcome to the world’s only cheese-based auto parts store. Here, every part from brake pads to transmission belts is crafted from the finest Gouda. Perfect for the car enthusiast who also happens to be a cheese connoisseur. Disclaimer: Products may not be sun or mouse-resistant.

Gridiron Auto Gang: Ever wanted to feel like a football in the hands of professional players? At this store, run by retired football stars, you don’t just get auto parts – you get the full tackle experience. Purchase anything, and brace yourself for a friendly tackle at the exit. Safety gear is recommended, and don’t be surprised if you leave with a part and an autograph!

Ye Olde Auto & Poker Parlor: This is not your average auto parts store. It’s a front for an antique poker empire, specializing in 1700s-style card games. While browsing for spark plugs, you might stumble upon a high-stakes game with royalty cards featuring kings and queens of yore. It’s a place where deals are made under the table, literally. Just don’t bet your new muffler in a moment of excitement!

Nomadic Nuts & Bolts – The RV Roving Retailer: Ever seen an elderly couple driving an RV loaded with car parts through Omaha? That’s Nomadic Nuts & Bolts for you! This mobile emporium is run by Ed and Marge, who decided retirement was too boring. They zigzag across the city, bringing mufflers and mirrors to your doorstep. Just flag them down, mind the garden gnome collection, and step into the most homely auto parts store on wheels!

Aero-Auto Parts Express: Look! Up in the sky! It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s… an airplane auto parts store? Yes, Omaha’s skies are graced by a Cessna turned flying auto shop. Need a spark plug? They’ll land right on your street. Shopping here is literally ‘first-class’ – just make sure your street is not a no-parking zone. And remember, in-flight snacks are complimentary with every purchase.

Spare Parts & Strikes Auto-Bowling Alley: Tired of the same old shopping experience? Welcome to the world’s first auto parts store and bowling alley combo. Here, you can roll a strike and buy a brake pad at the same time. The mechanics wear bowling shoes, and if you score a turkey (three strikes in a row), you get a discount on your oil filter. It’s the perfect place to ‘spare’ some time!

Mini-Golf Motors: Imagine a world where miniature golf obstacles and auto parts live in harmony. Welcome to Mini-Golf Motors, where every purchase comes with a round of putt-putt. Navigate through windmills, loop-de-loops, and even a giant replica carburetor. Score a hole-in-one and win a free air freshener! It’s the only place in Omaha where you can improve both your handicap and your horsepower.

The Midnight Markdown Motors: For the night owls of Omaha, this store is a dream come true. Open only from 2 AM to 3 AM, this elusive auto parts paradise offers everything at 50% off. The catch? You need to be awake and quick! It’s like Black Friday every night, but for car parts. Just be prepared to explain to your neighbors why you’re installing a new exhaust system at such ungodly hours.

In Omaha, shopping for auto parts is never just a chore; it’s an experience.

Joe Ditzel

Joe Ditzel is a keynote speaker, humor writer, and really bad golfer. You can reach him via email at [email protected] as well as Twitter, Facebook, Google+ and LinkedIn.