Things to Do in Dayton, Ohio: Attractions, Events, and More

You’ve probably heard about the Dayton Accords that ended the Balkan War, or about the Wright Brothers, aviation pioneers. If you’re thinking of traveling to this attractive city, read on.

Here’s a list of things to do in Dayton, Ohio, including weekend and family recreational activities. We also provide you with some essential tips to make your stay even better. Check it out now!

Photo by Michael Bowman on Unsplash

Top 10 Things to Do in Dayton, Ohio

National Museum of the US Air Force

Did you know that the National Museum of the US Air Force at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton is the oldest and largest military aviation museum in the world? With more than 360 aircraft and missiles on display, it attracts approximately one million visitors annually.

Participate in guided tours to learn more about the aircraft and their history. The museum provides educational materials and interactive activities for students and school groups, focusing on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is closed on holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Admission to the museum is free, although donations are accepted.

The Presidential Gallery, National Museum of the US Air Force, Dayton, Ohio, USA. Roland Turner from Birmingham, Great Britain, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Dayton Art Institute

For art lovers like you, one of the things to do in Dayton, Ohio, is to visit the Dayton Art Museum, known as one of the best art museums in the United States, especially for kids. The building has an Italian Renaissance style and has been part of the National Register of Historic Places since 1974.

The museum houses 20,000 objects, including American, Baroque, contemporary, and Asian art. It offers a variety of educational programs and community events, including guided tours and special exhibits.

The Dayton Art Institute, Belmonte Park, Grafton Hill, Dayton, OH. Photo by Warren LeMay, CC0 1.0, on Flickr

Carillon Historical Park

Learn more about Dayton’s history at Carillon Historical Park, an open-air museum that offers a glimpse into the region’s history and innovation. The park’s most iconic feature is the Deeds Carillon, with a 151-foot bell tower. It is the largest in Ohio and features live concerts during the spring and summer months.

Exhibits showcase the evolution of transportation, invention, and industry in Dayton, including historic vehicles and artifacts. Here you can participate in guided tours to get detailed information about the exhibits and the park’s history. It is open Monday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and on Sundays from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission ranges from $10 to $14, and children under 3 are free.

Great Miami Riverway Activities

If you like to be in touch with nature, the Great Miami Riverway is an ideal destination, with paved trails and many recreational opportunities along the river. Here are some of the activities you can enjoy in this area:

• Biking and Hiking
• Kayaking and Canoeing
• Fishing
• Birding and Nature Watching
• Community Events

Dayton Arcade

In the heart of the commercial district of Dayton, Ohio, is the Dayton Arcade. Built between 1902 and 1904, it was one of the first indoor shopping malls in the United States and has been important in the city’s history.

Here you can enjoy events such as “Holly Days at the Arcade,” which include artisan markets, children’s activities, and live entertainment. There are also poetry performances, such as “The Segue: Poetry Open Mic,” or live interviews with local artists, such as “Rodney Veal’s Inspired By LIVE.” The Dayton Arcade also offers spaces for private events, with catering options and professional lighting and sound equipment.

Five Rivers MetroParks

Connect with nature through Five Rivers MetroParks, a regional public park system in Dayton, Ohio. With its 25 facilities, it offers many recreational and educational opportunities that serve the local community and promote a connection with nature.

Five Rivers MetroParks includes several hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, children’s playgrounds, and outdoor sports spaces. It’s open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Texas141, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

SunWatch Indian Village

Learn more about the life of North American Indian peoples at SunWatch Indian Village is one of the things to do in Dayton, Ohio. This archaeological site is a reconstruction of an Indian village of the Fort Ancient culture, which existed approximately 800 years ago.

One of the highlights is the Winter Solstice celebration, where you can watch the sun align with the village structures, just as the ancient inhabitants did. It is open Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and admission is approximately $7 per person.

Boonshoft Museum of Discovery

If you travel with children to Dayton, Ohio, the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is a must-see destination. It combines a science museum, a zoo, a planetarium, and a technology center.

It offers many educational and recreational activities such as the Oscar Boonshoft Science Central where children can experiment with water and learn about its properties, and the Mead Tree House which teaches about environmental preservation. It is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Admission ranges from $11.50 to $14.50, and children under 3 get in free.

Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park

Another ideal destination for knowledge enthusiasts like you is the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park, located in Dayton, Ohio. Here, the life and accomplishments of the Wilbur and Orville Wright brothers, as well as poet Paul Laurence Dunbar, are commemorated.

This park is a testament to the significant impact these three men had on the history of aviation and literature. Hours vary depending on where you visit; we recommend checking before you go. Admission to the park is free, although some activities may have an additional cost.

Dayton History Museum

The Dayton History Museum is an important cultural institution in Dayton, Ohio, dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of the region. It has more than 30 exhibits covering topics such as aviation, industry, and local culture. Visitors can explore historical artifacts, models, and interactive presentations.

One of the most prominent pieces is the Wright Flyer III, the first practical aircraft in its room designed by Orville Wright. It is open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and on Sundays from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission ranges from $11 to $14, and children under 3 are free.

Expert Tips for Visitors in Dayton, Ohio

1. Don’t miss free admission to the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, the largest and oldest of its kind in the world. It offers more than 340 aircraft and interactive exhibits on aviation history.

2. Enjoy nature at Five Rivers MetroParks, with paved trails ideal for biking, hiking, and outdoor activities. It is known as the “Outdoor Adventure Capital of the Midwest”.

3. Attend performances at the Schuster Center or enjoy free concerts at the Levitt Pavilion during the summer.

4. Try the famous local food, including the well-known steak and gravy sandwich, and visit local markets such as the Second Street Market, where you can find fresh produce and arts and crafts.

5. Learn about local festivals such as the Greek or Celtic, that celebrate Dayton’s cultural diversity.
   Check the Dayton Convention & Visitors Bureau calendar for sporting events and family activities.

6. Dayton is easily accessible by road and has an international airport for easy connections. Consider using public transportation or renting bikes to explore the trails and parks at your own pace.

7. Keep your phone handy in case of emergencies and for quick access to mobile data. This will help you contact family or emergency services when needed. Using Yoho Mobile eSIM is especially useful in cities where safety could be a concern, ensuring you stay connected and informed. Use the code YOHO12 at checkout for a 12% discount!

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