Best Things To Do In Dayton, Ohio

Immerse yourself in aviation history at the world's largest and most comprehensive aviation museum, boasting over 900 aircraft and spacecraft. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by an impressive exterior featuring aircraft from various eras suspended in mid-air, setting the tone for the extraordinary experience that awaits inside.

Witness iconic machines like the Wright 1903 Flyer, the B-17 Memphis Belle, and the Presidential Air Force One. Entrance to the museum is free, making it accessible to all.

Spark your curiosity and ignite your imagination at this interactive science museum featuring over 200 exhibits covering dinosaurs, space exploration, the human body, and more.

Gaze at the vastness of space through a mesmerizing planetarium show, then walk amongst life-size dinosaur models and learn about prehistoric giants. If you are looking for things to do in Ohio with kids, go to That Kid's Playce. It features a water play zone, a toddler play area, and building blocks galore.

Wander through a living history museum featuring restored Victorian homes, a working 19th-century carousel, and costumed interpreters bringing the past to life. Situated on 65 acres of picturesque landscape along the Great Miami River, the park combines outdoor exhibits, historic buildings, and interactive experiences.

One of the highlights of Carillon Historical Park is its outdoor exhibits, which feature a collection of historic buildings, structures, and artifacts. Visitors can stroll through the park's pathways and explore various exhibits.

Immerse yourself in nature at this sprawling park featuring diverse ecosystems, hiking and biking trails, a butterfly house, and a serene Japanese garden. Admission is free, making it an accessible and affordable option for a day out or budget-friendly things to do in the Dayton area.

Explore the park's nature trails, have a picnic under the shade of towering trees, or let the kids loose on the playground. Take a ride on the historic carousel at the Carillon Historical Park, located within the arboretum's boundaries, and immerse yourselves in the charm of a bygone era.

The Oregon District boasts a variety of dining options, ranging from cozy cafes to trendy bistros and upscale eateries. Take a stroll down East Fifth Street and explore the menus displayed outside each restaurant to find the perfect spot for your meal.

From farm-to-table restaurants to establishments specializing in barbecue or Southern cuisine, you'll have the opportunity to savor the authentic tastes. Weather permitting, opt for a table on the outdoor patio to soak up the lively atmosphere while dining al fresco.

Indulge in a classic steak dinner at this iconic Dayton restaurant, known for its old-school charm. The star of the show at The Pine Club is undoubtedly the steak. Each steak comes with stewed tomatoes or the vegetable of the day, a choice of potatoes, salad dressings, and dinner rolls.

Beyond steaks, it offers a selection of other classic dishes, like veal chops, seafood platters, and lamb chops. For dessert, don't miss their famous German chocolate cake or peanut butter pie.

Pack a lunch and enjoy a relaxing day at Eastwood MetroPark, featuring hiking trails, a lake, and plenty of green space. Several covered shelters with picnic tables and grills are scattered throughout the park, perfect for family gatherings.

A children's playground provides a fun space for kids to run and play. The centerpiece of the park is a 185-acre lake, perfect for boating, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. It's also a popular spot for birdwatching, with diverse migratory populations throughout the year.

Enjoy a variety of performances, from classical music and ballet to Broadway shows and comedy acts, at this renowned performing arts center. The Schuster Center offers a dynamic lineup of performances throughout the year, showcasing world-class talent across a variety of genres.

From Broadway blockbusters like "Hamilton" and "The Lion King" to classical concerts by the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra and Dayton Ballet productions, there's something for every taste and interest.

Calling all craft beer enthusiasts! The Dayton Ale Trail beckons you on a delicious journey through the vibrant brewing scene. It has over 30 participating breweries, each crafting unique and flavorful beers.

The Dayton Ale Trail goes beyond just pints. Many breweries host special events like live music, food trucks, brewery tours, and beer releases. Take advantage of these opportunities to delve deeper into the brewing process and connect with fellow beer enthusiasts.

Discover unique treasures and locally-made crafts at these Dayton OH attractions, featuring over 60 independent vendors. You'll find boutiques offering locally-made goods, artisanal products, and Dayton-themed memorabilia.

Browse through antique shops to find retro postcards, historic photographs, vintage signage, and other collectibles. Indulge your taste buds with gourmet food products such as artisanal chocolates and cheeses that make excellent souvenirs for food enthusiasts.

Enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this historic cemetery, home to the graves of many notable figures, including the Wright brothers and Paul Laurence Dunbar. Stroll along winding paths beneath a canopy of majestic oaks and hickories, and soak in the serene atmosphere.

Lush greenery carpets the rolling hills, punctuated by vibrant blooms throughout the seasons. Among the top things to do in Dayton area, meandering creeks and a tranquil pond add to the peaceful ambiance, inviting visitors to reconnect with nature's tranquility.

Among the many Dayton Ohio attractions, visitors can explore the Wright Cycle Company Complex, which includes the original bicycle shop where Orville and Wilbur Wright built their first successful airplane. 

The historic home of Paul Laurence Dunbar, one of America's foremost African American poets, is a highlight of the neighborhood. Visitors can tour the restored house where Dunbar lived with his family and learn about his life and literary contributions.

Attractions in Dayton Ohio for vintage car lovers, America's Packard Museum transports visitors back to the era of automotive elegance and American manufacturing prowess. Delve into the history of luxury automobiles at this museum showcasing the iconic Packard cars.

The heart of the museum lies in its collection of over 50 meticulously restored Packard automobiles. Each car, from the early touring models to the sleek post-war designs, tells a story of innovation, craftsmanship, and the evolving taste of American luxury.

Reminiscent of European markets bustling with activity, the 2nd Street Market is a haven for all things local in Dayton, Ohio. Immerse yourself in vibrant colors and enticing aromas as you browse stalls overflowing with seasonal produce.

Discover unique treasures created by local artisans. Find handcrafted jewelry, pottery, candles, soaps, and home décor items, each infused with personality and local flair. The market is open Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

Explore over 20,000 works of art, including European masterpieces, American folk art, and contemporary installations. Visitors can admire works by renowned artists such as Peter Paul Rubens, Claude Monet, and Edgar Degas.

The museum's decorative arts collection encompasses a wide range of media, including furniture, glassware, ceramics, metalwork, and textiles. Visitors can admire exquisite examples of craftsmanship and design from different historical periods and cultural traditions.

Pay your respects and reflect on the victims of the mass shooting that occurred in 2019 at this somber yet hopeful memorial. In the aftermath of the tragedy, a community-driven effort led to the creation of the Dayton Memorial, located at the eastern edge of the Oregon District in Ohio.

The memorial is designed to be a place of remembrance, reflection, and hope. It is currently under construction, with a planned completion date of August 4, 2024, marking the fifth anniversary of the incident.

Witness the grandeur of this opulent theater built in 1894 and enjoy a Broadway-caliber production, a captivating concert, or a mesmerizing dance performance. From Broadway musicals and classic plays to contemporary dance performances and live concerts, there's always something exciting happening at the Victoria Theatre.

With its rich history, breathtaking architecture, and diverse programming, the theater continues to inspire and delight audiences, preserving the legacy of entertainment and innovation for generations to come.

Things to do in Dayton Ohio for health enthusiasts include exploring the scenic riverfront and surrounding countryside on this paved bike trail. It follows the scenic Great Miami River for most of its route, offering stunning views of the nature.

The middle section of the trail runs from Dayton to Miamisburg. It's slightly more challenging, with some rolling hills, but still offers beautiful scenery. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the trail, such as deer, turkey, and bald eagles.

Adventure Reef Water Park is a thrilling aquatic destination located in Kettering, just a short drive from Dayton. Cool off and have fun at this indoor water park featuring thrilling slides, relaxing lazy rivers, a wave pool, and interactive play areas.

From water cannons and splash pads to fountains and waterfalls, there's no shortage of excitement to be had in this lively area. When hunger strikes, visitors can refuel and recharge at the park's concession stand.

Follow in the footsteps of Wilbur and Orville Wright at their 1904 bicycle shop and Huffman Prairie Flying Field, where they made their historic flights. The park is open year-round with free admission. Each site offers unique experiences and tours as well.

Whether you're an aviation enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about the lives of remarkable individuals, these Dayton attractions promise a journey of discovery and inspiration.