Places to visit in Dayton, OH
There are many things to do in Dayton, Ohio, many of which are unique and often overlooked. The region has a rich history, great food, and exciting attractions.
Unfortunately, it is often left in the shadow of its more famous neighbors (such as Cincinnati, Columbus, and Indianapolis), but that doesn’t mean it’s any less worthy of your time. So if you are looking for things to do in Dayton, browse this list, and you might find a new favorite activity!
Tourist attractions in Dayton
Whether you’re looking for a place to escape for a day or a weekend, there are many things to do in Dayton, Ohio.
The city is home to various attractions, including museums, historic landmarks, and outdoor recreation. There is also plenty of shopping, dining, and hotels.
Dayton is also the birthplace of aviation, and many attractions are dedicated to highlighting the history of flight.
These attractions include the National Aviation Hall of Fame, the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, the National Museum of the United States Air Force, and the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. These museums will captivate you and educate you about the history of flight.
The National Aviation Hall of Fame recognizes the achievements of world-famous pilots. The Museum of the Air Force is located on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and chronicles the history of aviation from its beginnings through space travel. The museum features changing exhibits throughout the year.
National Museum of the US Air Force
Located in Dayton, Ohio, the National Museum of the US Air Force is one of the largest military aviation museums in the world. With 360 aerospace vehicles on display, visitors can learn about the Air Force’s history and the aircraft that have shaped its role in military history.
The B-17F Flying Fortress Memphis Belle was the first heavy bomber to return to the United States after World War II. It was the subject of two Hollywood films and made its public debut 75 years after its last mission over Europe.
Other highlights include the Titan IVB space rocket, one of the USA’s most significant launch vehicles. A few X-planes are also hung on the floor. This is a great way to experience the wonders of aviation.
Carillon Historical Park
Located on a 65-acre campus, Carillon Historical Park is a museum celebrating Dayton, Ohio’s rich heritage. Its grounds feature dozens of museums and structures, and its exhibits focus on the region’s impact on the world.
Among the many attractions is the James F. Dicke Family Transportation Center, which displays the oldest American-built locomotive and other fascinating transportation artifacts. The Wright Brothers National Museum is also in the complex, with a replica of Wright’s fifth bike shop.
Carillon Park is a popular tourist attraction in Dayton. It features several holiday-themed attractions, including a miniature railway, and extensive educational programming. It is an excellent destination for both locals and out-of-towners. Unfortunately, it is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
Located in Dayton, Ohio, the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is a fun and educational place for children. It’s home to several exhibits that focus on animals and technology. It also features a planetarium and a built-in zoo. It’s open to the public on weekends, Mondays, and Saturdays. It’s one of the best museums in the area.
The museum’s mission is to “enrich the lives of children through learning experiences.” Therefore, visitors can expect many interactive exhibits, such as a treehouse, a jungle gym, a meerkat enclosure, and more. There are also special events, such as the Summer Science Camps.
The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery’s permanent collection includes over 700 items. The real galleries are dedicated to various themes, including human anatomy, geology, robotics, and more. In addition to the galleries, there is a planetarium and an IMAX theater.
The Dayton Art Institute
Founded in 1919, the Dayton Art Institute is one of the finest fine arts museums in the region. It has an impressive collection of 27,000 objects and 5,000 years of art history.
The museum features permanent and special exhibits that range from American and European art to Asian and Native American art. It also hosts many family-friendly events and programs.
The museum is a not-for-profit organization that depends on the support of individuals, corporations, government funding, and grants. The Dayton Art Institute is located on a hill overlooking the Great Miami River.
Eastwood MetroPark
Located in Dayton, Ohio, Eastwood MetroPark is a great place to take a family outing. In addition to the typical amenities found in most parks, Eastwood contains a lake, a three-mile loop trail, and a small nature center.
In addition to the usual suspects, the park has its share of natural features, including grassland openings, thickets, and forests. The park also has a small observation tower next to the dam.
The park is home to many fun and exciting water-based activities, such as fishing, boating, and swimming. It also has a 3-mile loop trail that offers hiking opportunities on mostly level terrain.
The park also boasts a 185-acre recreational lake, a scenic outdoor area, and picnic shelters. The site is also home to several migratory birds.
The Ohio History Connection operates the site as part of its statewide network of historical sites. The park is also connected to two other metro parks. The nearby Huffman MetroPark includes the Huffman Prairie Trail, while the Kauffman Avenue Bikeway extends to Fairborn.
The park has artificial features, including a small nature center, picnic shelters, and Olympics. The park is also connected to the Buckeye Trail, a 1,440-mile continuous loop around Ohio.
Best Unique Things to Do in Dayton, Ohio
Places to visit in Dayton, OH:
- Tourist attractions in Dayton
- National Museum of the US Air Force
- Carillon Historical Park
- Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
- The Dayton Art Institute
- Eastwood MetroPark