Things to do in Dayton

Activities, attractions and tours

Dayton showing a garden, autumn leaves and a bridge
Dayton showing a garden, autumn leaves and a bridge
Dayton showing a lake or waterhole and kayaking or canoeing as well as a small group of people
Dayton which includes outdoor eating, a square or plaza and a city
Akron which includes modern architecture
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What to do in Dayton

Popular places to visit

Gluten free waffles were so yum😋

University of Dayton

Explore the campus of University of Dayton during your trip to Dayton. Discover the area's lively bars and its fascinating museums.

University of Dayton
National Museum of the United States Air Force showing aircraft

National Museum of the United States Air Force

From a replica of the Wright brothers’ original plane to high-tech stealth bombers, there are hundreds of unique aircraft to explore at this museum in Dayton, Ohio.

National Museum of the United States Air Force
Dayton Art Institute showing a monument and outdoor art

Dayton Art Institute

With exceptional special exhibits and an impressive permanent collection, it is easy to see why Dayton’s fine arts museum is such a popular destination.

Dayton Art Institute
A section of Huffman Prairie, which was where the Wright Brothers perfected their flying machine, is maintained as a natural prairie. The wildflower blooms are incredible all summer!

Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park

After visiting Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Dayton. Take in the fascinating museums while you're in the area.

Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park
The Dayton Dragons are a farm team for the Cincinnati Reds. It's minor leagues, so it's way cheaper and just as much fun.

Day Air Ballpark

Catch an event at Day Air Ballpark during your trip to Dayton. Experience the area's fascinating museums or attend a sporting event.

Day Air Ballpark

University of Dayton Arena

Catch an event at University of Dayton Arena during your trip to Dayton. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

University of Dayton Arena

Dayton Convention Center

Learn about the events happening in Dayton Convention Center during your trip to Dayton. Experience the area's fascinating museums or attend a sporting event.

Dayton Convention Center

Dayton Mall Shopping Center

You can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Dayton Mall Shopping Center during your stay in Miamisburg. Take in the fascinating museums while you're in the area.

Dayton Mall Shopping Center

Scene75 Entertainment Center

Enjoy an outing to Scene75 Entertainment Center during your stay in Dayton. Take in the fascinating museums while you're in the area.

Scene75 Entertainment Center

Areas of Dayton

This store, tucked in among the bars of the Oregon District, is in the vein of the best used book stores - stacks arranged in a way that makes sense to the owner but no one else and narrow aisles to make more room for books. Also there are stacks of comic books and magazines, and all sorts of collector memorabilia for decorations.

Downtown Dayton

Unique features of Downtown Dayton include the theatres and bars. Make a stop by Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center or Victoria Theater while you're exploring the area.

Downtown Dayton
Fifth and Jackson St in the Oregon district in Dayton Ohio UAS 2023

Oregon District

Oregon District is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Oregon Park and Belle of Dayton Distillery.

Oregon District
Locust Grove School No. 12 built in 1896 served as a one room school house near Springfield OH. The building has been moved and rebuilt inside Carillon Historical Park complete with the rope that rings the bell!

University Park

While visiting University Park, you might make a stop by sights like Carillon Historical Park and Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum.

University Park
Historic Buildings at Carillon Historical Park, Museum in Dayton, Ohio, USA

South Park

Though South Park may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like 2nd Street Market and Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center.

South Park
Witches Tower in Dayton Ohio

Walnut Hills

Though Walnut Hills may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum and 2nd Street Market.

Walnut Hills
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Belmont

While there might not be top attractions in Belmont, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum and Fraze Pavillion.

Belmont
Autumn Scenes at the Lake

Springboro

Charleston Falls, Charleston Falls Preserve, Tipp City, Ohio

Tipp City

Frequently asked questions

Is Dayton worth visiting?
Whether you plan to enjoy the cultural hotspots and local charm or sample regional foods and go on outdoor adventures, there's no shortage of things to do in Dayton.
How do I spend a day in Dayton?
Once you've checked off top attractions like Boonshoft Museum of Discovery and America's Packard Museum, spend the rest of your day experiencing Dayton's retail and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Dayton?
Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is one of the top tourist attractions in Dayton and deserves a spot on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Dayton?
Three days in Dayton is enough to visit the city's major highlights. Many travellers spend two days on average. Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, America's Packard Museum and Warped Wing Brewery are highly rated sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots like Mason.
Is Dayton a walkable city?
Some key attractions in Dayton, like Boonshoft Museum of Discovery and America's Packard Museum, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Just 0.64 kilometres from central Dayton is Downtown Dayton and Oregon District is 0.97 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Dayton with kids?
Whether you're travelling with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, a schedule filled with fun activities takes your trip to the next level. Check out our ideas for what to do in Dayton with kids.
What to do in Dayton for adults?
Warped Wing Brewery and Belle of Dayton Distillery are just a couple of the things to do in Dayton. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Dayton?
In Dayton, 2nd Street Market is a must-see spot for anyone wishing to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, check out the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a top way to find out about the best free things to do in Dayton.