Things to do in Dayton

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com

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What to do in Dayton

Popular places to visit

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
Day Air Ballpark

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

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

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

Rose Music Center at The Heights

You can enjoy a show at Rose Music Center at The Heights during your stay in Huber Heights. Take in the fascinating museums while you're in the area.

Rose Music Center at The Heights

Mall at Fairfield Commons

You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Mall at Fairfield Commons during your stay in Beavercreek. Take in the fascinating museums while you're in the area.

Mall at Fairfield Commons

Miami Valley Hospital

If Miami Valley Hospital is what brings you to town, hopefully you'll have a chance to explore more of Dayton.

Miami Valley Hospital

Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center

You can get tickets for a performance at Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center during your stay in Dayton. Experience the area's fascinating museums or attend a sporting event.

Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center

Areas of Dayton

Dayton showing a lake or waterhole and kayaking or canoeing as well as a small group of people

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
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University Park

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

University Park
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Oregon District

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

Oregon District
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South Park

Though South Park may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like America's Packard Museum and 2nd Street Market.

South Park
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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
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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
Photo by throwingsofas

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.