Welcome to Dayton, Ohio.
Are you looking for the top things to do in Dayton, Ohio? Then let us guide you and give you the best activities the city has to offer!
Let’s get started.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
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✈️ Dayton is the heart of aviation history. Visit the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, the largest military aviation museum in the WORLD. Explore the hometown of the Wright brothers and Neil Armstrong, where aviation was born.
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🏛️ Carillon Historical Park tells Dayton’s story through innovation. See the original 1905 Wright Flyer III, climb Ohio’s tallest carillon, and explore exhibits on life-changing inventions like the cash register and pop-top can, all set within 65 acres of open-air museum space.
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🌳 Five Rivers MetroParks is where nature meets the city. Hike, bike, or paddle through trails and rivers that connect over 16,000 acres of parks. Highlights include Cox Arboretum’s butterfly house, RiverScape’s swing benches, and scenic skyline views along the Great Miami River Trail.
Things to do in Dayton: An overview!
Discover below an overview of all the best things to do in Dayton, Ohio.
| Attraction | Admission fee (USD) |
| Five Rivers MetroParks | Free |
| RiverScape MetroPark | Free (kayak rental: $10–$15) |
| National Museum of the U.S. Air Force | Free |
| Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum | Free |
| Oregon District | Free |
| Carillon Historical Park | $14 adults, $10 youth, free under 3 |
| Dayton Art Institute | $15 adults, $5 youth, free under 6 |
| Huffman Prairie Flying Field | Free |
| Boonshoft Museum of Discovery | $15 adults, $12 children, free under 2 |
| Scene75 Entertainment Center | Free entry, activities $20–$40 |
| Dayton Dragons at Day Air Ballpark | Tickets start at $10 |
| Paul Laurence Dunbar House | Free |
| Schuster Performing Arts Center | Tickets vary, typically $40+ |
| Victoria Theatre | Tickets vary, $15–$70 |
| Levitt Pavilion Dayton | Free |
Five Rivers MetroParks
If you’re searching for one of the best things to do in Dayton, then Five Rivers MetroParks should be at the top of your list.
This system of over 18 parks and conservation areas offers nearly 16,000 acres of outdoor space, catering to a range of activities, including hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, and camping.
Why visit Five Rivers MetroParks
Five Rivers MetroParks isn’t just five separate Metroparks; it’s a complex network of ecosystems across the Dayton region that work together as a cohesive unit.
Top parks within the Five Rivers MetroParks
- Cox Arboretum MetroPark: Ideal for a relaxing stroll among labeled trees, a butterfly house (open late spring through early fall), and a tree tower with sweeping views.
👉 INSIDER TIP: THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN DAYTON, OHIO! We recommend visiting during golden hour for some of the best Instagram-worthy photography spots in Dayton.
- Hills & Dales MetroPark: Great for walking trails shaded by ancient beech trees and stone shelters that kids love.
- Englewood MetroPark: Offers waterfalls and one of the region’s largest stretches of old-growth forest.
- Eastwood MetroPark: Famous for paddling the lagoon or biking the Mad River Trail, which connects to the Great Miami River Trail system.
Outdoor activities at Five Rivers MetroParks
- Kayaking and canoeing: Multiple put-in points across the Great Miami River and Mad River. Equipment rental is available through Taiters Kayak.
- Rock climbing: Check out the urban climbing wall at RiverScape MetroPark (only open during warm months).
- Biking: Over 340 miles (547 km) of paved trails. DID YOU KNOW that Dayton is part of the nation’s largest paved trail network?
- Camping: Twin Creek and Germantown MetroParks offer backcountry-style campsites that feel private but are easy to reach.
Location and access of Five Rivers MetroParks
- 📍 Main headquarters: 409 E. Monument Ave, Dayton, OH 45402
- 🌐 Website: metroparks.org
- ✅ Admission: Free for all parks
- 🕓 Hours: Daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. (check specific parks for trail or facility hours)
- 🅿️ Parking: Free parking is available at all main park locations
- 🚌 Public transport: Select parks are accessible via RTA Dayton bus routes (check RTA Trip Planner)
You can use our Stay22 widget below to discover the best places to stay in Dayton, Ohio!
RiverScape MetroPark
A special highlight goes to the RiverScape Metropark.
Why?
Because it offers some of the BEST ACTIVITIES IN THE REGION!
Why visit RiverScape MetroPark
- The central location means it’s easy to pair with other downtown activities.
- Walk or bike along the Great Miami River Trail, with riverside views and direct access to Dayton’s 340+ miles of connected trails.
- Rent a kayak on weekends (late May to early September) and paddle through downtown Dayton for $10–USD 15 per hour.
- Fountains, swings, and a café make it a family-friendly destination.
- In summer, the park hosts free outdoor concerts at the Levitt Pavilion, just a short walk away.
👉 INSIDER TIP: If you’re visiting in winter, check out the MetroParks Ice Rink, typically open from late November through February.
Location and access of RiverScape MetroPark
- 📍 111 E. Monument Ave, Dayton, OH 45402
- ✅ Free Admission
- 🌐 Interactive trail map
- 🕓 Open daily, 6 a.m.–10 p.m.
- 🅿️ Paid parking nearby (garage and metered street spots)
- 🚲 Bike-friendly with direct access to the regional trail network, you can rent them via KG Bike Center
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National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
If you’re building a list of TOP THINGS TO DO IN DAYTON, this is the one you absolutely cannot skip. It makes for a great day trip for couples and families.
The National Museum of the United States Air Force is the LARGEST MILITARY AVIATION MUSEUM IN THE WORLD.
Why visit the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
With over 360 aircraft and missiles on display across four massive hangars, the museum walks you through the entire history of flight, from the Wright brothers (Orville and Wilbur Wright) to cutting-edge stealth jets.
This is where you’ll see:
- The Wright brothers’ 1909 Military Flyer. They changed the world when they decided to design a flying machine in their Wright Cycle Company in West Dayton, the birthplace of aviation.
- A B-29 Superfortress that helped end World War II
- The actual Air Force One that carried JFK’s body back from Dallas
- A full-scale Space Shuttle crew cabin trainer
- Iconic aircraft from every major U.S. conflict, including Vietnam, Korea, and the Gulf War
👉 INSIDER TIP: Many visitors miss the Missile Gallery and Presidential Aircraft Gallery; they’re in separate hangars but connected by covered walkways. Budget extra time so you don’t skip them.
Location and access of the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
- 📍 1100 Spaatz St, Wright-Patterson AFB, Dayton, OH 45433
- 💵 Admission: Free (and no charge for parking)
- 🕓 Open daily, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day)
- 🅿️ Free parking available on-site
- ⏱️ Suggested visit time: 3–4 hours
Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum
This is one of the oldest garden cemeteries in the United States, mixing history, natural beauty, and city views.
Why visit Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum
Founded in 1841, Woodlan Cemetery and Arboretum is the final resting place of many of Dayton’s most influential figures, including:
- Wilbur and Orville Wright: pioneers of powered flight
- Paul Laurence Dunbar: celebrated poet and author
- Erma Bombeck: beloved humorist and columnist
But it’s not just about who’s buried here. The grounds include:
- More than 3,000 trees, including some of Ohio’s oldest and largest species
- A Romanesque gateway and chapel built in 1889
- Winding paths
- A hilltop overlook with one of the best panoramic views of downtown Dayton.
Visiting the park was one of the must-see destinations from our road trip to Dayton!
Location and access of Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum
- 📍 118 Woodland Ave, Dayton, OH 45409
- 💵 Admission: Free
- 🕓 Open daily, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. (longer hours in spring and summer)
- 🅿️ Free on-site parking
- ⏱️ Plan for 45–90 minutes, depending on whether you walk, drive, or do a guided tour
You can use our Stay22 widget below to discover the best places to stay in Dayton, Ohio!
Oregon District
When it comes to TOP things to do in Dayton that mix history, art, and indie flair, the Oregon District is your go-to neighborhood.
Why visit the Oregon District
Mike’s Vintage Toys
Mike’s Vintage Toys is famous for its 80s and 90s nostalgia. You can expect shelves packed with action figures, comics, and retro collectibles.
Press Coffee Bar
A hip, industrial-style café where you can sip a honey latte or cold brew while watching the street activity.
Dayton Inspires mural
Located at 400 E. Fifth Street, this mural has become a social media icon and a symbol of Dayton pride.
Toxic Brew Company
The Toxic Brew Company is Dayton’s first craft brewery since Prohibition, and it still feels like a pioneer.
The vibe is punky and relaxed, with indoor board games, dog-friendly patio seating, and beer that pushes boundaries (think jalapeño cream ales and sour IPAs).
Enjoy the beers as Toxic Brew Company is one of the best things to do in Dayton!
The Neon movies
Just steps from the main district strip, this indie theater screens foreign films, documentaries, and cult favorites.
Blind Bob’s bar
Expect live music, hearty burgers, and zero pretension at Blind Bob’s Bar.
Lily’s Dayton
Lily’s Dayton is one of the best places to eat in the Oregon District, offering a mix of Caribbean flair, sustainability, and influencer-worthy plating.
Carillon Historical Park
One of the other top things to do in Dayton is to visit the Carillon Historical Park.
Spanning 65 acres, this open-air museum has interactive exhibits, original buildings, and iconic artifacts.
Why visit Carillon Historical Park
- Wright Flyer III: The original 1905 plane flown by the Wright brothers, yes, the real one, not a replica. It’s the only airplane designated a National Historic Landmark.
- Transportation gallery: From early bicycles to steam locomotives and a 1908 Cadillac built right in Dayton.
- Heritage Center of Manufacturing & Entrepreneurship: A walk through Dayton’s inventions, from the cash register to the pop-top can.
- The 151-foot Deeds Carillon: The tallest carillon in Ohio, with daily chimes that echo across the park.
👉 INSIDER TIP: Ride the Dayton Carousel of Innovation; it’s not just for kids. Each animal represents a local invention, such as an airplane or a cash register.
Location and access of Carillon Historical Park
- 📍 1000 Carillon Blvd, Dayton, OH 45409
- 💵 Admission: $14 (USD) for adults, $10 (USD) for youth, and free for children under 3
- Carousel Ride: $1
- Carillon Park Train Ride: $5
- All Day Ride Band: $12
- 🕓 Open daily, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (closed on major holidays)
- 🅿️ Free parking on-site
- ⏱️ Allow 2–3 hours to explore
Dayton Art Institute
One of the best cultural things to do in Dayton is to visit the Dayton Art Institute.
It is housed in a beautiful Italian Renaissance-style building overlooking the Great Miami River and is often used for corporate events.
Why visit the Dayton Art Institute
- Diverse collections: The museum features 26,000 objects from ancient Asian ceramics to American Impressionism and African sculpture.
- Rotating exhibitions: Regularly hosts traveling exhibits from institutions like the Smithsonian and major contemporary artists.
- Perfect setting: The front terrace offers some of the best skyline views in Dayton, especially at sunset.
👉 INSIDER TIP: The museum’s Experiencenter is an interactive gallery space that’s especially fun if you’re visiting with kids.
Location and access of Dayton Art Institute
- 📍 456 Belmonte Park North, Dayton, OH 45405
- 💵 Admission: $15 (USD) adults, $5 (USD) youth children, free for members and children under 6
- 🕓 Open Wednesday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sunday, 12–5 p.m. (closed Mondays and Tuesdays)
- 🅿️ Free parking is available in the museum lot
- ⏱️ Plan for 1.5–2 hours if visiting both permanent and temporary exhibits
Huffman Prairie Flying Field
Many of the most important things to do in Dayton for aviation enthusiasts happen at Huffman Prairie Flying Field.
This quiet patch of open grass, just east of downtown on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, is where Wilbur and Orville Wright transformed their flying machine from an idea into a repeatable, controlled technology.
Why visit Huffman Prairie Flying Field
In 1904 and 1905, the Wright brothers used this very field to test and refine the world’s first practical airplane: the Wright Flyer III.
Unlike the brief flights in North Carolina, this is where they mastered turning, banking, and sustained flight.
Today, the field remains mostly undeveloped, preserving the original landscape. You’ll find a replica hangar, catapult system, and signs.
Location and access of Huffman Prairie Flying Field
- 📍 Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Area B – Gate 16A off Route 444, Dayton, OH 45433
- 💵 Admission: Free
- 🕓 Open daily, sunrise to sunset
- 🅿️ Free parking near the trailhead
- ⏱️ Plan for 30–60 minutes
Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
If you’re traveling with kids, one of the most interactive things to do in Dayton is visit the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery.
It’s part science center, part natural historical displays museum, and part zoo, all wrapped into one indoor space that’s perfect for rainy days.
Why visit the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
This isn’t the kind of museum where you just read plaques.
At Boonshoft, you can:
- Touch real fossils and meteorites
- Explore a mini-zoo with live meerkats, turtles, owls, and otters
- Crawl through a kids-only tunnel system under the exhibits
- Use microscopes, launch rockets, or test physics experiments
- Sit back in the Caryl D. Philips Space Theater for a planetarium show
Location and access of Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
- 📍 2600 DeWeese Pkwy, Dayton, OH 45414
- 💵 Admission: $15 (USD) for 13+, $12 (USD) for children (ages 3–12), and free for children under 2
- 🕓 Open daily, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (closed on major holidays)
- 🅿️ Free parking on-site
- ⏱️ Plan for 2–3 hours, especially with kids
Scene75 entertainment center
If you’re craving high-energy fun or need a weatherproof option for your itinerary, Scene75 Entertainment Center is one of the most action-packed things to do in Dayton.
Located just south of downtown, this 140,000-square-foot indoor complex is often called the largest indoor entertainment center in the U.S., and once you walk in, it’s easy to see why.
Why visit Scene75 entertainment center
- Go-karts on a multi-level track
- A massive arcade with 150+ games and ticket prizes
- Laser tag arena, blacklight mini-golf, and bumper cars
- Indoor roller coasters, a 4D motion theater, and virtual reality games
- Full-service bars, casual restaurants, and private party rooms
Location and access of Scene75 entertainment center
- 📍 6196 Poe Ave, Dayton, OH 45414
- 💵 Entry is free, but games and attractions use a reloadable Scene75 card. Budget $20–$40 (USD) per person for a few hours of activities.
- 🕓 Open Monday–Thursday, 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Friday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–1 a.m., Sunday, 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
- 🅿️ Free on-site parking
- ⏱️ Plan for 2–4 hours, depending on group size and number of attractions
Dayton Dragons baseball at Day Air Ballpark
If you’re planning spring or summer things to do in Dayton, catching a Dayton Dragons game at Day Air Ballpark should be high on your list.
Why visit Dayton Dragons
The Dayton Dragons are the High-A affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds, but the energy in the stadium feels major league.
Here’s what sets it apart:
- Family-friendly vibe with activities between innings, including races, games, and giveaways
- Ballpark food favorites like giant soft pretzels loaded hot dogs, and local beer on tap.
- The famous “Dragons Lair” fan section—loud, loyal, and always entertaining
- You’re so close to the action, even in upper-level seats, that kids and adults alike stay engaged the entire game.
Location and access of Dayton Dragons
- 📍 220 N. Patterson Blvd, Dayton, OH 45402
- 💵 Tickets: Start at $10 (USD) and often sell out
- 🕓 Games typically start at 7:05 p.m. (weeknights) or 1:05 p.m. (weekends); check the official schedule for details
- 🅿️ Paid parking lots and garages available nearby ($5–USD 10)
- ⏱️ Plan for 3 hours, including pre-game and fan zone activities
You can use our Stay22 widget below to discover the best places to stay in Dayton, Ohio!
Paul Laurence Dunbar House
Dunbar wasn’t just a poet; he was the first African American writer to gain national and international acclaim.
Born to formerly enslaved parents in Dayton, he published novels, plays, and hundreds of poems before his death at the age of 33.
His former home, now a National Historic Landmark, offers a chance to see where he wrote, rested, and grappled with both illness and fame.
What sets this stop apart is its intimacy. Unlike big museums, you’ll walk the same floorboards as Dunbar, browse original furniture and artifacts, and hear his words read aloud in the place they were written.
Location and access of Paul Laurence Dunbar House
- 📍 219 North Paul Laurence Dunbar Street, Dayton, OH 45402
- 💵 Free Admission (donations encouraged)
- 🕓 Open Friday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
- 🅿️ Free parking on-site
- ⏱️ Allow 30–45 minutes for the guided tour and exhibits
Schuster Performing Arts Center
Located downtown, this stunning venue hosts Broadway shows, symphony concerts, ballet, opera, and special events, all in a setting that rivals theaters in much larger cities.
Why visit Schuster Performing Arts Center
The Schuster Center isn’t just about what’s on stage; it’s a destination in itself:
- The Performance Hall features over 2,300 seats and world-class acoustics, home to the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, Dayton Ballet, and Dayton Opera.
- The Wintergarden lobby, with its soaring glass atrium and palm trees, is one of the most photographed indoor spaces in the city.
- Touring Broadway productions like Hamilton, The Lion King, and Wicked regularly stop here, drawing audiences from across Ohio.
Location and access of Schuster Performing Arts Center
- 📍 1 W. Second St, Dayton, OH 45402
- 💵 Ticket prices vary by performance; Broadway shows typically start at $40 (USD)
- 🕓 Box office open Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; showtimes vary
- 🅿️ Paid parking garages nearby (Reibold or Arts Garage, ~$7–10 USD)
- ⏱️ Plan to arrive 30–45 minutes before showtime to enjoy the space and find your seat
Victoria Theatre
When it comes to things to do in Dayton that combine culture, charm, and a touch of grandeur, the Victoria Theatre offers something truly unique.
Opened in 1866 and lovingly restored, this elegant 1,100-seat venue is one of the oldest continually operating theaters in the U.S., and it still hosts a full calendar of performances year-round.
Why visit the Victoria Theatre
The Victoria isn’t just about the show; it’s about the experience.
Stepping inside feels like time travel, with its ornate interior, grand balconies, and classic red velvet seats.
The programming is diverse, including:
- Touring Broadway-style plays and musicals
- Ballets, both traditional and contemporary
- Classic films and cult movie nights through the Cool Films Series
- Children’s theater, comedy nights, and local arts showcases
👉 INSIDER TIP: Don’t miss the Cool Films Series in the summer.
Location and access of Victoria Theatre
- 📍 138 N. Main St, Dayton, OH 45402
- 💵 Ticket prices vary; local performances may start at $15 (USD), while national tours range from $35–$70 (USD)
- 🕓 Box office hours: Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; shows typically begin at seven or 7:30 p.m.
- 🅿️ Nearby paid parking garages and metered street parking are available
- ⏱️ Arrive 30 minutes early to explore the lobby or grab a drink from the bar
Levitt Pavilion Dayton
If your idea of the perfect evening includes live music, good vibes, and open-air relaxation, then Levitt Pavilion Dayton is one of the best things to do in Dayton.
Located downtown on South Main Street, this outdoor amphitheater hosts over 40 free concerts a year.
Why visit Levitt Pavilion Dayton
- The concerts are completely free, with no tickets required; just bring a blanket or lawn chair.
- The lineup features national touring acts and local talent across diverse genres, including indie rock, gospel, Latin jazz, funk, and classical.
- There are often food trucks nearby!
Location and access of Levitt Pavilion Dayton
- 📍 134 S. Main St, Dayton, OH 45402
- 💵 Admission: Always free
- 🕓 Concerts typically start at 7 p.m. (Thurs–Sat, June through September)
- 🅿️ Street parking and nearby paid garages are available
- 🪑 Bring your chairs or blankets (some chairs available to rent on-site)
FAQ
Is Dayton, Ohio worth visiting?
Yes, Dayton, Ohio is worth visiting, especially if you’re a traveler who values a mix of American history, outdoor adventures, and underrated cultural gems. Known as the “Birthplace of Aviation,” Dayton offers world-class attractions like the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force and Carillon Historical Park, plus scenic green spaces such as Five Rivers MetroParks and the Great Miami River Trail. Whether you're into aviation, architecture, food, or festivals, there’s no shortage of authentic things to do in Dayton that make it a surprisingly rewarding destination.
What is Dayton best known for?
Dayton is best known for its aviation heritage, being the hometown of the Wright brothers, who invented the airplane. It’s also recognized for its invention legacy, innovation in manufacturing, and its contributions to the arts and sciences. Today, you can experience this legacy through standout attractions like the Wright Brothers National Museum, Huffman Prairie Flying Field, and the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. For travelers compiling things to do in Dayton, exploring its aviation roots is a must.
What celebrity is from Dayton, Ohio?
One of the most famous celebrities from Dayton is comedian and actor Dave Chappelle, who was raised just outside the city in nearby Yellow Springs. Other notable names include poet Paul Laurence Dunbar, actress Allison Janney, and humorist Erma Bombeck. If you're exploring things to do in Dayton, you can visit places tied to these figures—like the Paul Laurence Dunbar House, a preserved National Historic Landmark.
What to do at Carillon Park?
At Carillon Historical Park, you can explore over 30 historic buildings and exhibits that showcase Dayton’s role in American innovation. Highlights include the original 1905 Wright Flyer III, the Deeds Carillon bell tower, and interactive exhibits on transportation, printing, and manufacturing. The park also features a carousel of Dayton inventions, guided tours, and seasonal events. If you're planning your list of things to do in Dayton, Carillon Park is a one-stop experience for history, engineering, and beautiful outdoor space.
