Best Things to Do in Dayton

Be sure to check out the Midwest page for more of the best things to do in Dayton, Ohio.

*Last Updated February 22, 2024

 

Best Things to Do in Dayton, Ohio

Table of Contents

  1. Downtown Dayton
  2. National Museum of the US Air Force (Wright Patterson Air Force Base)
  3. Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historic Park
  4. America’s Packard Museum
  5. The Dayton Art Institute
  6. Yellow Springs, Ohio
  7. Young’s Jersey Dairy
  8. Glen Helen Nature Preserve
  9. John Bryan State Park
  10. Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument

Downtown Dayton

When I was in college and after graduating, I’d frequently go up to Dayton to see live music at Canal Street Tavern and they are still playing live music today. Additionally, right across the street is the field for AAA baseball team, the Dayton Dragons. Minor league baseball is a fun an intimate atmosphere for a game.

National Museum of the US Air Force (Wright Patterson air force base)

The National Museum of the United States Air Force, also known as Wright Patterson or “Wright Patt”, is worth a visit to Dayton for it alone. I didn’t count, but there must be over 200 airplanes there. Amazingly, it is free to get in as well.

The museum is sectioned off into different hangars, divided into early years, WW2, Korean War, Southeast Asia Wars, Cold War and more. However, you could easily spend an entire day here and not see it all.

Finally, there are a few pay-to-ride options, including a VR station and two simulators. One is for younger kids and the other has a 48″ height requirement because it goes upside down.

Additionally, we spent about 4 hours going through all the hangars. However, we still did not have time to take everything as I know there is an obstacle course we didn’t make it to.

 

 

Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historic Park

One of Ohio’s national park sites, be sure to check out Dayton Avitation Heritage National Historic Park. Additionally, be sure to check out nearby Carillon Historical Park, which houses the original Wright Flyer.

America’s Packard Museum

America’s Packard Museum consists of vehicles from the Packard Motor Car Company, which was a luxury car brand that operated the first half of the twentieth century.

Dayton Art Institute

The Dayton Art Institute is an art museum scanning numerous different styles and regions.

Yellow Springs

Yellow Springs is just outside of Dayton, but is a great stop for any Dayton itinerary. Additionally, it may be known as the home of comedian Dave Chapelle.

There is a hike/bike trail that runs through town, passing by numerous restaurants and shops. We stopped at the Yellow Springs Brewery for a drink. Also, they frequently have food trucks on site. The other locations listed below are in and around Yellow Springs.

Glen Helen Nature Preserve

Glen Helen Nature Preserve is located right next to the main street of Yellow Springs. However, although there was a small fee to park there, but the area is free to visit. Also, there are some waterfalls and we saw a beaver dam. Additionally, in the back of the park there is a bird/raptor rescue, which includes owls, hawks and eagles.

Most of the trails are not paved, but it is a pretty hike. However, it is a popular area, so you will see other people on your walk.

 

John Bryan State Park

Just outside of Yellow Springs is John Bryan State Park. Additionally, we stayed at the campground and hiked some of the trails that are located directly from the campground or from a short distance away.

 

Young’s Jersey Dairy

A stop to Yellow Springs wouldn’t be complete without a stop for ice cream at Young’s Jersey Dairy. However, there are numerous activities including a petting zoo, slide, batting cages, mini golf and more.

 

CHARLES YOUNG BUFFALO SOLDIERS NAT. MONUMENT

The Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument features the history of General Charles Young. Additionally, it details the black soldiers from the 1800s known as the Buffalo Soldiers.