Dayton
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Dayton's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day at the National Museum of the United States Air Force, where you can see incredible aircraft and learn about aviation history. Don't forget to grab a coffee at the museum café to fuel your exploration.
Visit the Carillon Historical Park to see the famous Carillon Bell Tower and learn about Dayton's role in invention and innovation. Take a stroll along the beautiful grounds and enjoy a picnic lunch.
Dine at a local restaurant in the Oregon District, known for its vibrant nightlife and dining scene. After dinner, explore the unique shops and artistry that characterizes this historic area.
Kick off your day with a visit to the Five Rivers MetroParks, where you can hike or bike on scenic trails. Enjoy the beauty of nature and the fresh air while getting some exercise.
Head to Island MetroPark for a peaceful picnic by the Great Miami River. You can also rent a kayak or canoe to enjoy some water activities.
Relax at a local BBQ joint for dinner and enjoy some classic American dishes. If the weather permits, consider a walk along the riverfront to unwind and take in the views.
Visit the Dayton Art Institute, where you can immerse yourself in an impressive collection of art spanning various cultures and periods. Check out any special exhibitions that may be on display.
Explore the artsy neighborhood of the Oregon District, filled with galleries and shops featuring local artists. Take a break at a cozy café and soak in the creative atmosphere.
Catch a performance at the Victoria Theatre or the Schuster Center, showcasing local and national talent. Enjoy dinner at one of the nearby eateries before the show.
Rent a bike and start your day exploring the RiverScape MetroPark. The bike trails offer scenic views and a unique perspective of the city's beautiful waterfront.
Continue your cycling adventure and make your way to the Huffman Prairie Flying Field, a historical site with educational displays about the Wright brothers. Pack a lunch to enjoy in the park.
Wind down with dinner at a local farm-to-table restaurant, savoring fresh ingredients. Afterward, take a leisurely bike ride through downtown to experience the city's nightlife.
Start your food journey with breakfast at a local diner serving classic American fare. Try their pancake special for a taste of Dayton's breakfast culture.
Visit the famous Dayton Dragons baseball game for lunch at the stadium. Experience the local love for this minor league team while enjoying some ballpark favorites.
Indulge in a food tour that showcases Dayton's diverse culinary scene. Sample dishes from various restaurants and discover hidden gems throughout the city.
Kick things off with a visit to the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, where kids can explore interactive exhibits and learn about science and nature. Don’t miss the live animal encounters.
Spend your afternoon at the Dayton Art Institute's family program or have fun at the local arcade for some friendly competition. Grab lunch at a nearby family-friendly restaurant.
End your day at a local ice cream shop for a sweet treat. Enjoy a family movie night at your lodging to recap the day.
Visit the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center to learn about the lives and achievements of the Wright brothers. This site offers a unique perspective on two of history's most influential figures.
Explore the historic Old North Dayton neighborhood to see unique architecture and local history. Enjoy lunch at a mom-and-pop diner popular with locals.
Head to the Dayton Convention Center for community events that showcase local culture. For dinner, try a nearby Italian restaurant for some comfort food.
Spend your morning at the Boonshoft Museum to see their amazing planetarium show about the stars. Engaging exhibits will get you excited about the night ahead.
Visit the Cox Arboretum and Gardens to enjoy the natural beauty of the landscapes before nightfall. Have a light lunch at the café there while soaking in the serene environment.
Head to a designated stargazing space like your local observatory or a park with no light pollution. Bring a blanket, and enjoy a picnic dinner while you watch the stars emerge.
Visit the Dayton Sports Hall of Fame to learn about the achievements of local athletes. The memorabilia exhibited offers a great insight into Dayton's sports history.
Attend a local football or basketball game to root for Dayton's teams. Grab lunch at a sports bar to join in the excitement with fellow fans.
Wrap up with dinner at a steakhouse, sharing your favorite moments from the games. If time allows, consider joining a local sports trivia night for fun.
Start your day at the Dayton Mall, where you'll find a variety of shops and boutiques. Sip on a latte while browsing through your favorite stores.
Take some time to explore the local craft and artisan shops in downtown Dayton. Stop for lunch at a café that features locally sourced ingredients.
Treat yourself to a spa evening with a massage or facial at a nearby wellness center. End your day with dinner at a trendy restaurant.