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A city of immense historical charm, Dayton is known as the birthplace of aviation since the inventors of powered flight—Wilbur and Orville Wright—once lived there. Dayton has a great deal to offer visitors, as it is home to appealing museums, countless shops and an attractive Metropark system. Dayton is a great place to visit if history and aviation are your interests, but rest assured, it is great for those who aren’t big in those areas. Between the ability to relax and walk outdoors through the city’s many parks or experiencing one of the many festivals taking place year-round, there is plenty to do in Dayton regardless of where your interest lie.

Dayton Pictures

Things to do in Dayton

Dayton has a great deal to offer visitors, as it is home to appealing museums, countless shops and an attractive parks system. Travelers will enjoy the United States Air Force Museum, one of the world’s largest aviation museums. Featuring more than 300 aircraft and missiles, the museum presents displays that depict everything visitors want to know about the Air Force. Shopping enthusiasts can flock to the Dayton Mall, which houses over 180 specialty shops, restaurants and department stores. For those interested in the arts, The Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center in downtown Dayton is a world class performing arts center and the home performance venue of the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, Dayton Opera, and the Dayton Ballet. The Dayton Ballet is considered one of the oldest and finest professional dance companies in the United States. In addition, the Schuster Center hosts concerts, lectures, traveling Broadway shows, and is a popular spot for other events. The city of Dayton is also home to the Five Rivers MetroParks, an extensive park system that features 24 public facilities in and around the city. Nearby Carriage Hill MetroPark is an ideal place to embark on a hike, cross-country ski trip or horseback ride, depending on the time of year. These parks are great for taking an afternoon stroll or getting together with friends for a fun afternoon.

Nightlife in Dayton

Although Dayton may not seem like the most happening city when it comes to a nightlife scene, there are several good places to grab a drink, have a dance, and meet new people in a cool setting. If you’re hitting the bars, there’s Vue. Vue is one of the coolest treasures Washington Township has to offer and is a true hidden gem. In downtown Dayton, there’s the the Dublin Pub – set at the corner of the infamous Oregon District. Built to look like it’s straight out of Ireland, the Dub Pub (as the locals call it) has a friendly feel, lots of live bands, and a great collection of Irish whiskeys and beers on tap. For those who like to get their groove on, Dayton has a few dance spots, three of which are all very close to one another. Near the corner of Second and St. Clair is Pearl and Hammerjacks, and just down the road is the Foundry. Pearl is small, but draws a decent crowd. They are also open until 3 or 3:30, which makes it a good place to hit after finishing up at the other spots in town. The multi-level Hammerjacks is a good place because it has something for everyone; a lounge area, a bar with pool and other games, and a large dance floor. The Foundry is a warehouse turned club and they are open very late for the hard core dancers, and the environment makes it a great place to rock out.

Dining in Dayton

The city of Dayton boasts any number of high-flying restaurants from A to Z that are ethnically diverse, architecturally interesting, or historically significant. Ajanta specializes in fresh vegetarian and classical Indian dishes prepared daily, while Zola’s treats patrons to cooking “from scratch” with emphasis on healthy dining. In between are dozens of chains and independent eateries reflecting the variety of cuisine choices. Tumbleweed Southwest Mesquite Grill & Bar uses mesquite logs to flavor steaks, ribs, chops and Mexican favorites while The Thirsty Dog serves upscale brew pub fare. Therapy Café downtown features small plate fare and desserts for lunch and dinner within a wireless Internet atmosphere. The National City 2nd Street Public Market’s eclectic range of hearty sandwiches, exotic soups or salads, international specialties and gourmet coffees make any nosh an entertaining adventure. Flying Dog Food Pavilion at RiverScape MetroPark has an eclectic menu from cotton candy to grilled chicken and Southern Slaw Dogs, along with cones, sundaes and banana splits. The century-old Stockyards Inn, east of downtown on Third Street, ranks as Dayton’s most historic dining venue, specializing in steaks, barbeque and prime rib. Dig in!

Shopping in Dayton

As mentioned, Dayton has a lot to offer its visitors in terms of shopping. Aside from the aforementioned Dayton Mall, there are other great shopping centers minutes away from downtown such as the Greene, the Mall at Fairfield Commons, and the Towne and Country Shopping Center. For those who are shopping on a budget, Dayton offers many thrift and discount stores, as well as the Prime Outlets a short drive away.

Dayton Travel Tips

• The Greater Dayton Regional Transit Authority (RTA) operates public bus routes in the Dayton metro area.
• The United States Air Force Museum is a must-see for aviation fans.
• The international calling code is 1 + 937 if dialing from a long-distance phone.