Hello, weary traveler, and welcome! If your trip has landed you with a layover of a day or more in Dayton, Ohio – a stayover, if you will – you are in luck. Dayton has no shortage of ways to spend your time and get the most out of your bonus vacation.
1. National Museum of the United States Air Force
Dayton’s pretty famous for flight what with it being the home of the Wright Brothers so it’s no surprise that one attraction that keeps fans of aviation (#avgeeks) coming back again and again is the National Museum of the US Air Force. This museum houses over 360 planes, missiles, and other aerospace vehicles across over 19 acres of indoor space, so bring your walking shoes and a camera.
2. Dayton Art Institute
Since 1919, Daytonians have loved experiencing art at the Dayton Art Institute. This gorgeous, Italian Renaissance style building holds within its walls artwork spanning 5,000 years and representing every region of the world as well as a diverse array of artistic styles. In addition to their permanent collection, Dayton Art Institute also features special exhibitions, programs, and events.
3. Five Rivers Metroparks
With 18 beautiful parks to choose from, Five Rivers Metroparks is the perfect way to get some fresh air, delve into miles of wooded trails, and learn about local wildlife. Five Rivers Metroparks maintains everything from conservation areas that are available to view, to parks with active farms and volunteer re-enactment of historical townsfolk, to urban Riverscape Metropark, which is the venue for festivals, concerts, ice skating, and more.
4. Dayton Dragons
A point of pride for many Daytonians is the Dayton Dragons minor league baseball team and their incredible, record-breaking, 19-year sellout streak. It’s no surprise these games keep selling out year after year because they are packed with fun experiences as well as plenty of places to grab a bite to eat, a drink, or a sweet treat.
5. Carillon Historical Park
Learning about history can be dry because you normally can’t see it in action. Dayton has Carillon Historical Park where history comes alive thanks to volunteer re-enactors who dress in period costume and operate the shops, historic homes, and restaurants. This beautiful, 65-acre park was designed by the Olmsted Brothers, the designers behind slightly more famous Central Park in New York City. As if you need another reason to visit, there’s also Carillon Brewing Co., the only production brewery operated out of a museum in the country. Visitors to Carillon Brewing Co. can learn and watch the brewing process as well as taste authentic beer and meals made exactly as they would have been in 1850.
6. Scene 75
Named the #1 Family Entertainment Center in all of North America, Scene 75 got its start right here in Dayton. The original location is packed with activities for everyone including black light miniature golf, bumper cars, go-karts, laser tag, chaos room, and 4D theatre – not to mention over 130 arcade games. Featuring a restaurant and two full bars, there’s no reason to stop having fun during your visit.
Of course, it can’t be all fun and games – you’ll probably be interested in eating, drinking, and shopping during your stay as well. Check out this list of great establishments.
No matter what you decide to try on your Dayton stayover, we’re glad you came and hope you had as much fun in our museums, parks, shops, and restaurants as we do every day. Thanks for stopping by on your recent adventure and come back soon!
FlyDayton, where it’s easy to and through.
