Things to do in Dayton

Activities, attractions and tours

A turquoise bridge over a calm pond, surrounded by autumn foliage and a grassy park.
A group of people kayaking on a calm lake surrounded by dense trees.
A public square with people sitting on benches, a tree, and buildings in the background.
A modern glass building with a curved facade, a circular glass structure in the foreground, and a paved plaza with benches and trees.
A bridge with colorful lights reflecting on the water.
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

What to do in Dayton

Stay near popular Dayton attractions

A large USAF jet on display with the United States Air Force Museum in the background.
Photo by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Open Photo by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com

National Museum of the United States Air Force

9.6/10 (1,235 reviews)
Explore the world's largest military aviation museum with over 350 aircraft spanning flight history. Don't miss the presidential aircraft collection where you can walk through planes used by former commanders-in-chief.
See properties

Where to stay in Dayton

Find the best Dayton areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.
A street with a sign for the Street Public Market.
Photo by The Curious Zephyr
Open Photo by The Curious Zephyr

Downtown Dayton

Unique features of Downtown Dayton include the theaters and bars. Make a stop by Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center or Victoria Theater while you're exploring the area.

Street signs for Jackson St and 500 S.

Oregon District

Oregon District is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Oregon Park and Belle of Dayton Distillery.

A tall, illuminated monument against a twilight sky.
Photo by throwingsofas
Open Photo by throwingsofas

University Park

While visiting University Park, you might make a stop by sights like Carillon Historical Park and Baujan Field.

A green wooden house with a sloped roof, a chimney, and a small porch.

South Park

South Park might not have many top sights, but Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center and Oregon Park are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

A city skyline at dusk with a calm river reflecting the buildings, a park with a white gazebo, and a modern building with a blue dome.

Belmont

While there might not be top attractions in Belmont, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Baujan Field and National Museum of the United States Air Force.

A field with autumn-colored trees and a clear blue sky.

Englewood

A red covered bridge with a sign reading "Eagle Mill."

Xenia

Frequently asked questions

Is Dayton worth visiting?
Whether you plan to enjoy the cultural hotspots and local charm or sample regional foods and go on outdoor adventures, there's no shortage of things to do in Dayton.
How do I spend a day in Dayton?
Once you've checked off top attractions like Boonshoft Museum of Discovery and America's Packard Museum, spend the rest of your day experiencing Dayton's retail and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Dayton?
Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is one of the top tourist attractions in Dayton and deserves a spot on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Dayton?
Three days in Dayton is enough to visit the city's major highlights. Many travelers spend two days on average. Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, America's Packard Museum and Warped Wing Brewery are highly rated sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots like Mason.
Is Dayton a walkable city?
Some key attractions in Dayton, like Boonshoft Museum of Discovery and America's Packard Museum, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Just 0.64 kilometers from central Dayton is Downtown Dayton and Oregon District is 0.97 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Dayton with kids?
Whether you're traveling with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, a schedule filled with fun activities takes your trip to the next level. Check out our ideas for what to do in Dayton with kids.
What to do in Dayton for adults?
Warped Wing Brewery and Belle of Dayton Distillery are just a couple of the things to do in Dayton. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Dayton?
In Dayton, 2nd Street Market is a must-see spot for anyone wishing to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, check out the other neighborhoods and green spaces, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a top way to find out about the best free things to do in Dayton.