Best Things to do in Dayton | Must-see attractions 2025

The Dayton Art Institute

11:00 AM–8:00 PM

Museum

456 Belmonte Park North

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The Dayton Art Institute, established in 1919, features extensive fine art collections, special exhibitions, and educational programs in a historic building in Dayton, Ohio.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

RiverScape MetroPark

Open 24 hours

Park

237 East Monument Avenue

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RiverScape in Dayton, Ohio, is a vibrant park along the Great Miami River featuring community events, floral displays, and seasonal ice skating activities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require paid tickets.

Dayton Convention Center

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Business Center

22 E 5th St (5th St & Jefferson St)

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Dayton Convention Center is a prominent venue in Dayton, Ohio, hosting a wide variety of events, including conventions, trade shows, and community gatherings.

Duration: 2–4 hours depending on the event.

Free entry for most events; some may require specific tickets.

Dayton Visual Arts Center

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

118 N Jefferson St

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Dayton Visual Arts Center showcases local and regional artwork, offering exhibitions, educational programs, and community engagement in Dayton, Ohio.

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may incur additional fees.

Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theater

1 West Second Street (at Main St.)

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The Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center in Dayton is a premier venue for concerts, plays, dance performances, and more, showcasing art and culture in an architectural gem.

Duration: 2-3 hours, depending on the event.

Varies by event. Generally $20-$100 for adults, discounts for students and seniors.

National Museum of the US Air Force

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1100 Spaatz St Wright-Patterson Air Force Base

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The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force features extensive military aviation exhibits, including historic aircraft and interactive displays, located in Dayton, Ohio.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Free. However, some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

University of Dayton

Open 24 hours

University

300 College Park Ave (at Brown St)

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University of Dayton, a private Catholic research university founded in 1850, spans 388 acres. It hosts over 11,000 students with diverse academic offerings.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free to visit the campus. Specific events may require tickets.

Wright State University

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

3640 Colonel Glenn Hwy (N. Fairfield Rd.)

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Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio offers diverse degrees and is noted for its research activity and historic ties to aviation pioneers.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Some events and workshops may require tickets.

Victoria Theatre Association

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theater

138 N Main St

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Victoria Theatre is a historic performing arts venue in Dayton, Ohio, hosting a variety of performances and events since 1866.

Duration: About 2-3 hours for a show.

Ticket prices vary by performance. Discounts are available for seniors and students.

Boonshoft Museum of Discovery

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

2600 Deweese Pkwy

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Dayton Museum of Discovery features a planetarium, live animals, fossils, and an archaeological park, serving as a family learning hub in Dayton, Ohio.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

General admission: $10.00 for adults, $8.00 for children.

America's Packard Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

420 S Ludlow St

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America's Packard Museum in Dayton, Ohio, features a vast collection of vintage automobiles, motorcycles, and artifacts in a historic 1917 dealership.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

SunWatch Indian Village

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

2301 West River Road

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Sunwatch Indian Village in Dayton, Ohio, is an archeological site showcasing the remains of a 13th-century Native American village, featuring artifacts and educational exhibits.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Paul Laurence Dunbar House

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

219 Paul Laurence Dunbar St. ((N. Summit St))

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Dunbar House State Memorial in Dayton, Ohio, is a historic site dedicated to renowned African-American poet Paul Laurence Dunbar, featuring guided tours of his former residence.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Guided tours available at no cost.

Cox Arboretum MetroPark

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Park

6733 N Springboro Pike

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Cox Arboretum in Dayton, Ohio, spans 189 acres with diverse trees, gardens, a butterfly habitat, and educational programs on horticulture and conservation.

Duration: About 2-3 hours.

Free.

Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

1301 E Siebenthaler Ave

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Wegerzyn Horticulture Center in Dayton, USA offers diverse gardens, native plants, and educational programs, promoting horticultural knowledge and appreciation.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special workshops may require a fee.

Dayton Liederkranz Turner

5:00 PM–12:00 AM

Event hall

1400 E 5th St (high st)

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Dayton Liederkranz Turner offers a vibrant glimpse into German culture through its events and culinary offerings, featuring a historic building and lush outdoor space.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Dayton Firefighters Activity Center

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Event hall

3616 Needmore Rd

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Dayton Firefighters Activities offers engaging educational programs, exhibits, and events focused on fire safety and history, fostering community awareness in Dayton, Ohio.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have fees.

The Christopher Club

6:00 AM–8:00 PM

Event hall

Dayton

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Christopher Club in Dayton, United States, offers year-round swimming programs and competitive training for all ages and skill levels, promoting fitness and community engagement.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours for training sessions.

Membership fees vary based on age and program. Average costs are $50/month for adults and $30/month for children.

Moraine Airpark Inc

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Airport

3800 Clearview Ave

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Moraine Airpark Inc, located in Dayton, Ohio, serves as a public-use airport and a hub for general aviation, offering various facilities and services for pilots and aircraft owners.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free access to the public. No ticket needed for airport facilities.

Dayton International Peace Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

208 W. Monument Ave The Historic 1865 Pollack House

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Dayton International Peace Museum is the only peace museum in the Americas, featuring exhibits on peace-related topics, art, and history.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free for members. Suggested donation: $8. Students: $5. Children under 12: Free.

Hills and Dales MetroPark

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

2655 S Patterson Blvd

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Hills and Dales MetroPark, established in 1907, offers a natural refuge and diverse recreational activities in Dayton, attracting visitors of all ages.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Special events may incur charges.

Hawthorn Hill

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

901 Harman Ave

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Hawthorn Hill, a historic house in Dayton, Ohio, was the home of aviation pioneer Orville Wright. It features unique architecture and beautiful grounds.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Guided tours may require advanced reservation.

Taylorsville MetroPark

7:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

2000 US Hwy 40

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Taylorsville MetroPark offers woodland trails, picnic areas, and facilities for camping, fishing, hiking, and biking along the Great Miami River in Montgomery County, Ohio.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. Camping and some special events may require a fee.

High Street Gallery

10:00 AM–7:00 PM

Museum

48 High St

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High Street Gallery in Dayton showcases contemporary art, highlighting local and national artists while fostering community engagement through exhibitions and events.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Bible Baptist Church

9:00 AM–1:00 PM

Church

1944 Meriline Ave

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Bible Baptist Church in Dayton focuses on community service, worship, and education with a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for ongoing community projects.

Smith Gardens

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Park

820 Oakwood Ave

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Smith Gardens in Dayton, USA, features diverse plant collections, walking paths, and seasonal displays, making it a great spot for relaxation and education.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events and workshops may have a fee.

Dayton Masonic Center

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Event hall

525 W Riverview Ave

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Dayton Masonic Center, established in 1928, is a significant architectural landmark featuring intricate details and hosting various cultural events in Dayton, Ohio.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may require a paid ticket.

Dayton Playhouse

7:00 PM–11:00 PM

Theater

1301 E Siebenthaler Ave

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Dayton Playhouse offers a vibrant community theater experience with a diverse range of performances and programs, enriching Dayton, Ohio's cultural landscape.

Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours.

General Admission: $20, Seniors (65+): $15, Students: $10. Some special events may have different pricing.

Dayton Theater Guild

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Theater

430 Wayne Ave (at Hugo St)

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Dayton Theater Guild offers a diverse selection of performances, engaging the community through live theater since 1945. The venue is known for its intimate setting and local talent.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

General Admission: $20. Discounts available for students and seniors.

Fraze Pavillion

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Theater

695 Lincoln Park Blvd

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Fraze Pavillion in Dayton hosts live concerts, acting as a cultural hub with outdoor seating and a beautiful natural backdrop.

Duration: 2-3 hours during events.

Tickets are required for events, prices vary by artist and seating.

Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway

12:00 PM–2:00 AM

Casino

777 Hollywood Blvd

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Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway offers a unique combination of racing, gaming, and dining in Dayton, Ohio, featuring live harness racing and over 1,000 slot machines.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free entry. Gaming requires a minimum age of 21; no ticket purchase necessary.

Dayton Grotto Gardens

9:00 AM–7:00 PM

Garden

Dayton

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Dayton Grotto Gardens features unique gardens and exhibits focused on the natural beauty and cultural history of Dayton, Ohio. A serene escape for nature lovers.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Donations welcome for special programs and events.

Orchardly Park

8:00 AM–9:00 PM

Amusement Park

Delaine Ave (btwn Orchard & Wonderly)

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Orchardly Park in Oakwood, Ohio, offers outdoor recreation with a playground, splash pad, tennis, and basketball courts.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may require registration or fees.

Yankee Park

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

7500 Yankee St

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Yankee Park in Dayton, Ohio, features sprawling green spaces, walking trails, and recreational facilities, offering a serene environment for visitors and families.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free.

British Transportation Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

321 Hopeland St

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British Transportation Museum in Dayton showcases a collection of vintage British cars and bicycles, celebrating their historical significance and cultural impact.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Dayton Brethren In Christ Church

5:00 PM–7:00 PM

Church

Valley Street

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Dayton Brethren In Christ Church in Dayton, USA offers a welcoming community with a rich history and diverse activities for all ages.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are encouraged during special events.

Dayton Korean Grace Church

7:00 PM–9:00 PM

Church

2661 Harshman Rd

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Dayton Korean Grace Church offers a place for worship and community connection, focusing on spiritual growth and cultural engagement in Dayton, Ohio.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for specific events.

Mt Olive Freewill Baptist Church

9:00 AM–1:00 PM

Church

Riverside

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Mt Olive Freewill Baptist Church in Dayton serves the community with spiritual guidance and outreach programs, reflecting deep local history and dedication.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated.

Trotwood Church of the Brethren

10:00 AM–2:00 PM

Church

208 E Main St

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Trotwood Church of the Brethren, located in Dayton, United States, serves the local community through worship, outreach, and educational programs.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcomed for specific programs and events.

Trotwood United Church of Christ

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

18 N Broadway St

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Trotwood United Church of Christ in Dayton offers spiritual services, community engagement, and a unique architectural design reflecting religious heritage.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Some special events may require tickets.

Saint Mary Catholic Church; Dayton CatholicHispanic Ministry

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Dayton

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Saint Mary Catholic Church serves the Dayton Catholic Hispanic Ministry with rich architectural features and a vibrant community, fostering spiritual growth and cultural celebration.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may require a donation or ticket purchase.

Lower Miami Church Of The Brethren

10:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

5353 Germantown Pike (Infirmary)

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Lower Miami Church Of The Brethren is a historic church in Dayton, United States, known for its serene architecture and community involvement.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations may be accepted during special events.

Ohmer Park Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Ohio

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Ohmer Park Church in Dayton, United States, fosters community through worship and outreach programs. It is a welcoming place for all faiths.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free; donations welcomed for special events.

Belmont Church of Christ

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

3003 S Smithville Rd

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Belmont Church of Christ in Dayton, United States, offers a welcoming community with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1948, serving diverse congregations.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcomed but not required.

Gard Avenue Church of Christ

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

1004 Gard Ave

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Gard Avenue Church of Christ in Dayton offers a welcoming community and an opportunity for spiritual growth and fellowship. Join services and community events.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free access to services and events.

Wesleyan Evangelistic Church

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

111 Watervliet Ave

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Wesleyan Evangelistic Church in Dayton, United States, is a historically rich site known for its vibrant community and unique architectural features.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have a ticket fee.

Open Bible Christian Church

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

Burkhardt

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Open Bible Christian Church in Dayton, founded in 1985, offers community worship services and a supportive atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours for services.

Free for all services and events.

The Mount Pisgah Baptist Church

10:00 AM–2:00 PM

Church

1 Diamond Ave

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The Mount Pisgah Baptist Church in Dayton, United States, holds significant historical and architectural value, making it a key spiritual and community hub since its establishment.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance and community programs.

North Riverdale Lutheran Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

45 Kurtz Ave

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North Riverdale Lutheran Church in Dayton, United States, serves as a community hub with rich history and stunning architecture.

Duration: Around 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

East Dayton Baptist Church

10:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Riverside

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East Dayton Baptist Church, founded in 1946, serves the community with varied services, outreach programs, and a rich historical background.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for community programs.