35 Fun Things to Do in Dayton, Ohio – For Kids & Family

Dayton is a city in Ohio.

While Dayton is not a large city by some standards, it offers a multitude of attractions for visitors and locals alike.

Are you wondering if Dayton is worth visiting?

The city offers not only numerous family-friendly activities but also nighttime entertainment for friends and romantic experiences for couples.

Wondering where else you can stay in Ohio? Here are some of the top resorts in Ohio for you to check out.

Additionally, the city is very affordable, with many attractions being free or very budget-friendly.

Visit working farms, dance the night away at clubs, or enjoy a special date in beautiful landscapes.

To help you decide where to begin, you will find a list below of the fun things to do in Dayton Ohio.

Additionally, the city offers some fantastic dining experiences, with cuisines ranging from Southern-style barbecue to fine gourmet dining.

Things To Do In Dayton, Ohio

1. Carillon Historical Park

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $14.00, Seniors: $12.00, Children: $10.00, Ages 2 and Under: Free

Address: 1000 Carillon Boulevard, Dayton, OH 45409

• Open Monday through Saturday, 9:30 am – 5:00 pm; Sunday, noon – 5:00 pm
• Allow at least 3 hours
• 30 museum exhibits

Carillon Historical Park is an open-air museum that is located on 65 acres and tells the story of the city.

Are you wondering what Dayton is famous for?

Dayton was the home of Orville and Wilbur Wright, more commonly known as the Wright Brothers, who built and successfully flew the first motor-operated airplane.

Visit the Wright Brothers National Museum while at Carillon Historical Park, and you will travel through aviation history.

While at the museum, you will be able to view the Wright Brothers’ 1905 flyer and peruse the world’s largest collection of artifacts related to the brothers.

What’s more, you can visit a replica of the Wright Brothers’ Dayton bicycle shop.

With the help of Orville Wright, the park was designed with a focus on aviation but also all things Dayton.

During your tour of the area, you will learn about the bootleggers and bandits of Dayton and how prohibition affected the city.

Additionally, the park contains a 4-D theatre, living history demonstrations, and food and drink.

Moreover, your kids will love the slides and hand-carved carousel.

Before leaving, be sure to check out the Family Transportation Center and the Great 1913 Flood exhibit.

2. Carillon Park Rail & Steam Society

Rating: 4.9★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $14.00, Seniors: $12.00, Children: $10.00, Ages 2 and Under: Free

Address: 1000 Carillon Boulevard, Dayton, OH 45409

• Located in Carillon Historical Park
• Free train rides with suggested donation of $1.00

Before leaving Carillon Historical Park, be sure to visit the Carillon Park Rail & Steam Society.

During your time there, you will be able to see numerous demonstrations of locomotive innovation.

Get a close-up look at how steam, diesel, and electric locomotives work, as well as the facilities that keep them moving.

Learn about railroad bridges, tunnels, turntables, and loading platforms, not to mention switches and trestles.

In addition to locomotive demonstrations, you’ll also be able to view model trains.

Both members of the society and locals provide spectacular model trains that are operated for the public to view.

If you are looking for things to do in Dayton with kids during the holidays, the Rail & Steam Society offers The Carillon Christmas Train, which provides rides for only $1.00.

3. Visit the home of Orville Wright at Hawthorn Hill

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: $16.00

Address: 901 Harman Avenue, Dayton, OH 45419

• Open Wednesday and Saturday, 10:00 am – 12:30 pm
• Allow 1 hour
• Guided tour

After learning about the Wright Brothers at their museum, head to the home of Orville Wright at Hawthorn Hill.

While at the home, you will be stepping foot into a building that hosted guests such as Charles Lindbergh, Thomas Edison, and Henry Ford.

The home has numerous fascinating things to see, such as features designed by Orville himself.

View the water storage tank that recycled rainwater and a central vacuum system.

Additionally, you’ll be able to see Orville’s study as he left it and get a look at the hawthorn trees that generated the home’s name.

Also on hand are numerous artifacts from the Wright family, allowing you to get a glimpse into their everyday lives.

4. Wild Axe Throwing

Rating: 5★

Entry Ticket: $29.99

Address: 3251 Seajay Drive, Beavercreek, OH 45430

• Open daily
• Must be 13 or older

For fun activities near Dayton, make the quick 15-minute drive to Wild Axe Throwing in Beavercreek.

Popular with locals, the facility offers a fun-filled time.

Try your hand on one of the 11 axe throwing lanes, challenging your friends, as well as yourself.

If you’re new to the sport of axe throwing, don’t worry, as a trained thrower will be with you at all times.

After testing your skill and having a blast, grab a beer and unwind with your friends before trying out the numerous pinball machines.

5. 2nd Street Market

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 600 E 2nd Street, Dayton, OH 45402

• Open Friday through Sunday
• Local events

2nd Street Market is a local favorite, with a variety of vendors that sell fresh produce, crafts, and prepared foods.

Located in a historical freight house, the market has a charming atmosphere, as well as a laid-back vibe.

Find classic produce items, such as fruits and vegetables, in addition to mushrooms, honey, and microgreens.

What’s more, you’ll find specialty foods, such as bison meat, homemade bread, and handmade ice pops.

During your stroll through the market, you’ll also discover sweet treats like gourmet cookies and handmade chocolates.

Stop and grab some lunch at one of the many vendors who offer prepared food.

You can sample meat pies, Mediterranean cuisine, and Thai food, as well as vegan fare and Mexican street food.

Before leaving, pick up a gift from one of the artisan vendors.

You’ll find a wide range of crafts ranging from pottery and candles to glasswork and jewelry.

6. Carriage Hill MetroPark

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 7800 Shull Road, Huber Heights, OH 45424

• Open daily, 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
• Allow 2 hours
• Pet-friendly

Carriage Hill MetroPark is by far one of the top places to visit in Dayton.

Previously farmland and woods, the property was home to Dayton farmers during the 19th century.

Presently, you can explore the area in a number of ways with your family.

Would you like to go fishing in Dayton? 

Head to Cedar Lake, located in Carriage Hill MetroPark, and relax on the pier as you try your luck at catching some beautiful fish.

Furthermore, you can visit the Riding Center and take a horseback riding lesson, explore trails, or learn how to vault.

What’s more, your kids will love the pony rides.

Also available is the visitor center, where you can peruse exhibits that tell the story of the area.

If you want to explore the great outdoors, there are numerous habitats to visit. 

Tour the wetland areas, prairies filled with flowers, and hiking trails that will take you across the historical farmland.

For a great educational activity, take your kids to the Historical Farm and see how a farm family lived during the 19th century.

While at the Historical Farm, you can watch live demonstrations at the blacksmith, woodshop, barn, and house.

Planning a trip to other parts of Ohio soon? You’ll love our lists detailing the top things to do in Cincinnati, best things to do in Cleveland and best of what to do in Columbus, Ohio.

7. Levitt Pavilion Dayton

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 134 S Main Street, Dayton, OH 45402

• Touchless restrooms and sanitizing stations
• BYOB

Levitt Pavilion Dayton is an exceptional music venue offering free concerts through donors and sponsors.

Are you looking for a great date idea in Dayton?

Bring a blanket and a picnic to the pavilion and add some wine (no bottles allowed, so boxed wine will have to do) for a romantic and fun night of music at Levitt Pavilion.

If you’re planning a large party or other celebration, you can also rent one of the VIP patios that include tables and chairs, as well as linens.

Listen to fantastic live music performances by locally and nationally renowned artists, in addition to international singers and musicians.

In addition to music, the pavilion also offers numerous events throughout the year.

8. America’s Packard Museum

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $10.00, Seniors: $5.00, Students: Free with ID

Address: 420 S Ludlow Street, Dayton, OH 45402

• Open Wednesday through Sunday, noon – 5:00 pm
• Allow 2 hours

America’s Packard Museum is home to the largest collection of Packard vehicles and artifacts in the world.

While at the museum, you will see a variety of vintage cars that appeal to both car lovers and casual visitors.

View unique automobiles such as a 1918 army truck, a 1928 Jesse Vincent Speedster, and a1952 Parisan Coupe, as well as a 1948 hearse and 1903 Grey Wolf Racer.

Also on hand are Packard vehicles from the early 1900s, convertibles, and race cars.

Moreover, your kids will have the opportunity to sketch their own car designs and shape metal.

9. Tom’s Maze and Pumpkin Farm

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: $10.00, Ages 4 and Under: Free@

Address: 4881 Germantown Liberty Road, Germantown, OH 45327

• Open September 9th through October 30th
• Open Thursday through Sunday, starting at noon

If you’re searching for fun things to do in Dayton during the Fall, take your family to Tom’s Maze and Pumpkin Farm.

During your time at the family-friendly attraction near Dayton, you’ll discover an 8-acre corn maze that isn’t like anything you’ve seen before.

Each year, the maze is recreated in a different shape and theme.

With past themes ranging from futuristic shapes to routes shaped like pumpkins, you know you’ll have a great time solving the puzzle and finding the exit.

Afterward, take Tom’s Pumpkin Train Ride through the farm or get a photo at the Sunflower Garden.

Additionally, you can visit the Goat Boardwalk and watch the goats play along the multi-level gymnasium.

Watch Tom’s Punkin’- Chunkin’ Cannon fire pumpkins through the air before trying out the straw bale maze or playing some human foosball.

Once you’ve visited all the fun activities, pick out your favorite pumpkin and head to the campfire for a picnic dinner.

10. The Magic Castle

Rating: 4.2★

Entry Ticket: Varies depending on activity

Address: 4990 Wilmington Pike, Dayton, OH 45440

• Open daily
• On-site restaurant

Are you looking for family-friendly activities while in Dayton?

You and your kids will have a fun-filled time at The Magic Castle, an entertainment center that will keep your whole family happy.

Challenge your kids on the 18-hole miniature golf course, where you can make your way through a land of fantasy.

Afterward, head to the arcade and test your skills before redeeming your prize tickets.

Moreover, the center offers a batting cage, a soft play area, and a climbing wall.

If you’re planning a birthday celebration for your child while in Dayton, The Magic Castle offers a party package that includes activities, pizza, and refreshments.

11. Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 1301 E Siebenthaler Avenue, Dayton, OH 45414

• Open daily, 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
• Pet-friendly

If you are a gardener or appreciate the outdoors, you will love Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark.

Additionally, your kids will be delighted with the Children’s Discovery Garden, which is a part of the property.

Created to display garden landscaping that is not only beautiful but also promotes the balance of nature, the gardens will give you a new perspective on plants.

Take a walk along the Marie Aull Nature Trail and view native trees and flowers, as well as birds and other wildlife.

In the Swamp Forest, you will discover Fairy Shrimp in vernal pools as you stroll along a wooden boardwalk.

While on the Stillwater River Trail, you can find the perfect place for a picnic, playgrounds, and spray parks to cool off during the Summer.

A truly magical place, the Formal Gardens are an inspiration to gardeners.

Peruse landscapes that use perennials and annuals to create designs and an aromatic environment.

Before leaving, be sure to take your kids to the Children’s Discovery Garden, where they can learn about nature and gardening through hands-on experience.

Explore the various whimsical gardens together and see different habitats.

Are you searching for something to do in Dayton in the Summer with kids?

The Children’s Discovery Garden offers a waterfall, cave, and wading pool to explore during the warmer months.

12. Boonshoft Museum of Discovery

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: $2.00

Address: 2600 Deweese Parkway, Dayton, OH 45414

• Open daily until 5:00 pm
• Restaurant on-site

While visiting the Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark, take a tour of the nearby Boonshoft Museum of Discovery.

Formerly the Dayton Museum of Natural History, the museum began as a place for Dayton locals to display their collections from around the world for the public to see.

Presently, the museum offers a look at the world around us, including exhibits that showcase astronomy.

While touring the Astronomy Collection, you will be able to see a piece of the famous “Dayton Meteorite” and a replica of Galileo’s original telescope.

Afterward, visit the Anthropology display and view artifacts from Ancient Egypt, Japan, China, and the Philippines, plus much more.

Additionally, on offer is a Biology Collection that contains specimens from extinct and endangered animals.

You’ll also want to be sure to visit the Discovery Zoo and meet otters, a sloth, and a unique Bat-Eared Fox.

Also available at the zoo are Keeper Talks and hands-on interaction with some of the animals.

If you would like a more in-depth look at the museum’s collection, you can get a behind-the-scenes look at the vault with a 90-minute guided tour.

For $75.00, you will be able to see highlights of the collection that boasts nearly 2 million objects.

13. Sunwatch Indian Village

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: $2.00

Address: 2301 W River Road, Dayton, OH 45417

• Open Friday and Saturday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm; Sunday, noon – 5:00 pm
• Allow 1 – 2 hours

Sunwatch Indian Village is a great place to visit for anyone who is looking for amazing places to visit in Dayton.

First excavated in the 1960s, the reconstructed open-air museum offers a look into the lives of Fort Ancient Native Americans and their 800-year-old village along the Miami River.

During your time at the village, you can take a guided tour and see the astronomical alignments that would have been created in the 13th century.

Additionally, you will view stockades and mud daub structures.

Moreover, the site is host to numerous events, has displays of artifacts, and even provides overnight programs.

14. Orbit Fun Center

Rating: 4.3★

Entry Ticket: Varies depending on day

Address: 5001 Nebraska Avenue, Huber Heights, OH 45424

• Open Tuesday and Wednesday, Friday through Sunday
• Closed Thursday and Monday

Head to Orbit Fun Center and step back into your childhood at the roller skating rink.

If you haven’t been roller skating in a while, don’t worry, as the rink provides skating aids for both kids and adults.

Make your way around the colorful rink, listening to music, talking to your kids, and holding hands with your significant other, just like when you were a teenager.

Afterward, test your skills on the arcade games, such as skee ball.

If you’re ready for a break, sit back on one of the benches and watch the other skaters.

What’s more, if you want a fun date night near Dayton, the rink offers Adult Skate Night on Fridays.

15. Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour with the Roamli App

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Dayton, OH

• Download Roamli app on phone and begin at any time
• Enter walking tour code found on Roamli site

If you’d like to explore the city of Dayton, but don’t know where to begin, take a self-guided walking tour provided by Roamli.

In collaboration with the Downtown Dayton Partnership, the app offers 3 distinct tours of the city.

Take the Outdoor Public Art Walk and see the sights, as well as installations by local artists.

If you are interested in crafted beer, the Downtown Brewery & Distillery tour is a fantastic way to learn about the brewery industry of Dayton, in addition to sampling some of the best beer.

For those who are coffee aficionados, the Espresso & Treats tour will get you to the best coffee spots.

16. Young’s Jersey Dairy

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: $7.50, Ages 4 and Under: Free

Address: 6880 Springfield Xenia Road, Yellow Springs, OH 45387

• Open daily
• 30 minutes from Dayton

If you’d like to find best things to do in Dayton with kids, head to Young’s Jersey Dairy.

While at the dairy, you can tour the working farm, pet goats, and watch the cows get milked.

Afterward, head to the Udders & Putters miniature golf courses or test your skill in the batting cages.

Additionally, the farm offers a driving range to practice on, a slide that will give you and your kids a thrill, and a barrel ride tour of the farm’s property.

Moreover, your younger kids will love Cowvin’s Kiddie Corral, where they can enjoy numerous activities.

Before leaving, treat your family to some homemade ice cream and pick up some treats at the shop.

During your visit to the shop, you will find desserts, as well as a delicious lunch of burgers, sandwiches, or salads.

17. Caesar Creek State Park

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 8570 OH-73, Waynesville, OH 45068

• Reservation for campsite required
• Camping starts at $29.00 per night
• Pet-friendly

Caesar Creek State Park is a wonderful spot to get outside and enjoy the natural beauty of Ohio.

Would you like to go camping near Dayton?

The park offers great campsites for both RVs and tents, in addition to providing numerous camping amenities.

While camping at the park, you will have access to firewood, drinking water, electric and sewer hookups, picnic areas, and showers.

What’s more, there is a small market to pick up necessities and beautiful nearby hiking trails.

You will also be able to cool off in the Summer with a swim at designated areas of Caesar Creek.

The park also offers boat access and parking next to campsites.

18. National Museum of the US Air Force

Rating: 4.9★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 1100 Spaatz Street, Dayton, OH 45433

• Open daily, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Allow at least 2 hours

Dayton is often considered the birthplace of aviation, and as such, it is no surprise that the largest and oldest military aviation museum is located there.

During your time at the museum, you will find a multitude of fascinating exhibits.

Head to the Early Years Gallery and experience the formative days of military aviation, from the innovation of the Wright brothers to World War II.

Afterward, view aircraft from World War II and learn about the Pacific and European Theaters.

Visit the Korean War Gallery and see not only aircraft but also learn about the everyday lives of servicemen during the war.

Additionally, you can tour the Cold War Gallery and see how technological achievements changed the course of the world and see missiles up-close in the Missile Gallery.

Also on hand are galleries that showcase U.S. presidents, research and development, and women in the air force.

Make your way outside, and you can visit the Air Park that features aircraft and a control tower.

While outside, you can also visit the Memorial Park and view over 500 memorials that include statues, trees, benches, and plaques.

In addition to exhibits and the memorial, the museum also offers a theatre that shows fascinating military films and flight simulators you and your kids will love.

While experiencing the flight simulator, you will be able to feel what it is like to take part in air combat with state-of-the-art technology.

Before leaving the museum, be sure to stop by the theatre lobby and get personalized dog tags for a souvenir.

19. Paul Laurence Dunbar House

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 219 N Paul Laurence Dunbar Street, Dayton, OH 45402

• Open Friday through Sunday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Allow 1 hour

Would you like to learn some of Dayton’s history while there?

Visit the Paul Laurence Dunbar House, and you will be able to tour the restored home of the famous Dayton poet.

Paul Laurence Dunbar became internationally renowned as a voice for African American equality during his life.

Consequently, his home became the first state memorial in Ohio that was dedicated to African American history.

During your tour of his home, you will be able to see exhibits that showcase his personal items, furnishings, and literary treasures.

What’s more, you can view his bicycle, a gift from the Wright brothers, and a ceremonial sword that was a gift from Theodore Roosevelt.

View his collection of Native American artwork, in addition to the desk where he composed many of his works.

Also available in the visitor center are panels that tell the story of his life.

20. Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 16 S Williams Street, Dayton, OH 45402

• Open daily, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Restaurants in Hoover Block

After visiting the Paul Laurence Dunbar House, take a tour of the adjacent Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park.

The park is located at numerous historically significant spots in Dayton.

You can visit one of the bicycle shops owned by the Wright brothers, tour the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center, and see exhibits at the Aviation Trail Visitor Center and Museum.

Also available at the park is Huffman Prairie Flying Field, where the Wright brothers did numerous test runs of their aircraft.

Additionally, peruse the Hoover Block, where the Wright brothers had a printing company and was the location of many shops during the early 1900s.

21. Dayton Raceway

Rating: 3.9★

Entry Ticket: Varies depending on event

Address: 3100 Needmore Road, Dayton, OH 45414

• Open daily 
• View musical lineup online

In addition to watching thrilling horse races, Dayton Raceway also offers a multitude of events and entertainment.

Are you looking for something fun to do at night in Dayton?

Head to Dayton Raceway on the weekend, and you’ll find a place to dance the night away.

The H Lounge offers live music performed by local artists, as well as DJs, drinks, and food.

Also available at the raceway are numerous dining options.

Head to the Sports Bar and grab a drink while still keeping an eye on the track, get some lunch at the grill, or enjoy a gourmet hot dog from Zombie Dogz.

22. Enjoy a Drink and See the City with Pedal Wagon Dayton

Rating: 5★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $29.00

Address: 28 N Patterson Boulevard, Dayton, OH 45402

• Book in advance
• Allow 2 hours
• Must be 21 or older

Do you want to find something entertaining to do with friends while in Dayton?

Take a tour with Pedal Wagon Dayton and enjoy a cocktail or beer while seeing the city sights.

Visit the Oregon District on the Bikes, Bevies, & Brunch tour and enjoy a fun-filled morning.

During your tour, you will be able to enjoy mimosas and bloody marys as you make your way to the brunch destination of your choice.

Choose from several top-rated Dayton locations for your meal, including 2nd Street Market and The Dublin Pub.

Furthermore, the company also offers a Brewery Cruise, allowing you to visit some of Dayton’s best breweries.

Stop at 3 destinations in the Oregon District and downtown, sampling craft beer and seeing the city.

For a fun evening activity, go on the Trivia Trolley tour.

While on the tour, you will visit 3 spots for games of trivia, prizes, and cocktails.

23. Learning Tree Farm

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: $5.00, Ages 2 and Under: Free

Address: 3376 S Union Road, Dayton, OH 45417

• Open daily, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Allow 2 hours

Spend a magical day with your kids at the Learning Tree Farm.

While at the working farm, you will both have a hands-on experience learning about nature and connecting to the environment.

Visit the Nature Playscape, and your younger children can explore while climbing boulders, traversing ropes, and walking along trails.

Afterward, visit the farm animals.

Pet cows, sheep, goats, and donkeys, as well as getting to know some chickens, dogs, and pigs.

Take a tour of the gardens that range from herbs to flowers before strolling through the orchard.

Hike through the woods along trails, see meadows and hayfields, not to mention thickets, and learn about the pioneers at Century House.

Also on hand to visit are a Tobacco Barn and Storybook Trail, where your children will enjoy fascinating tales.

In addition to the attractions, you’ll want to bring a picnic lunch that you can enjoy at the farm’s picnic shelter.

24. See a Movie at Dixie Twin Drive-In

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $10.00, Military: $9.00, Children: $5.00, Ages 4 and Under Free

Address: 6201 N Dixie Drive, Dayton, OH 45414

• Open Friday through Sunday
• Movies begin at dusk

Are you looking for a good place to go to the movies in Dayton?

Dixie Twin Drive-In not only shows the latest box office hits but provides a nostalgic and romantic experience.

Take your car to the drive-in and enjoy a comfortable night watching a movie with your family or date.

Moreover, the drive-in offers a concession with some great food options.

Get some snacks, like classic popcorn or a soft pretzel, or enjoy a casual dinner of burgers and fries.

You can also warm up with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa, as well as cool off with a slushie or soda.

If you can’t make it for movie night, head to the drive-in on Sunday morning and peruse The Paris Flea Market.

While at the open-air market, you can find vintage merchandise, unique gifts, and even breakfast.

25. Dayton International Peace Museum

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: $5.00, Ages 6 and Under: Free

Address: 10 N Ludlow Street, Dayton, OH 45402

• Open Friday and Saturday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Allow 2 hours

The Dayton International Peace Museum offers a look into the lives and impact of peace activists throughout history.

While at the museum, you will be able to see unique exhibits and attend special events.

You will also gain a new perspective on what peace means and how it has affected the world, making the museum one of the best places to visit in Dayton.

During your tour, you’ll come across exhibits like Material Transformations, which explores gunpowder through art, in addition to displaying an impactful installation using stitches created by trip wires from the Vietnam War.

Additionally, you can view photo collections of peace activists like Gandhi, artwork that tells the stories of activists, and works by local artists that explore the themes of war and peace.

What’s more, you can experience the tragedies of war and the achievements of peace through interactive kiosks.

26. Patterson Homestead

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: $3.00

Address: 1815 Brown Street, Dayton, OH 45409

• Schedule tour in advance
• Allow 1 hour

Take a step into Dayton history at Patterson Homestead.

Originally the home of Colonel Robert Patterson, the museum offers tours of the structure and its 19th-century rooms.

During your tour, you will see artifacts of the Patterson family and a collection of antiques throughout the 6 period rooms.

Additionally, the museum offers an exhibit gallery and tea time throughout the year.

See what life was like in Dayton during the early 19th century as you traverse not only the home but the lush gardens surrounding it.

27. Scene 75 Entertainment Complex

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: Varies depending on activity

Address: 6196 Poe Avenue, Dayton, OH 45414

• Open Wednesday through Sunday
• Age and height requirements for some attractions

Are you still looking for entertaining things or places to go in Dayton with kids?

Take your friends or family to Scene 75 Entertainment Complex and find a multitude of activities your whole group will love.

Race your friends on the go-kart track, team up in a game of laser tag, or see if you can make your way through the laser maze.

Moreover, you can have a blast with bumper cars, play some mini-bowling, and get in a round of miniature golf.

Afterward, test your skills at the arcade or enjoy thrills in the 4D motion theater.

Once you’re ready for a break, visit the bar and grill for some lunch or dinner, or grab a drink at The Center Bar.

28. Charleston Falls Preserve

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 2535 Ross Road, Tipp City, OH 45371

• Open daily, 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
• Pet-friendly
• 216 acres

Are you searching for outdoor activities near Dayton?

Charleston Falls Preserve offers breathtaking views as well as numerous activities.

Go for a hike along over 3 miles of trails that will take you through habitats that include the Thorny Badlands and Redbud Valley.

During your trek, you will see a waterfall, native plants and trees, and wildlife.

At the waterfall, stop by the observation boardwalk to get some pictures of the 37-foot-tall natural wonder.

Additionally, there is a wildlife pond that includes a viewing deck and a covered platform at the Tall Grass Prairie habitat.

Stop for a picnic before visiting the fascinating limestone cave or taking a stroll in the Legacy Grove.

29. The Trolley Stop

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 530 E 5th Street, Dayton, OH 45402

• Open daily until 1:00 am, Sunday until 4:00 pm
• Located in the Oregon District

Wondering where you can find some of the best food in Dayton?

Visit The Trolley Stop, where you will not only find mouthwatering food but also fantastic live entertainment.

The restaurant is a local favorite because of its homemade food and casual, fun atmosphere.

While at The Trolley Stop, you’ll have a hard time deciding on what to order first.

Sample tasty appetizers, sandwiches like the Hippy Stacker, specialties that include the Black Bean Burger, or decadent desserts that range from pies to cookies and tarts.

Play a game of pool or borrow a book from one of the shelves as you wait for your food.

Afterward, grab a glass of wine or specialty cocktail and sit back as you listen to a local band perform.

30. Oregon District

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Dayton, OH

• Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area within designated limits
• Established in 1829

Get a closer look at amazing Dayton architecture while visiting the charming and active Oregon District.

The Oregon District is located north of 5th Street and offers 12 blocks of laid-back atmosphere, entertainment, dining, and shopping.

Start your visit to the neighborhood with a cup of coffee from one of the cafes before making your way through the area.

Stop by bookstores, listen to live music, or catch a play, as well as have the opportunity to get a tattoo or watch a movie.

Afterward, take a break and choose from the plethora of restaurants available.

Find Italian cuisine, seafood, and Chinese dishes, not to mention barbecue and Thai food.

Once you’re ready to go again, you can have the shopping excursion of a lifetime.

Discover shops that carry vintage clothes, spices, and botanicals, as well as art galleries and home décor.

Unwind from your day of exploration with a craft beer at one of the bars, or sip a cocktail on a bench and people-watch.

31. Wiley’s Comedy Club

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Varies depending on show or event

Address: 101 Pine Street, Dayton, OH 45402

• Book in advance
• Friday through Sunday
• Located in Oregon District

If you’re searching for romantic things to do in Dayton at night, get a few laughs at Wiley’s Comedy Club.

Not only does the club offer world-class comedy acts, but also some fantastic drinks and appetizers.

Order a craft beer or one of the specialty cocktails on offer, such as Go-Go Juice or Legend of the Dragon, before sitting back to relax and laugh the night away.

Enjoy comedic performances by renowned artists like Tim Cavanagh and Nathan Orton while sampling some barbecue nachos, Po’boy sandwiches, or chips and salsa.

Additionally, the club offers an open mic night, where you can test your own comedic talents.

32. Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $12.00, Seniors & Military: $10.00, Children: $8.00, Ages 3 and Under: Free

Address: 1000 Aullwood Road, Dayton, OH 45414

• Closed Friday and Monday
• Allow 2 hours

During your visit to Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm, you will be able to have 3 distinct experiences.

Take your kids to the Nature Center and enjoy 2 discovery rooms, where you will both enjoy learning through exhibits, games, and specimens.

Additionally, you’ll be able to meet turtles, snakes, and fish, plus observe birds from the Bird Watching Room.

Before heading to the next location, be sure to stop by the gift shop and pick up a souvenir.

Next, head to the Nature Sanctuary, where you can explore 200 acres that includes habitats like woodland, prairies, and wetlands.

While at the sanctuary, you will learn about native plants and how they can be nurtured and thrive.

Lastly, stop by Aullwood Farm.

Tour the numerous structures on the farm, such as the Bank Barn, farmyard, pavilion, and duck pond.

You can also take a stroll through the gardens and visit the Bee Yard.

Afterward, find farm fresh products for sale, such as eggs, milk, and meat.

33. The Dayton Art Institute

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $15.00, Seniors & Military: $10.00, Students & Children: $5.00, Ages 6 and Under: Free

Address: 456 Belmonte Park N, Dayton, OH 45405

• Open Wednesday through Sunday
• Allow 2 hours

Are you wondering where to find art exhibitions in Dayton?

Visit The Dayton Art Institute, and you will have the opportunity to view a collection of over 27,000 pieces of art that encompass 5,000 years.

Make your way through 3 wings of the museum and enjoy an afternoon of culture and history.

During your journey through the museum, you will see art from Africa, China, Ancient Egypt, and the Americas.

Moreover, you can get a close-up look at spectacular glasswork and outdoor sculptures.

View Native American pottery, spiritual pieces from the South Pacific, and photographs that highlight a myriad of subjects.

A few of the notable pieces from the large collection are ancient sculptures from Greece and Rome, a private family collection of African donated to the museum, and paintings by Monet and Degas.

Additionally, the museum is host to special events throughout the year.

If you happen to be in Dayton at the right time, you can attend the museum’s Oktoberfest, Bourbon & Bubbles, or Art Ball.

Before leaving, be sure to drop by the shop and find a unique gift or souvenir.

34. Dayton Grotto Gardens

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 4100 W 3rd Street, Dayton, OH 45428

• Open 24/7
• Located at the Dayton VA Medical Center

Created in 1867, the Dayton Grotto Gardens was first developed by a Civil War veteran named Frank Mundt.

Mundt resided on the property that was home to a facility for disabled war veterans, otherwise known as a “Soldiers Home.”

Presently, the garden features over 12 gardens across 12 acres and includes breathtaking landscapes.

During your tour of the gardens, you will see a waterfall, fountains, and vibrant flowers.

In particular, the garden is home to thriving perennials, shrubs, and trees among ponds and grottos.

Before leaving, find the blue ash that is now over 150 years old and stands proudly among the gardens.

35. The Funk Music Hall of Fame & Exhibition Center

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: $5.00

Address: 113 E 3rd Street, Dayton, OH 45402

• Allow 2 hours
• Non-profit organization

The Funk Music Hall of Fame & Exhibition Center is not only a fun place to visit while in Dayton, but an educational one.

Learn about local Funk music legends, such as Heatwave, Lakeside, and Shirley Murdock, as well as Faze-O and The Majestics.

Additionally, you’ll find exhibits that showcase the evolution and development of Funk music and the artists that perform it.

You’ll also see displays that highlight the culture of Funk music, from clothing and jewelry to instruments and merchandise.

What’s more, the center hosts events throughout the year, allowing you to hear live music, attend political events, and immerse yourself in the world of Funk.