8 Fun Things to Do in Dayton, OH

New in town? Take the time to check these must-do activities off your local to-do list.

By Val Hunt Beerbower on June 20, 2023

Barnabe Young

If you are new to the region, you’ll soon discover what the locals already know: There are plenty of wonderfully fun things to do in Dayton and Southwest Ohio. Here is just a sample:

1. Get Moo-Ving

Take the kids to Young’s Jersey Dairy in Greene County. Visitors can enjoy fresh-churned ice cream and a mini golf course, making it a top destination for families. The petting area is a popular spot for kids to connect with farm life. Be on the lookout for special events throughout the year.

2. Soar to New Heights

Take flight at two incredible aeronautical museums. Discover the Wright brothers’ legacy and fly an early aircraft simulator at the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park. Explore the far-reaching impacts the Air Force and Department of Defense have had on the region and the country by checking out exhibits at the National Museum of the United States Air Force.

3. Go Back in Time

Take a step back in Dayton’s history at Carillon Historical Park. Learn more fun facts about the city that was once the patent capital of the country. Check out all the inventions originating from the Gem City and find out why local leaders remind the public “you can’t go a day without Dayton.” Afterward, hit Carillon Brewing Co. and watch as employees brew beer using authentic 1880s methods.

4. Grab a Ticket (If You Can!)

Take me out to the ballgame at Day Air Ballpark, home of the Dayton Dragons. This minor league baseball team, the Class A affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds, offers just as much entertainment in between innings as it does on the diamond. It’s one of the reasons why the Dragons have the longest-running home game sellout streak of ALL professional sports! 

Adam Alonzo

5. Live It Up with Live Music

Take a blanket or lawn chair to local amphitheaters for a concert under the skies. The Rose Music Center at the Heights offers dedicated seating for touring shows. Municipal parks like Riverfront Park in Miamisburg and Stubbs Park Amphitheater in Centerville feature an array of family-friendly performances. Levitt Pavilion, located in the heart of downtown Dayton, features more than 50 free concerts spanning a wide range of genres and new artists.

6. Discover Great Children’s Activities

Take it easy, like Patience, the resident sloth at the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery. This children’s science museum features interactive exhibits that are fun and educational. Be sure to visit the animals in the Discovery Zoo.

7. Venture Downtown

Take five and enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of nightlife in downtown Dayton. The area’s hottest, local, independent restaurants are concentrated in the center city. Shop at dozens of boutique retailers for everything from plants to pants. Drink in the local music scene at a number of downtown’s watering holes. Don some swanky duds for an evening of arts at any of the downtown art galleries or performance venues. 

8. Enjoy a Riveting Road Trip

Take a little journey to Shelby County and find out how the iconic silver Airstream Trailers are made. The factory tour reveals every rivet that goes into making this camping vehicle that has its own dedicated fan base. Airstream Trailers have been produced at this location in Jackson Center since 1952.