Dayton

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com
Photo provided by Courtesy of the Office of TourismOhio, www.DiscoverOhio.com

Visit the final resting place of the Wright brothers at this Midwestern destination, which offers historical attractions in a modern city setting.

Dayton is one of Ohio's most culturally rich cities, famous as the source of some of the country's greatest inventions.

Carillon Historical Park offers visitors a glimpse into these technological discoveries. This living history museum has 25 buildings, each offering unique artifacts and exhibits. Relax in the park, walk through the historic structures and enjoy the sounds from the landmark carillon. Children and adults will want to see the 1905 Wright Flyer III, the planet’s first usable airplane.

Explore the history of flight at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. This institution holds more than 360 planes and aviation inventions. Learn about the history of the Air Force and the evolution of stealth technology as well.

Take a self-guided or docent-led tour at the Dayton Art Institute with 27,000 artworks offering visitors a glimpse into Asian, African and American art stretching back 5,000 years.

The Oregon District is ideal for enjoying Dayton’s cultural attractions. Stroll through the picturesque historic district, which offers boutiques, eateries and galleries. Downtown Dayton is located 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) to the west, where the skyline hugs the bank of the Miami River. Head here for nightlife, diverse cuisine and a range of accommodation options. Watch a show at the Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center the distinctive modernist building hosts concerts year-round.

Take a scenic walk through Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum, the resting place of brothers Orville and Wilbur Wright. This park is one of the largest garden cemeteries in the country and is an ideal place to stroll on a sunny day.

Dayton is 70 miles (112.7 kilometers) from Columbus and under 2 hours by car from the larger cities of Cincinnati and Indianapolis. Port Columbus International Airport offers flights to most major U.S. cities.

With its distinct seasons, Dayton offers a unique experience for visitors every month of the year. Plan to visit this Ohio destination to explore a city where historical and modern attractions intersect.

Where to stay in Dayton

Dayton showing a lake or waterhole and kayaking or canoeing as well as a small group of people

Downtown Dayton

4/5(1 area review)

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.

Downtown Dayton
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University Park

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

University Park
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South Park

South Park showcases a diverse range of architecture from the 1880s to the early twentieth century. Explore the close-knit neighborhood and its well-maintained parks, offering a unique charm.

South Park
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Oregon District

Architectural history from 1820 to 1915, featuring Federal to Queen Anne styles, awaits in this Dayton, Ohio neighborhood. Explore art galleries, specialty shops, pubs, nightclubs, and coffee houses during your visit.

Oregon District
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Murlin Heights

4/5(10 area reviews)

If you're spending time in Murlin Heights, you might enjoy its restaurants and shopping. If you've got time to venture a little farther, you can make a stop by Scene75 Entertainment Center or Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway.

Murlin Heights
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Walnut Hills

While Walnut Hills might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum and America's Packard Museum.

Walnut Hills
Marriott at the University of Dayton

Marriott at the University of Dayton

4 out of 5
1414 South Patterson Boulevard, Dayton, OH
The price is CA $169 per night from Aug 10 to Aug 11
CA $169
CA $197 total
Aug 10 - Aug 11
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Dayton. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,002 reviews)
"loved having a shuttle to downtown"

Reviewed on Jul. 27, 2025

Marriott at the University of Dayton
Extended Stay America Suites Dayton North

Extended Stay America Suites Dayton North

2.5 out of 5
6688 Miller Ln, Dayton, OH
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is CA $91 per night from Aug 14 to Aug 15
CA $91
CA $106 total
Aug 14 - Aug 15
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Dayton. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
6.6/10 (1,000 reviews)
"I liked the places around the hotel. Bed was comfy, hotel floor was dirty, bathroom was clean, towels were dirty, ice cold when we went in ac was set to 60. Overall a pleasant stay for just one night"

Reviewed on Jul. 26, 2025

Extended Stay America Suites Dayton North
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Fairborn South, OH

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Fairborn South, OH

2.5 out of 5
3971 Colonel Glenn Hwy, Dayton, OH
The price is CA $149 per night from Aug 10 to Aug 11
CA $149
CA $168 total
Aug 10 - Aug 11
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Dayton. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,004 reviews)
"As described, and good value for the money"

Reviewed on Aug. 1, 2025

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Fairborn South, OH
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Stylish Retreat: Hot Tub, Spa, Massage Chair, Arcade, Pinball
WPAFB Museum

Stylish Retreat: Hot Tub, Spa, Massage Chair, Arcade, Pinball WPAFB Museum

Dayton
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Dayton. Enjoy free WiFi, a sauna, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions National Museum of the United ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (27 reviews)
"Plenty of activities beautiful home quiet for the area will be back again!!"

Reviewed on Jul. 14, 2025

Stylish Retreat: Hot Tub, Spa, Massage Chair, Arcade, Pinball WPAFB Museum
Gem City Haven

Gem City Haven

Dayton
Stay at this apartment in Dayton. Enjoy laundry facilities, an in-room coffeemaker, and air conditioning. Popular attractions National Museum of the United States ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (6 reviews)
"A great place to stay! The neighborhood was pretty quiet, but there was an occasional loud car that drove by. The stairs are a little steep, but we were able to get up them just fine. There was a humming sound that we noticed mainly at night, but we think that must have just been the AC kicking on. ..."

Reviewed on Jun. 13, 2025

Gem City Haven
Dayton Loft close to DT, Oregon, UD (Sleeps 6)

Dayton Loft close to DT, Oregon, UD (Sleeps 6)

Dayton
Stay at this vacation home in Dayton. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions National Museum of the United States ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (25 reviews)
Oasis near Dayton
"We stayed at this property for a wedding nearby. It was such a unique setting and love the openness of the living area. A very nice stay and we would stay again."

Reviewed on Jun. 29, 2025

Dayton Loft close to DT, Oregon, UD (Sleeps 6)
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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