Dayton Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

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.

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 artefacts 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 kilometres) 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 Centre 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 kilometres) 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.

Our guide on where to stay in Dayton

Find the best Dayton areas for the activities you enjoy most.

Downtown Dayton

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

Oregon District

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

University Park

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

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.

South Park

Though South Park may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center and America's Packard Museum.

The Hotel@Dayton South

The Hotel@Dayton South

2.5 out of 5
8099 Old Yankee Street Dayton OH
The price is AU$91 per night from 9 Aug to 10 Aug
AU$91
9 Aug - 10 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this golf hotel in Dayton. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
The Hotel@Dayton South
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 AU$251 per night from 9 Aug to 10 Aug
AU$251
9 Aug - 10 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Dayton. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,014 reviews)
"Great experience. Staff was great."

Reviewed on 10 July 2026

Marriott at the University of Dayton
Drury Inn & Suites Dayton North

Drury Inn & Suites Dayton North

4 out of 5
6616 Miller Ln Dayton OH
The price is AU$208 per night from 12 Aug to 13 Aug
AU$208
12 Aug - 13 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Dayton. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in their ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (1,025 reviews)
"Rooms were clean and the staff is wonderful. To be greeted warmly and bubbly "hello" and "good morning" by staff members as you go up and get breakfast with a cheery smile too... it's hardly ever seen when I go to hotels."

Reviewed on 11 July 2026

Drury Inn & Suites Dayton North
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.
Beautiful Home in South Park. Walk to UD Campus, Miami Valley Hospital, Downtown

Beautiful Home in South Park. Walk to UD Campus, Miami Valley Hospital, Downtown

Dayton OH
Stay at this holiday home in Dayton. Enjoy laundry facilities and air conditioning. Popular attractions University of Dayton Arena and National Museum of the ...
9/10 Wonderful! (73 reviews)
"The house was very clean and the beds were nice with a large couch for an adult to sleep on if needed. All appliances worked well with all basic items needed were provided"

Reviewed on 22 June 2026

Beautiful Home in South Park. Walk to UD Campus, Miami Valley Hospital, Downtown
Neat & Tidy Private Entry Cozy Suite in Dayton Area with a Dedicated AC

Neat & Tidy Private Entry Cozy Suite in Dayton Area with a Dedicated AC

Dayton OH
Stay at this apartment in Dayton. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, an in-room coffee maker and air conditioning. Popular attractions Walnut Grove Park and Tara Park are located ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (41 reviews)
"This room is excellent for 1 person or a couple. The room is very clean, quiet and well appointed. The bed was quite comfortable. I appreciate the lack of noise--perfect for when you need a good night's sleep after a long day of traveling."

Reviewed on 23 June 2026

Neat & Tidy Private Entry Cozy Suite in Dayton Area with a Dedicated AC
New listing Aimi Luxury Retreat, Soft & Cozy

New listing Aimi Luxury Retreat, Soft & Cozy

Dayton OH
Stay at this apartment in Dayton. Enjoy laundry facilities and air conditioning. Popular attractions National Museum of the United States Air Force and Oregon ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (6 reviews)
"Spacious, clean, comfortable. Clear communication with host. The neighbourhood is walkable and delightful! Well maintained , historic houses built in the mid-1800’s, with beautiful gardens, friendly people.Nightstands by the bed and a lamp in the living room would be helpful.Good restaurants and ..."

Reviewed on 26 June 2026

New listing Aimi Luxury Retreat, Soft & Cozy
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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