2-day Adventure in Dayton: History, Art & Aviation

Discover the birthplace of aviation and so much more in Dayton, USA.

22 April 2023

A trip to Dayton, United States as a tourist offers a unique experience of American history and aviation. Visitors can explore the Wright Brothers National Museum to learn about the pioneers of flight or witness the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force to see an extensive collection of planes, missiles, and artifacts. The city also boasts diverse restaurants, cultural centers like the Dayton Art Institute, and natural attractions such as the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Wright On!

  • Check-in to the Marriott at University of Dayton, where sleek modernity meets the collegiate charm.
  • Start the day with a visit to the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park, where the Wright Brothers made history.
  • Learn about the city's aviation history at the National Museum of the United States Air Force, where you can see planes from all eras of American aviation.
  • For lunch, stop by the Butter Cafe, a hipster spot with delicious vegetarian options.
  • Visit the Paul Laurence Dunbar House, the home of the trailblazing African American poet and entrepreneur.
  • End the day by admiring the beautiful stained-glass windows at St. Mary's Church, a Gothic Revival masterpiece.
Day 2

Off the Beaten Path

  • Start the day with breakfast at the Ghostlight Coffee, a trendy spot with artisanal options.
  • Visit the Dayton Art Institute, to enjoy one of the nation's premier fine art destinations.
  • Take a stroll through RiverScape MetroPark, an urban oasis with beautiful views of the Miami River.
  • For lunch, stop by the Flying Pizza, a local favorite with delicious pies and burgers.
  • Explore the Huffman Prairie Flying Field, the site where the Wright Brothers conducted their famous tests.
  • End the trip with a visit to the Carillon Historical Park, a fascinating living history museum with various exhibits showcasing Dayton's technological innovations.
  • Note: Don't forget to top off your day with a delightful treat at Bill's Donut Shop!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Dayton, United States by plane is to fly into Dayton International Airport. There are many airlines that serve this airport, including American Airlines, Delta, and United.

Car

Driving to Dayton is easy, as it is easily accessible from several major highways including I-75, I-70, and I-675. Renting a car from the nearby Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport or Dayton International Airport is a good option for travelers.

Train

Although there is no direct train service to Dayton, travelers can take Amtrak to the Cincinnati Union Terminal and then take a Greyhound bus to Dayton.

Boat

There are no direct boat routes to Dayton, but the Great Miami Riverway provides a scenic recreational waterway for kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts. Visitors may also consider taking a river cruise on the Ohio River and docking in nearby Cincinnati before driving or taking public transportation to Dayton.

Bus

Taking a Greyhound bus from Cincinnati to Dayton is the best way to get to Dayton by bus. There are multiple daily departures and the trip takes roughly 2 hours.

More travel plans

Romantic Weekend Getaway in Dayton

Explore the birthplace of aviation and enjoy a romantic retreat in Dayton, United States. Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens of the Dayton Art Institute and indulge in some fine dining at one of the city's many restaurants. Don't forget to visit the National Museum of the US Air Force and take a ride on the Oregon District's horse-drawn carriage for a truly unforgettable experience.

Dayton Delights: A Fun-Filled Family Day Trip

Dayton, United States offers a plethora of family-friendly activities and attractions, making it an ideal destination for a memorable trip with the whole family. Explore the National Museum of the United States Air Force, the world's largest military aviation museum, where kids can marvel at historical aircraft and interactive exhibits. Additionally, visit the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, which offers hands-on science exhibits, a zoo, and a planetarium, ensuring a fun-filled educational experience for the entire family.

Dayton's Delight-Filled Family Adventure

Dayton, located in the state of Ohio, offers a plethora of family-friendly attractions and activities for an unforgettable trip. Explore the fascinating Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park to learn about the Wright brothers' pioneering achievements in flight, then head to the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery to let your little ones explore Science, Nature, and Space exhibits. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the fun-filled entertainment hub Scene75, featuring arcade games, go-karts, mini-golf, laser tag, and more to create lasting memories with your family.

Discover Dayton: Your 5 Day Adventure

A trip to Dayton, United States on a limited budget would include visiting popular free attractions such as the Dayton Art Institute and the National Museum of the United States Air Force. Saving money on accommodations can be done by choosing budget-friendly hotels or Airbnb rentals. To save expenses on food, exploring local farmers' markets or cooking meals in your accommodation's kitchen can be a great option.