Dayton, Ohio: The Best Budget-Friendly Getaway
Discover Dayton: An affordable adventure in the heart of Ohio.
21 June 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Enjoy a budget-friendly trip to Dayton, Ohio, by exploring its rich aviation history at the National Museum of the United States Air Force, along with its vibrant arts scene at the Dayton Art Institute. You can also visit the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park, which honors the Wright Brothers' pioneering flight, and relax at the scenic RiverScape MetroPark. Additionally, you can savor delicious local cuisine at the affordable eateries in the Oregon Historic District.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information

- Stay at the Red Roof Inn Dayton Fairborn/Nutter Center, centrally located and budget-friendly.
- Start your day with breakfast at Jimmie's Ladder 11, a former firehouse turned restaurant serving up delicious omelets and pancakes.
- Take a stroll around the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park, which honors the Wright Brothers and their first powered flight.
- Head to the Dayton Art Institute to view its world-class collection and exhibitions.
- Grab lunch at The Pine Club, a classic steakhouse that's been around since 1947.
- Visit the Dayton Dragons stadium for a minor league baseball game experience.
- Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Tank's Bar & Grill, a diner-style joint with funky decor and generous portions.
- Check out the National Museum of the United States Air Force, the world's largest and oldest military aviation museum.
- For lunch, sample some barbecue at Company 7 BBQ, known for their smoked meats and creative sides.
- Take a tour of Carillon Historical Park, which features 30 historic buildings and exhibits on Dayton's invention and innovation history.
- End the day with dinner at Thai 9, a modern restaurant serving up flavorful Thai cuisine with unique twists like sushi rolls and cocktail pairings.
Length of stay
Type of trip
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.