Dayton, Ohio: The Best Budget-Friendly Getaway

Discover Dayton: An affordable adventure in the heart of Ohio.

21 June 2023

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
Day 1

Discovering Dayton

  • 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.
Day 2

Foodie Delights

  • 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.

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

Dayton Delights: A 5-Day Family Adventure on a Budget!

Dayton, United States offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with an array of exciting attractions. Visit the National Museum of the United States Air Force, where kids can explore historic aircrafts and engage in interactive exhibits. Families can also enjoy fun-filled outings to the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery or spend quality time at the family-friendly, picturesque Carillon Historical Park.

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.

Discover Dayton: A Fun & Affordable Day Trip

Dayton, Ohio is a budget-friendly destination with plenty of free and affordable activities. Visit the National Museum of the United States Air Force for free, explore the Dayton Art Institute for $8, and stop by the Second Street Market for locally sourced food and goods. Affordable accommodations include the Comfort Inn Dayton and the Air View Inn.

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.