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

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.

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

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.

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.

Discover Dayton: A Day of History and Romance

Dayton offers a variety of romantic attractions, including the beautiful scenery of the Dayton Art Institute, the intimate setting of The Amber Rose restaurant, and the unique experience of the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park. Couples can take a stroll through the beautiful parks and gardens, enjoy a romantic sunset over the river, or visit the local wineries and breweries for wine tasting and craft beer. Dayton offers the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and romance for couples looking to celebrate their love.