Dayton's Delight-Filled Family Adventure
Discover the charm of Dayton, where family fun meets heartwarming memories.
19 July 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
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.
Travel plan
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- Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Butter Café, where the pancakes are as fluffy as unicorns' dreams.
- Visit the National Museum of the United States Air Force and geek out with historical aircraft, dazzling exhibits, and mind-blowing interactive displays.
- Take a picnic lunch to Carillon Historical Park and lose yourself in the enchanting world of old-timey Dayton. Don't forget to ride the B&O Malleable Flyer!
- Channel your inner daredevil at Scene75, an indoor entertainment wonderland featuring go-karts, laser tag, roller coasters, and even a glow-in-the-dark mini golf course.
- Dine at the Pine Club, a legendary steakhouse where the steaks are so tender, they practically melt in your mouth. Pair it with their famous potato leek soup and feel your taste buds do a happy dance.
- Start the day with a scrumptious breakfast at The Golden Nugget Pancake House, where the pancakes are fluffy enough to build a fort with.
- Explore the colorful Oregon District, a bohemian paradise filled with eclectic shops, delightful boutiques, and cozy cafes. Don't miss the vintage treasure trove at Clash Dayton.
- Pay homage to the Wright brothers by visiting the Wright Cycle Company Complex and marvel at the ingenuity that gave birth to aviation.
- Take a stroll along the Five Rivers MetroParks, where nature throws a party. Enjoy hiking, bird-watching, or simply basking in the serenity of the great outdoors.
- Dine at Corner Kitchen, a whimsical restaurant where the flavors twirl around your taste buds like professional dancers. Their butter cake dessert is pure magic.
- Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at The Brunch Club, where the pancakes are fluffier than a cloud on vacation.
- Visit the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, a paradise for curious minds filled with hands-on exhibits, live animals, and mind-bending science experiments.
- Embark on a public art discovery tour and let Dayton's vibrant street art captivate your imagination. Keep an eye out for the whimsical flamingos scattered around town.
- Take a leisurely stroll through Victoria Theatre and experience the grandeur of its historic architecture. Catch a show if you're lucky, and let the magic unfold before your eyes.
- Dine at The Pine Club Tavern, a local gem where the burgers are juicier than a novel plot twist. The cozy atmosphere will make you feel like part of the Dayton family.
Length of stay
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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.