Discover Dayton: A Fun & Affordable Day Trip

Discover Dayton on a dime: budget-friendly fun in the heartland of America.

21 June 2023

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.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Get to Know Dayton

  • Start the day at the Dayton Art Institute, which features an impressive collection of American and European art.
  • Take a stroll through the Oregon District, a historic neighborhood filled with vintage shops and local eateries.
  • Grab lunch at the Corner Kitchen, where the shrimp tacos are a must-try and the prices won't break the bank.
  • Visit the National Museum of the United States Air Force, the largest and oldest military aviation museum in the world.
  • Head to Fifth Street Brewpub for dinner and enjoy a craft beer or two while sampling their tasty menu options.
  • End the day with a concert at the Levitt Pavilion, an outdoor amphitheater that hosts free concerts and events throughout the year.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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.

Destination

Dayton

Welcome to the land of aviation and, inexplicably, the birthplace of the Wright Brothers. Dayton, where history and hilarity collide in unexpected ways.

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More travel plans

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 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.

Dayton, Ohio: The Best Budget-Friendly Getaway

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.

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.