Dayton, OH

Travel Guide

A turquoise bridge over a calm pond, surrounded by autumn foliage and a grassy park.
A group of people kayaking on a calm lake surrounded by dense trees.
A public square with people sitting on benches, a tree, and buildings in the background.
A modern glass building with a curved facade, a circular glass structure in the foreground, and a paved plaza with benches and trees.
A bridge with colorful lights reflecting on the water.

Visit the final resting place of the Wright brothers at this Midwestern destination, which offers historical attractions in a modern city setting.

Dayton is one of Ohio's most culturally rich cities, famous as the source of some of the country's greatest inventions.

Carillon Historical Park offers visitors a glimpse into these technological discoveries. This living history museum has 25 buildings, each offering unique artifacts and exhibits. Relax in the park, walk through the historic structures and enjoy the sounds from the landmark carillon. Children and adults will want to see the 1905 Wright Flyer III, the planet’s first usable airplane.

Explore the history of flight at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. This institution holds more than 360 planes and aviation inventions. Learn about the history of the Air Force and the evolution of stealth technology as well.

Take a self-guided or docent-led tour at the Dayton Art Institute with 27,000 artworks offering visitors a glimpse into Asian, African and American art stretching back 5,000 years.

The Oregon District is ideal for enjoying Dayton’s cultural attractions. Stroll through the picturesque historic district, which offers boutiques, eateries and galleries. Downtown Dayton is located 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) to the west, where the skyline hugs the bank of the Miami River. Head here for nightlife, diverse cuisine and a range of accommodation options. Watch a show at the Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center the distinctive modernist building hosts concerts year-round.

Take a scenic walk through Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum, the resting place of brothers Orville and Wilbur Wright. This park is one of the largest garden cemeteries in the country and is an ideal place to stroll on a sunny day.

Dayton is 70 miles (112.7 kilometers) from Columbus and under 2 hours by car from the larger cities of Cincinnati and Indianapolis. Port Columbus International Airport offers flights to most major U.S. cities.

With its distinct seasons, Dayton offers a unique experience for visitors every month of the year. Plan to visit this Ohio destination to explore a city where historical and modern attractions intersect.

Where to stay in Dayton

Find the best Dayton areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Dayton
Learn more about Dayton

Downtown Dayton

Unique features of Downtown Dayton include the theaters and bars. Make a stop by Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center or Victoria Theater while you're exploring the area.

Oregon District

Oregon District is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Oregon Park and Belle of Dayton Distillery.

University Park

While visiting University Park, you might make a stop by sights like Carillon Historical Park and Baujan Field.

South Park

South Park might not have many top sights, but Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center and Oregon Park are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Belmont

While there might not be top attractions in Belmont, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Baujan Field and National Museum of the United States Air Force.

The Hotel@Dayton South

The Hotel@Dayton South

2.5 out of 5
8099 Old Yankee Street Dayton OH
$58 nightly
The price is $67 total per night from Aug 9 to Aug 10
$67 total
Aug 9 - Aug 10
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this golf hotel in Dayton. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,010 reviews)
"Best kept secret in Dayton. Miss Ashley & her staff run a tight ship. Breakfast is always delicious (my favorite is the cheese-filled sausage) and the staff is accommodating. Our daughter was in Kettering for her summer Nursing externship and this was our go-to hotel every time we were in town. Great ..."

Reviewed on Aug 3, 2026

The Hotel@Dayton South
Marriott at the University of Dayton

Marriott at the University of Dayton

4 out of 5
1414 South Patterson Boulevard Dayton OH
$119 nightly
The price is $139 total per night from Aug 23 to Aug 24
$139 total
Aug 23 - Aug 24
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Dayton. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,001 reviews)
"Very clean."

Reviewed on Jul 30, 2026

Marriott at the University of Dayton
Drury Inn & Suites Dayton North

Drury Inn & Suites Dayton North

4 out of 5
6616 Miller Ln Dayton OH
$113 nightly
The price is $132 total per night from Aug 9 to Aug 10
$132 total
Aug 9 - Aug 10
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Dayton. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (1,001 reviews)
"Room was clean and breakfast was very good. Great stay overall."

Reviewed on Aug 4, 2026

Drury Inn & Suites Dayton North
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
4BR Home - Airport- UD - WPAFB - POOL -Sleeps 7

4BR Home - Airport- UD - WPAFB - POOL -Sleeps 7

Dayton OH
Stay at this vacation home in Dayton. Enjoy laundry facilities, patios, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Dayton Rugby Grounds and Scene75 Entertainment ...
4BR Home - Airport- UD - WPAFB - POOL -Sleeps 7
Updated Historical apartment close to a park and two blocks from the best dining

Updated Historical apartment close to a park and two blocks from the best dining

Dayton OH
Stay at this apartment in Dayton. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and patios. Popular attractions National Museum of the United States Air Force and Oregon Park are ...
10/10 Exceptional! (116 reviews)
"This property was just what we needed for our weekend in Dayton. So many good restaurants and shops within walking distance. However parking was difficult at times due to the busyness of the street."

Reviewed on Aug 1, 2026

Updated Historical apartment close to a park and two blocks from the best dining
Cozy 2-bedroom perfect house in Dayton with air conditioning and backyard space

Cozy 2-bedroom perfect house in Dayton with air conditioning and backyard space

Dayton OH
Stay at this vacation home in Dayton. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions National Museum of the United States Air Force and ...
10/10 Exceptional! (4 reviews)
"Clean, comfortable house close to Dayton-area attractions. Neighborhood quiet and safe. Would stay there again."

Reviewed on Jul 21, 2026

Cozy 2-bedroom perfect house in Dayton with air conditioning and backyard space
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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