Most Scenic Road Trips in Dayton, Ohio, United States

Dayton, United States, Dayton, Activity-Based Travel Pages, Most Scenic Road Trips

Most Scenic Road Trips in Dayton, Ohio, United States

1. John Bryan State Park Scenic Drive

Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Little Miami River and John Bryan gorge on this 6-mile scenic drive.
  • Natural Beauty: Features lush forests, waterfalls, and limestone cliffs.
  • Hiking Opportunities: Offers multiple trails for hikers of all levels.
  • Picnic Areas: Has picnic spots with panoramic views for a peaceful lunch break.

2. Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park Scenic Drive

Drive through the historic Wright Brothers' neighborhood and learn about their pioneering aviation feats.
  • Historical Significance: Home to the Wright Brothers, pioneers of flight.
  • Aviation Museums: Nearby museums showcase aviation history and artifacts.
  • Architectural Diversity: Pass through various architectural styles, from Victorian to modern homes.

3. Waynesville-Xenia Scenic Byway

Experience the charming small towns of Waynesville and Xenia along this picturesque drive.
  • Rural Landscapes: Offers beautiful, unspoiled countryside views.
  • Historic Sites: Features several historic sites, including the Xenia Cemetery and Aullwood Audubon Center.
  • Local Cuisine: Stop at local eateries for a taste of traditional Ohio fare.

4. Dayton-Springfield Scenic Byway

Travel through rolling hills and charming towns on this scenic route between Dayton and Springfield.
  • Scenic Overlooks: Boasts multiple overlooks with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Historic Sites: Pass by sites like the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park and the U.S. Air Force Museum.
  • Local Art Scene: Discover local art galleries, studios, and events in downtown Springfield.

5. Miami Valley Scenic Byway

Follow the Great Miami River as it winds through picturesque farmland and quaint towns.
  • Natural Wonders: Features beautiful overlooks of the Great Miami River.
  • Local Culture: Experience local culture in towns like Troy, Piqua, and Tipp City.
  • Historic Sites: Pass by several historic sites, including the Lockington Covered Bridge and the Miamisburg Mound.

6. Little Miami Scenic Trail

Cycle or hike along this scenic trail that follows the beautiful Little Miami River.
  • Outdoor Activities: Perfect for cycling, hiking, and horseback riding.
  • Natural Beauty: Features lush forests, scenic overlooks, and wildlife sightings.
  • Local Towns: Pass through charming towns like Loveland, Milford, and Orrville along the way.

7. Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Scenic Drive

Drive through the expansive Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and enjoy the unique mix of urban and rural landscapes.
  • Military History: Showcases the history and importance of the U.S. Air Force.
  • Natural Beauty: Features green spaces, ponds, and wooded areas within the base.
  • Urban Landscapes: Offers views of modern military infrastructure and buildings.

8. Kettering-Fairborn Scenic Byway

Travel through the vibrant cities of Kettering and Fairborn on this scenic drive.
  • Urban Landscapes: Showcases modern urban architecture and city life.
  • Local Culture: Discover local culture, dining, and shopping in Kettering and Fairborn.
  • Natural Beauty: Pass by green spaces, parks, and scenic overlooks along the way.

9. Dayton-Covington Scenic Byway

Follow this route from Dayton to Covington, passing through picturesque countryside and charming towns.
  • Scenic Overlooks: Offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Local Culture: Experience local culture in towns like Morrow, New Lebanon, and Jamestown.
  • Historic Sites: Pass by historic sites like the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park.

10. Clifton Gorge Scenic Byway

Drive through this breathtaking gorge and witness the beauty of the John Bryan State Park.
  • Natural Beauty: Features stunning views of the Little Miami River, waterfalls, and limestone cliffs.
  • Hiking Opportunities: Offers multiple trails for hikers of all levels.
  • Geological Formations: Discover unique geological formations like the Whalehead and the Gorge.

11. Twin Valley Scenic Byway

Travel through rolling hills and charming countryside on this scenic route between Jamestown and Cedarville.
  • Rural Landscapes: Offers beautiful, unspoiled countryside views.
  • Local Culture: Experience local culture in towns like Jamestown, Cedarville, and Wilmington.
  • Historic Sites: Pass by several historic sites, including the Historic Roscoe Village and the Little Miami Scenic Trail.

12. Carillon Historical Park Scenic Drive

Drive through this living history museum and experience life in early Dayton.
  • Historical Significance: Showcases the history of Dayton and its development.
  • Architectural Diversity: Features various architectural styles, including historic homes and buildings.
  • Local Culture: Discover local culture in the museum's shops and exhibits.

13. Cedarville-Wilmington Scenic Byway

Travel through rolling hills, farmland, and charming countryside on this scenic route between Cedarville and Wilmington.
  • Rural Landscapes: Offers beautiful, unspoiled countryside views.
  • Local Culture: Experience local culture in towns like Cedarville, Wilmington, and Lewisburg.
  • Historic Sites: Pass by historic sites like the Historic Roscoe Village and the Little Miami Scenic Trail.

14. Springfield-Urbana Scenic Byway

Travel through rolling hills, farmland, and charming towns on this scenic route between Springfield and Urbana.
  • Rural Landscapes: Offers beautiful, unspoiled countryside views.
  • Local Culture: Experience local culture in towns like Springfield, Urbana, and Mechanicsburg.
  • Historic Sites: Pass by historic sites like the Hopewell Culture National Historical Park.

15. Miami Valley Veterans Memorial Scenic Byway

Honor our veterans while enjoying scenic views of the Great Miami River and surrounding countryside.
  • Historical Significance: Features memorials and monuments honoring our military heroes.
  • Natural Beauty: Offers beautiful views of the Great Miami River and surrounding countryside.
  • Local Culture: Experience local culture in towns along the byway like Troy, Piqua, and Tipp City.