Cultural & Historical Destinations in Dayton, Ohio, United States

1. National Museum of the United States Air Force

Experience American aviation history at the world's oldest and largest military air museum.

Rich History: Home to over 360 aircraft, missiles, and space vehicles.
Interactive Exhibits: Engaging exhibits such as the Presidential Gallery and the Museum Theatre.
Special Events: Regular events like Air Force birthday celebrations and airshows.

Combine cultural and historical exploration with science and fun at this interactive museum.

Hands-On Learning: Explore more than 200 hands-on exhibits in five exhibit galleries.
Special Exhibits: Temporary exhibitions on various science and history topics.
Planetarium Shows: A state-of-the-art digital planetarium for stargazing experiences.

Discover the birthplace of aviation and the Wright Brothers' story at this historical park.

Historical Significance: Contains the Wright Cycle Company complex, where the Wrights built their bicycles.
Preserved Buildings: Restored buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Guided Tours: Ranger-led tours offer insights into the Wright Brothers' lives.

Explore art from ancient to modern at this beautiful museum in Dayton.

Extensive Collection: Over 26,000 works of art representing cultures from around the world.
Special Exhibits: Temporary exhibitions on a wide variety of artistic themes and movements.
Beautiful Grounds: Garden galleries featuring sculptures, fountains, and themed gardens.

Learn about the ancient Mound Builders and their culture at this prehistoric Native American village.

Reconstructed Mound: A full-scale replica of a Monongahela Fortification mound.
Authentic Artifacts: More than 20,000 artifacts on display from the Woodland culture period.
Interactive Exhibits: Experience immersive exhibits showcasing daily life in an ancient village.

Delve into automotive history with a focus on the iconic Studebaker brand.

Historic Automobiles: More than 150 cars, carriages, and wagons dating back to the 18th century.
Interactive Exhibits: Engaging exhibits such as the Studebaker's Impact on America exhibit.
Restoration Demonstrations: Watch as skilled technicians restore classic vehicles.

Visit a working military base with significant aviation and space history.

Historic Buildings: Tour the National Museum of the United States Air Force located on the base.
Space Exploration: Explore the National Air and Space Intelligence Center on the base.
Military Traditions: Witness ceremonies, parades, and other military traditions.

Experience Dayton's history through various exhibits and historical buildings.

Historical Buildings: Over 60 historic structures from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Carillon Bell Tower: A 14-story bell tower with daily carillon concerts.
Living History Village: Reenactors demonstrate daily life in the 19th century.

Celebrate literature and peace at this unique literary prize headquarters.

Literary Awards: Honoring authors who promote peace and social justice.
Reading Rooms: Spacious reading rooms featuring works by award-winning authors.
Community Programs: Workshops, lectures, and other events promoting literacy and peace.

Enjoy live music performances at this historic amphitheater.

Live Music Venue: Hosting concerts, festivals, and other events since the 1950s.
Rich History: Built in the 1920s as a dance pavilion for the community.
Community Events: Home to local events like Dayton Blues Festival and CelticFest.

Experience world-class performing arts at this historic theater.

Performing Arts: Offering ballet, opera, Broadway shows, and other productions.
Historic Building: Originally built in the late 19th century as a church.
Community Engagement: Educational programs and workshops for all ages.

Learn about the lives of Orville and Wilbur Wright at this educational center.

Innovation Focus: Exploring the impact of the Wright Brothers' innovations.
Interactive Exhibits: Engaging exhibits that bring the Wrights' story to life.
Community Engagement: Programs and events celebrating Dayton's aviation heritage.

Appreciate contemporary and modern art in a downtown setting.

Discover the history of railroads and steam locomotives at this unique museum.

Historic Engines: Exhibits featuring vintage steam locomotives and railcars.
Interactive Exhibits: Hands-on exhibits like the Telegraph Office exhibit.
Community Events: Events such as Dayton's Railroad Days celebration.

Experience innovative dance performances at this professional company.

Innovative Choreography: Featuring both established and emerging choreographers.
Educational Programs: Workshops, lectures, and dance classes for all ages.
Community Engagement: Events promoting dance education and appreciation.