10 Free Things To Do In Dayton, Ohio

Dayton, Ohio is a vibrant city with something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a visit or just looking for something to do during your free time, you’ll find no shortage of activities in this Ohio gem.

The best part? All of these activities are free! From outdoor activities to fascinating museum tours, you can enjoy a wide variety of experiences without spending a dime. Here are 10 free things to do in Dayton, Ohio.

1. Explore Carillon Historical Park

Carillon Historical Park is a 65-acre outdoor museum that offers a glimpse into Dayton’s history. Visitors can explore the grounds, which are filled with historic buildings, artifacts, and interactive exhibits. The park also features a replica of a 19th century village, a restored 1908 Wright Flyer III airplane, and a carillon tower with 47 bells.

The park is free to explore and open year round from dawn to dusk. Visitors can also take advantage of the free guided tours, which are offered on the first Friday and third Saturday of the month from April through October.

The park is also home to a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, art shows, and theatrical performances. Check the park’s website for more information.

2. Take a Tour of the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force in Dayton is a must-see for any military history enthusiast. Located on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, the museum offers free tours of its four hangar-style galleries. The galleries feature a wide variety of aircraft, from World War II bombers to modern fighter jets.

The museum also offers free audio tours in English and Spanish, and visitors can also purchase a self-guided tour booklet for only one dollar. The museum is open year round, except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.

3. Take a Stroll Through the Five River Metroparks

Dayton is home to the Five River Metroparks, a system of five parks located along the Great Miami, Mad, Stillwater, Wolf, and White rivers. The Metroparks offer a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and boating.

Visitors can also take advantage of the Metroparks’ free nature programs, which are offered year round. Programs include bird watching, nature hikes, and workshops on outdoor skills. The Metroparks are open from dawn to dusk year round.

4. Check Out the Dayton Art Institute

The Dayton Art Institute is one of the oldest and largest art museums in Ohio. Its permanent collection includes works by painters such as Monet, Picasso, and Renoir, as well as sculptures, furniture, and decorative arts from around the world.

The museum offers free admission year round, and visitors can take advantage of the free guided tours, which are offered on the first and third Saturday of the month. The museum also hosts a variety of free events throughout the year, including concerts, film screenings, and art workshops.

5. Tour the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery

The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is a science and technology museum that offers a variety of interactive exhibits and activities. Visitors can explore space, the human body, and the natural world through hands-on exhibits and demonstrations.

The museum also offers free admission on the first Sunday of every month, as well as a variety of free public programs throughout the year. Check the museum’s website for more information.

6. Hit the Trails at Huffman Park

Huffman Park is a popular destination for hikers, bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. The park features over 20 miles of trails, as well as a variety of scenic overlooks and picnic areas. The park is open year round and admission is free.

The park also offers a variety of free programs and activities throughout the year, including bird watching, nature walks, and stargazing. Check the park’s website for more information.

7. Take a Trip to the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park

The Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park is a must-see for any aviation enthusiast. The park commemorates the Wright Brothers’ contributions to aviation, and visitors can explore the Wright Brothers Bicycle Shop, the Wright Flyer III, and other historic sites.

The park is free to explore and open year round. Visitors can also take advantage of the free guided tours, which are offered on the first and third Saturday of the month from April through October. Check the park’s website for more information.

8. Enjoy a Performance at the Schuster Center

The Schuster Center is Dayton’s premier performing arts center. The center hosts a variety of performances, from Broadway shows to classical music concerts. The center also hosts free concerts throughout the year, ranging from jazz to folk music. Check the center’s website for more information.

9. Catch a Movie at the Victoria Theatre

The Victoria Theatre is a historic theater located in downtown Dayton. The theater offers a variety of movies throughout the year, from family favorites to cult classics. The theater also hosts a variety of free screenings throughout the year, including classic films and independent films.

The theater also offers free tours of its historic building. Tours are offered on the first Sunday of the month from April through October.

10. Tour the Dayton Arcade

The Dayton Arcade is a historic complex of buildings located in downtown Dayton. The arcade was built in the early 1900s and is now home to a variety of small businesses and restaurants. Visitors can take a free tour of the arcade and explore the historic architecture, art, and artifacts.

Tours are offered on the first Saturday of the month from April through October. Check the arcade’s website for more information.

Conclusion

Dayton, Ohio is full of exciting and interesting things to do, and the best part is that many of them are free! From exploring the city’s historic parks and museums to enjoying performances at the Schuster Center and catching a movie at the Victoria Theatre, there’s something for everyone in Dayton. So why not take a trip and explore the city for yourself?