Having family in town for the holidays is fun but it can also be stressful. We want to make it a little easier for you! Enjoy a list below full of ideas of different activities and attractions to take the whole family to or to give to someone who wants to explore what Dayton and Montgomery County have to offer.

(These are just SOME of the attractions highlighted in Montgomery county and are not in any particular order.  Visit the “Attractions” page on our website for even more ideas!)

 

 National Museum of the U.S. Air Force |  www.daytoncvb.com/attractions/air-force-museum

National Museum of US Air Force

The National Museum of the U.S. Air.Force has something for everyone. It is the oldest and largest military aviation museum in the world with hundreds of aircraft from all around the globe and from different eras. The museum is FREE and is open 7 days a week from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (closed Christmas day).

 

Carillon Historical Park |  www.daytoncvb.com/attractions/carillon-park

Carillon

Carillon Historical Park is a 65-acre park and museum in Dayton, Ohio, which contains historic buildings and exhibits detailing the history of technology and the history of Dayton and its residents from 1796 to the present.

 

America’s Packard Museum |  www.daytoncvb.com/attractions/packard-museum

Packard Museum

America's Packard Museum is an automotive museum located in Dayton, Ohio. The museum has the largest public collection of Packard automobiles and memorabilia anywhere in the world, with cars from 1903 to 1956 on exhibit 7 days a week.

 

Boonshoft Museum of Discovery |  www.daytoncvb.com/attractions/boonshoft-museum-of-discovery

Boonshoft Museum

The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is a children’s museum, science and technology center, and zoo located right outside of Downtown Dayton. Exhibits include an extensive natural history collection as well as live animals native to Ohio and abroad. The cost to visit is $11.50 for children (3-17), $14.50 for adults, $12.50 for seniors (60+), and free for children under 3. Don’t let it deceive you—it might be called a children’s museum, but there is most definitely something for all! 

Dayton Art Institute | www.daytoncvb.com/attractions/dayton-art-institute

DAI

The Dayton Art Institute is one of the region’s premier fine arts museums. With many unique special exhibits rotating throughout the year and a wide array of art pieces from renowned artists, it’s no wonder the DAI is a Dayton favorite.

Local Shopping | www.daytoncvb.com/things-to-do/shopping

Oregon District

As a city rich with innovation, it is no wonder that Dayton is home to many local, independent shops and restaurants. The Oregon District, located in the heart of Downtown, offers a unique shopping experience with a selection of clothing shoppes, restaurants, vintage stores, and more. 2nd Street Market is open 3 days a week, whether you need to pick up some fresh produce, a handmade gift, or a yummy meal, this is the place to go!

Dayton Mall | www.daytoncvb.com/listings/dayton-mall

Dayton Mall

Head over to the Dayton Mall to check out all of the after Christmas deals! The mall features four anchor stores: Dick's Sporting Goods, DSW Shoe Warehouse, JCPenney, and Macy's. 

Austin Landing | www.austinlanding.com

Austin Landing

If you are looking for retail shoppes, a wide variety of restaurants, or an upscale movie experience, then Austin Landing is the place for you!

Hawthorn Hill | www.daytoncvb.com/things-to-do/aviation-sites/hawthorn-hill

Hawthorn Hill

Take a trip back in time when you step into the Hawthorn Hill mansion, the post-1914 home of Orville, Milton, and Katharine Wright. Wilbur and Orville Wright intended for it to be their joint home, but Wilbur died in 1912, before the home's 1914 completion—find out more when you visit and take a tour! Tours take place Wednesdays & Saturdays: 10:00am, 12:30pm and cost $14 per person.

Riverscape Metropark- Ice Skating | www.metroparks.org/ice-rink

Riverscape

Looking for a fun and inexpensive activity for the whole family? Head on over to Riverscape MetroPark located in Downtown Dayton to enjoy some ice skating! Open 7 days a week (open Christmas eve and Christmas day—however hours may differ) & the best part yet—it only costs $6 per person plus a $2 skate rental. Concessions are available for purchase.

                                  Holiday