Top Things to Do in Dayton, Ohio
Imagination takes flight in a midsize city where aviation history rules. Check out the Dayton Aviation Heritage National historical Park, the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force and the Wright Cycle Company Complex, among other attractions.
What to do
Carillon Historical Park An indoor-outdoor museum covers Dayton history. See the original Wright Flyer III and a circa 1924 Sun Oil Station. (937) 293-2841; daytonhistory.org
Dayton Art Institute Immerse yourself in art from ancient China to modern Wyeths. (937) 223-5277; daytonartinstitute.org
Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park Sites with an overview of the Wright brothers' lives kick off an exploration of Dayton's role in aviation history; nps.gov/daav
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force Acres of airplane hangars await, housing items outlining the early history of military flight through World War II. (937) 255-3286; nationalmuseum.af.mil
Wright Cycle Company Complex Rangers and displays answer questions about Dayton's aviation history. And you'll find an overview of the Wright brothers' lives and the quirky Parachute Museum on the second floor. (937) 225-7705; nps.gov/daav
Where to eat
Butter Cafe Breakfast on free-range eggs and French toast kabobs at this adorable spot near the University of Dayton. (937) 985-9917; buttercafedayton.com
El Meson A lunch of (pricey) Mexican food is a fiesta when eaten on the colorful glass-roofed patio. (937) 859-8229; elmeson.net
Roost Dine on modern Italian fare such as braised lamb shank and puttanesca. (937) 222-3100; roostdayton.com
Rue Dumaine Their passion is a fusion of French and American cuisine. (937) 610-1061; ruedumainerestaurant.com
Where to stay
Crowne Plaza Dayton This downtown hotel, across from the convention center, promises a solid stay; cpdayton.com
For more information: Dayton/Montgomery County Convention and Visitors Bureau. (800) 221-8235; daytoncvb.com