Things To Do
Wayne and Clover Coffee Shop
A cozy, artsy coffee shop known for its handcrafted drinks, fresh pastries, and relaxed neighborhood vibe. Perfect for a slow morning or casual coffee stop.
Central Perc European Cafe
A charming European-style café offering rich coffee, delicious pastries, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. A great spot for brunch or an afternoon pick-me-up. They also occasionally feature favorites like sausage rolls, afternoon tea, and even a full English breakfast; perfect for our UK guests looking for a little taste of home.
National Museum of the US Air Force
The world’s largest military aviation museum, featuring hundreds of aircraft and immersive exhibits. Ryan and I went here the first time he visited, so it’s a really special memory for us.
The Dayton Art Institute
A beautiful museum overlooking the river, featuring a diverse collection of art from around the world. Even just exploring the grounds and architecture makes it worth a visit.
Carillon Historical Park
An open-air museum showcasing Dayton’s history, with historic buildings and interactive exhibits. Ryan and I walked around here together, checked out the bell tower, and had a really good meal while we were there.
Young's Jersey Dairy
A fun, classic stop for homemade ice cream, fried cheese curds, and outdoor activities. Ryan and I have been here together and loved it—great food, amazing ice cream, and it’s right by Yellow Springs, which is a really cute area to walk around.
Cox Arboretum MetroPark
A peaceful outdoor space with scenic walking trails, beautiful gardens, and an observation tower with great views. Perfect for a relaxing walk or time in nature.
Hills & Dales MetroPark
A quiet, wooded park with scenic trails and lots of shade. Ryan and I have been here together, and one of the coolest things is the “Frankenstein’s Castle” structure hidden in the park.
RiverScape MetroPark
A lively downtown park along the river with beautiful views and frequent events. This is where Ryan and I got engaged, so it’s a really special place to us.
Canal Street Arcade and Deli
A fun mix of retro arcade games, pinball, and casual food. This is where I took Ryan for our anniversary, so it’s a really fun and meaningful spot for us.
Red Carpet Tavern
A classic local bar with a relaxed, no-frills vibe. We’re regulars here—trivia on Thursdays, a DJ on Fridays, and karaoke on Saturdays. Plus, they have free pizza late at night, which is always a win.
The Trolley Stop
A Dayton staple known for its burgers, drinks, and cozy patio. Ryan and I have gone here after kickball games, and we always get the regular grilled cheese with apricot jam. They also do karaoke on Wednesdays.