Summer is coming to an end in Ohio, but there’s so much to do and see around town! Whether you’re curious about the top-rated restaurants in Dayton, museums, hikes, or water parks, this ultimate guide to summertime things to do in Dayton will help you get the most out of the longer days before the days turn brrr.
Top-Rated Restaurants in Dayton, OH
We could just share some of our faves. But instead, we turned to Reddit to hear from the community. A few restaurants came up repeatedly.
- Little Fish Brewing Company @ Dayton Station: Located at 116 Webster St, this place blends brewery vibes with a cocktail bar and wine bar.
- Salar Restaurant and Lounge: This stylish Peruvian restaurant is located at 400 E 5th St.
- Wheat Penny Oven and Bar: Known for California-style pizzas and rustic Italian fare, you’ll find it at 515 Wayne Ave.
TripAdvisor says you also need to check out:
- The Foundry: A rooftop restaurant and bar offering upscale American fare and craft cocktails. It’s located at 124 Madison St.
And then we will add some of our personal favorites after all. Consider adding these to your food crawl in Dayton.
- Thai 9: Find modern Thai cuisine and sushi served in a sleek setting with wine and craft beer at 11 Brown St.
- Oakwood Club: This classic steakhouse with surf ‘n’ turf favorites and old-school charm is located at 2414 Far Hills Ave.
- The Last Queen: This cozy British-style pub serves up hearty fare and pints. It’s just outside Dayton at 210 E Main St in Enon (about a 25-minute drive and worth it).
And now that we have you’re mouth watering, we’re moving on.
Things to Do in Dayton Outdoors
Dayton is home to over 350 miles of hiking trails. So, if you haven’t started exploring yet, you may want to lace up your hiking boots or strap on your bike helmet. You’ve got a lot of ground to cover. The Little Miami Scenic Trail is an ideal spot for a mindful walk through nature.
If watersports are more your jam, rent a canoe/kayak and get on the Great Miami River, Mad River, or Eastwood Lake.
Maybe you’re more in the mood for a picnic or a leisurely day at the park. Have you visited the Aullwood Audubon Center & Garden recently? This stunning nature sanctuary melds environmental education with hands-on experiences across its 200-acre preserve.
Must‑Visit Attractions in Dayton
Dayton is home to the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. The great thing about this attraction is that it’s 100% free. You can explore hangars, enjoy IMAX entertainment, and take part in interactive exhibits.
Next, head over to the Carillon Historical Park for a ride on the choo-choo.
If you’re trying to stay out of the heat and prefer to view fine art, visit the Dayton Art Institute.
And summer isn’t officially summer until you visit the 2nd Street Market to partake in live events, local food, artisan wares, and seasonal goods.
Events & Festivals
If you’ve already missed some of these festivals, be sure you catch them next year.
In June, AES Ohio’s Summer in the City features live music, interactive booths, food, and community engagement.
The Dayton Air Show also takes place every June downtown.
In August, AES is also hosting the Art in the City, showcasing local artists with live music and merriment into the evening.
You should also look into the Yellow Springs Street Fair, Art on the Commons, Celtic Fest—all big events Daytonians look forward to every summer.
Best Dispensary in Dayton
If you’re 21 or over, summer is not complete without high-quality cannabis. Whether you’re looking for vapes, concentrates, edibles, or those shimmering buds for your adult use, Guaranteed Dispensary is the place to get the best deals on premium cannabis products.
Find out why we’ll quickly become your favorite dispensary in Dayton. This is the best time to learn more about cannabis from our friendly budtenders and explore the menu. We look forward to seeing you at Guaranteed!
