Having taught in Dayton and raised young kids there, I’ve seen firsthand what really engages children and sparks curiosity. Between knowing what works in classrooms and exploring the city with my own kids, I’ve learned which activities are worth the ...
Map
Sections
6
Indoor Play
Nature
Educational
Outdoor fun!
Arts
Yums
Indoor Play
Hands-on science, zoo, and planetarium all in one. Perfect for curious kids of all ages.
Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
Big indoor entertainment center with games, rides, laser tag, and more.
Scene75 Entertainment Center | Dayton
Nature
Nature gardens, paved trails, and a playground
Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark
Playground and family-friendly open spaces
Shoup Park
Paved trails, beautiful gardens, and nature discovery areas. Perfect for strolling and letting kids explore safely.
Cox Arboretum MetroPark
Carousel, Wright brothers’ exhibits, and historic buildings.
Carillon Historical Park
Scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and opportunities for little explorers.
Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve
Open air, historic site where Wright brothers tested planes; plenty of open space for kids to run.
Huffman Prairie Flying Field
Educational
Huge, free museum with planes, helicopters, and even presidential aircraft. Kids love climbing in cockpits!
National Museum of the US Air Force
Interactive displays about flight and invention.
Wright Cycle Company Shop
Wright brothers’ history with interactive exhibits.
Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park
Outdoor fun!
Family-friendly minor league games with kids’ activities.
Dayton Dragons | MiLB.com
It’s a big, family-favorite farm spot with ice cream, animals to see, mini golf, batting cages, and tons of open space for kids to run. It’s one of those places where you can easily spend a few hours—grab food, let kids play, visit the animals, and e...
Young's Jersey Dairy
Arts
The Schuster Performing Arts Center in Dayton is a magical spot for kids’ shows. From musicals and family-friendly plays to live music and interactive performances, it’s a place where little ones can experience the excitement of live theater up close...
Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center
Victoria Theatre is a great place to introduce kids to live performances. The shows are engaging, colorful, and approachable for younger audiences—perfect for first theater experiences. It’s big enough to feel special but still welcoming for families...
Victoria Theatre
Yums
A fun stop for kids with big scoops, classic flavors, and rich, creamy ice cream that feels like a special treat. Perfect for an after-dinner outing or a reward after a busy day of exploring.
Graeter's Ice Cream
Classic donuts, huge variety, and a fun morning stop with kids.
